What will I learn?
Fintech is transforming financial services leading to the emergence of challenger digital banks, innovative fintech start ups and new and emerging technology companies, driving employment demand in the financial sector. Students undertaking the MSc in Financial Data Science will be immersed in how financial markets operate and the ongoing FinTech revolution in this space. The programme features the theory and practice of cutting-edge quantitative analysis, optimisation, and machine learning and equips students with the market knowledge and financial data science skills to succeed in this new and emerging digital environment for banking and financial market transactions.
How will I benefit?
The MSc in Financial Data Science is at the cutting edge of emerging digital technologies and data analysis in Finance. The programme not only attracts graduates from a number of different backgrounds but can also be tailored to a wide variety of academic and professional objectives, providing an enviable array of career options upon graduation. Benefits include:
- Students will learn from some of the leading academic minds in this area as well as influential visiting speakers from the world of digital finance and technology.
- Students will be immersed in how financial markets operate and the ongoing FinTech revolution in this space.
- Graduates will have achieved skills and understanding in programming, software, and databases.
- Options include a FinTech start-up incubator program in the Summer Trimester in partnership with NovaUCD, (which offers guidance and support in bringing start-up ideas to market).
- A potential summer trimester internship option to put learned skills into immediate practice in the field. (Note: Internship placements are not guaranteed, and most are allocated via a competitive interview process.)
- Given the growing gap in the jobs market for professionals with excellent data and technological skills in a finance context, this programme equips students with the market knowledge and financial data science skills to succeed in this new and emerging digital environment for banking and financial market transactions.
Curriculum
To achieve an MSc in Financial Data Science students complete 10 core modules over the Autumn and Spring Trimesters. In the Summer Trimester, students must complete Ethics in Financial Services and choose one of three pathways:
1. Green Data Science plus 2 option modules or
2. Green Data Science plus Summer Internship or
3. FinTech Incubator Project
Places on the summer modules will be made available for online registration in March.
| Autumn Trimester | Spring Trimester | Summer Trimester |
|
Core modules |
Core modules
|
Core module
Plus one Pathway Pathway A plus 2 option modules: OR Pathway B OR Pathway C |
Please be advised that the above reflects the 2023/2024 curriculum structure and is subject to change each year. Option modules listed are indicative of what has been delivered in previous years and are also subject to change. Summer taught modules are delivered in blocks over one or two weeks.
The MSc Financial Data Science programme is intended for students with an interest in the impact of technology on markets and the business environment, who wish to pursue a career in the finance or insurance sectors. The programme aims to provide students with the skills, knowledge and background to begin a career in FinTech and Financial Data Science and progress quickly to leadership roles (Purpose). The educational values of the programme are to provide students with the knowledge and skills to; appraise, evaluate and manage opportunities in the emerging FinTech landscape; employ software skills and leading-edge data science packages to inform key business decisions in finance and insurance, including investment decisions, risk management and lending decisions; develop a deep understanding of the Economic underpinnings of the finance and insurance sectors; appreciate the legal, regulatory, accounting and taxation aspects of finance and the impact of the FinTech and RegTech revolution on these areas; develop the cultural, negotiation and organisational expertise to operate in a truly global business; and communicate effectively with peers (Education and subject/discipline/professional values). The learning environment combines theoretical knowledge with application to real world financial data sets. In many cases, the theory in lectures will be further enhanced by small group tutorials. Furthermore, industry leaders will contribute to the programme through guest lectures and invited seminars. Internship and FinTech incubator options are further integrated into the programme (the nature of the learning environment for students). The programme uses multiple teaching, learning and assessment approaches. Assessment strategies include traditional exams, case study presentations and written reports. Group projects and presentations are also a key feature of this programme (key approaches to teaching, learning and assessment).
On successful completion of the programme students should be able to:
|
Programme Competencies: |
Programme Learning Outcomes: |
|
Subject Specific Knowledge: Our graduates will be current in their knowledge of the theory and practise behind the emerging FinTech sector, supported by a strong thought leadership and varied learning experience. |
Articulate and explain current theory and practice underpinning the impact of technology on the finance and insurance sectors (FinTech and Financial Data Science). Analyse and model aspects of the FinTech sector by drawing on a variety of frameworks, concepts and tools. Critically assess the functional aspects of FinTech and Financial Data Science. |
|
Critical and Analytical Judgement: Our graduates will be analytic and critical thinkers who will be able to make sound, socially responsible decisions. |
Query, analyse and model using complex financial data sets to inform key business decisions. Quantitatively assess the results of applying data science and financial machine learning to complex data sets. Qualitatively assess the legal, economic and accounting frameworks underlying the FinTech and RegTech sectors. |
|
Communication: Our graduates will be effective communicators in aspects relating to aviation finance and aviation more generally. |
Synthesise and summarise data, information and results from data science models and professionally communicate outcomes of the analysis & their recommendations to key stakeholders. Select and use appropriate communication strategies (oral, written & visual) to effectively communicate to peers. Effectively engage and contribute in multicultural teams. |
|
Ambition for Action and Contribution: Our graduates will be able to talk about, apply and act upon what they know and have the ambition and courage to collaborate, solve problems and contribute to business and society. |
Identify ways to add value in industry, drawing on the broad skills developed while undertaking the programme. Engage in continuous professional development and the enhancement of skills and competencies required for personal success in business today. |
Global Leadership Programme (GLP)
Our optional Global Leadership Programme (GLP) offers you a unique opportunity to engage in a diverse range of co-curricular professional development activities alongside the modules you take on the Master's programme. Participation in the GLP can give you an advantage over similarly qualified job candidates and increase your readiness for success in the workplace.
Discover our Rankings and Accreditations
