Durham University Business School
Durham, United Kingdom
The MSc in Finance (Accounting and Finance) provides you with the essential skills and learning to thrive in a wide range of corporate environments around the world and to play a key role in ensuring they function to the highest finance and accounting standards.
You will learn how to apply analytical skills, technical skills and the latest research techniques to the sophisticated and stimulating world of finance and accounting. Underpinning all aspects of learning are our core values of fairness and equality of access to financial services, these skills are valued by top global financial institutions and businesses, and by leading PhD research programmes.
This 12-month full-time course is affiliated with the Chartered Financial Analyst Institute (CFA), the leading global association for investment professionals and the accepted benchmark around the world for technical excellence in financial markets. Core modules, which are taught through lectures, seminars and practical work, cover the key financial areas of accounts and reporting, financial statement analysis, advanced financial theory, corporate finance, econometric methods and financial modelling and business forecasting.
The MSc is delivered by academic staff who are dedicated and passionate about their subject and how it relates to both people’s daily lives and the functioning of financial institutions and corporations across the globe. Successful completion will enable you to progress to a challenging and stimulating role in this vitally important sector.
The Certificate in Engagement with Practice in Finance
The Certificate in Engagement with Practice in Finance aligns with our strategic objective to cultivate future leaders in finance who are highly sought after by global institutions and research programmes. This distinctive and comprehensive offering within the MSc Finance programme enables students to build both technical expertise and the essential soft skills required for success in a competitive industry. Through a series of extra-curricular engagements, students deepen their knowledge and develop in-demand skills, such as communication, adaptability, and problem-solving. By completing at least ten targeted activities or a combination of engagements and Bloomberg certifications, participants demonstrate a well-rounded skillset that reflects the high standards of the finance profession. Successful completion results in a certificate of recognition, formally included on the academic transcript, signalling professional readiness to employers.
The programme’s events include "Zero to Hero" bootcamps in areas like Python programming, SQL, Entrepreneurship Finance and CFA exam training, equipping students with valuable, career-focused technical skills. Networking opportunities and workshops, delivered by leaders from industry, provide additional insights and exposure to real-world finance scenarios. Additionally, the student-led Investment Club offers an immersive experience in managing a live investment fund, building practical skills in teamwork, leadership, and resilience. Together, these diverse experiences empower students to apply their academic learning, gain industry insights, and establish connections, ensuring they graduate with the skills, confidence, and network needed to thrive in their postgraduate careers.
Course Structure
The programme consists of core modules and are complemented by your choice of optional modules, which give you the opportunity to tailor the course to your interests and career goals. You will also complete either a research-based dissertation or an applied business project in an area of your choice.
