MA Finance and International Relations

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Aberdeen

Program Overview

The University of Aberdeen provides a 4-year full-time undergraduate degree in MA Finance and International Relations that aims to equip students with a solid education in financial management as well as international relations. The course is designed to provide a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that enable students to excel in global finance, diplomacy, and international business. This course is especially ideal for students who want to pursue a career in international relations or finance and integrate both studies to meet the needs of the modern workforce.

Curriculum Structure:
The MA Finance and International Relations course integrates courses from both international relations and finance so that students can study both subjects in detail.

  • Year 1: Understanding of the elementary concepts of financial accounting, microeconomics, and macroeconomics alongside preliminary courses in global politics and international relations. Year one establishes foundations both in finance and political analysis.

  • Year 2: Encounters corporate finance, investment appraisal, international economic policy, and theory of foreign relations, coupled with intensive studies in geopolitics and international law.

  • Year 3: Students undergo a compulsory year abroad in a country related to international relations, enhancing their cultural sensitivity and language skills. They can choose to study or work as an intern at a foreign collaborating institution to acquire practical experience.

  • Year 4: Advanced modules in international trade, foreign policy analysis, international finance, and financial risk management. The final year consists of a dissertation project, whereby students apply their knowledge in both finance and international relations.

Accreditation:
The MA Finance and International Relations course offered by the University of Aberdeen aligns with business needs and prepares students for professional certifications. Students can obtain certifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), making them suitable for the competitive world of finance.

Campus Location:
The University of Aberdeen is based in Aberdeen, Scotland, offering students a vibrant learning environment where they can access current classrooms, finance labs, and student facilities aimed at advancing learning. The campus offers the latest equipment to ensure that students have access to the finest resources for the study of finance and international relations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The University of Aberdeen focuses on practical experience and provides varied opportunities for learning through practical work:

  • Internships: Students are encouraged to choose internships in leading world financial institutions to gain real work experience in finance.

  • Workshops and Seminars: Periodic sessions on career development, resume building, and interviews and networking ensure students' employability.

  • Student Societies: Student societies with a finance and international relations focus arrange events, guest talks, and competitions via which students have a chance to apply their theoretical concepts in practice.

  • Study Abroad: The compulsory year abroad in an internationally related country gives students a chance to study worldviews and foreign cultures.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The University of Aberdeen Careers Service offers expert career guidance and professional development to support students throughout their studies:

  • Career Counselling and Planning: One-to-one sessions help students clarify and achieve their career goals.

  • Recruitment Events: Regular employer and recruitment fairs provide opportunities for students to network and meet potential employers.

  • Professional Skills Development: There are workshops to develop fundamental skills such as presentation, communication, and leadership, all of which are critical to excelling in finance and international relations.

Employability:
MA Finance and International Relations graduates are suitably prepared for careers in finance, diplomacy, and international business. Past graduates have secured employment in top international organizations such as Goldman Sachs, HSBC, United Nations, and KPMG in positions such as:

  • Investment Banking

  • Corporate Finance

  • Risk Management

  • Foreign Service/Diplomacy

  • International Trade Analysis

  • Policy Advising

Further Academic Progression:
Postgraduates can proceed with their studies by pursuing specialist master's degrees or professional qualifications, including:

  • MSc in Finance

  • MSc in International Relations

  • MBA (Finance)

  • CFA or ACCA qualifications for finance specialists

  • Postgraduate Diplomas in international economics or public policy.

Program Key Stats

£20,800
£ 28
Sept Intake : 15th Jan


78 %
No
No

Eligibility Criteria

BBC
3.0
32
75

NA
NA
6.0
78

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Investment Banking
  • Corporate Finance
  • Risk Management
  • Financial Analysis
  • International Business
  • Economic Policy Analyst
  • Government Services
  • Diplomatic Service
  • International Development
  • Trade Policy
  • Foreign Affairs
  • NGO Management
  • Public Sector
  • Teaching
  • and Consultancy

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