BSc Finance with Foundation

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Reading

Program Overview

The University of Reading offers a BSc Finance with Foundation degree to prepare students with a strong foundation in financial systems, markets, and business principles. This 3-year degree is ideal for individuals who require a strong finance foundation, particularly those who may not yet qualify for the entry level of a direct entry into a BSc Finance course. On successful completion of the course, the students will be well equipped to pursue careers in finance, banking, accounting, or allied industries. The first year of study ensures that the students develop proper academic skills and knowledge to succeed in their further studies.

Course Structure:

BSc Finance with Foundation combines academic knowledge with work skills to prepare students for the dynamic world of finance. The course includes:

  • Foundation Year: The year is spent in developing core competencies in mathematics, economics, and business. Students study core finance topics like accounting, statistics, and financial concepts, laying the ground for a seamless transition into the whole degree program.

  • Core Finance Subjects: For the rest of the years, students study core finance topics such as financial accounting, corporate finance, investment management, and financial markets. These topics provide a strong exposure to financial practice and theory.

  • Applied Finance Skills: The program includes courses such as financial modelling, data analysis, and business economics to enable students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world uses.

  • Dissertation/Capstone Project: Final year students engage in a research-based dissertation or practice project, integrating the aggregate skills and knowledge gained throughout the program.

Accreditation

The University of Reading BSc Finance with Foundation course is accredited by some of the world's leading professional bodies, including the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute and the Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT). This ensures that the course is of industry standard and prepares students to sit for certification exams and professional qualifications.

Campus Location:

Reading University lies within Reading, Berkshire, which is only a short 25 miles west of London. Its campus offers students an energetic, caring atmosphere with exposure to modern state-of-the-art equipment available for finance students, including computer suites, trading floors, and an entire library.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The University of Reading emphasizes practical experience and offers several ways for students to gain hands-on financial experience:

  • Internships: Students have the opportunity to apply for internships with leading financial institutions such as HSBC, Barclays, and PwC, where they gain industry experience.

  • Finance Society and Competitions: There are several student-run finance societies at the university, through which students can take part in networking events, competitions, and workshops. The Trading Challenge and Investment Fund offer practical exposure to financial analysis and decision-making.

  • Study Abroad Programs: The university offers students a chance to gain international exposure by having study exchanges with partner universities in Europe, North America, and Asia.

  • Professional Skills Development: Students are urged during the program to go to workshops covering such subjects as presentation skills, networking, and interviewing skills, which equip them with the skills to succeed in the competitive job market.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The University of Reading provides extensive career advice via its Careers Centre, which offers a range of student services, including:

  • Career guidance and advice: One-to-one advice on how to investigate and chart your career in finance.

  • CV and Cover Letter Workshops: Practical help in writing applications that get noticed by employers.

  • Mock Interviews and Assessment Centres: Interview practice with real-time feedback and guidance on how to improve performance.

  • On-campus Recruitment Fairs: Direct interactions with employers and the potential of job placement and internship in finance.

Employability:

BSc Finance with Foundation graduates are highly sought after by employers in the finance and business sectors. Alumni have gone on to work at major financial institutions, such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and KPMG, in roles ranging from financial analyst to investment banker. Others also find employment in consulting, corporate finance, and asset management.

Academic Progression:

After completing the BSc Finance with Foundation, students can move on to postgraduate studies like the MSc Finance, MSc Accounting, or MBA. Graduates mostly prefer to pursue professional certifications like the CFA, ACCA, or CIMA in order to enhance their career prospects in the financial world.

Program Key Stats

£23,000
£ 28
Sept Intake : 15th Jan


No
No

Eligibility Criteria

CCC
NA
24
60

NA
NA
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • banking
  • investment banking
  • financial analysis
  • asset management
  • consultancy
  • risk management
  • corporate finance
  • financial planning
  • FinTech
  • wealth management
  • accounting
  • insurance
  • compliance
  • treasury
  • private equity
  • venture capital
  • sustainable finance
  • financial journalism
  • economic research
  • management accounting

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