Finance MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Aston University

Program Overview

The MSc Finance at Aston University gives you a strong foundation in financial theory while building practical, real-world skills. You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools like Bloomberg terminals and Python, making it ideal for students aiming for careers in banking, investment, risk management, or consulting.

Curriculum Structure

Year of Study
This is a one-year full-time master’s programme, structured across three terms and a final dissertation, designed to give you both a broad and deep understanding of modern finance.

Term 1
You begin with core modules such as Private Equity and Venture Capital, exploring investment valuation and deal structuring; Advanced Corporate Finance, strengthening your understanding of capital markets and strategic financial decisions; and Introduction to Financial Econometrics, equipping you with statistical tools to analyse real financial data.

Term 2
The second term focuses on applied financial markets and professional development. Fixed Income Securities deepens your knowledge of bond valuation and risk management, Risk Management teaches you to measure and mitigate enterprise risks, and The Aston Global Advantage develops professional skills for global finance careers.

Term 3 & Dissertation
In the final term, you study Derivatives to master pricing techniques and risk strategies and Applied Research Methods and Skills, building your research capability. You can also choose an optional module such as Python for Finance or Corporate Treasury and Financial Analysis to tailor the degree to your interests. The year concludes with your Independent Project, a dissertation exploring a finance topic of your choice.

Focus areas

Financial markets and instruments, corporate finance strategy, risk modelling, quantitative analysis, professional finance skills.

Learning outcomes

You will learn to apply advanced financial theories, evaluate complex market risks, conduct empirical research, use quantitative tools for decision-making, and communicate financial insights professionally.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The programme is accredited by the Association of Corporate Treasurers (ACT) and is affiliated with the CFA Institute, giving strong recognition with employers and finance professionals.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Aston Business School is in the top 1% of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation and ranked 6th in the UK for Corporate Finance in the Eduniversal Best Masters Rankings. The university is also among the top 5% globally in QS World University Rankings and within the Top 100 in Europe according to the Financial Times.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

When you study the MSc Finance at Aston University, you won’t just learn about finance in lectures — you’ll actually do finance like professionals. The programme gives you access to a dedicated trading room equipped with Bloomberg terminals, where you can work with real-time financial data and market analytics just like on a trading floor. You’ll also develop your analytical skills using industry-standard tools and programming languages such as Python, preparing you to make data-driven decisions in real-world finance. On top of this, the Aston Global Advantage module and career support connect you with employers, helping you gain professional confidence and workplace experience.

Here’s how this hands-on learning works in practice:

Bloomberg trading room experience: Work with live financial, economic, and accounting data in a professional trading environment.
Industry-standard software tools: Gain practical exposure to Python for Finance and other analytical applications widely used in the finance industry.
Guaranteed postgraduate internship scheme: Access professional internships with global employers, building real-world experience and enhancing your CV.
Aston Global Advantage professional development: Take part in simulations, teamwork challenges, and employability activities that link academic learning with career readiness.
Team-based projects and networking events: Collaborate with peers on finance projects and case studies while connecting with industry professionals through seminars and events.
Extensive library and research support: Use the university’s library collection of books and electronic journals to support research and your dissertation.

Facilities supporting this real-world learning include the dedicated trading room, professional software tools, and a broader business school environment designed to mirror real finance workplaces.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Finance at Aston University move into a wide range of exciting roles in the financial sector, including finance analyst, risk manager, investment banking analyst, and corporate finance consultant. The programme’s combination of practical skills, professional development, and industry exposure means you’ll be ready to step confidently into competitive job markets:

Careers support tailored to you: Aston’s dedicated Careers and Placements team offers one-to-one consultations, CV and interview coaching, employer events, and ongoing support through the Future Ready programme to help you meet employers and build your professional profile.
Guaranteed internship experience: Eligible full-time master’s students can take part in a guaranteed internship, giving you hands-on industry experience that boosts your CV and workplace confidence.
Employment stats & prospects: A high proportion of graduates from finance postgraduate programmes go on to skilled roles after graduation, with a competitive salary trajectory as they gain experience.
University–industry connections: Through careers events, networking, and internship pathways, you’ll connect with professionals and employers who value graduates with strong analytical and practical finance skills.
Accreditation that travels with you: Professional accreditation, such as recognition from the Association of Corporate Treasurers and affiliation with the CFA Institute, adds long-term value to your CV and shows that your qualification meets global professional standards.
Graduation outcomes: Aston Business School’s triple accreditation and strong reputation mean your degree positions you for roles in finance, consultancy, fintech, risk management, and other analytical fields.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Finance, you could continue your studies with a research degree such as an MPhil or PhD in finance or related disciplines, exploring specialised topics through advanced research. Alternatively, you might pursue professional qualifications like the CFA or ACCA alongside your career, building deeper expertise and enhancing your professional standing.