MSc Finance and Trading

The MSc Finance and Trading equips you with the practical and theoretical skills to succeed in today’s fast-moving financial markets. You’ll gain hands-on experience using professional tools like Bloomberg and DataStream, making it ideal for students aiming for careers in investment banking, trading, risk management, or quantitative finance.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Full-Time, 1-Year):
In your first and only academic year, you’ll develop a solid understanding of both the theory and practice of finance and trading. Core modules such as International Finance, Financial Market Structure, Advanced Financial Data Analytics, and AI & Trading help you grasp global markets, derivative pricing, and how data-driven tools can enhance trading decisions. Practical exercises using professional platforms reinforce your ability to analyse markets and build real-world trading strategies.

Final Semester / Project:
In the final semester, you’ll complete either an Applied Research Project or a Dissertation, giving you the chance to apply your learning to real financial challenges. The applied project focuses on company analysis, valuation, and professional reporting, while the dissertation is perfect if you’re aiming for research-oriented roles or further academic study.

Focus areas: quantitative finance, market microstructure, asset pricing, machine learning in finance, risk management, trading strategies, econometric analysis

Learning outcomes: apply financial theory to real markets, use advanced data analytics and machine learning, price derivatives and assets, understand trading mechanisms and risk, communicate findings in professional research or applied project form

Professional alignment (accreditation): delivered by Queen’s Business School, the programme is designed to meet the expectations of employers in finance and trading sectors and uses industry-standard tools for data and market analysis

Reputation (employability rankings): Queen’s University is ranked third in the UK for Graduate Prospects in Finance by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide, reflecting strong employability outcomes for finance graduates

Graduates from the MSc Finance and Trading leave Queen’s equipped with the practical, analytical, and professional skills that top finance employers are looking for. Many step into roles such as Investment Analyst, Portfolio Analyst, Equity Research Analyst, or Energy Trader, confident in their ability to thrive in global financial markets. The combination of hands-on trading experience, industry-standard tools, and career support ensures that you’re well-prepared for real-world opportunities:

Queen’s helps you succeed in your career through:

• Dedicated career support: The Careers, Employability and Skills office helps with CVs, interview prep, internship opportunities, and job searches, plus access to the MyFuture platform even after graduation.

• Strong graduate outcomes: Alumni have secured roles at leading firms like Morgan Stanley, Citi, Bank of China, BDO, Deloitte, PwC, and Davy Group, showing how in-demand your skills will be.

• Industry engagement: Guest lectures, networking events, and professional connections built during the programme can lead to internships and early career opportunities.

• Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award: Optional activities such as placements, global experiences, or volunteering boost your CV and help you stand out in the competitive job market.

• Accreditation and recognition: Queen’s is ranked highly in the UK for graduate prospects in Accounting and Finance, reflecting the long-term value and credibility of your qualification.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you could continue your studies with a PhD in Finance or Economics or pursue professional qualifications like the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst). These pathways are ideal if you want to focus on research, deepen your expertise, or enhance your career in investment management, financial research, or academia.