MSc Finance and Investment

9 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc Finance and Investment at the University of Exeter is designed for anyone looking to understand the world of finance inside out and make smart investment decisions. It’s perfect for ambitious students who want hands-on experience with tools like Bloomberg and Refinitiv while exploring real-world markets and investment strategies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Building the Foundation
Your first year is all about mastering the core skills that finance professionals rely on every day. You’ll study Financial Instruments, Investment Analysis 1, and Financial Modelling, giving you the tools to understand and manage complex financial data. Modules like Quantitative Research Methods help you develop sharp analytical skills, while optional units such as Banking and Financial Services or International Financial Management let you start shaping your personal career path.

Year 2 – Specializing and Applying Knowledge
The second year takes your learning to the next level. Through Investment Analysis 2 and a hands-on dissertation or project, you’ll tackle real financial challenges and develop solutions. Optional modules such as Advanced Corporate Finance, Mergers and Corporate Reorganisations, and Climate Finance and Investments let you focus on areas you’re passionate about, whether that’s sustainable investing, corporate strategy, or risk management.

Focus areas

Investment analysis, portfolio management, financial modelling, corporate finance, international financial management, sustainable finance, risk and derivatives pricing.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the programme, you’ll confidently analyse financial markets, use industry-standard tools like Bloomberg and Refinitiv, carry out quantitative research, and communicate complex investment strategies effectively — ready to hit the ground running in any finance career.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The Business School has triple accreditation (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS), and the MSc is accredited by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI). There’s also the chance to earn the QTEM certificate, giving you an extra edge with employers.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Exeter is consistently recognised for excellence — with Accounting and Finance programmes ranked Top 5 in the UK for graduate prospects (The Complete University Guide 2026) and a Business School holding international triple accreditation, you’ll be learning in a globally respected environment that employers trust.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, your MSc in Finance and Investment isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — it’s about getting hands-on experience with the tools and skills that finance professionals actually use. From day one, you’ll be working with real financial data, analysing markets, and tackling investment problems in ways that mirror what you’d do in a career. The programme blends practical workshops, industry-led sessions, and team projects so you not only understand financial theory but know how to apply it in real-world scenarios:

Here’s what you’ll get to do:

Hands-on training with professional tools like Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon, S&P Capital IQ, and WRDS, giving you real experience in market research and financial modelling.
Case-study classes and computer-based sessions where you solve complex financial problems as part of a team.
Industry workshops led by practitioners, helping you understand company analysis and investment strategies in practice.
QTEM Programme opportunities for a semester abroad and a quantitative internship, plus the QTEM Data Challenge — perfect for building global finance experience.
Access to Exeter Sustainable Finance Centre (ESF) and other research hubs, connecting you with cutting-edge sustainable finance projects.
Collaborative group projects across modules, helping you sharpen teamwork, communication, and presentation skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Exeter’s MSc Finance and Investment leave ready to step confidently into the world of finance. Many go on to roles such as Investment Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Risk Analyst, or Financial Consultant, applying the skills they’ve honed in real-world projects, database work, and financial modelling. With the programme’s hands-on focus, you’ll be prepared to make smart investment decisions and tackle complex financial challenges from day one:

Here’s how Exeter supports your career journey:

Tailored career guidance: The Business School’s Master Your Future programme offers workshops, 1:1 advice, CV and interview coaching, and employer events to make sure you’re ready for recruitment. You also have access to the university-wide Career Zone for personalised support, psychometric tests, and networking opportunities.
Strong employability outcomes: Exeter graduates consistently land high-skill finance roles, with many moving into investment management, consulting, or financial analysis.
Industry connections: Working with professional platforms and networks, including CISI qualifications and the QTEM programme, helps you gain global experience and build contacts that matter.
Accreditation advantage: Your degree comes from a triple-accredited Business School (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS) and is recognised by the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment (CISI) — making it highly respected by employers worldwide.
Real graduate success stories: Alumni have secured positions such as Risk Analyst at Aviva Investors or financial roles at leading banks and consultancies soon after graduating.

Further Academic Progression:

If you want to keep learning, this master’s opens doors to further study. You could take professional qualifications like the CFA, or dive into a PhD in Finance or Economics, exploring topics like financial markets, asset pricing, or sustainable investment. Your dissertation and research experiences during the MSc provide a strong foundation for both academic and specialist professional paths.