MSc Finance and Management

9 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc Finance and Management at the University of Exeter is designed for students who want to develop a strong understanding of finance while building essential management and leadership skills. The programme is ideal for graduates who want to explore careers in finance, consulting, business strategy, and management by studying areas such as financial decision-making, investment, organisational strategy, and international business.

Curriculum Structure

9-Month Programme

During the 9-month full-time programme, students develop core knowledge in finance and management through modules such as Investment Analysis 1, Fundamentals of Financial Management, Managing Competitive Strategy, and Marketing Strategy. These modules help students understand investment decisions, financial planning, strategic thinking, and how businesses create competitive advantages in changing markets.

Students can tailor their studies through optional modules including Financial Instruments, Financial Modelling, Advanced Corporate Finance, International Financial Management, Managing Operations, Principles of International Business, Entrepreneurship: New Venture Creation, and Service Design and Innovation. These modules allow students to explore specialist areas based on their career goals, including finance, consulting, entrepreneurship, international business, and organisational management.

Students can also choose the Sustainable Finance pathway, which focuses on the growing importance of responsible business and investment practices. Through modules such as Corporate Governance and Finance, Climate Finance and Investments, Sustainable and Responsible Finance, and Financial Institutions’ Risk Management, students learn how sustainability, governance, and risk management influence modern financial decisions.

Focus Areas

Financial management, investment analysis, corporate finance, strategic management, marketing strategy, international business, entrepreneurship, operations management, sustainable finance, risk management, responsible investment, and business innovation.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will develop the ability to analyse financial decisions, understand business strategy, and manage complex organisational challenges. Students will gain skills in financial analysis, investment evaluation, leadership, strategic planning, and sustainable finance, preparing them for roles that require both financial expertise and management capability.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MSc Finance and Management supports professional development by combining financial expertise with management and leadership skills valued by employers. Students who select the Sustainable Finance pathway benefit from CFA Institute certification recognising key topics from the Certificate in ESG Investing, helping them develop knowledge of responsible investment and sustainable finance practices.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Exeter Business School provides a globally recognised environment with strong industry connections and a focus on graduate employability. The programme prepares students for opportunities across investment companies, financial institutions, consulting firms, and corporate organisations by combining advanced finance knowledge with strategic management skills.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks — you’ll get hands-on experience that prepares you for real finance and management roles. From day one, you’ll work with industry-standard financial tools and databases, practice financial analysis in specialist labs, and collaborate on projects that mirror real business challenges. The programme is designed so you not only understand concepts but apply them confidently, whether you’re analysing markets, evaluating investment options, or leading a team project.

Here’s how you’ll get practical experience:

Industry-standard software and databases: Learn and use Datastream, Bloomberg, Thomson Reuters, BvD Orbis, Zephyr, STATA, and VBA — all tools that top employers expect you to know.
Bloomberg Suite & IT labs: Access dedicated Bloomberg terminals and specialist computer labs in the Xfi Building to practise market data analysis and financial modelling.
Group projects and collaborative spaces: Modern seminar rooms and study hubs let you work closely with peers on case studies, presentations, and business simulations — just like in the workplace.
Career development workshops and employer events: One-to-one guidance, networking events, and career fairs through Master Your Future help you prepare for job applications and interviews.
Internship opportunities: While optional, you can gain real workplace experience through paid internships and placements offered via the university’s Career Zone.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the MSc Finance and Management at Exeter opens the door to exciting careers where you can apply both your finance know-how and management skills. Many alumni go on to roles like Investment Analyst, Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager, or Management Consultant, giving you flexibility across different sectors and industries:

Dedicated career support: Exeter’s Business School Careers Service and Career Zone offer one-to-one coaching, CV and interview guidance, employer events, job fairs, and networking opportunities to help you land your first role after graduation.
Strong employer connections: The school regularly hosts presentations and networking sessions with leading companies, and students can access opportunities through the Handshake platform, which connects them with thousands of potential employers.
Graduate outcomes: Exeter graduates consistently move into high-level roles in finance, consulting, and management, with the University ranked among the top UK universities for employability.
Accreditation and long-term value: With triple accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA), your degree is recognised globally, giving you credibility and an advantage in the job market.
Alumni network: Exeter graduates have gone on to work at major organisations like PwC, JP Morgan Chase, Ernst & Young, Samsung, and Coca‑Cola HBC — giving you access to a strong network of professionals around the world.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re thinking about further studies, this MSc also lays the groundwork for advanced qualifications. Many students continue with a PhD in finance, economics, or management, or pursue professional certifications such as CFA, ACCA, or CIMA to deepen expertise. The research skills and practical experience you gain here make it a smooth transition to further academic or professional achievements.