MSc Financial Technology (Fintech) with Industrial Experience

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

The MSc Financial Technology (Fintech) with Industrial Experience at the University of Exeter Business School is perfect if you’re curious about how finance meets technology and want hands-on experience solving real-world problems. Over two years, you’ll learn the latest FinTech tools and techniques, then get the chance to apply them on a professional industrial placement, giving you both confidence and a competitive edge for your future career.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:

In your first year, you’ll dive into the building blocks of FinTech. Through modules like Fundamentals of Financial Technology, Financial Modelling, and Applied Econometrics 1, you’ll understand how financial systems work, analyse real data, and explore how technology is transforming finance. You’ll also take on practical challenges, such as the Hackathon Project, where you’ll collaborate with peers to tackle real FinTech problems — giving you a taste of the kind of innovation the industry demands.

Year 2:

Year two is all about putting theory into practice. You’ll undertake an Industrial Experience placement, working with a partner organisation to gain hands-on experience, build your professional network, and develop skills that employers value. This placement bridges the gap between academic study and real-world work, making your CV stand out and preparing you for careers across finance, technology, and consulting.

Focus Areas:

FinTech fundamentals, financial modelling, econometrics, banking and financial services, hackathon innovation challenges, plus real-world industrial experience.

Learning Outcomes:

You’ll gain strong analytical and quantitative skills, learn to use technology to solve financial problems, build coding and data expertise, and develop the confidence to make an impact in tech-driven finance roles.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The Business School is triple accredited (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS), meaning your degree meets internationally recognised standards and is highly respected by employers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

Exeter is ranked Top 15 in the UK for Economics, 11th in the Complete University Guide 2026, and 12th in The Guardian University Guide 2026, reflecting the quality of teaching and excellent career prospects.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Exeter, this FinTech MSc is all about learning by doing. From the very start, you’ll get hands-on experience, whether it’s coding, analysing financial data, or collaborating with your peers to solve real-world problems. The course is designed so you’re not just sitting in lectures — you’ll tackle live FinTech challenges, work in teams, and gain professional experience that makes you confident and job-ready. In your second year, you’ll take this a step further with an industrial placement, giving you real-world insights, industry contacts, and a chance to apply everything you’ve learned in a professional setting.

Here’s how it works in practice:

Hackathon Project: work on real FinTech challenges in a team, coding and innovating solutions that mirror the industry environment.
Group projects: develop teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills while collaborating on practical, finance-related projects.
Industrial placement year: gain up to 33 weeks of hands-on experience in a FinTech, finance, or tech company, building professional networks and enhancing your CV.
Business School facilities: access modern collaboration spaces in Building:One and the Xfi Building, equipped with specialist IT resources and software.
Finance and Economics Experimental Laboratory (FEELE): explore experimental economics in a dedicated lab environment to better understand markets, behaviour, and data-driven decision-making.
Campus resources: enjoy tech-rich study spaces, Forum Library, and Career Zone support to back up your learning and professional development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this FinTech MSc leave Exeter ready to step straight into exciting careers where technology and finance intersect. You could be designing digital financial products, helping organisations navigate blockchain and digital innovation, or shaping risk and compliance strategies in banks or tech firms. Typical roles include FinTech Analyst, Blockchain Consultant, Risk & Compliance Specialist, and Technology Strategy Associate:

Tailored career support: Exeter’s Master Your Future programme and Career Zone give you 1:1 guidance, CV and interview coaching, and access to employer fairs, helping you connect with the right opportunities.
Industrial placements with real impact: Your second-year placement is a chance to work in a real FinTech, finance, or tech company, building skills, professional networks, and often leading to graduate job offers.
Strong employer links: The university maintains close partnerships with top employers in finance, tech, and consulting, giving you access to events, workshops, and recruitment networks.
Accreditation and recognition: The Business School’s triple-accredited (AMBA, AACSB, EQUIS) status ensures your degree is respected worldwide.
Graduate outcomes: Exeter graduates are highly sought after, with many moving directly into rewarding roles in finance, technology, consulting, or even launching their own ventures.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, this MSc also sets you up perfectly for research degrees such as an MRes or PhD in Finance or Economics, giving you advanced training in econometrics, financial theory, and the chance to explore new areas of FinTech in depth.