MSc Finance and Economics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

The MSc Finance and Economics at the University of Kent blends the study of finance and economics to give you a deep understanding of how financial markets work and how economic policies shape them. It’s ideal for ambitious graduates who want to build a career in finance, consultancy, or economic analysis, equipping you with the skills to make informed, strategic decisions in the professional world.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1:
You’ll start by building a strong foundation in finance and economics. Modules like Corporate Finance, Applied Econometrics, and Financial Economics help you understand market behaviour, analyse financial data, and evaluate corporate performance, giving you the essential tools for more advanced study.

Term 2:
This term focuses on applying your knowledge to real-world financial challenges. With modules such as Asset Pricing, Derivatives and Risk Management, and Macroeconomics, you’ll gain hands-on experience in valuing investments, managing portfolios, and analysing economic trends, preparing you for professional practice.

Term 3 (Dissertation/Research Project):
In your final term, you’ll complete an independent research project or dissertation, integrating the skills you’ve developed throughout the year. This gives you the chance to specialise in an area that interests you, demonstrate advanced analytical skills, and produce work at a professional level.

Focus Areas: Corporate finance, financial markets, investment analysis, asset pricing, macroeconomic policy, risk management, applied econometrics

Learning Outcomes: Critically evaluate financial and economic data, apply advanced quantitative techniques, understand financial markets and institutions, develop investment strategies, conduct independent research, make evidence-based economic decisions

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Prepares students for careers in finance, investment, and consultancy, meeting the professional standards expected in financial and economic sectors

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Kent Business School is consistently recognised for strong graduate employability and academic excellence, with a solid reputation in finance and economics

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Kent Business School, the MSc Finance and Economics isn’t just about lectures — it’s designed so you can apply what you learn in real-world settings, develop practical skills, and collaborate with peers using professional tools from day one. You’ll study in the award-winning Sibson Building, where modern lecture halls, breakout spaces, computer labs, and collaborative zones support both individual research and team-based problem solving. These facilities give you the chance to gain hands-on experience with financial data, practice research methods, and connect with professionals while building confidence in your skills.

Here’s how that looks in practice:

Bloomberg Lab and financial tools: Work with real-world financial data on industry-standard platforms like Bloomberg in specialist lab spaces that simulate trading environments, giving you skills directly relevant to careers in finance and investment.
Group projects and collaboration: Breakout rooms and group study areas make it easy to work with classmates on finance cases, econometric analysis, and presentation-style assessments that mirror professional teamwork.
ASPIRE Lab Space: Develop entrepreneurial thinking and business-ready skills through dedicated collaborative workspaces where you can workshop ideas and explore finance-related business opportunities.
Library and digital resources: Access the Templeman Library’s extensive collections of print and digital resources in finance and economics, including specialist databases tailored for postgraduate research and data-driven coursework.
Careers support and real opportunities: Kent’s Careers and Employability service offers workshops, internships, and networking opportunities, helping you translate classroom learning into professional experience through project work or practical placements.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Finance and Economics at the University of Kent are well-prepared for careers in finance, investment, economic policy, and consultancy, combining strong analytical skills with practical experience. Typical roles include Financial Analyst, Economic Consultant, Investment Associate, and Policy Advisor, reflecting the programme’s focus on employability and real-world relevance:

Careers support services: Kent Business School offers personalised career coaching, mentoring from industry professionals and alumni, access to careers fairs, employer networking, workshops, and ongoing support for up to three years after graduation.
Employment destinations: Our graduates have gone on to work for organisations such as NatWest, Dolfin Group Wealth Management, US Bank, Huawei, Caterpillar, and Eurex, showing the wide range of opportunities available both locally and internationally.
Earnings potential: Finance and economics graduates typically see strong early career earnings, with median salaries around £28,000–£30,000 fifteen months after graduation, with the potential to grow as you progress into specialised roles.
Accreditation value: Kent Business School holds AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS accreditation, meaning your degree is recognised globally and highly valued by employers, giving your career long-term credibility and mobility.
Graduation outcomes: With built-in employability features, real-world projects, and placement opportunities, graduates are well-positioned to enter competitive sectors and continue advancing in their careers.

Further Academic Progression:
If you choose to continue your studies, you could pursue a PhD or MRes in finance, economics, or related social sciences, often supported by Kent’s research centres and academic contacts. Alternatively, professional qualifications like CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CIMA, or advanced diplomas can further enhance your expertise and professional standing, opening even more career opportunities.