Finance MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Leicester

Program Overview

The MSc Finance at the University of Leicester gives you a strong understanding of how financial markets work and how key financial decisions are made in real-world business. It’s perfect for students aiming for careers in finance, investment analysis, banking, or any role that demands strong analytical and quantitative skills.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1 (Full-time programme):
In this intensive one-year master’s, you start with foundation modules like Foundations of Mathematics for Finance and Professional Skills in Finance, preparing you for more advanced topics. During Semester 1, you’ll study core areas such as Financial Risk Management, Financial Analysis and Investment, and Financial Statement Analysis, building your ability to interpret real-world financial data and assess risk.

Semester 2:
In the second semester, you’ll deepen your knowledge with modules like Corporate Finance and Financial Derivatives, learning how companies make strategic financial decisions and how complex financial instruments are valued. You’ll also explore Principles of Banking and Fixed-Income Securities, gaining insights into institutional finance and fixed-income markets.

Semester 3 / Dissertation:
In the final stage, you’ll focus on advanced topics such as Investment Management and Behavioural Finance, understanding portfolio strategies and the psychology behind financial decision-making. You will also complete a dissertation project, applying your skills to a topic of your choice and demonstrating your independent research ability.

Focus areas: Financial markets, investment analysis, risk management, corporate finance, financial derivatives, banking principles, fixed-income securities, behavioural finance, applied research.

Learning outcomes: Graduates will master financial modelling, investment analysis, risk assessment, and corporate decision-making; they will be able to interpret financial statements and market data, and conduct independent research relevant to the finance sector.

Professional alignment (accreditation): This programme is a CFA Institute Programme Partner, covering a large portion of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge, which is highly valuable for careers in investment management and finance.

Reputation (employability rankings): The School of Business’s finance and economics courses are well-respected by employers in business and government, giving graduates a strong advantage in competitive job markets.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MSc Finance, you’ll gain much more than theoretical knowledge — you’ll get hands-on experience using the same tools and data platforms that professionals use in the finance industry. The School of Business has dedicated facilities where you can practise real-world skills, supported by practical classes, computing sessions, and collaborative projects. This practical approach helps you build confidence with financial software, market data analysis, teamwork, and professional communication, ensuring you leave both academically strong and job-ready.

Here’s how experiential learning works throughout your MSc Finance journey:

Bloomberg terminals in the ULSB Trading Room: access real-time financial data, analytics, and market news on the same platform used by investment banks and asset managers, allowing you to practise market analysis and trading scenarios.
Computer practicals and software projects: take part in computer-led practicals where you analyse financial statements, model risk, and run simulations relevant to modules like Financial Modelling and Financial Risk Management.
Group work and presentations: many assessments involve teamwork and seminar presentations, helping you develop essential communication and collaboration skills for finance careers.
Research-linked teaching: faculty bring their current research into classes and supervise your dissertation, letting you apply academic inquiry to solve real financial problems.
University library and learning support: full access to the David Wilson Library’s collections, databases, and study spaces supports your independent research and coursework throughout the degree.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Finance go on to rewarding careers where they can apply their analytical and financial expertise to real-world challenges. Typical job paths include Financial Analyst, Investment Manager, Risk Consultant, and Corporate Finance Specialist — all roles where the knowledge and skills you gain from this master’s really make a difference:

University career support: The School of Business has a dedicated careers team for postgraduate students, offering tailored guidance, networking opportunities with employers, career events, workshops, and one-to-one support to help you prepare for applications, interviews, and professional development. The university’s central Careers and Employability service also provides lifelong support, access to job portals, and connections with employers throughout your studies and after graduation.
Employment outcomes: Leicester graduates perform strongly in the job market, with a high proportion securing skilled roles within months of finishing their studies. Alumni are reported to earn above the national sector average five years into their careers, reflecting the long-term value of a Leicester degree.
Industry engagement: Through business and employer events, conferences, and networking fairs, you’ll have opportunities to meet industry professionals and build contacts with companies across finance, banking, consulting, and more — helping bridge your academic experience with real-world expectations.
Accreditation value: As a CFA Institute Programme Partner, this MSc covers a substantial part of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge, giving your CV added credibility for careers in investment analysis, portfolio management, and finance roles that value professional recognition.
Graduate outcomes: Many students move into highly skilled professional work within 15 months of graduation, particularly in finance and business-related roles.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc Finance, you could continue your studies by pursuing professional qualifications such as the CFA or ACCA, which enhance specialist expertise and career prospects. Others may choose a research path, such as a PhD in finance or related areas, especially if they are interested in academic or high-level analytical careers. You could also take further postgraduate diplomas to build on specific financial skills and strengthen your professional profile.