Finance and Investment MSc

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

The MSc Finance and Investment at The University of Nottingham is designed to give you a deep understanding of how financial markets really work and the tools professionals use to make smart investment decisions. It’s perfect for ambitious students who want to pursue careers in investment, corporate finance, or financial markets, combining theory with hands‑on practice, including working with real‑time data on Bloomberg Terminals.

Curriculum Structure

Semester One:
You’ll start by building a solid foundation in finance. Core modules like Capital Market Analysis, Corporate Finance, and Quantitative Research Methods for Finance and Investment teach you how to analyse companies, value investments, and use statistical tools to make informed financial decisions. These courses prepare you to think critically and act confidently in real financial settings.

Semester Two:
The second term is all about deepening your expertise. You’ll study Derivative Investment and Fixed Interest Investment, learning how complex financial instruments work and how they’re used in real-world strategies. You can also pick optional modules such as International Finance, Behavioural Finance, or Venture Capital and Private Equity to explore your personal interests and career goals.

Summer Project / Dissertation:
The summer is your chance to shine independently. Through a dissertation or business project, you’ll research a topic you’re passionate about, applying the skills you’ve learned to solve real finance problems. This is a great opportunity to showcase your abilities to future employers.

Focus Areas

Financial markets, corporate finance, investment strategies, derivatives, fixed-income products, behavioural finance, international finance.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate able to analyse financial data with confidence, develop investment strategies, apply econometric and quantitative tools to real problems, and carry out independent research that demonstrates your expertise.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

This MSc is recognised by the CFA Institute University Recognition Programme, meaning it closely aligns with the skills and knowledge needed for CFA exams and globally respected finance careers.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

QS World University Rankings 2026: Top 100 global university.
QS World Business Master’s Rankings 2025 for Finance: Top 100 worldwide.
Nottingham University Business School holds the prestigious Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This MSc isn’t just about lectures — it’s about getting hands-on with the tools and experiences that prepare you for a real finance career. From day one, you’ll have access to Bloomberg Terminals, allowing you to analyse live financial markets and make decisions just like a professional analyst. You can also gain industry-recognised digital skills certifications, such as Microsoft and SAP, boosting your employability while you study. Whether working individually on your dissertation or collaborating with peers on projects, you’ll be building practical skills every step of the way:

Here’s how you’ll experience learning in action:

Bloomberg Terminals and financial analysis tools let you explore real-time data and apply investment strategies in practice.
Digital skills certifications (Microsoft Azure, SAP) through the Business School’s Digital Centre of Excellence, giving you hands-on experience with industry software.
Group Business Projects where you tackle real-world business challenges alongside your classmates.
One-to-one dissertation supervision for independent research, supported by expert academic guidance.
Business Library and study spaces on Jubilee Campus, with collections and support tailored for finance students.
Nottingham University Business School Careers support, connecting you with employers and helping you prepare for your first professional role.
Jubilee Campus facilities, a modern and vibrant environment that encourages collaboration, networking, and access to student services.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the MSc Finance and Investment opens the door to exciting careers in finance and business. Many of our alumni go on to become investment analysts, financial managers, business analysts, or corporate finance specialists, working with top employers around the globe. With the support and guidance you receive at Nottingham, you’ll be ready to take confident steps into a competitive and rewarding professional world:

Tailored careers support: The Nottingham University Business School Postgraduate Careers Team helps you every step of the way with CV advice, interview coaching, employer events, and programmes like the Accelerated Career Leader Programme and Global Career Insights Series.
Graduate destinations: Typical roles include finance and investment analyst, management consultant, business analyst, and financial manager, with opportunities to progress into entrepreneurship or high-level research.
Employment stats & salary: Our postgraduates enjoy strong career outcomes, with an average starting salary around £38,931.
Industry connections: The course’s recognition by the Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA) Institute highlights the programme’s strong links to professional standards and global employers.
Lifelong support: Even after graduation, you’ll continue to have access to careers advice and resources as your career develops.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re keen to explore research or specialise further, you could continue your studies with a PhD or research-focused master’s in finance, building on your dissertation and analytical skills. This path is ideal for those aiming for a career in academia or high-level quantitative research.