MSc Banking and Finance

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

The MSc Banking and Finance at the University of Surrey is designed to help you understand how modern banks and financial markets really work — not just in theory, but in practice. It’s a great fit if you’re aiming for a career in banking, financial analysis, risk management, or financial regulation and want strong analytical skills backed by real industry tools and case studies.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:
From the beginning of the course, you’ll focus on building a solid foundation in banking and finance. Modules such as Principles of Banking introduce how banks operate within financial systems, while Quantitative Methods develops the numerical and analytical skills employers expect. Alongside this, you can choose options like Equity Investment Analysis or Overview of FinTech, allowing you to explore areas that match your career interests.

As the year progresses, the focus shifts to more advanced decision-making and risk-focused topics. You’ll study Risk Management and Portfolio Management, learning how financial institutions manage uncertainty and investment performance, with further options including Derivatives Securities and International Finance. In the final stage, you’ll bring everything together through Applied Cases in Banking, Ethics in Finance, and a Project in Banking, where you work independently on a real financial issue and demonstrate your professional-level skills.

Focus areas:

Banking operations and financial markets, risk and portfolio management, quantitative financial analysis, investment decision-making, financial innovation and FinTech, ethics and applied banking practice.

Learning outcomes:

By the end of the programme, you’ll be able to analyse complex financial data, understand how banks and financial markets operate globally, apply quantitative tools to real problems, and make informed financial decisions in professional settings.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

Surrey Business School is accredited by AACSB, placing it among a select group of business schools worldwide recognised for high academic and professional standards.

Reputation (employability rankings):

The University of Surrey has a strong employability record, with 91% of postgraduate students in employment or further study after graduation, reflecting the practical and career-focused nature of its business and finance programmes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Surrey, the MSc Banking and Finance isn’t just about lectures — it’s designed so you really get your hands on the tools and data that bankers and financial analysts use every day. You’ll work with real financial statements, tackle projects based on real banking problems, and develop practical skills that employers value. The course is supported by Surrey Business School’s industry connections, expert staff, and excellent learning resources, so you’ll always have guidance as you put theory into practice.

Here’s how your practical experience comes to life:

BankFocus database: Access real‑world financial data on banks worldwide, just like professionals do, for research and project work.
Applied projects: Modules like Project in Banking and Applied Cases in Banking let you research, analyse, and solve actual banking challenges, giving you hands-on experience.
Industry-standard software: Learn to use Excel, Stata, and Python to model, analyse, and interpret financial data.
Interactive, practical learning: Workshops and exercises simulate real-life financial decision-making, helping you apply your knowledge in realistic scenarios.
Library and digital resources: Surrey’s University Library provides access to extensive digital and print collections, study spaces, and research support to help you succeed in projects and assignments.
Business school environment: Engage with research-active faculty and industry events, gaining insight into the financial sector while building professional connections.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from Surrey’s MSc Banking and Finance often step straight into rewarding careers in financial services, taking on roles such as commercial or investment banker, financial analyst, risk manager, or financial regulator. Thanks to the practical skills, industry insight, and analytical knowledge you gain during the course, you’ll be well-equipped to stand out in a competitive job market:

Here’s how Surrey supports you in building your career:

Tailored career support: The Surrey Employability and Careers Centre offers one‑to‑one guidance, workshops, networking events, and access to graduate jobs and internships through the Surrey Employability Hub — helping you take confident steps toward your career.
Impressive graduate outcomes: Around 91% of postgraduate students from Surrey Business School are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduating, showing how effectively the programme prepares you for the real world.
Industry connections: The university has strong links with leading employers and professional networks, offering chances to meet recruiters, attend guest lectures, and participate in career-focused events.
Accreditation for credibility: Surrey Business School is AACSB-accredited, a globally recognised mark of quality that adds weight to your CV and long-term professional standing.
Ongoing professional guidance: Even after graduation, Surrey continues to support alumni with career advice and professional development opportunities.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re interested in continuing your studies, this MSc provides a strong foundation for PhD research in finance or banking, opening doors to academic, policy, or specialised quantitative research careers. Academic staff can guide you on research paths, funding options, and how to take your skills even further.