University of Amsterdam

Overview

The MSc Finance with a double specialisation in Finance and Real Estate Finance at the University of Amsterdam prepares students to adeptly analyse financial markets and implement financial strategies in real estate contexts. This program offers a structured curriculum that begins with essential real estate finance courses, followed by advanced finance modules and elective options tailored to individual interests.

• Programme level: Master’s (MSc)
• Specialisation: Finance and Real Estate Finance (double specialisation)
• Credits: 80+ ECTS (minimum)
• Typical duration: 18 months (recommended study pace)
• Delivery: On-campus (University of Amsterdam)
• Language of instruction: English

What you'll study

This double specialisation features a well-defined structure where students first engage in the Real Estate Finance track, followed by compulsory advanced finance courses and elective selections that enhance their expertise.

Year 1 (Real Estate Finance track + thesis work)

• Real Estate Markets and Analysis
• Real Estate Valuation
• Advanced Real Estate Valuation
• Real Estate Finance
• Applied Financial Econometrics
• Empirical Methods in Finance
• Thesis (initial work begins in Year 1)

Year 2 (Compulsory finance courses + electives)

• Financial Markets (compulsory)
• Advanced Corporate Finance (compulsory)
• Electives (select one track for semester 1): Asset Management track OR Corporate Finance track
• Thesis completion (finalise and submit)

Entry requirements

Admission to this competitive programme is based on the applicant's academic qualifications and preparation in quantitative and finance-related subjects.

Academic background

• A relevant Bachelor’s or Master’s degree is required, such as Finance, Business Economics, Economics, or Business Administration with a focus on Finance or Real Estate Finance.
• Applicants must have completed at least 15 ECTS in finance-related courses, including Investments, Corporate Finance, and Derivatives. Course descriptions may need to be submitted with the application.
• Knowledge of econometrics (typically from a 2nd- or 3rd-year course) is expected.
• If the Bachelor’s degree is in a different field, foundational knowledge in microeconomics, macroeconomics, accounting, mathematics, and statistics must be demonstrated.

English language requirements

• TOEFL iBT: minimum 92 (or equivalent)
• IELTS: minimum 6.5 (or equivalent)

Standardised tests

• GRE or GMAT scores are required.
• Minimum scores for GRE (Quantitative) and GMAT are programme-specific—applicants should refer to the requirements set by the University of Amsterdam.

Application documents

• Motivation letter
• Academic transcripts and degree certificate(s)
• Course descriptions for relevant finance modules (as required)

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue diverse career opportunities in finance and real estate sectors. The combination of finance expertise and real estate knowledge opens doors to roles in investment management, real estate consulting, corporate finance, and beyond.