University of Western Australia

What you'll study

The Master of Applied Finance combines core finance theory with practical skills in quantitative analysis and applied valuation. Core topics typically include financial markets and instruments, corporate finance, investment analysis and portfolio management, fixed income and derivatives, risk management, and financial modelling. Students also study quantitative methods for finance, econometrics for financial data and regulatory and ethical frameworks that govern financial services.

The programme is delivered through a mix of lectures, case studies, applied projects and computer-based trading and modelling labs. Many students complete a capstone project or industry-focused practicum that applies techniques such as asset pricing, portfolio construction, stress testing and valuation to real-world problems. Elective subjects allow specialisation in areas such as corporate treasury, funds management, sustainable finance, fintech and credit analysis.

Structure

The course is structured as a sequence of taught units with a compulsory set of core subjects and a selection of electives. Students may choose a full-time or part-time enrolment pattern where available. Assessment methods commonly include exams, individual and group assignments, modelling exercises and a final capstone or major research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to hold a recognised bachelor degree with a substantial quantitative component, often in finance, economics, commerce, business, mathematics or a closely related discipline. Relevant professional experience in the financial sector can strengthen an application and may be considered where undergraduate background differs from finance.

Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the University's English language requirements; test scores from accepted providers such as IELTS or TOEFL are usually requested. In some cases the admissions committee may request GMAT/GRE results or interview, particularly for applicants without recent academic study or with non-standard qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of finance roles across the private and public sectors. Common career destinations include investment analyst, portfolio manager, risk analyst, corporate finance analyst, treasury officer, credit analyst, financial adviser and roles in funds management. Graduates also move into specialist positions in areas such as fixed income and derivatives trading, superannuation and wealth management, corporate treasury, fintech and financial consulting.

The degree prepares students for professional accreditation pathways and industry certifications and is particularly relevant for those seeking to progress within banks, asset management firms, superannuation funds, corporate finance teams, regulators and financial consultancies.

Why study at University of Western Australia

UWA's business and finance teaching draws on research-informed academics and industry practitioners based at the Business School. Students benefit from practical facilities such as finance labs and data subscriptions and from strong links with Perth's finance community, including banks, funds and mining-related finance employers. The programme emphasises applied skills, small-class interaction and industry engagement, helping graduates to move quickly into professional finance roles in Western Australia and beyond.