Loughborough University

What you'll study

The programme blends core finance theory with applied management practice. Teaching covers corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets and institutions, and quantitative methods for finance, alongside management modules such as strategy, organisational behaviour and leadership. You will study a mix of compulsory and optional modules and complete an independent capstone: either a research dissertation, an applied consultancy project with an industry partner, or a practical investment/portfolio project.

• Core finance modules: corporate finance; investment analysis and portfolio management; financial markets and institutions; financial reporting and analysis.
• Quantitative and research skills: statistics and econometrics for finance; financial modelling; business research methods.
• Management modules: strategy and decision-making; organisational behaviour and leadership for managers; project management and ethics in business.
• Optional / specialist modules: risk management and derivatives; financial technology and innovation; mergers and acquisitions; behavioural finance; sustainable finance and ESG investing.
• Capstone project: dissertation, applied consultancy project or practical investment project, often carried out with employer input or industry data.

The programme typically runs on a full-time basis over one year, with intensive taught terms followed by the capstone period. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, case studies, group work and computer-based modelling sessions; assessment is by exams, coursework, presentations and the final project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (typically a UK upper second-class, 2:1, or international equivalent) in a numerate discipline such as finance, economics, accounting, mathematics, engineering or business. Applicants with a lower-class degree but significant relevant work experience or professional qualifications may be considered.

Admissions take a holistic view: relevant professional experience, strong quantitative background, personal statement and references are important. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the University's English language requirement; typical evidence accepted includes recognised qualifications such as IELTS or equivalent. The programme may request further information such as a CV, transcript and, in some cases, GMAT/GRE scores or an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a broad range of roles across the finance and management spectrum. Common destinations include investment banking, corporate finance, asset and portfolio management, equity research, risk management, treasury, financial consulting and roles within fintech and financial services firms. The management elements also equip graduates for strategy and leadership positions in non-financial corporates and for careers in consultancy and project management.

The programme supports professional development through employer engagement, guest speakers from the City, practical projects and careers services. Many graduates progress to professional qualifications (for example CFA, ACCA or CIMA pathways) or continue to research degrees where they wish to specialise further.

Why study at Loughborough University

Loughborough University combines strong academic teaching with an emphasis on employability and applied learning. The London campus places you in close proximity to the City, offering enhanced access to financial employers, networking events and guest practitioners. The curriculum is designed to integrate technical finance training with leadership and management skills valued by employers.

Students benefit from Loughborough’s career support, active alumni network and links with industry, plus small-group teaching and practical workshop facilities for financial modelling and data analysis. The London setting provides the commercial context and employer engagement that help translate theory into workplace-relevant skills.