Loughborough University

What you'll study

This master's combines core finance modules with management and professional development to give a rounded view of financial decision-making in organisations. Typical taught modules cover corporate finance and valuation, financial markets and instruments, investment analysis and portfolio management, financial modelling and econometrics, risk management and derivatives, and managerial accounting for decision makers. You will also study quantitative methods for finance and a module on ethics and regulation in financial services.

The programme usually culminates in a substantial research project or dissertation on a finance topic, allowing you to apply empirical or theoretical techniques to a question of practical relevance. Optional modules and applied group work may include areas such as behavioural finance, fintech applications, mergers and acquisitions, or advanced topics in corporate governance. Practical sessions emphasise Excel-based modelling, use of financial databases and presentation of investment recommendations.

Entry requirements

• A UK upper second-class (2:1) honours degree, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject such as finance, economics, accounting, mathematics, engineering or a related social science. Applicants with a lower-class degree plus appropriate work experience may be considered on an individual basis.
• Demonstrable quantitative ability is expected; successful applicants will usually have studied statistics, econometrics or quantitative modules at undergraduate level, or show equivalent evidence of numerical competence.
• English language proficiency for international applicants is required; common accepted evidence includes recognised tests with typical minimum scores in line with UK postgraduate standards (you should check the university's current English language requirements for precise criteria).
• Applicants with relevant professional experience or prior study in business may be asked to provide a personal statement and references outlining motivation and suitability for the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of finance-related roles across the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Common destinations include financial analyst and corporate finance roles within corporates, investment analyst or portfolio management positions in asset management firms, roles in risk management and treasury, and advisory or consulting positions at professional services firms. The programme also prepares students for careers in financial regulation, fintech companies and specialist areas such as mergers and acquisitions or private equity.

Careers support at Loughborough includes employer engagement activities, careers workshops, networking events and recruitment fairs, which help students develop application-ready CVs, interview skills and professional networks to move into graduate roles or further professional qualifications such as chartered finance or accounting pathways.

Why study at Loughborough University

• Loughborough offers a campus-centred student experience with strong links to industry, helping combine rigorous academic teaching with practical, employer-relevant skills.
• The School integrates research-informed teaching so modules reflect contemporary developments in finance, markets and regulation while emphasising analytical and applied skills like financial modelling and data analysis.
• Students benefit from dedicated careers and employability support, regular employer talks and opportunities to engage with alumni and practitioner networks in London and beyond.
• Small-group teaching, case studies and group projects ensure close contact with academic staff and a collaborative learning environment geared towards professional development.