University of Florence

What you'll study

This programme blends core finance theory with quantitative methods and regulatory practice. Typical modules cover corporate finance, asset pricing, fixed income and derivatives, credit risk modelling, market risk and liquidity risk, portfolio management, financial econometrics and big-data applications in finance. Students also study financial regulation and compliance, corporate governance, and topics in behavioural finance and ethics.

The course typically combines compulsory core modules with elective options, a period of applied work or an internship and a substantial dissertation or project. Teaching methods include lectures, problem sets, case studies, programming labs (commonly using statistical software such as R, Python or Matlab), and group projects that simulate real-world risk assessment and investment decision-making.

• Corporate Finance and Valuation
• Asset Pricing and Portfolio Theory
• Fixed Income and Derivatives
• Credit Risk and Counterparty Risk
• Market Risk Measurement and Management
• Financial Econometrics and Quantitative Methods
• Financial Regulation, Compliance and Governance
• Electives in FinTech, Sustainable Finance or Advanced Modelling
• Internship/Project and Master's Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in economics, finance, business, mathematics, engineering or a closely related discipline. A sound quantitative background is required, demonstrated through prior coursework in calculus, statistics or econometrics. Selection typically considers academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience.

International applicants should demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction; if the programme is delivered in English, recognised English language test scores or equivalent evidence of prior study in English will be required. Where Italian is required for specific courses or placements, evidence of Italian language ability may also be requested. Relevant professional experience, letters of recommendation and success in an interview or written assessment can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of roles across the financial sector. Common destinations include risk management and compliance teams at retail and investment banks, credit risk analysis and modelling units, asset and portfolio management, treasury functions within corporations, and financial consulting firms. Other alumni work for regulators and supervisory authorities, rating agencies, insurance companies, or in finance-focused roles at fintech and data-analytics firms.

The strong quantitative component of the programme also prepares graduates for specialist roles such as quantitative analyst, model validation specialist, stress-testing analyst and positions that require advanced data analytics or programming skills. Many students combine the degree with professional qualifications or pursue further doctoral research in finance or economics.

Why study at University of Florence

The University of Florence is a long-established Italian research university with active departments in economics and management. Studying in Florence gives access to a compact but dynamic financial ecosystem, with opportunities for internships and collaboration with local banks, consulting firms and small-to-medium enterprises in the region. The university emphasises applied research and often facilitates industry seminars, guest lectures and joint projects with practitioners.

Students benefit from a Mediterranean setting and a multicultural campus, with options for mobility through Italy-wide and European exchange programmes. The department's faculty bring research expertise in corporate finance, financial markets and econometrics, and the curriculum is designed to balance rigorous theory with practical skills valued by employers in Italy and internationally.