Keele University

What you'll study

The programme combines core modules in financial theory and banking practice with applied quantitative and research training. Typical taught modules cover:

• Financial Markets and Institutions — structure and function of banking systems, market participants and intermediation.
• Corporate Finance and Valuation — capital structure, investment appraisal and techniques for valuing firms and securities.
• Banking Regulation and Risk Management — prudential regulation, credit and market risk, liquidity and operational risk frameworks.
• Quantitative Methods for Finance — econometrics, time series and statistical methods applied to finance.
• Derivatives and Financial Engineering — pricing and uses of forwards, futures, options and swaps for hedging and speculation.
• Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management — asset allocation, performance measurement and portfolio construction.
• FinTech and Innovation in Financial Services — digital banking, payments, blockchain fundamentals and the impact of technology on financial intermediation.
• Research Project / Dissertation — independent research under supervision, applying theoretical and quantitative skills to a banking or finance topic.

Teaching typically mixes lectures, seminars, computer-based workshops and project work. Assessment methods include coursework, group projects, case studies, computer lab assignments and a final dissertation. The programme is available full time and part time, and supports both academic development and professional skill-building such as Excel modelling and data analysis using financial software packages.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally required to have an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (for example finance, economics, business, mathematics or a related discipline) at a good honours level. Candidates with a lower-class degree together with relevant work experience, or professional qualifications in finance or accounting, will also be considered. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate English proficiency; typical requirements include a recognised English language qualification at a level suitable for postgraduate study. Specific entry requirements and evidence of qualifications are provided by the university admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to careers across the financial services sector. Common roles include:

• Commercial and retail banking roles (credit analysis, relationship management, branch management)
• Investment banking and capital markets (analyst roles, corporate finance advisory)
• Risk management and regulatory compliance positions within banks and financial institutions
• Treasury, asset management and investment analysis
• FinTech, payments and digital banking product roles
• Consultancy and advisory services supporting financial institutions
• Further academic study or professional qualifications (for example in banking, risk or investment disciplines)

The programme emphasises employability through applied modules, project work and access to the university careers service, helping students build CVs, interview skills and professional networks.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a campus-centred learning environment with small-group teaching and strong student support. The university combines research-informed teaching in economics and finance with practical skills development, including data analysis and financial modelling. Students benefit from links with employers and professional networks in the wider region, opportunities for guest lectures and industry-informed projects, and the university’s careers and enterprise services. Keele’s interdisciplinary approach means you can draw on strengths across business, economics and computing while studying in a campus setting that supports study-life balance and community engagement.