Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

This graduate diploma combines core banking theory with applied, practice-focused modules. Teaching typically covers the full value chain of banking activity, emphasising both front-office and back-office functions as well as regulatory and managerial perspectives.

• Foundations of Banking — banking business models, the structure of the banking sector, balance-sheet mechanics and intermediation.
• Credit Analysis and Lending — corporate and retail credit assessment, loan structuring, collateral and workout processes.
• Risk Management — credit, market, liquidity and operational risk frameworks, measurement techniques and mitigation tools.
• Treasury and Financial Markets — money markets, fixed income instruments, FX and interest rate management, ALM (asset–liability management).
• Regulation and Compliance — prudential regulation, capital requirements, anti‑money laundering (AML) and KYC procedures, governance and internal control.
• Bank Operations and Payments — payment systems, correspondent banking, settlement processes and back‑office workflows.
• Digital Banking and Fintech — digital channel strategy, fintech partnerships, basic concepts in payments innovation and cybersecurity considerations.
• Management and Professional Skills — project management, ethics, communication for finance professionals and practical case studies.

Delivery is typically modular and combines lectures, seminars, casework and guest sessions with banking practitioners. Assessment mixes written exams, group projects and practical assignments designed to mirror workplace tasks.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in economics, business, finance, accounting or a closely related discipline. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience in banking or finance may also be considered.

• Official transcripts from prior tertiary study.
• Proof of relevant work experience for applicants applying on a professional route (where applicable).
• A CV and a short motivation letter explaining career objectives and reasons for applying.
• Language requirement: many classes and materials are in Hungarian; applicants should demonstrate sufficient Hungarian language proficiency. Some supporting materials or optional modules may require English competence.
• Where required by the faculty, an interview or short written assessment may be part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for operational and specialist roles across retail, corporate and investment banking, as well as related areas in the broader financial services sector. The programme targets both entry to the sector for early-career professionals and progression for existing bank staff.

• Credit analyst or loan officer
• Risk analyst / risk manager (credit, market, liquidity)
• Treasury or markets analyst
• Branch or product manager in retail/commercial banking
• Compliance officer, AML specialist or internal control professional
• Operations manager in payments and settlement
• Consultant or adviser in banking transformation and fintech implementation

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus has a long-established reputation in economics, finance and business education in Hungary and the Central European region. Studying here gives direct access to faculty with academic and practitioner experience in banking, a curriculum shaped by industry needs, and frequent input from bank professionals and regulators.

• Strong industry links and regular guest lectures from banking practitioners and supervisory authorities.
• Location in Budapest, the country’s financial centre, offering networking and internship opportunities with domestic and international banks.
• Practical, career-oriented teaching designed to equip students with immediately applicable skills for banking roles.
• Career services and an alumni network that help graduates connect with employers in the Hungarian and regional financial markets.