Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

The MSc in Finance combines core theory with applied tools used by financial professionals. Students follow a mix of compulsory and elective modules that cover the valuation and management of financial assets, corporate financial decision-making and the functioning of financial markets.

• Core topics: corporate finance, financial markets and institutions, portfolio theory, asset pricing, fixed income, derivatives, and financial risk management.
• Quantitative and technical skills: financial econometrics, time series analysis, optimisation and financial modelling using spreadsheet and programming environments; practical use of market data terminals.
• Specialist electives: mergers and acquisitions, behavioural finance, advanced asset management, banking and treasury management, fintech and blockchain applications, and credit risk modelling.
• Capstone components: a research thesis or applied project (often completed in collaboration with industry), and internship or practicum opportunities to apply skills to real-world problems.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree in finance, economics, business, mathematics, engineering or a related discipline. Strong quantitative aptitude is expected, demonstrated through prior coursework in mathematics, statistics, econometrics or quantitative methods.

• Official transcript or diploma from a recognised institution.
• A CV detailing academic background and any relevant work experience or internships.
• A statement of purpose or motivation letter explaining academic and career objectives.
• Letters of recommendation, usually one or two, from academic or professional referees.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose prior degree was not taught in English; commonly accepted evidence includes recognised English tests or equivalent documentation.

Some applicants may be asked to supply additional evidence of quantitative ability or to attend an interview. Work experience is beneficial but not always required. Specific admissions processes and required documentation vary by intake and applicant nationality.

Career prospects

Graduates from the MSc in Finance pursue roles across the financial services industry and related sectors. The programme prepares students for technically demanding positions that require strong analytical, modelling and valuation skills.

• Investment banking and corporate finance: financial analyst, M&A advisory, corporate treasury.
• Asset and wealth management: portfolio manager, research analyst, investment consultant.
• Risk, compliance and credit: market risk analyst, credit risk officer, regulatory reporting.
• Capital markets and trading: quantitative analyst, derivatives trader, fixed income specialist.
• Fintech, consulting and public sector: product development, financial consulting, central bank or supervisory roles.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus is Hungary's long-established university for economics and business, with a strong regional reputation for finance teaching and research. The Finance master's benefits from faculty expertise in both theoretical and applied finance, links with the Budapest financial community, and a curriculum oriented to employability.

• Practical learning environment with access to market data terminals, case studies and applied projects with corporate partners.
• International student body and opportunities for exchange or study abroad with partner institutions.
• Careers services and employer engagement that support internships, recruitment events and networking in Central and Eastern Europe.
• Curriculum alignment with professional finance standards and the analytical preparation useful for certification exams or further doctoral study.