Copenhagen Business School

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous theory with applied methods to analyse how firms raise capital, allocate resources and manage risk. Core topics typically include corporate finance theory, valuation, capital structure, mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance and behavioural aspects of finance. Quantitative coursework covers empirical methods, econometrics for finance, asset pricing and financial modelling.

Students follow a mix of compulsory courses and electives, often beginning with advanced modules in financial theory and empirical techniques before moving to specialised electives and a master's thesis or capstone project. Examples of modules you can expect are:

• Advanced Corporate Finance — firm financing and payout policy, agency problems, asymmetric information.
• Valuation and Financial Modelling — discounted cash flow, comparables, LBO and option-based valuation methods, spreadsheet modelling.
• Mergers and Acquisitions — deal structuring, takeover regulation, shareholder wealth effects and post-merger integration.
• Empirical Methods in Finance — econometric techniques applied to corporate finance questions, panel data and causal inference.
• Asset Pricing and Market Microstructure — market efficiency, price formation and trading frictions that affect corporate financing.
• Corporate Governance and Ethics — board structure, executive compensation and regulatory frameworks.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, case studies, group projects and empirical assignments. The programme emphasises independent research and culminates in a supervised master's thesis or equivalent applied project that requires students to investigate a substantive corporate finance problem using appropriate theory and data.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant bachelor's degree in business, economics, finance, mathematics, statistics or a related quantitative discipline. Strong quantitative and analytical skills are essential, demonstrated by coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics and introductory finance or economics.

Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of purpose describing motivation and fit, and academic references. Some applicants may be asked to submit GMAT or GRE scores if their prior degree does not clearly evidence quantitative preparation. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency through an approved English test or an equivalent qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates of Corporate Finance programmes from Copenhagen Business School pursue roles across finance and related sectors. Common destinations include corporate finance departments, investment and commercial banks, private equity and venture capital firms, management consulting, and financial advisory boutiques. Others go into risk management, treasury, investor relations or regulatory and policy roles. The programme’s combination of theory, empirical training and applied projects also provides a solid foundation for PhD studies in finance or economics for those interested in academic or research careers.

Why study at Copenhagen Business School

Copenhagen Business School is a leading European business school with a strong tradition in finance research and close links to the Nordic financial industry. The school offers access to a diverse international cohort, collaborations with faculty actively publishing in top finance journals, and opportunities for industry engagement through guest lectures, internships and career services. Located in Copenhagen, the school benefits from proximity to a hub of corporate headquarters, financial institutions and a dynamic start-up ecosystem, all of which enrich learning and networking opportunities for corporate finance students.