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Programme Specification for MSc Finance and Investment

This programme is no longer recruiting.  Please refer to the programme specification for MSc Financial Management.

Final award

MSc

Intermediate awards available

PgCert, PgDip

UCAS code

N/A

Details of professional body accreditation

N/A

Relevant QAA Benchmark statements

QAA Subject Benchmarks for Masters Awards in Business and Management

Date specification last up-dated

July 2012

Programme content

The programme aims to provide students with a rigorous grounding in the core concepts knowledge and skills of finance and investment through the thorough examination of the specialist literature in these areas and the practical use of data collection and analysis.  The key objective of the programme is to develop knowledgeable technically competent graduates who are able to critically engage both with core concepts and a diverse set of ideas. While the programme is conceptually driven, it is also pragmatically focussed with a view to teaching concepts that have a high degree of relevance to finance. The modules will consist of a variety of learning approaches including scheduled lectures and seminars, in-class workshops, computer practicals and guest lectures from leading practitioners.

 

Students will study the following topics:

Applied Financial Econometrics

Portfolio Theory and Investment Management

The Economics of Money, Banking and Finance

In addition an optional module may be selected from the following:

Financial Derivatives

Islamic Banking and Financial Regulation

International Finance and Security Analysis

(Optional modules subject to availability)

This will be followed by a dissertation module.

After successful completion of the programme students will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate concepts and theoretical models in the financial investment.
  • Develop rigorous theoretical arguments based on mathematical and analytical reasoning to analyse problems in finance and investment.
  • Apply deep and systemic knowledge of portfolio management, corporate finance, financial instruments and investment analysis
  • Critically evaluate the objectives and role of investors in the financial system.
  • Develop the ability to tackle complex financial and investment problems using structured approaches drawn from a range of quantitative models, methodologies, financial databases and software packages.
  • Analyse and Interpret financial data and problems underpinning companies’ financial decisions and financial market phenomena in the light of established theories.

Entry requirements

The MSc in Finance and Investment will be offered on both a full time and part time basis. The entry requirements are as follows:

A UK Honours Degree in finance, economics or in the applied mathematical sciences with some economics courses (2:2 minimum).

Equivalent overseas degrees recognised by UEL.

Applicants must have demonstrable analytical skills, including calculus and matrix algebra, probability and statistics, and preferably also econometrics.

International students are required to have an IELTS score of 6.0 (with no component score less than 6.0).

In the case of applicants whose first language is not English, then IELTS 6 (or equivalent) is required. International qualifications will be checked for appropriate matriculation to UK Higher Education postgraduate programmes.

Students who apply to enter stages of the programme may be admitted through normal Accreditation of Experiential Learning (AEL) or Accreditation of Certificated Learning (ACL) processes. Therefore such applicants must be able to demonstrate and evidence that they have the required learning outcomes as listed in the modules for which they are seeking exemption.

Programme structure

The programme has developed a modular structure. It will contain four core 30 credit modules as well as one 60 credit dissertation, and students who earn 180 credits will be awarded a M.Sc. Finance and Investment from the University of East London.

The programme may be studied either full time for one year or part time for two years.

Learning environment

The modules will consist of a variety of learning approaches including scheduled lectures and seminars, in-class workshops, computer exercises and guest lectures from leading practitioners. Our facilities include the following financial applications: Bloomberg and Datastream.

Assessment

Students will take a variety of assessments. These include individual and group assignments, presentations and examinations.  Emphasis will be placed on students collecting and collating real data and developing advanced skills in financial and econometric modelling using this data.  

Relevance to work/profession

The specialist nature of the programme and content define the target market of students seeking or actively working in a finance or investment role.

Dissertation/project work

The 60 credit dissertation/project module includes workshops on research methodology and techniques that are applicable in the finance domain.

The dissertation is an advanced independent piece of research in a specific area of finance and investment of 14,000 words maximum. This provides students with the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills gained on the programme and students should demonstrate extensive knowledge of the selected topic area, adopting a critical approach, alongside the use of appropriate and relevant research methods/tools.

The rationale behind this piece of work is that it can be used as a showcase for students to display abilities to third parties, and as a defining statement for their professional direction, as well as the basis on which they may be assessed.

Students will be encouraged to select dissertation/project topics which may be used in their future career or on returning to employment. They will be matched to a dedicated UEL supervisor who is familiar with the topic area and is there to advise, guide and supervise during this research stage. Research methods workshops will support this process.

Your future career

Students will be well prepared for professional roles in finance and investment, whether in a public or private sector environment.  Optional modules present the possibility of specialising further such that students whom, for example, wish to pursue a career in Islamic finance will have both the technical skills and the specific knowledge of concepts and applications for necessary for their area of specialism.  Although not specifically tailored to prepare students for examinations toward Chartered Financial Analyst qualification we have considered this in the programme design.

How we support you

The Programme Leader will be the key point of contact for students throughout their programme wishing to discuss academic or non-academic issues. She will provide advice on how to access UEL specialist support services and will also offer pastoral support. Students will be assigned a personal tutor for the duration of their programme, however should they require further assistance the programme leader will be available to address their concerns.

Module leaders will deal with academic queries locally which are related to their individual modules. Should an issue not be resolved between the student and the module leader, it can be referred to the programme leader for consideration and, if necessary, be addressed at the programme committee meeting.

The Programme Administrator is located in the Student Support Centre and will act as the key liaison between Royal Docks Business School (RDBS) and the students. The administrator will be responsible for coordinating any programme or administrative arrangements for students, and will be the key point of contact for student queries related to the programme.

The Royal Docks Business School Student Centre will be the main point of contact for students on a range of issues, including enrolment queries, requests for letters from the Home Office, reference letters for bank accounts and general assessment enquiries. The Student Centre staff can also refer students for more specialist support and guidance on visas, counselling and careers provided by UEL’s Student Services. All of these key student services will be highlighted in the programme and module handbooks and in student induction.

Programme aims and learning outcomes

What is this programme designed to achieve?

This programme is designed to give you opportunity to:

  1. Provide the essential postgraduate skills to those wishing to follow careers in applied or quantitative finance and investments, as well as those wishing to pursue further research.
  2. Enhance students’ skills to tackle problems within the complex world of international finance and investments
  3. Provide a unique set of perspectives on how financial markets operate, grounded in economic and financial theory and practice.
  4. Significantly enhance students’ analytical ability in financial, mathematical and statistical technique.
  5. Critically develop students’ academic knowledge and implement findings directed at the evaluation of corporate, market, investment and risk management situations
  6. Develop business and cultural skills related to the professional workplace in an international context


What will you learn?

Knowledge

  • Models explaining attitudes to risk and how this affects investment
  • Implications of capital structure for dividends and tax
  • How to specify and estimate financial econometric models
  • The structure and operation of different markets from which firms might obtain finance
  • Portfolio theory

Thinking skills

  • Critically evaluate the specification, estimation and use of econometric models
  • Modelling and evaluation of factors critical to investment decision making
  • Synthesis of problems in the financing of firms.
  • Critical examination and evaluation of specialist literature

Subject-Based Practical skills

  • The collection, collation and presentation of financial data and analysis
  • Identification and application of appropriate statistical and mathematical tools.
  • Effective use of specialist ICT tools and systems
  • Identify the implications of research methodologies and findings.

Skills for life and work (general skills)

  • Analyse complex quantitative problems to inform decision making
  • Demonstrate effective management of time and planning to deliver required outputs effectively
  • Effective written and oral communication.
  • Develop as an independent self learner

The programme structure

Introduction

 

All programmes are credit-rated to help you to understand the amount and level of study that is needed.

One credit is equal to 10 hours of directed study time (this includes everything you do e.g. lecture, seminar and private study).

Credits are assigned to one of 5 levels:

0          equivalent in standard to GCE 'A' level and is intended to prepare students for year one of an undergraduate degree programme

1          equivalent in standard to the first year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme

2          equivalent in standard to the second year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme

3          equivalent in standard to the third year of a full-time undergraduate degree programme

M         equivalent in standard to a Masters degree

Credit rating

The overall credit-rating of this programme is 180 credits

Typical duration

The typical duration of this programme is one year full-time and two years part-time  The programme is offered for September entry only.  It is possible to move from full-time to part-time study and vice-versa to accommodate any external factors such as financial constraints or domestic commitments.  Many of our students make use of this flexibility and this may impact on the overall duration of their study period.

How the teaching year is divided

The teaching year is divided into two semesters of roughly equal length.  A typical student registered in a full-time attendance mode will study two 30 credit modules per semester and a typical student registered in a part-time attendance mode will study one  module per semester.  The advanced independent research (dissertation) module may occur during the summer period.

What you will study when

Level

UEL Module

Code

Module Title

Semester

Status

 

M

FEM122

Applied Financial Econometrics

A

Core

 

M

FEM120

Portfolio Theory and Investment Management

A

Core

 

M

FEM222

The Economics of Money, Banking and Finance

B

Core

 

One option module from the following, subject to availability

M

FEM219

Islamic Banking and Financial Regulation

B

Option

M

FEM220

International Finance and Security Analysis

B

Option

M

FEM221

Financial Derivatives

B

Option

M

SMM210

Dissertation

C

Core

 


Requirements for gaining an award

In order to gain a Postgraduate Certificate, you will need to obtain 60 credits at Level M.

In order to gain a Postgraduate Diploma, you will need to obtain 120 credits at Level M

In order to obtain a Masters, you will need to obtain 180 credits at

 

Level M. These credits will include a 60 credit level M core module of advanced independent research.

 

Masters Award Classification

Where a student is eligible for an Masters award then the award classification is determined  by calculating the arithmetic mean of all marks and applying the mark obtained as a percentage, with all decimals points rounded up to the nearest whole number, to the following classification

 

70% - 100%

Distinction

60%- 69%

Merit

50% - 59%

Pass

0% - 49%

Not passed

Teaching, learning and assessment

Teaching and learning

Knowledge is developed through

  • Directed and general reading in the module
  • Participation in lectures, tutorials, seminars, workshops and computer classes
  • Research requiring the collection and analysis of financial and investment data
  • The use of information technology including specialist analytical software to undertake secondary research

Thinking skills are developed through

  • Preparing tasks set for tutorials, seminars and workshops
  • Preparing for computer classes and reinforcing learning through independent study using the virtual learning environment.
  • Satisfactorily completing the continuous assessment process including essays, presentations, reports, and projects
  • Preparation for examinations or major assignments such as the dissertation
  • Problem-solving and critical analysis in seminar activities

 

Practical skills are developed through

  • Academic and research skills sessions
  • Computer classes
  • Case studies and workshops
  • Undertaking data collection and analysis
  • Planning and staging of presentation

 

Skills for life and work (general skills) are developed through

  • Managing time so that assignment deadlines are met, whether working in groups or individually
  • Forming and working in teams which will develop organisational, motivational and communication skills
  • Being able to produce clearly argued solutions when problem solving
  • Academic writing ability

Assessment

Knowledge is assessed by

  • Evidence of comprehensive reading in the module
  • Ability to explain, identify, describe, discuss, draw upon (as appropriate) the ideas presented in the module in the context of the given assessment tasks
  • Ability to apply the analytical tools presented and practiced in the module.

 

Thinking skills are assessed by

  • The ability to compare, examine, contrast, question, debate, distinguish between (as appropriate) the ideas in the module and how they are relevant to the piece of assessment
  • The ability to develop, elaborate, redefine, propose alternatives, re-conceptualise, integrate, establish new connections from (as appropriate) the knowledge in the module
  • The ability to assess, judge, appraise, debate, criticise (as appropriate) the issues in the module in addressing the assessment task

 

Practical skills are assessed by

  • The ability to prepare an assignment using appropriate resources, including Information Technology, to address the issue or question in the assessment
  • Evidence of logical planning in preparing the assessment

 

Skills for life and work (general skills) are assessed by

  • Evidence of effective team or group working
  • Ability to work under pressure or in time constrained environments
  • The application of appropriate problem-solving skills and critical analysis

How we assure the quality of this programme


Before this programme started

Before this programme started, the following was checked:

  • There would be enough qualified staff to teach the programme;
  • Adequate resources would be in place;
  • The overall aims and objectives were appropriate;
  • The content of the programme met national benchmark requirements;
  • The programme met any professional/statutory body requirements;
  • The proposal met other internal quality criteria covering a range of issues such as admissions policy, teaching, learning and assessment strategy and student support mechanisms.

 

This is done through a process of programme approval that involves consulting academic experts including some subject specialists from other institutions. 


How we monitor the quality of this programme

The quality of this programme is monitored each year through evaluating:

  • External examiner reports (considering quality and standards);
  • Statistical information (considering issues such as the pass rate);
  • Student feedback.

 

Drawing on this and other information, programme teams undertake the annual Review and Enhancement Process which is co-ordinated at School level and includes student participation.  The process is monitored by the Quality and Standards Committee.

Once every six years an in-depth review of the whole field is undertaken by a panel that includes at least two external subject specialists.  The panel considers documents, looks at student work, speaks to current and former students and speaks to staff before drawing its conclusions.  The result is a report highlighting good practice and identifying areas where action is needed.

The role of the programme committee

This programme has a programme committee comprising all relevant teaching staff, student representatives and others who make a contribution towards the effective operation of the programme (e.g. library/technician staff).  The committee has responsibilities for the quality of the programme. It provides input into the operation of the Review and Enhancement Process and proposes changes to improve quality.  The programme committee plays a critical role in the  quality assurance procedures.

The role of external examiners

The standard of this programme is monitored by at least one external examiner.  External examiners have two primary responsibilities:

  • To ensure the standard of the programme;
  • To ensure that justice is done to individual students.

External examiners fulfil these responsibilities in a variety of ways including:

  • Approving exam papers/assignments;
  • Attending assessment boards;
  • Reviewing samples of student work and moderating marks;
  • Ensuring that regulations are followed;
  • Providing feedback through an annual report that enables us to make improvements for the future.

Listening to the views of students

The following methods for gaining student feedback are used on this programme:

  • Module evaluations
  • Student representation on programme committees (meeting 2 times a year)
  • Student/Staff consultative committee (meeting 2 times a year)

Students are notified of the action taken through:                                                                                                                            

  • circulating the minutes of the programme committee
  • providing details on the programme noticeboard UEL Plus

Listening to the views of others 

The following methods are used for gaining the views of other interested parties:

  • Annual student satisfaction questionnaire
  • Liaison with trade bodies and associations
  • Placements Officer

Where you can find further information

Further information about this programme is available from:


 



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