Benedictine University

What you'll study

The programme combines core finance foundations with applied topics in financial services, emphasising both quantitative techniques and real-world decision-making. Coursework typically covers advanced corporate finance, investments and portfolio management, financial statement analysis, derivatives and risk management, and ethics and regulation in financial services.

• Core modules: Advanced Corporate Finance; Investments and Portfolio Management; Financial Statement Analysis and Valuation; Quantitative Methods for Finance (including applied statistics and econometrics); Risk Management and Derivatives.
• Financial services and regulation: Topics addressing banking operations, financial institutions management, compliance, and the regulatory environment affecting retail and institutional finance.
• Practical and applied learning: Applied financial modelling with spreadsheet and database tools, case studies, and investment simulation or capstone projects that integrate multi-disciplinary skills.
• Electives and specialisms: Students can often choose electives in areas such as fixed income analysis, alternative investments, corporate treasury management, fintech applications in finance, or behavioural finance.
• Capstone/Thesis: A culminating project or practicum is usually required, allowing students to demonstrate applied competence through a research thesis, client-engaged consulting project, or portfolio management exercise.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. While degrees in finance, economics, accounting, mathematics or related fields are advantageous, candidates from other disciplines with demonstrated quantitative ability and relevant work experience are considered.

• Academic record: A completed undergraduate degree with satisfactory academic standing.
• Work experience: Professional experience in finance or related sectors is favourable but not always mandatory; some applicants enter directly from undergraduate study.
• Quantitative preparation: Prior coursework in statistics, calculus or introductory finance is recommended; some applicants may be asked to complete preparatory modules.
• Supporting materials: A current CV/resume, personal statement outlining career goals, and academic transcripts. References may be requested.
• English language: For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of proficiency through an accepted test or other institutional evidence is required.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Finance and Financial Management Services pursue a wide range of roles across the financial sector. The curriculum prepares students for analytical and managerial positions by developing technical finance skills, regulatory awareness and practical problem-solving ability.

• Investment analyst, portfolio manager or research associate in asset management firms and investment banks.
• Corporate finance analyst, finance manager or treasury specialist within non-financial corporations.
• Risk analyst, credit analyst or compliance officer at banks, insurance companies or regulatory bodies.
• Financial consultant, wealth advisor, or roles in fintech firms focusing on product development, data analytics or financial modelling.
• Pathways to professional qualifications and certifications (such as CFA or FRM) are supported through curriculum alignment and preparatory coursework.

Why study at Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers a student-centred approach emphasising small class sizes, faculty accessibility and applied learning. The finance programme integrates academic rigour with experiential opportunities—such as practicum projects, investment simulations and community-engaged work—that help bridge theory and practice.

• Faculty and industry links: Instructors bring a mix of academic expertise and industry experience, and the university maintains connections with local and regional financial employers for networking and internship opportunities.
• Flexible delivery: The programme is typically offered with options to study part-time or full-time, and may include evening or blended delivery to accommodate working professionals.
• Career support: Dedicated career services assist with internship placement, employer engagement, interview preparation and career planning specific to finance-sector roles.
• Community and values: Benedictine’s emphasis on ethics and service informs the programme’s approach to responsible finance and professional conduct.