MA in Finance and Investment

Prepare for the modern marketplace by learning to manage and evaluate the different risks facing global organisations today. There is an increasing demand for graduates who are aware of the connection that exists between finance and risk, as well as how to properly manage this relationship. This online programme, offered through Study InterActive, is carefully structured to give you an accurate picture of how things really work in this exciting field.

It gives you essential skills in risk and crisis management, through theoretical concepts and practical business continuity methods. You will also develop a broad understanding of derivatives and various investments – including equity, fixed income and alternative investments.

Entry Requirements

UK undergraduate degree or equivalent any subject area, English levels 5.5 IELTS (5.5 in all bands)or equivalent, Relevant work experience is an asset, but no work experience is required. Students who fail to meet academic requirements can be assessed on their relevant work experience (3 years management experience minimum for mature study route). Start dates is Every 12 weeks.

Stage I

Marketing and Business Environment, Accounting and Managerial Finance, Systems and Operations Management, Research Methods.

Stage II

Strategic Management and Leadership, Corporate Reporting, Performance Management and Control, Research Methods.

Stage III

Online Dissertation and Research Methods.

This module introduces you to the characteristics of equity and fixed income investments. It explores the analytical issues in their valuation, the commonly used models of securities valuation, as well as their applications and disadvantages. On successful completion you will be able to:

• Analyse and apply theories and techniques to the valuation of fixed income and equity investments.
• Identify and assess the impact of the current global financial environment on equity valuation.
• Perform valuation analysis of private companies.
• Critically evaluate the relevance of issues in valuing private and public companies.
• Examine the use of fixed income securities in the investment process.

ou will gain relevant knowledge on derivatives and alternative investments in their pure natures as risk management tools (derivatives) and assets classes (alternative investments). Successful completion of this module allows you to:

• Value derivative and alternative investment instruments.
• Demonstrate how investment instruments can create, enhance or destroy value.
• Critically evaluate appropriate strategies in derivatives and alternative investments, while showing evidence of insights.
• Examine derivatives and alternative investment strategies, and offer different strategies considering the various pay-offs.
• Write and present “senior management level” reports from in an advisory position.

This module gives you with a comprehensive understanding of the main types of risk that financial institutions face, as well as the means to manage them. These include concepts such as credit risk, market risk, operational risk, as well as loans and deposits management. On successful completion you will be able to:

• Analyse the challenges and risks banking institutions face.
• Examine the pricing, profitability and credit risks taken as part of the lending cycle.
• Evaluate the nature of market and operational risk.
• Explain and compare the challenges banking groups face when managing assets and liabilities.
• Analyse the major strategic issues in the management of risk by financial institutions.

Career Direction

Completing this course prepares you for top positions with a range of employers. These include roles in risk management, international insurance and reinsurance. You can also work in management consulting firms and the risk management departments of multinational companies.