Finance Degrees (2024)

• What do finance degrees cover?
• Finance topics
• Careers in finance
• FAQs

What do finance degrees cover?

Finance degrees, including bachelor’s degrees in finance and associate degrees in finance, provide a mix of technical and theoretical knowledge essential for finance careers. If you choose to study finance, you'll learn how wealth is measured and how finance shapes business behaviour. Core topics include finance, accounting, economics, statistics, mathematical methods, and information technology.

As you progress, you can specialise by choosing optional modules in areas like taxation, auditing, business strategy, management accounting, advanced accounting theory, business law, and risk management.

The diverse curriculum prepares students for various careers in finance, including roles in commercial banking, financial planning, investment banking, asset management, insurance, and real estate.

Entry requirements for finance degrees

Entry requirements for finance degrees vary by country, university/ institution, and specific programme but generally include a high school diploma or equivalent with strong grades in mathematics and related subjects. For undergraduate programmes, a strong academic record (especially in mathematics),good standardised test scores (SAT/ACT) and English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL) may be needed.

Course structure and assessment methods

Usually bachelor’s degrees in finance last for three or four years, while a Masters in Finance will last for one or two. In the UK, undergraduate finance courses are mostly three years, except for in Scotland where they are four, and postgraduates study for one year (in Scotland, two). In the US, finance is mostly taught for four years at undergraduate level, and two at master’s level.

The course structure typically includes foundational courses in finance, accounting, and economics, with options to specialise in advanced topics as students progress.Teaching methods usually include a combination of lectures, practical seminars, and case studies. Assessment is often a mix of individual assignments, group projects, presentations, and written exams, allowing students to demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Finance topics

Finance degrees offer lots of variety, with different universities covering different aspects of the subject. Specialisations in finance allow students to focus on one key area of their interest. Here are some of the main finance topics you could opt to specialise in:

Financial technology (FinTech)

Financial technology (FinTech) is a rapidly growing topic in undergraduate finance degrees, focusing on the intersection of finance and cutting-edge technology. You will learn about innovations such as blockchain, cryptocurrencies, digital payments, and robot-advisors, which are transforming traditional financial services. The curriculum often includes programming, data analysis, and an understanding of how technology drives efficiency and accessibility in financial markets. Studying FinTech will equip youwith the skills to innovate and excel in sectors like banking, investment, and fintech startups and to navigate the rapidly evolving financial landscape.

Sustainable finance

Sustainable finance focuses on the integration of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into financial decision-making. You will learn how investments can drive positive social and environmental outcomes alongside financial returns. The curriculum will cover topics like green bonds, impact investing, corporate social responsibility, and sustainable risk management. By studying Sustainable finance, you will be prepared to contribute to a more responsible financial sector, aligning investments with sustainable development goals and addressing global challenges such as climate change and social inequality.

Corporate finance

Corporate finance topics typically focus on how companies manage their financial resources to achieve strategic goals, including essential topics like financial evaluation, capital budgeting, and capital structure. You will mainly learn about financial analysis, which helps assess a company's performance and make informed decisions.

International finance

By specialising in international finance, you will explore how capital markets, financial institutions and foreign exchange operate on a global scale. It covers topics like foreign exchange markets, international trade, international taxation, foreign direct investments and cross-border investment strategies.You could also choose to study finance in developing economies, or specific financial systems, such as Islamic finance.

Behavioural finance

An increasingly popular finance topic, behavioural finance aims to explain why people within financial industries make ‘bad’ decisions, leading to inefficiencies and in extreme cases to market bubbles or crashes. You'll learn about common biases like overconfidence, herd behaviour, and loss aversion that can affect investors and market outcomes. This field combines finance with psychology and sociology helping you understand the rationale behind people’s financial decision-making.

Data analytics in finance

If you are choosing to specialise in Data analytics in finance, you'll learn how to analyse large datasets, identify trends, and generate insights that drive strategic planning and investment decisions. The curriculum will often include courses on statistical analysis, data visualisation, and programming skills like Python and R, which are crucial for analysing financial data. By mastering data analytics, you'll be equipped to tackle complex financial problems, optimise portfolios, and forecast market trends, making you an invaluable asset in roles across banking, investment, and financial consulting.

Investment banking and financial markets

Investment banking and financial markets specialisation will essentially teach you how capital is raised, allocated, and managed within the global economy. You’ll learn about the functions of investment banks, including underwriting, mergers and acquisitions, and advisory services. The coursework also covers financial markets, where you'll study the mechanics of stock, bond, and derivatives markets, as well as the factors that influence asset prices. Understanding these areas equips you with the skills to analyse market trends, assess investment opportunities, and navigate the complex world of global finance, preparing you for careers in banking, trading, and financial analysis.

Careers in finance

Studying finance often leads to a wide range of potentially well-paid career options. Graduates may choose to work for accountancy firms or apply their knowledge and skills in management consultancy, risk management, auditing, business and management, banking, or local and national government.Some of the highest paying jobs with a finance degree include positions in investment banking and hedge funds. A few of the most common finance careers include:

Financial management careers

Careers in financial management focus on overseeing an organisation’s financial health and strategic direction. These roles involve managing budgets, monitoring cash flow, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Professionals in this field contribute to long-term business planning and help identify opportunities to reduce costs and enhance profitability. Typical roles in this area include financial managers, controllers, and treasurers, all of whom play a crucial role in an organisation’s financial stability and growth.

Financial trading careers

In financial trading, professionals buy and sell various financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives. This fast-paced field requires quick decision-making and an understanding of market trends and dynamics. Traders work to maximise returns and manage risks, often using advanced technology and strategies to execute trades effectively and efficiently. Typical roles in this sector include traders, portfolio managers, and market analysts, who are all involved in different aspects of the trading process.

Insurance careers

Careers in the insurance sector typically involves managing risks and providing financial protection through various policies and coverage options. Professionals in this sector assess potential risks, determine appropriate coverage terms, and help clients navigate insurance claims. They play a key role in ensuring financial stability for individuals and businesses by providing essential risk management services. Typical roles include underwriters, actuaries, and claims adjusters, each contributing to the evaluation and management of insurance products and services.

Financial consulting careers

Financial consulting careers revolve around offering expert advice to improve financial processes and performance of organisations. Consultants work with businesses and individuals to enhance their budgeting, investment strategies, and overall financial planning. They provide insights into financial operations and help clients develop strategies to achieve their financial goals and optimise their financial practices. Typical roles in this field include management consultants, financial advisors, and mergers and acquisitions consultants.

Commercial banking careers

In commercial banking, professionals offer a range of financial services to individuals and businesses. They generally handle tasks related to lending, account management, and customer service, helping clients manage their finances and secure funding. Careers in this sector involve building and maintaining relationships with clients, ensuring their financial needs are met effectively. Typical roles include loan officers, branch managers, and credit analysts, each focused on different aspects of banking services.

Hedge fund careers

Hedge fund careers are focused on managing investments and strategies within a dynamic and high-risk environment. Professionals in this field are involved in analysing market trends and managing investment portfolios to achieve high returns. They assess and mitigate risks associated with various investment opportunities, working to align strategies with overall financial goals. Typical roles in this sector include quantitative analysts, portfolio managers, and risk managers, each contributing to the management and success of hedge fund investments.

Emerging roles

In addition to the traditional finance roles, there are quite a few emerging positions reflecting the sector’s focus on technology and sustainability. A few such roles include FinTech product managers who develop digital payment systems and blockchain applications, sustainable finance analysts who design eco-friendly investment strategies, and financial data engineers who manages and optimises financial data infrastructure.