Finance

The MSc in Finance is an intensive one-year programme designed to deliver a premier European finance education. With January and September intakes, this programme offers a robust curriculum that builds core foundations and advanced knowledge in finance, closely aligned with top professional standards like the CFA and GARP’s FRM. Industry-relevant modules, taught by leading academics, are complemented by practical workshops and guest lectures, equipping you with essential tools for a successful career in finance.



The MSc in Finance programme is structured as a core learning first semester. You’ll complete five foundational modules: (i) Economics for Finance, (ii) Quantitative Methods and Econometrics, (iii) Corporate Finance and Valuation, (iv) Financial Markets and Derivatives and (v) Financial Statement Analysis and Ethics.



During the second semester, you will progress through four advanced modules:(i) Asset Pricing, (ii) Fixed Income Securities, (iii) Financial Risk Management and (iv) Portfolio Theory. Additionally, you may tailor your experience by selecting one optional module, choosing from– Financial Econometrics, Financial Technology & Innovation and Sustainable Finance. Alongside these taught modules, you’ll complete a Dissertation, allowing you to explore a finance topic in depth.



The MSc in Finance programme emphasizes practical skills essential for today’s finance professionals. You’ll gain hands-on experience with tools such as Python and finance datasets including Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon, FAME, and MarketLine. To further bridge the gap between academic learning and the professional world, students have the opportunity to participate in prestigious international competitions, such as those organized by CME Group, Rotman, and CFA Institute. These competitions provide invaluable real-world experience in areas like commodities and derivatives trading, portfolio management, and equity valuation. Through AmplifyMe trading workshops, you can also earn a Level 4 Diploma in Applied Finance and develop investment banking skills.



Students in the MSc in Finance programme can join the DCU Investment Society, a student-led club that connects academia with industry. The society introduces members to a range of finance sectors, including investment banking, corporate finance, asset management, private equity, and hedge funds. It also organizes educational events and simulations led by top global financial institutions and provides opportunities to manage a Student Investment Fund.



This programme offers an ideal pathway for graduates in business, economics, or related fields who wish to build a successful finance career. By pursuing the MSc in Finance, you’ll gain a distinguished European postgraduate qualification that reflects your personal career aspirations and prepares you to excel in finance.

For admission to the M.Sc. in Finance candidates must hold:



• A 2.1 Honours degree in a relevant non-business discipline eg. Engineering, Physics, Maths, or Computer Science or equivalent international qualification.



• International candidates who are non-native speakers of English must satisfy the University of their competency in the English language. Please see link http://www.dcu.ie/registry/english.shtml



Applicants who have achieved a 2.2 Honours degree may still obtain a place. This will depend on availability of places and on obtaining high grades in relevant modules on their undergraduate programme.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) applicants are required to submit a cover letter along with their application under the Transcripts section of the portal, affirming their intent to apply for RPL.

1 year full-time.

START DATE

January 2025 & September 2025



Applications for entry to this course can be made here. Please ensure to place the relevant course code for either January (DC558) or September (DC511).

This programme is designed to prepare ambitious students for the challenges and rewarding career opportunities in the financial services industry. You will be equipped for a career in financial markets and institutions, especially in investment banking and asset management, or in the risk management and corporate finance functions of corporations, as well as regulatory bodies and government offices dealing with the financial industry.



Recent graduates are employed by major financial institutions including UBS, Standard & Poor's, Royal Bank of Scotland, KPMG, PwC, Boston Scientific, Commerzbank, AIB, Bank of Ireland, Goodbody Stockbrokers, Davy, Geneva Trading, Mercer, Nestle, Citco Fund Services, Standard Life and BNY Mellon.