Fintech
Course Description
Finance is a highly regulated industry that resists disruption and change. However, information technology innovations and computing resources availability have revolutionised the financial sector in the last decades. Data analytics, new technologies (e.g., blockchain) and business models (e.g., crowdfunding), and the modernisation of the financial sector regulations are creating opportunities to the emergence of disruptive services and challenger institutions.
This course provides learners with the latest knowledge and competencies at the intersection of finance and technology, allowing them to exploit opportunities in this rapidly evolving area. NCI is perfectly placed to deliver an industry-focused programme inspired by its location at the heart of the International Financial Services Centre. The course is completely delivered by faculty and industry practitioners with established experience in the fintech domain.
Who is the course for?
This interdisciplinary course will appeal to graduates of finance, computing and business seeking to enter the area of fintech; and industry practitioners seeking to gain insightful experience and exposure to the principles of fintech, as well as data analytics and emerging technologies.
Learners on the programme will gain in-depth knowledge and skills in the core topics of fintech including:
• Financial Markets and Financial Services Regulation
• Financial Data Analysis
• Blockchain Technologies
• Governance, Compliance, and Information Assurance
• Cybersecurity and IT Auditing
• Data Analysis and Visualisation
• Entrepreneurship in fintech including organisational models and culture
Subjects taught
Core Modules
• Data Analytics
• Data Governance and Compliance
• Financial Markets
• Information Assurance and Cybersecurity
• Blockchain Technologies
• Contemporary Topics in Fintech
• Financial Analytics
• Entrepreneurship in Fintech
• Industry Based Research Project
• Research Project
Electives
• Crowd Markets
• Digital Forensics and Auditing
Entry requirements
A level 8 degree (2.2 award) or its equivalent in one or more of the following domains: computer science, finance, business, or economics. Cognate disciplines will also be considered. Note that applicants lacking both a clear financial and technology component may still be eligible but are subject to review.
The college operates a Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) scheme, meaning applicants who do not meet the normal and academic entry requirements, may be considered based on relevant work or other experience. Non-English speaking applicants must demonstrate fluency in the English language as demonstrated by an IELTS academic score of at least 6.5 or equivalent.
Laptop Requirements
This programme has a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy. Specifically, students are expected to successfully participate in lectures, laboratories and projects using a laptop computer with a substantial hardware configuration. A suitable configuration is 8GB of RAM (16GB are recommended); a modern 64-bit x86 processor (Intel i5 or superior); 250+ GB of available space in hard disk; WiFi card; and a recent version of Ubuntu, macOS or Windows.
It is the responsibility of the student to ensure their laptop is functioning correctly and that they have full administrator rights to the machine. NCI IT does not provide support for personal devices.
Some students may be able to avail of the Student Laptop Loan Scheme, subject to eligibility.
Application dates
Application: Apply online at www.ncirl.ie
Duration
Delivery:
Blended - Livestream with some Campus Stream classes, scheduled in advance.
Part-time Schedule:
Indicative Schedule:
Two evenings per week 18.00 - 22.00 and some Saturdays.
Please note that exams can be scheduled during the morning, afternoon, or evening Monday to Saturday.
Full-time Schedule:
Indicative Schedule:
Students need to be available 09.00 - 18.00 Monday to Friday. (Class days and times vary).
Duration: 1 year; 2 semesters with a final research project.
Post Course Info
Award and Progression
The Master of Science in Fintech is awarded by QQI at level 9 on the National Framework for Qualifications. Students who successfully complete this course may progress to a major award at level 10 on the NFQ.
According to a recent Graduate Outcomes Survey – Class of 2018 released on June 2020 by the Higher Education Authority, ICT graduates receive the highest earnings nine months after graduating compared to the overall younger graduate average based on the analysis of the destinations of students who graduated in 2018.