Core modules

Quantitative Methods for Finance and Accounting
Led by Dr Jiao Ji
Autumn semester, 15 credits
Assessment: Class test and examination
This module provides an understanding of the main mathematical, statistical and econometric techniques that underpin Finance and Accounting research and their application in practice.

Students will develop numerical and problem solving skills, including an introduction to econometrics, i.e. model-based measurement using the theory and techniques of statistical inference.

Corporate Finance
Led by Dr Tunyi Abongeh
Autumn semester, 15 credits
Assessment: Examination and group presentation
The purpose of the course is to give a solid foundation in principles of corporate finance and asset pricing to understand and analyse the major issues affecting the financial policies of corporations. More specifically, the following topics will be dealt with: the time value of money, valuation of bond and equity, risk/return tradeoffs, portfolio theory, initial public offerings, capital structure, payout policy, and market efficiency. The course focuses on the quantitative and advanced aspects of finance and is aimed at those students who intend to specialise in finance.

Research Methods for Finance and Accounting
Led by Professor Bill Lee
Spring semester, 15 credits
Assessment: 3,000 word research proposal
This module provides a general understanding of finance and accounting research methods. The module will equip students with the practical skills necessary to successfully complete a research project leading to the preparation of a dissertation. The module will consider how to develop appropriate research aims, objectives and questions. The module will address the available sources of data, data collection and analysis methods (quantitative and qualitative), and the philosophical underpinning of the principal research traditions. The module will also cover how to develop a critique of current literature, draw conclusions and form arguments as part of writing up a dissertation.

Comparative Finance and Financial Services
Led by Mr Jonathan Jeffery
Autumn semester, 15 credits
Assessment: Examination
This module introduces students to major features and origins of financial services, the different forms of banking arrangements that exist and the available alternative financing tools for corporations, small- and medium-sized enterprises and major infrastructure projects. It provides students with an analytical framework for understanding the different types of banks that exist and the financing tools that are available. It will also provide insights into the ways in which banks and providers of finance are regulated and the limitations to those forms of regulations.

Dissertation
Summer semester, 45 credits
The dissertation is the culmination of your master’s study and recognition of your capability to conduct a research project independently. Students can apply to undertake an organisation based dissertation project, arranged by the Management School. Working with an organisation, students can structure their project around a real business issue of challenge set by the host organisation. A student project will develop your employability skills, enhance your CV and give you the chance to use your insight to help an organisation develop.

The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.


Optional modules (choose five)