International Banking and Finance MSc

This module introduces essential econometric techniques and their application in financial modelling, utilising big data approaches. It covers a diverse range of topics, including cross-sectional and time series econometrics, basic panel data analysis, and the integration of big data methods to complement traditional financial models. Students will develop skills in managing and analysing large datasets, performing robust statistical analyses, and building predictive financial models. The module emphasises practical implementation, using tools like Python, STATA, and R to apply econometric models and data analysis techniques effectively to financial datasets.

This module aims to provide an overview of the nature and operation of international financial markets and their traded instruments. You are introduced to the organisation of the international financial system, the markets for foreign exchanges, stocks, bonds, commodities, and the risks and opportunities offered in these markets and systems. You gain essential knowledge for their future career in business, especially in the financial sector.

This module aims to equip your with knowledge essential to critically engage with modern financial risk management theory and practice undertaken by both financial and non-financial institutions. It offers advanced study of key issues, including categories of managed financial risk, the arbitrage-free theory of spot-forward price relations, valuing optionality in a financial risk environment, a comparison of over-the-counter and exchange-traded risk management arrangements, the limitations of risk management techniques and the evolving regulatory environment. You will be able to develop risk modelling skills, analytical and quantitative skills through engagement with current market data on Bloomberg Financial Database and Capital IQ.

This module aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of equity analysis, portfolio theory and portfolio insurance. Students will explore different approaches to analysing equities, including assessing market dynamics and interpreting financial statements. Portfolio theory will introduce students to the principles of constructing diversified portfolios, optimising allocation and managing risk and return effectively. Students will explore strategies to hedge portfolios against market declines, developing essential skills for proactive risk management within the broader context of investment management.

The module aims to advance students’ understanding of modern banking systems and institutions, utilising economic theory and empirical evidence. A wide range of different topics explore the complexity and integrated nature of international banking systems and regulation. The module emphasises the relationship between financial systems and economic performance, particularly the mechanisms by which the former may help to improve resource allocation and economic growth and stabilise banking systems. It also examines the causes of weaknesses in financial systems, including the roots of financial crises. The investigation of emerging issues and contemporary trends in domestic and international banking is also an important part of this module.

This module deals with basic statistical methods and explores the application of these methods to analytical models in finance. You will gain the analytical and programming skills necessary to pursue empirical studies in finance. You will also be encouraged to use previous knowledge in statistics and computer programming.

The module provides you with the opportunity to select your own specialised research topic in the area of financial management. You will be expected to apply relevant theoretical frameworks, the existing seminal and the most up-to-date scholarly literature together with the relevant research methodologies and methods whilst conducting your research. You will be required to independently plan, organise, and coherently produce a limited but a well-researched work.

The module aims to empower you to apply the comprehensive knowledge and skills acquired in your programme to undertake a significant practice-based project that aligns with your professional interests and career aspirations. Through this project you will demonstrate your  

ability to identify, analyse, and solve a business challenge, issue, or opportunity while applying theoretical knowledge to practical business contexts. Additionally, you will showcase your proficiency in conducting research relevant to your project, which includes engaging with appropriate literature, collecting and analysing data, and effectively communicating your findings and recommendations. The project represents the culmination of your learning experience.

In group workshops, you'll explore key ideas and apply them through practical class exercises. You'll build your understanding by doing guided reading from textbooks and journal articles. In seminars and computer labs, you'll tackle real-life problems and find solutions, helping you develop your thinking skills. You'll also discuss topics and theories in class, and use what you’ve learned to write your dissertation.

The course also includes several workshops on the various aspects of writing a dissertation delivered by academics who have produced high-quality, internationally-reputed research.

You will be studying at our leafy north London campus in Hendon as well as the opportunity to study on our Dubai Campus as a part of your course.

In a typical year, you’ll spend about 1200 hours on your course.

Outside of teaching hours, you’ll learn independently through reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, and preparing for assessments including coursework and presentations.

Whether you are studying full or part-time – your course timetable will balance your study commitments on campus with time for work, life commitments and independent study. We aim to make your timetable available at least 2 weeks before you the start of term. Some weeks are different due to how we schedule classes and arrange on-campus sessions.

Typical weekly breakdown

A typical week looks like this:

Learning terms

On-campus: This includes tutor-led sessions such as seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations as well as student-led sessions for work in small groups.

Independent study: This is the work you do in your own time including reading and research.

Part-time study

You can also study this course part-time over two years.

You have a strong support network available to you to make sure you develop all the necessary academic skills you need to do well on your course.

Our support services will be delivered online and on campus and you have access to a range of different resources so you can get the help you need, whether you’re studying at home or have the opportunity to come to campus.

You have access to one to one and group sessions for personal learning and academic support from our library and IT teams, and our network of learning experts. Our teams will also be here to offer financial advice, and personal wellbeing, mental health and disability support.

Your knowledge and understanding will be assessed by presentations, in-class tests, and written assignments in the form of individual and/or group coursework and through the research and writing undertaken to complete your dissertation.

You'll evaluate your work, skills and knowledge and identify areas for improvement. Sometimes you'll work in groups and assess each other's progress.

Each term, you'll get regular feedback on your learning.