Comments about MSc-PGDip-PGCert in Financial Services Management - At the institution - Guildford - Surrey
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Objectives
You will acquire a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets from the perspective of the seller of financial services, along with the products sold. You will learn how the financial sector operates and how the flow of funds from individuals and businesses to individuals, businesses and governments is facilitated. The programme of study includes a comprehensive review of the main products and markets, along with the major changes and innovations presently underway. The subject matter includes how such markets are structured, how major players, including banks, insurance companies and investment firms, behave and the extent to which institutions and markets, through their products and services, conform to various paradigms. Contemporary issues are dealt with and future strategies within the industry analysed. By concentrating upon the buy-side of financial markets, you will learn how financial firms function and how consumers behave. This is achieved through a programme of study including a comprehensive review of the environment under which retail consumers purchase and benefit from financial services. The programme is recognised by the ifs School of Finance. Students on the full-time programme are registered with the ifs as student members. The ifs sponsors a prize for the Best Personal Development Log Book and a prize for the Best Dissertation Project from students on this programme.
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Entry requirements
Typical entry requirements Applicants should usually hold a bachelors degree (UK Lower Second/2.2 or above) or equivalent qualification from a recognised British/overseas university in a subject related to this MSc or, alternatively, at least one year's relevant work experience. Every applicant is assessed individually on their own merit. Higher level professional qualifications may also be accepted. Candidates for whom English is not their first language will normally be required to have taken an English language test and achieved a score of either TOEFL 550 or above, IELTS 6.0 or above, or Cambridge Advanced Certificate in English Grade C or above. This test must have been taken within two years prior to the start of the programme you are applying for. The School also assists students whose first language is not English through close cooperation with the University's Language Centre.
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Academic title
MSc/PGDip/PGCert in Financial Services Management
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Course description
MSc/PGDip/PGCert in Financial Services Management Module overview
This programme consists of seven compulsory modules, one module from a range of three elective modules, and a dissertation.
Compulsory Modules
Financial Accounting
The focus of this module is the understanding and use of financial information as shareholders, stakeholders and potential investors. Concentrating on the principles and practices of accounting, it ensures that modern concerns about risk and ethics are taken into account and integrated into the accounting principles being taught.
Financial Services Management 1: Products and Characteristics
This module introduces the various products offered by financial services providers, developing a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets from the perspective of the seller of financial services, along with the products sold.
Financial Services Management 2: Contexts and Customers
This module introduces the financial services environment and consumer behaviour, developing a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets from the perspective of the buyer of financial services, with particular emphasis upon retail considerations.
Financial Services: Personal Logbook
This module is designed to provide future managers in the fast-changing financial services industry with the attitudes and skills necessary for successful professional development.
Foundation of Finance: Finance and Investments
This module develops finance for those interested in the 'buy-side' of securities (suppliers of capital such as individuals and pension plans) rather than the 'sell-side' of securities (demanders of capital such as corporations and governments), providing a complete introduction to financial theory through a study of the problems of investing capital.
Marketing
This module is designed to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding marketing at both strategic and operational levels within various contexts. Integrating theoretical concepts and models with practical application, students explore the contribution that marketing can make to successful businesses.
Research Methods
Introducing the process of research project formulation and the key elements of research design, this module should prepare students to design and execute their research study for their dissertation in a systematic and scientific manner.
Elective Modules
E-business
This module identifies contextual influences and industry developments in e-business, as well as mapping various business models and analysing how the electronic platform can transform businesses, exploring current status, recent transformations and predicted developments through the study of both theory and application.
Project Management
This module develops a practical understanding and ability to plan and manage a small-to-medium-sized project to its successful conclusion. It encourages the ability to think across management disciplines and to appreciate the significance or impact of their application on the success of a project.
Financial Products (Derivative Securities)
This module is designed to develop a practical understanding of the valuation and use of derivative securities that are used by corporate and personal clients of the financial services industry. Candidates are expected to appreciate the risk and return nature of these securities and how they can impact on the value of the client's operations.
Programme length
12 months full-time, up to 24 months part-time or distance learning
