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Programme Information
Have you ever wondered why the world's stock markets boom or crash or how Enron manipulated its finances? Have you ever tried to interpret the financial and market information contained in the business press?
If so, then BA (Hons) Finance and Investment Management degree will be of interest to you. The programme is aimed at students with an interest in all aspects of finance, banking, stock markets and the financial services industry and who may be considering a career in this area. Finance is a wide ranging term,
but essentially students will be equipped to handle such areas as financial markets, investments, banking and business finance.
The UK has one of the most developed financial services sectors in the world and it is the major employer and contributor to the UK economy. During the programme you will learn about the major elements of financial services. You will examine current market developments and enhance skills of criticism and analysis in order to be able to understand and evaluate the factors shaping the
modern financial services world both in the UK and internationally.
Programme Content
Year 1
The first year of the programme is an introduction to finance and management. Students study subjects such as the International Business Environment, Management, Finance, and Business Processes. In addition, students on this programme will study investment management.
Year 2
In Year Two, students study both finance and management. Specialist finance topics in the areas of Personal Finance and Investment, Portfolio Management and the International Financial Markets are also studied alongside International Business and Organisational and Personal Development.
Year 3
Placement Year - if chosen, otherwise proceed to Year 4.
Year 4
In the final year all students are required to study Business Ethics, Leadership and Strategy and complete a final year dissertation. Specialist finance provides a detailed examination of all types of risk together with an in-depth exploration of the behaviour of international financial markets.
Coursework and Assessment
A variety of teaching and learning strategies are used to facilitate the learning process.
These include lectures, seminars, workshops and tutorials. A number of innovative methods of learning and assessment are used including computer modelling, video presentations and joint seminars with companies.
Students are encouraged to develop personal skills of analysis and synthesis and to become fluent and experienced in communicating and discussing ideas and opinions. Interpersonal skills are developed by group work. Modules are assessed separately using a mixture of examinations, coursework, presentations and projects.
Placement Information
There is an opportunity to undertake a year long paid placement at the end of Year 2. Students get full support from the Placements Office to obtain a placement to prepare them for final year studies and future employment.
City and Guilds
Successful completion of the placement year to City and Guild standards allows the University to award the Licentiateship of City and Guilds (LCGI), a national qualification recognised by employers such as Lloyds TSB.
Careers
Graduates from the programme have found successful careeracross the financial services. Many have chosen to enter the banking world and work in the city and elsewhere in the UK and overseas. Others have found employment as stockbrokers and financial advisers.