Master of Science - Finance

The Master of Science in Finance program at the University of Canterbury offers students a comprehensive understanding of financial theories, analytical techniques, and practical applications, equipping them with advanced skills in financial management and analysis.

Curriculum: The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including financial modeling, investment analysis, risk management, corporate finance, and quantitative methods. It emphasizes both theoretical concepts and practical skills, preparing students for real-world financial challenges.

Research Focus: The program encourages research-oriented learning, enabling students to delve into specialized areas such as financial markets, derivatives, portfolio management, or behavioral finance. It fosters critical thinking and analytical skills necessary for financial research and decision-making.

Industry Engagement: The University of Canterbury fosters strong industry connections in the finance sector. The program integrates guest lectures, workshops, and industry projects, providing students with opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to real-world financial scenarios.

Global Perspective: The Master of Science in Finance program incorporates a global perspective by exploring international financial markets, regulatory frameworks, and global financial trends. It prepares students to understand and analyze financial issues within a global context.

Postgraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs usually need a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification from a recognized institution. The entry requirement may specify a minimum score of 50% or higher in the previous academic degree.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 or 7.0, with no band below 6.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 90 with no individual section below 19.
• PTE: Overall score of 58, with a minimum of 50 in each section.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Canterbury is dedicated to providing support to international students through various scholarship programs designed to recognize academic excellence, diversity, and specific areas of achievement. These scholarships aim to ease the financial burden and promote educational opportunities for talented individuals from around the world.

UC International First Year Scholarships: Geared towards high-achieving international students beginning their first year of study at UC. These scholarships acknowledge exceptional academic performance and assist students in their initial year of education at the university.

UC Master's Scholarships: For high-achieving international students pursuing Master's degrees at UC. These scholarships provide financial support to assist students in their postgraduate studies and promote research excellence.

UC Doctoral Scholarships: Aimed at international students undertaking Ph.D. studies at UC. These scholarships offer financial assistance and opportunities for research excellence in various fields of study.

Specific Field Scholarships: Additionally, UC offers specialized scholarships catering to students entering specific fields or disciplines. These scholarships encourage innovation and excellence in targeted areas of study.

Graduates from the Master of Science in Finance program at the University of Canterbury possess advanced financial knowledge and analytical skills, opening doors to diverse career opportunities within the financial industry and beyond.

Financial Analyst: Graduates can work as financial analysts, conducting financial research, analyzing market trends, and providing insights and recommendations to support investment decisions for corporations, banks, or financial institutions.

Investment Banker: Graduates can pursue roles in investment banking, facilitating mergers and acquisitions, underwriting securities, or advising clients on capital raising and strategic financial decisions.

Risk Manager: Graduates can specialize in risk management, identifying and mitigating financial risks for companies, financial institutions, or investment firms, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Corporate Finance Manager: Graduates can work in corporate finance, managing financial planning, budgeting, and capital allocation for corporations, optimizing financial performance and strategies.

Financial Consultant/Advisor: Graduates can become financial consultants or advisors, providing personalized financial advice, wealth management services, and retirement planning for individuals or firms.

Quantitative Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as quantitative analysts, applying mathematical and statistical models to analyze financial data, develop trading strategies, or evaluate investment opportunities.