MSc Computational Finance

Postgraduate Entry Requirements:

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of  50 to 55% or equivalent.
• English language proficiency is required, and applicants must provide evidence of their English language skills through an approved language test.
  • IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 90.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 51.
• Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

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 entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

The University of Essex offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to assist students in their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward academic excellence, promote diversity and inclusion, and provide assistance to those facing financial challenges.  

1. Academic Excellence Scholarships: The university offers scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievements. These scholarships are typically merit-based and provide financial support towards tuition fees or living expenses.
2. International Scholarships: The University of Essex provides scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to attract and support talented students from around the world. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary, and they may cover a portion of tuition fees or provide assistance with living expenses.
3. Subject-specific Scholarships: Some departments and schools within the university offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often awarded to students with exceptional academic records or those who demonstrate a strong commitment to their field of study.
4. Access and Participation Scholarships: The university is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. It offers scholarships and financial support to students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from low-income families or individuals who are the first in their family to attend university.
5. Government-funded Scholarships: In addition to internal scholarships, the University of Essex provides information and guidance on scholarships and funding opportunities offered by external organizations and government agencies. These scholarships may be available to students based on factors such as nationality, field of study, or research interests.
6. Sports Scholarships: The university recognizes the importance of sports and offers scholarships to talented athletes who demonstrate exceptional sporting abilities. These scholarships provide financial support along with access to sports facilities, training programs, and dedicated support services.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application processes may change over time. 

Graduates of the MSc Computational Finance program have excellent career prospects in various sectors of the finance industry. 

1. Quantitative Analyst: Graduates can work as quantitative analysts, using advanced mathematical and computational models to develop pricing models, risk management tools, and investment strategies. They may work for investment banks, hedge funds, or asset management firms.

2. Financial Data Analyst: Graduates can pursue roles as financial data analysts, collecting, analyzing, and interpreting financial data to support decision-making and financial modeling. They may work for financial institutions, consulting firms, or data analytics companies.

3. Risk Manager: Graduates can work as risk managers, assessing and managing financial risks within organizations. They develop risk management frameworks, conduct risk assessments, and implement risk mitigation strategies. They may work for banks, insurance companies, or regulatory bodies.

4. Financial Technology Specialist: Graduates can specialize in the field of financial technology, working on projects related to blockchain, algorithmic trading, or automated investment advisory. They may work for FinTech startups, financial institutions, or technology companies.

5. Investment Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as investment analysts, conducting research, and analysis to support investment decisions. They evaluate investment opportunities, assess the performance of investment portfolios, and provide recommendations to clients or investment firms.

6. Financial Consultant: Graduates can work as financial consultants, providing advisory services to clients on various financial matters. They may specialize in areas such as risk management, financial modeling, or investment strategies.

7. Academic and Research Roles: Graduates can choose to pursue further academic studies or research positions, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in the field of computational finance.