MSc Banking and 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 Banking and Finance program have excellent career prospects in the banking, finance, and related sectors. 

1. Commercial Banking: Graduates can pursue careers in commercial banks, working in areas such as corporate banking, retail banking, or investment banking. They can take on roles such as credit analyst, relationship manager, risk manager, or investment banker, providing financial solutions to clients and managing banking operations.

2. Investment Management: Graduates can find employment in investment management firms, working as portfolio managers, investment analysts, or research associates. They can be involved in investment decision-making, asset allocation, risk assessment, and performance evaluation.

3. Financial Planning and Advisory: Graduates can work in financial advisory firms, assisting clients with financial planning, investment strategies, and wealth management. They can provide personalized advice on financial products, retirement planning, tax optimization, and risk management.

4. Corporate Finance: Graduates can pursue careers in corporate finance departments of companies, focusing on financial analysis, capital budgeting, mergers and acquisitions, or treasury operations. They can contribute to strategic financial decision-making and support business growth.

5. Financial Consultancy: Graduates can work in financial consultancy firms, providing advisory services to clients on various financial matters. They can assist clients with financial restructuring, valuation, risk management, or financial due diligence in mergers and acquisitions.

6. Risk Management: Graduates can find opportunities in risk management departments of financial institutions or corporations. They can analyze and assess financial risks, develop risk mitigation strategies, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

7. Financial Regulation and Compliance: Graduates can pursue careers in regulatory bodies, financial institutions, or consultancy firms, focusing on compliance, risk assessment, or regulatory policy analysis. They can ensure adherence to financial regulations, assess and mitigate risks, or contribute to the development of regulatory frameworks.

8. Research and Academia: Graduates can pursue further studies at the doctoral level and embark on research or academic careers. They can contribute to the field of banking and finance through research, publish scholarly articles, and teach at universities or research institutions.