MSc Finance

• Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% to 70% 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.
  • TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 92, with at least 23 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
  • PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 62 with no individual score below 59.
• 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 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.

Durham University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to both domestic and international students.

1. Durham University Scholarships and Bursaries: These are awarded to both undergraduate and postgraduate students based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria such as subject area or country of origin.
2. Durham International Scholarships: These are awarded to exceptional international students who are pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at the university. The scholarship covers a portion of tuition fees and is renewable for the duration of the course.
3. Government Scholarships: Durham University participates in a number of government scholarship programs, including the Chevening Scholarship and the Commonwealth Scholarship.
4. College-Specific Scholarships: Some colleges at Durham University offer scholarships and bursaries to their students, such as the Van Mildert College Music Scholarship and the St. Mary's College Travel Grant.
5. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments at Durham University offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships may be discipline-specific or focused on supporting students from specific regions or countries. 
6. Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: The Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious scholarships awarded to exceptional international students across all academic disciplines. These scholarships cover the full tuition fees and provide a generous living allowance for the duration of the program. The selection process is highly competitive and based on academic merit and leadership potential.

Durham University in the UK offers an MSc in Finance program that equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue successful careers in the finance industry. Graduates of the program have excellent career prospects and can explore various opportunities in finance and related fields.  

1. Investment Banking: Many graduates of the MSc Finance program choose to pursue careers in investment banking. They can work in global investment banks, boutique advisory firms, or financial institutions. Roles in investment banking include investment analysts, corporate financiers, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) specialists, and risk managers. Graduates often work on complex financial transactions, such as mergers, acquisitions, initial public offerings (IPOs), and debt or equity placements.

2. Asset Management: The MSc Finance program prepares students for roles in asset management companies, pension funds, and investment firms. Graduates can work as portfolio managers, investment analysts, or research associates, managing investment portfolios and making informed investment decisions. They analyze financial data, assess investment opportunities, and monitor the performance of assets.

3. Corporate Finance: Many companies have internal corporate finance teams that handle financial planning, budgeting, and strategic decision-making. Graduates of the MSc Finance program can work in these teams, contributing to mergers and acquisitions, capital budgeting, financial analysis, and financial risk management. They play a crucial role in optimizing the financial performance of the organization.

4. Financial Risk Management: With their understanding of financial markets and risk assessment, graduates of the MSc Finance program can pursue careers in financial risk management. They can work in banks, insurance companies, and risk management consultancies, assessing and managing financial risks, such as market risk, credit risk, and operational risk. Graduates may also work as risk analysts or risk consultants.

5. Consulting: The MSc Finance program equips students with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, making them valuable assets in management consulting firms. Graduates can work as financial consultants, providing advice on financial strategy, cost optimization, performance improvement, and financial restructuring. They assist clients in making informed financial decisions and solving complex financial challenges.

6. Financial Services: Graduates of the MSc Finance program can explore various roles in the broader financial services industry. They can work in banks, insurance companies, financial technology (fintech) firms, and financial regulatory bodies. Opportunities include retail banking, commercial banking, insurance underwriting, financial planning, and compliance. Graduates can also work in financial advisory firms, helping individuals and businesses manage their finances effectively.

7. Research and Analysis: The MSc Finance program lays a strong foundation for graduates to pursue careers in financial research and analysis. They can work in financial research firms, rating agencies, or investment research departments of financial institutions. Graduates may analyze financial data, conduct market research, and provide insights and recommendations for investment decisions.

8. Professional Certifications: The MSc Finance program at Durham University provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue professional certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) or FRM (Financial Risk Manager). These certifications enhance career prospects and demonstrate expertise in specific areas of finance.

9. Career Progression: Graduates of the MSc Finance program have excellent opportunities for career progression. With experience and further professional qualifications, they can advance to senior positions such as financial managers, finance directors, or chief financial officers (CFOs). Some may also choose to pursue doctoral studies or academic careers in finance.