Masters in Finance
Vaasa
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of financial theory, practices, and the financial management of firms in both national and international contexts. The program aims to prepare students for advanced careers in finance, focusing on key areas such as financial analysis, investment management, corporate finance, and financial markets. Students benefit from a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring they are ready to tackle the challenges of the ever-evolving global financial landscape. The program is ideal for those looking to work in investment banks, multinational corporations, consultancy firms, and governmental agencies, where strong financial expertise is highly valued.
Curriculum: The Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to cover a broad range of financial topics. Students will engage with core courses such as financial analysis, corporate finance, and investment management, gaining the foundational knowledge required in the finance industry. The program also emphasizes advanced topics including financial modeling, risk management, financial markets, and international finance. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest, such as sustainable finance, fintech, or corporate governance. In addition to theoretical learning, the curriculum integrates practical case studies, project work, and software tools to provide students with hands-on experience in financial decision-making. The program is structured to ensure that graduates not only possess technical financial skills but also have a strategic understanding of financial operations within a global business context.
Research Focus: The Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa is closely tied to cutting-edge research in the field of finance. The university’s research focus within this program includes topics such as corporate finance, financial modeling, capital markets, and behavioral finance. Students are encouraged to engage with ongoing research projects, where they can develop and apply analytical skills to solve complex financial problems. The university's research centers, such as the Wärtsilä Foundation Finance Lab, provide students with a strong foundation in both academic research and practical applications. This research orientation allows students to explore advanced financial concepts, from the management of financial risks to the understanding of market behavior, and to contribute to the advancement of the field. The research output from the university often provides valuable insights for both academic and professional finance communities.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement plays a vital role in the Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa. The program has strong ties with the financial industry, both in Finland and internationally, ensuring that students benefit from real-world financial applications. The university collaborates with leading financial institutions, companies, and consulting firms, providing students with access to industry expertise, guest lectures, and networking opportunities. The program also offers students the chance to complete internships, where they can apply their classroom learning to practical challenges in the finance industry. Additionally, students participate in finance-related case competitions, where they work on solving real-world business problems, further strengthening their practical skills. These industry connections help students understand the financial needs of businesses, providing them with insights into the latest industry trends and best practices.
Global Perspective: The Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa offers students a global perspective, preparing them for careers in the international finance sector. The program integrates global finance theories and practices, ensuring that students understand how financial markets operate on a global scale. Students are exposed to international financial systems, cross-border financial management, and the implications of international trade and investment. The program also benefits from international partnerships with universities and institutions across Europe, Asia, and North America. This global approach is complemented by opportunities for students to participate in exchange programs and international internships, where they can gain firsthand experience of working in global financial markets. By the end of the program, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work in international financial settings and contribute to the global economy.
Location
Vaasa
Score
Tuition Fee
€ 14000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- English language test waiver is applicable if the Bachelor's, Master's, Licentiate, or Doctoral degree is in English language.
The University of Vaasa offers various scholarships for international students to support their studies and make higher education more accessible. These scholarships are designed to assist students with their tuition fees, living expenses, and other academic costs.
Tuition Fee Waivers for Non-EU/EEA Students: International students from outside the EU/EEA are required to pay tuition fees for degree programs taught in English. To assist these students, the University of Vaasa offers a range of tuition fee waivers. These waivers can cover part or all of the tuition fees, depending on the scholarship’s criteria. The scholarships are competitive, and students are selected based on their academic performance and potential to contribute to the university community.
University of Vaasa Scholarship Scheme: The University of Vaasa provides a specific scholarship scheme for non-EU/EEA students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on merit and are designed to attract talented students to the university. Successful applicants can receive scholarships that cover either 50% or 100% of their tuition fees for the duration of their studies. To be eligible, students must apply for a degree program and submit a scholarship application as part of the admission process.
Master’s Program Scholarships: For students applying to Master’s degree programs, the University of Vaasa offers a special scholarship opportunity. Scholarships are available for both EU/EEA and non-EU/EEA students, although the criteria differ. Non-EU/EEA students can apply for full or partial tuition fee waivers, while EU/EEA students may have access to other funding opportunities. The scholarships are intended to reward academic excellence and provide financial relief to those in need.
External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the university’s own scholarship programs, international students at the University of Vaasa can also explore external scholarship opportunities. Finland offers various government-funded scholarships for international students, and other private organizations may offer financial support. The University of Vaasa’s International Office provides guidance and assistance in identifying and applying for external scholarships to help students with their funding needs.
Graduates of the Master’s in Finance program at the University of Vaasa have a broad spectrum of career opportunities available to them in various sectors within the global financial industry. The program equips students with advanced skills in financial analysis, corporate finance, and investment management, which are highly sought after by employers worldwide.
Investment Banker: Graduates can pursue careers as investment bankers, specializing in corporate finance, mergers, and acquisitions (M&A), or initial public offerings (IPOs). Investment bankers work with clients to raise capital, advise on business transactions, and help companies navigate financial markets.
Financial Analyst: As financial analysts, graduates analyze financial data, trends, and reports to guide decision-making within an organization. They assess market performance, create financial models, and provide investment recommendations. Financial analysts can work in corporate finance departments, investment firms, or consultancy companies.
Risk Manager: Graduates with a focus on risk management can work as risk managers, identifying and mitigating financial risks within organizations. They assess market, credit, operational, and liquidity risks, ensuring that companies make informed decisions to protect their financial assets and maintain compliance with regulations.
Corporate Finance Professional: Corporate finance professionals manage an organization’s financial activities, including capital structure, budgeting, and investment decisions. Graduates can take on roles in financial planning and analysis (FP&A), treasury management, or mergers and acquisitions within corporations, advising on how to maximize financial value.
Financial Consultant: Financial consultants provide advice to businesses and individuals on how to manage their finances effectively. They help clients make informed investment decisions, reduce costs, and improve profitability. Graduates can work in consultancy firms, offering strategic financial advice to clients across a wide range of industries.
Portfolio Manager: Graduates who are interested in investment management can become portfolio managers. In this role, they manage investment portfolios for institutional investors or high-net-worth individuals. Portfolio managers use their knowledge of financial markets and asset management to optimize returns and minimize risks.
Private Equity Analyst: Private equity analysts focus on managing investments in private companies or startups. Graduates can work for private equity firms, analyzing investment opportunities, conducting due diligence, and helping portfolio companies grow through strategic financial decisions and operational improvements.
Financial Planner: Graduates can become certified financial planners, advising individuals on personal finance matters such as retirement planning, investment strategies, and tax planning. They help clients navigate financial complexities, ensuring long-term financial security and growth.
Treasury Manager: In this role, graduates manage a company’s cash flow, liquidity, and financial risk. Treasury managers are responsible for overseeing cash management, working capital optimization, and financing strategies, ensuring that companies have sufficient funds to meet their operational needs.
Fintech Professional: With the increasing impact of technology on finance, graduates can pursue careers in fintech, where they work on developing and implementing financial technology solutions. Fintech professionals may work in areas such as blockchain, digital payments, or financial software development, combining finance and technology expertise to create innovative solutions for financial services.
Regulatory Compliance Officer: In this role, graduates ensure that financial institutions comply with local and international financial regulations. They assess financial policies, monitor compliance processes, and ensure that financial institutions are adhering to regulatory requirements, protecting them from legal and financial risks.
Tax Advisor: Graduates with an interest in taxation can pursue careers as tax advisors, helping individuals and businesses navigate complex tax laws and optimize their tax strategies. Tax advisors work with clients to ensure that they are compliant with tax regulations and maximize their tax benefits.
Economist: Graduates can work as economists, analyzing market trends, economic policies, and financial data to provide insights into economic behavior and trends. Economists in the finance industry advise organizations on macroeconomic conditions and their potential impact on financial markets.
Finance Lecturer/Academic Researcher: For those interested in academia, a career as a finance lecturer or researcher is an option. Graduates can teach finance courses at universities or engage in academic research, contributing to the development of financial knowledge and practices.
Sustainable Finance Specialist: Graduates with an interest in sustainability can work as sustainable finance specialists, advising organizations on how to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into their financial decisions. This role is becoming increasingly important as businesses and investors focus on sustainable financial practices.
