MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting (with a professional placement year)
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting (with a professional placement year) at the University of Sussex is a forward-thinking program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to lead in the evolving fields of sustainable finance, accounting, and investment. As global attention increasingly shifts towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, there is growing demand for professionals who can integrate sustainability into financial decision-making and reporting. This program blends the disciplines of finance, accounting, and sustainability, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of how to manage financial resources while ensuring long-term environmental and social responsibility. The professional placement year offers a unique opportunity for students to apply their learning in real-world settings, gaining valuable practical experience and enhancing their employability upon graduation.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the principles of finance, accounting, and sustainability. Core modules cover key areas such as financial analysis, corporate governance, sustainability accounting, and responsible investment. Students will gain proficiency in evaluating the financial implications of sustainability initiatives, assessing ESG risks, and utilizing sustainable finance tools such as green bonds and impact investing. The curriculum also focuses on ethical financial decision-making, the role of financial institutions in promoting sustainable development, and the regulatory landscape surrounding sustainable finance practices. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and practical projects, students will acquire both the technical and strategic skills necessary to navigate the complex intersection of finance, accounting, and sustainability. The professional placement year provides students with the chance to work with industry leaders, contributing to sustainability initiatives and gaining hands-on experience in finance and accounting roles with a sustainability focus.
Research Focus: The University of Sussex is at the forefront of research in sustainable finance and accounting. The university’s research centers, such as the Centre for the Study of Financial Innovation and the Sustainability Research Network, focus on exploring how finance and accounting practices can contribute to sustainable development. Research themes include the integration of ESG criteria in financial decision-making, the role of financial markets in promoting sustainability, and the development of new financial products that drive sustainable investment. Students in the MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting program have the opportunity to engage with ongoing research projects and collaborate with faculty members to explore emerging topics such as green finance, sustainable supply chain management, and the economic impact of climate change. The program’s research focus ensures that students are exposed to cutting-edge ideas and practices, preparing them to contribute to innovations in sustainable finance and accounting.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a critical aspect of the MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting program. The University of Sussex has strong links with financial institutions, accounting firms, consultancy agencies, and non-governmental organizations that are leaders in the field of sustainable finance. Through these partnerships, students gain access to internships, consultancy projects, and networking opportunities that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. The professional placement year is a key feature, offering students the opportunity to work within organizations that prioritize sustainability and integrate ESG factors into their financial and accounting strategies. Students may work with global financial firms, regulatory bodies, or sustainability-focused organizations, contributing to real-world projects that drive sustainable economic practices. Furthermore, the program includes guest lectures, industry workshops, and seminars featuring experts in sustainable finance, offering students invaluable insights into current industry trends and practices.
Global Perspective: The MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting program at the University of Sussex offers a global perspective on sustainability challenges and opportunities. With climate change, resource scarcity, and social inequality becoming global concerns, sustainable finance is no longer confined to a regional or national context. Students will explore how international organizations, such as the United Nations and the World Bank, are shaping global financial policies and the adoption of sustainability practices. The program examines global financial markets, international regulations such as the EU Taxonomy for Sustainable Activities, and the role of multilateral financial institutions in driving sustainability. The curriculum encourages students to analyze case studies from different regions and understand how global trends in ESG investing are impacting local markets and organizations. The diverse student body and international faculty members also contribute to the program’s global perspective, fostering a learning environment where students gain a broader understanding of sustainable finance in a globalized world.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 30000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 67.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Postgraduate Scholarships: International postgraduate students can benefit from the Sussex Graduate Scholarship, which provides a discount on tuition fees for eligible students with strong academic records.This scholarship is available for a variety of postgraduate programs and is aimed at supporting students who wish to advance their studies in the UK.
Chevening Scholarships: The University of Sussex is a partner in the Chevening Scholarship program, which is the UK government’s global scholarship program.Chevening Scholarships are awarded to outstanding individuals from around the world who wish to pursue postgraduate studies in the UK.
Erasmus Mundus Scholarships: The University of Sussex is involved in several Erasmus Mundus programs, offering scholarships for international students from EU and non-EU countries.These scholarships support students pursuing joint Master’s degrees across European universities.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the MSc Sustainable Finance and Accounting (with a professional placement year) are well-positioned to pursue a variety of high-impact roles within the finance and accounting sectors. The unique structure of the program, which includes both academic modules and a professional placement year, ensures that students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.
Sustainable Finance Analyst: Graduates can work as analysts focusing on integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors into investment decisions. They would analyze and assess companies and projects in terms of their sustainability impact and provide insights into long-term financial performance that incorporates sustainability risks and opportunities.
Sustainability Reporting Manager: This role involves managing the process of measuring, reporting, and communicating an organization’s sustainability initiatives. Graduates can work in various industries, ensuring compliance with sustainability regulations and creating transparent, accurate reports for stakeholders, shareholders, and regulators.
ESG Consultant: As an ESG consultant, professionals provide expert advice to companies on integrating sustainability and ethical practices into their business models. They help businesses navigate the growing demand for sustainable practices and ensure that their operations align with global sustainability standards.
Sustainable Investment Manager: In this role, graduates analyze and manage investment portfolios that focus on sustainable and responsible investments. They may work in asset management firms, investment banks, or pension funds, identifying investment opportunities that contribute to positive social and environmental outcomes.
Carbon Finance Specialist: With a growing focus on addressing climate change, there is increasing demand for professionals who understand the intersection of finance and environmental sustainability. Graduates could work in roles related to carbon trading, carbon credits, and other climate finance mechanisms that support the global transition to a low-carbon economy.
Risk Manager (Sustainability and Climate Change): A risk manager in this field assesses the potential risks posed by climate change and sustainability-related issues to businesses and financial institutions. They develop strategies to mitigate risks associated with environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and social responsibility.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Officer: This role focuses on developing and overseeing a company’s CSR initiatives, ensuring the company operates responsibly while balancing profit with social and environmental impact. Graduates can work in both the private sector and NGOs, creating policies and programs that enhance corporate accountability and reputation.
Financial Planner (Sustainable Finance): Sustainable financial planning involves advising individuals or businesses on investment strategies that consider social and environmental impacts alongside financial returns. Graduates with expertise in sustainable finance can help clients align their financial decisions with their values.
Environmental Policy Advisor: Graduates can work as policy advisors, using their knowledge of sustainable finance to influence public policy. They would work with governments, NGOs, and international organizations to shape policies that promote sustainable economic development and responsible financial practices.
Green Bonds Analyst: Green bonds are financial instruments designed to fund environmentally friendly projects. Professionals in this role assess and manage the issuance of green bonds, ensuring that the projects funded meet sustainability criteria and offer attractive returns for investors.
