Course description

The MSc in Financial Risk Management is geared towards your professional development and will provide you with a thorough training in risk management, portfolio management, investment analysis and finance. The degree provides an excellent preparation for employment within the finance industry, particularly in an analytical or risk management role. We are also an Academic Partner of The Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). Accreditation by GARP ensures that this course will prepare you for the Financial Risk Management (FRM) professional exams and give you the skills you need to succeed in your career.

You will develop a range of skills in quantitative analysis, including mathematical techniques, econometrics and programming. The dissertation gives you the opportunity to conduct industry focused research, relevant to your future employment.

As well as gaining a thorough insight into financial risk management, the course will equip you with a command of advanced analytical techniques, computing and research methods for problem-solving and the critical evaluation of economic arguments.

To help you develop the skills that leading employers ask for, and let you see how traders work, we have 16 Bloomberg terminals in the ULSB Trading Room at the School of Business.

Teaching and learning

You will be taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, classes and computer practicals. You will be supported throughout your studies by department staff who are also available for private supervision.

Your course modules will generally be assessed by a combination of exams and coursework projects. Some modules are assessed by demonstrated skills in computing or by seminar presentation where this is appropriate.

Careers and employability

Our finance and economics courses have been developed to match the needs of employers and are highly regarded within business and government, whether national or international.

This course begins with a 3 week introductory module covering two professional certificates. Firstly you will cover the content for the CFA Institute Investment Foundations Certificate. It is recognised by employers in the finance industry and can be completed optionally externally at a fee. You will also be introduced to the Bloomberg Terminals and given the opportunity to complete the free online exam 'Bloomberg Essentials' Completing these professional certificates can help you stand out to employers.

Many of our students have gone on to work in major banks, companies, and governments, or pursued careers in academia and education.

A postgraduate qualification from the University of Leicester is career-changing. It can be the spring board to promotion with your current employer, the platform from which to launch a new career, or simply an aid to becoming more effective in your current role.

If you are already in employment, enhancing your career by studying at postgraduate level gives a clear signal to employers that you are committed to developing your skills and knowledge and have studied to a higher level.