MSc - Finance and Investment Banking

University of Hertfordshire

This module introduces students to elementary statistics as applied to the theory and practice of financial investment. The module covers a wide range of topics such as estimating the time value of money and other discount cash flow applications, market returns, probability, sampling and estimation, correlation, regression and hypothesis testing.

This module builds on the content of the earlier Quantitative Methods module, applying statistical methodology to investment decisions, often under conditions of uncertainty. The Quantitative Methods module emphasised the characteristics of different asset classes, often focussing on key differences among those characteristics. In this module, the emphasis shifts to the analysis and valuation of the various assets and classes of asset. Additionally, students skills in the earlier Financial Statement Analysis module are further developed to enable them to apply fundamental analysis to investment and valuation issues. Finally, students are introduced to standard asset and equity valuation models.

This module introduces students introduces students to the main financial markets, the instruments traded on them and financial institutions participating in global financial markets . The module will cover topics such as Organisation and functioning of securities markets, markets participants and institutions, valuation of securities etc.

This module provides students with a sound understanding of key Economics, Banking and Finance concepts. The module attempts to provide students with an integrated understanding of finance, economics and banking by helping them to develop and consolidate their knowledge of the subject. Students are introduced to fundamental concepts and then explore more complex concepts such us portfolio investment, financial economics and contemporary issues in banking.

The process of preparing a dissertation requires some formal introduction to the theories and practices of research. The Research Methods module provides this essential underpinning for formulating a research proposal on which the dissertation will be based. Each student will be allocated a personal dissertation supervisor, who will guide the student through the process of selecting a research area and hypotheses which will then be developed into a substantial piece of research.

The purpose of this module is to provide a comprehensive introduction to analytical techniques used in accounting, finance and economics. It contains a treatment of classical empirical techniques such as data sources, data managements and fundamental statistical and econometric analysis and techniques. There will be an emphasis on how to carry out applied work based on previous theoretical developments and the formulation of new testable hypotheses within the boundaries of feasibility and scientific accuracy. These elements will form the basis of the individual research project in the field of accounting, finance and economics and will contribute the students' knowledge and understanding of the requirements of carrying out an independent project and how the latter can enhance their overall student experience, knowledge, understanding as w ell as the students' employment prospects.

The module introduces students to the processes of the preparation of publicly available corporate financial information, by way of international accounting standards requirements (International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and US accounting standard requirements (United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (US GAAP). The module continues by considering the analysis of financial statements and the rules governing disclosure.

This module builds on the earlier Financial Markets and Institutions Module, applying appropriate methods to a wider range of financial decisions. In this module, the focus is on the evaluation, assessment and use of financial instruments and the use of these classes of security in the formulation of practical investment/financial strategies. The module considers the application of these techniques to a wide range of financial instruments with differing characteristics.

Success at university requires a full understanding of institutional expectations as well as the development of key academic skills needed to enable students to fulfil their potential. This module will provide a structured step-by-step guide along the student journey to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to best achieve their goals. Using engaging and interactive content, this module aims to provide students with all the tools and a strong foundation upon which to build successful academic and professional experiences.