Course Overview
Course summary
Gain the practical finance, banking and digital skills needed to succeed in a fast-moving global industry with our Finance and Banking MSc.
This course combines core finance knowledge with a clear focus on how banking works in practice, and how it continues to evolve in a technology-driven world. You’ll explore the growing influence of AI, financial technology and data in banking, from digital services and financial modelling through to risk, compliance and decision making.
Based in central London, a global financial hub, you’ll study in an environment connected to one of the world’s leading financial centres. In our two Bloomberg Financial Markets Suites, one of the largest single-site Bloomberg terminal installations in the UK, you’ll receive hands-on training and access live and historical financial data, working with the same platform used by leading global investment banks.
The course has also been designed in line with the professional knowledge and skills expectations of the Chartered Banker Institute (CBI), ensuring your learning reflects current industry standards and expectations. An international perspective runs throughout, helping you understand how banking and financial systems operate across different markets, regulations and cultures.
Alongside technical knowledge, you’ll build the communication, analytical and professional skills employers value, preparing you for a successful career in banking and financial services.
Top reasons to study with us
- Gain experience with real-time financial data in our two Bloomberg Financial Market Suites
- Build strong skills in banking, financial analysis and decision making
- Understand how AI, data and financial technology are changing the future of banking
- Learn through real case studies, simulations and practical scenarios
- Develop confidence with financial software, databases and tools used in industry
- Strengthen professional skills in communication, leadership and teamwork
Course structure
You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, computer lab sessions and case-based learning that bring theory to life in a banking context.
Teaching is closely linked to how the industry works today, with a focus on the digital tools, data and technology shaping modern banking. You’ll also use industry-standard software and financial databases and access our two Bloomberg Financial Markets Suites.
Learning is practical and hands-on, using case studies, simulations and real examples that reflect everyday banking decisions. Where possible, you’ll also hear directly from industry speakers and take part in external visits.
Assessment is varied and practical, including reports, presentations, data tasks and portfolios that reflect the kind of work you’d do in the industry.
The following modules are indicative of what you will study on this course.
We aim to offer a wide range of option modules. However, availability may be affected by timetabling, staff availability, or student demand, so preferred choices cannot always be guaranteed.
Core modules
The capstone project module will give you the opportunity to gain research methods knowledge and development skills as well as knowledge of how to undertake a work-based project. In the second half of the module, you will be able to choose whether to write a traditional dissertation or a project that is based on or commissioned by an actual organisation. You will also develop transferable skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, time management and communication as you work on your traditional dissertations or work-based projects.
40 credits
This module offers a detailed coverage of global financial markets, institutions and their services and securities. Having established an overview of the financial environment, the module considers the role that central banks and monetary policy play in the price development of various key financial markets. The module also examines the role that regulatory bodies and major institutional investors play within global financial services.
20 credits
This module provides an overview of econometric modelling and statistical inference, focusing on the development of applications derived from this financial framework. Emphasis is placed on using statistical and econometric tools to build a strong foundation for understanding, interpreting, summarising and analysing financial data. The content also serves as a foundation for advanced modelling subjects in other modules. The module offers a valuable opportunity for students to learn the EVIEWS econometric software package.
20 credits
This module will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the key banking activities and challenges, as well as solutions to those challenges. Financial theory is combined with practical exercises, case studies with banking activities, and linked to tools needed for the students to understand and appraise banking business strategies including lending decisions.
20 credits
You will explore the financial risks that financial institutions face, including interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, credit risk and operational risk. You’ll also learn how firms can mitigate these risks using advanced financial products, such as derivatives and synthetic products, and how these tools enable firms to hedge against financial risks. You’ll examine how risk management practices may vary based on the economic and regulatory characteristics of the specific financial markets in which firms operate. You'll also gain insight into the opportunities presented by recent technological developments and the challenges posed by the need to manage cyber risk exposure.
Finally, the module emphasises the importance of timely and adequate financial regulation in preventing or reducing the effects of major financial crises. Techniques taught in this module are currently used in the banking and financial sectors in quantitative research, risk management, asset price modelling, hedge funds, and trading floor activities.
20 credits
This module provides an in-depth exploration of sustainability in finance, with a strong focus on the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors into financial decision-making processes. You will gain an understanding of the available green financial products as well as the relevant regulatory and policy frameworks. You'll also how to develop sustainable investment strategies and model climate risk, comply with the relevant regulatory frameworks. Finally, you will encounter some of the challenges facing sustainable finance, with the aim of identifying potential solutions to these.
20 credits
This module will develop your ability to provide advice on financial planning, portfolio management, taxation, pensions and other aggregated financial services for individuals. This will enable you to develop the skills required to work as a private banker for high-net-worth individuals, or consultant for individuals or corporations.
20 credits
Option modules
This module will provide you with a rigorous introduction to the key aspects of FinTech and to understand the transformational impact of this on the global banking sector. You will develop a detailed understanding of the technological developments in the banking sector and the opportunities and challenges created by these from bank payment processing to Algorithmic trading in hedge funds. You'll also learn about FinTech and cover topics such as crypto-currencies, block chain technology and artificial intelligence.
20 credits
This module offers a detailed examination of the legal principles, regulation, compliance and supervision that applies to domestic and international banks. The module focuses on relevant reforms to the banking sector, such as Basel III and Mifid ii, and provides students with an understanding of the importance of these.
20 credits
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Live chat with us
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm BST)
Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
Our Finance and Banking MSc will prepare you for a career across financial services, including banking, investment management, risk management, financial consultancy and wealth management. You’ll also understand how AI and emerging financial technologies are reshaping the industry and the skills needed across the sector.
Alongside this, you’ll build strong analytical, quantitative and digital skills through financial modelling and data analysis, giving you the confidence to step into a range of finance and banking roles.
Take the next step in your career
Strengthen your expertise and open up opportunities for progression across the finance sector.
Careers support
You'll have access to the University's career resources during your studies and for up to three years after you graduate, through Zone29.
Develop your digital profile
Learn how to use social media in your job hunt or LinkedIn to kickstart your career.
Industry links
We have excellent industry links with some of the top firms in the financial services, along with leading financial technology and data vendor services providers such as Bloomberg.
Staff who currently teach on this course also have extensive professional experience, having worked in a range of roles and areas including:
- Credit risk analyst
- Financial analyst
- Financial consultant
- Global entrepreneur
- Lending specialist in the banking sector
- Research consultant
- Risk management
- Software development and management
Graduate employers
Graduates from the Business School have found employment at organisations including:
- Amazon
- Citibank
- Financial Conduct Authority
- Paribas
- Santander
- Sberbank
- Société Générale
- Standard Chartered
- World Economic Forum
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles such as:
- Banking Associate
- Compliance Analyst
- Financial Analyst
- Investment Analyst
- Treasury Analyst
Accelerate your career at Zone29
Zone29 is our new home of careers and enterprise.
Our doors are set to open in spring 2026, but game-changing opportunities are available now, such as:
- jobs and placements
- tailored career advice and industry mentoring
- careers events led by industry experts
- help with developing your own business or freelance career
- enhancing your career planning through the Westminster Award
Course Leader
Dr Jason Cheng
Senior Lecturer
Jason Cheng obtained his Bachelor of Business Administration and Master of Science in Finance from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. In 2019, he graduated with a PhD in Business Administration from Hong Kong Baptist University. He is currently a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Prior to joining the education sector, Jason did investment and analyst work in different industries such as banking, securities and property sectors. He has worked as a research analyst in Brokerage House, focusing on analysing small-mid-caps listed in the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. Dr Cheng is fascinated by the opportunity of sharing his experience and unique insights into the application of financial theories in the real world. His dedication to teaching is evident from his student-centred approach to academic learning and development.
Analytical skills are exceptionally important in finance as financial practitioners have to synthesise and analyse large volumes of data to find a solution to various problems.
Course Team
Why study this course?
Outstanding facilities
Two state-of-the-art, Bloomberg-powered Financial Markets Suites featuring industry-leading technology and software.
Study in a finance hub
Study your Master’s in London, a global finance hub, with strong links to the industry.
Skills for an AI-driven sector
Explore how AI and data are transforming financial services and the way decisions are made.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
Applicants may be accepted based on their professional qualifications or extensive work experience in the global financial services sector.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
Applicants may be accepted based on their professional qualifications or extensive work experience in the global financial services sector.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what to include with your application
- deadlines for application and enrolment
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that, upon successful completion, offer entry to a wide range of postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
Applicants may be accepted based on their professional qualifications or extensive work experience in the global financial services sector.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for applications
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2). We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
Applicants may be accepted based on their professional qualifications or extensive work experience in the global financial services sector.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Please see information on country-specific entry requirements.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what to include with your application
- deadlines for application and enrolment
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that, upon successful completion, offer entry to a wide range of postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
What our students say
Hemanth Vallamkonda
International Finance and Banking MSc
The University of Westminster stands out for many reasons—from its modern learning environment to its international community of students from around the world. What truly sets it apart, though, is the access to academics with real-world industry experience who also serve as dedicated mentors.
The course offered the right mix of academic rigor, industry recognition, and practical opportunities.
Student Highlight
Luis Maximilian Sevcik
International Finance and Banking MSc
I enjoyed how seamlessly theory and practice were integrated into both the lectures and assignments. Many of the theoretical concepts presented directly relate to real-world finance, which enhanced my understanding of the industry.
My course has been invaluable in preparing me for a professional career in finance.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £15,470 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £18,685 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
UK tuition fee: £15,470 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £18,685 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
We Are Westminster Blog
Read our blog to get an insight into student life and studying at the University of Westminster.
Teaching and Assessment
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into three broad categories:
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Bloomberg Suite
Our purpose-built Financial Markets Suite uses the Bloomberg platform to provide a state-of-the-art teaching and research resource.
You'll get firsthand exposure to the technology used by leading investment banks across the world – from the City of London to New York's Wall Street and Tokyo's Citibanks.
Read more about our Bloomberg Suite.
Learn new skills
Build analytical and statistical skills
Develop the strong analytical and statistical skills needed in the world of finance and banking.
Build transferable skills
Strengthen your teamwork, communication and decision-making skills for finance roles.
Improve your problem-solving skills
Improve your problem-solving skills to better understand and tackle issues facing the global financial markets.
Supporting you
We are ranked first in London for student support (Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2026).
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Facilities
At our Marylebone Campus, you’ll have access to modern lecture theatres, classrooms and active-learning spaces, alongside social areas, group study areas and library resources, all designed to support learning, collaboration and student life.
Social Space
Our social space is a vibrant hub where you can meet with friends, unwind between classes and collaborate on group projects.
Marylebone Library
Our library has a range of books and resources on subjects taught at our Marylebone Campus. Students also have access to our libraries across all the campuses.
Group Study Areas
In our libraries, you’ll have access to a mix of group and individual study spaces. There is also a range of study spaces available across the campus, outside of the library.
Lecture Theatres
Our Marylebone campus has an impressive selection of modern lecture theatres equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment.
Students' Union
Our Students’ Union spaces provide areas where students can socialise, interact and work together, combining activity, gaming and social opportunities.
Bloomberg Financial Market Suites
Our purpose-built Financial Markets Suites give students hands-on experience with virtual trading, using the Bloomberg platform as a state-of-the-art teaching and research resource.
The Westminster Boardroom
Our boardroom provides a dedicated space for presentations, meetings and collaborative discussions, giving students the opportunity to work in a setting that reflects real-world business environments.
Course Location
Our Marylebone Campus has benefitted from a multi-million-pound refurbishment resulting in new workshops, digital studios and development of the Marylebone Library. The campus is home to Westminster Business School and our award-winning Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.
This course is based at Marylebone, though some teaching may take place at our other central London campuses.
Westminster Business School
Based in the heart of London’s business, financial, political and media services, Westminster Business School has excellent industry links and a strong commitment to social enterprise.
Our courses are accredited by professional bodies, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Our practical teaching relates learning to the real world, developing graduates who are ready to respond to contemporary business challenges.
CHANGES TO OUR COURSES
All content on our course pages is accurate at time of publication.
Where significant or material changes have been made, applicants will be informed of these in line with Competition and Markets Authority guidance.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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