Course Overview
Course summary
Financial markets are built on decisions about risk, value and uncertainty. On our Finance, Investment and Risk Management MSc, you’ll develop the advanced knowledge and practical skills needed to understand how these decisions are made in practice.
You’ll explore key investment and risk management principles, theories and frameworks, focusing on applying them in real financial contexts. You’ll also gain hands-on experience using real-time financial data in our two Bloomberg Financial Market Suites, one of the largest single-site Bloomberg terminal installations in the UK, building practical skills in financial analysis, modelling and decision-making.
AI is increasingly shaping the financial services sector, and on this MSc, you’ll examine its role across investment management, risk analysis, compliance, fraud detection, digital banking, financial modelling and customer decision-making.
The course is aligned with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) syllabus, helping ensure your learning reflects globally recognised standards in investment and financial analysis.
Alongside this, you’ll develop the ability to produce research and consultancy reports, as well as key transferable skills including communication, leadership, teamwork, problem-solving and professional decision-making, supporting your progression into careers in investment and risk management.
Top reasons to study with us
- Develop advanced knowledge of investment and risk management principles, theories and frameworks
- Apply practical skills in financial analysis, modelling and investment decision-making using real-world scenarios
- Gain experience with real-time financial data in our two Bloomberg Financial Market Suites
- Explore how AI and financial technologies are transforming investment and risk management
- Strengthen research, analytical and consultancy skills for careers in investment and risk management
Course structure
You’ll learn through a mix of lectures, seminars, workshops, computer lab sessions and case-based learning, focused on applying financial theory to real-world investment and risk scenarios.
Using digital platforms, online resources and industry-standard tools, including our two Bloomberg Financial Market Suites, you’ll build confidence in financial analysis, modelling and decision-making.
The course reflects a rapidly evolving financial sector, with a focus on data, digital technologies and AI, including critical engagement with its ethical, regulatory, governance and sustainability implications.
Assessment is varied and practice-based, including reports, presentations, data tasks and portfolios designed to reflect real finance industry practice.
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 provides both theoretical and practical foundations for learning about financial derivatives markets. The characteristics, valuations and applications of derivatives are explored in risk and investment management contexts. On the practical side, learning is underpinned with the latest market information and analytics. Focus is on the following derivatives markets: Futures and Forwards; Asset and Credit Derivative Swaps and Options. Examples and case studies will focus on applications in investment and risk management.
20 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.
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 a comprehensive understanding of portfolio theory, fund management principles, as well as ethical practices in portfolio management. It emphasises analytical techniques for constructing, managing, and evaluating investment portfolios. The module includes hands-on experience using financial tools like Bloomberg and integrates professional qualification such as CFA and CISI. Topics cover asset valuation, portfolio performance, and ethical considerations.
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
Option modules
This module focuses on International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and their application in preparing financial statements. You will learn to interpret accounting policies, evaluate financial reporting quality and assess company performance for investment decisions. Key topics include the role of financial information for investment, understanding the primary financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement), and the impact of accounting standards on assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses.
20 credits
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
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.
Can't attend? See more open events
Careers
This course will prepare you for a range of careers in financial services, including banking, investment management, risk management, financial consultancy, wealth management and sustainability and ESG advisory. You’ll also build knowledge relevant to roles in financial analysis, trading, fund management and capital markets.
Additionally, you’ll understand how AI and financial technologies are changing the industry, from decision-making to everyday tools, helping you stay aligned with employer needs.
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 maintain strong industry links with leading financial services firms and data providers such as Bloomberg. Our teaching staff bring extensive professional experience, and Westminster Business School’s reputation in accounting and finance ensures graduates succeed across government, consultancy and financial sectors.
Graduate employers
Graduates from the Business School have found employment at organisations including:
- Barclays
- Deloitte
- EY
- HSBC
- J.P Morgan
- S&P Dow Jones
- Standard Chartered
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles in a variety of areas, including:
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Consultant / Manager
- Financial Consultant
- Investment Analyst
- International Financial Analyst / Manager
- Risk Analyst
Accelerate your career at Zone29
Zone29 is our new home of careers and enterprise, offering game-changing opportunities such as:
- jobs and placements
- tailored career advice and industry mentoring
- careers events led by industry experts
- start-up and freelance support
- structured 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). Relevant degree disciplines include; business studies, economics, geography, management, and operations research. However, students with qualifications in other disciplines such as engineering, environmental sciences, the humanities and languages are also encouraged to apply.
Alternative professional qualifications, with at least three years' relevant professional experience, will also be considered.
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). Relevant degree disciplines include; business studies, economics, geography, management, and operations research. However, students with qualifications in other disciplines such as engineering, environmental sciences, the humanities and languages are also encouraged to apply.
Alternative professional qualifications, with at least three years' relevant professional experience, will also be considered.
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). Relevant degree disciplines include; business studies, economics, geography, management, and operations research. However, students with qualifications in other disciplines such as engineering, environmental sciences, the humanities and languages are also encouraged to apply.
Alternative professional qualifications, with at least three years' relevant professional experience, will also be considered.
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). Relevant degree disciplines include; business studies, economics, geography, management, and operations research. However, students with qualifications in other disciplines such as engineering, environmental sciences, the humanities and languages are also encouraged to apply.
Alternative professional qualifications, with at least three years' relevant professional experience, will also be considered.
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
Oreoluwa Akinyele
Investment and Risk Finance MSc (now called Finance, Investment and Risk Management MSc)
I love the fact I am meeting new people with diverse cultures and personalities and because of London’s location, I get to see new places and have great experiences. I am enjoying studying Investment and Risk Finance, especially because in class I can relate the scenarios that I study in books to real-life situations.
I think the best aspect of being a University of Westminster student is that you get to meet people from different countries across the world, with diverse personalities and cultures.
What our students say
Fawzy Nofal
Investment and Risk Finance MSc (now called Finance, Investment and Risk Management MSc)
My experience at the University of Westminster has been a truly enriching one. The University provides a perfect balance of academic rigor and practical relevance, while also providing a wealth of resources and opportunities to help students succeed in their chosen careers.
My experience at the University of Westminster has been truly life changing.
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 Suites use 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
Gain real-world financial skills
Build practical investment and risk management skills using real financial data, tools and case studies.
Learn with industry-standard tools
Use Bloomberg Financial Market Suites and digital platforms to develop applied financial analysis skills.
Build transferable skills
Strengthen your teamwork, communication and decision-making skills for finance roles.
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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