Masters in Finance and Financial Technology (FinTech)
This Masters programme will prepare you for a career in the rapidly expanding FinTech sector.
At a glance
- Study a cutting-edge FinTech programme which also benefits from CFA affiliation
- Specialise in one of the most exciting areas of Finance, including blockchain technology, digital currencies, Big Data and machine learning
- Develop programming skills and put them into practice to solve real world problems
- Experience leading student facilities and a practice-centred delivery approach
- Work Placement & Project module available for students studying the 12-month course
- Locations
- Whiteknights campus (Reading)
- Subject area(s)
- Finance (ICMA Centre)
- Start Date
- September 2024
- Duration
- 9 months / 12 months
- Attendance
- Full-time
- Programme Directors
-
Dr Alfonso Dufour
Professor Simone Varotto
Overview
In the MSc Finance and FinTech programme, you will specialise in digital banking and payment systems, Python programming and finance applications of machine learning algorithms.
The advances in financial technology have brought about transformational changes in many branches of the finance industry. The introduction of blockchain technology and digital currencies have created a revolution in payment systems. It has also generated widespread disintermediation via peer-to-peer lending and crowdfunding for firms, and online stockbroking and robo-advisory services for individual investors. Many of these innovations are based on the processing of large amounts of data (or “Big Data”) via machine learning algorithms.
In this MSc course, you will gain an in-depth understanding of big data in finance and insurance. You will also learn about emerging technologies including blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Through trading simulations, you will learn about securities, futures and options and algorithmic trading. In this MSc programme, you'll also explore FinTech regulation and the challenges posed by data protection and cyber security. You will have the opportunity to complete the KNIME Level 1 Certification and develop your proficiency in the open source platform for data driven innovation.
The MSc Finance and Financial Technology (FinTech) is affiliated with the CFA Institute. This is in recognition that this degree covers at least 70% of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge, the CFA Institute Ethical and Professional Standards, and other requirements.
Parallel with your studies, you will also have the opportunity to prepare for the CFA level 1 exam.
(Financial Times 2023)
(Financial Times 2023)
The Henley Pre-Masters Course Suite
Exclusively available to Henley Business School offer holders, the Pre-Masters course suite comprises of innovative short courses designed and developed by Henley faculty on the Futurelearn platform, one of the leading online learning platforms.
Building blocks of finance (-)An innovative short course designed and developed by Henley faculty on the Futurelearn platform, one of the leading online learning platforms. Read moreThis pre-study interactive course is designed by ICMA Centre faculty to prepare you for your learning journey at Henley if you are undertaking postgraduate study in any finance-oriented subject. Through the course, you will appreciate the purpose of finance and investment, the main types of investment and financial markets, as well as the process of valuing investments and the role of risk and return in investment performance. These are all important fundamentals in understanding the workings of financial markets and being able to apply them to real and practical problems as part of your course. We encourage you to take the course even if you have studied finance before. The course is delivered online, requires around 15 hours of study and can be completed at your own pace. |
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Building blocks of maths and stats for finance (-)This pre-study interactive course is designed by ICMA Centre faculty to prepare you for your learning journey at Henley if you are undertaking postgraduate study in any finance-oriented subject. Read moreQuantitative techniques and statistics are among the main tools finance and investment professionals utilise in analysing data linked to financial markets and securities. This interactive pre-study course is designed to deliver these essential building blocks in maths and quants and prepare you for a Finance Master’s if you don’t have a finance, maths, or quants background. For those with a relevant background, it can serve as a refresher of this essential knowledge. |
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Future of Work: Coding with Python for Business & Finance (-)A course delivered online by Henley faculty and you will receive online support from one of our teaching staff members and be able to interact with other prospective students in your course. Read moreThis pre-study interactive course is designed by Henley Business School faculty to introduce you to the world of coding in Python. According to recent employer surveys, coding is a top 5 employability skill in the new world of work. The World Economic forum includes technology design and programming in the top 10 skills of 2025. Coding is an extremely powerful skill to have going forward in all areas of business and finance. Due to the importance of coding skills in your future, you will be using coding in some of your courses depending on your choice of programme at Henley Business School. So, this pre-study course can be seen as a stepping stone in your learning journey. Even if coding is not directly utilised as a part of your programme, completing this course, earning the certificate and complementing this with some further independent learning, could set you apart in an increasingly competitive job market. Python is the most utilised programming language in the world and so the purpose of this course is for you to learn the fundamentals of Python, and how to use it to solve practical problems in your area of interest. |
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Study skills for success (-)This course will provide building blocks of knowledge to help you prepare for your learning journey in the area of your choice as well as equip you with key employability and study skills for successfully navigating your studies and professional career. Read moreThis pre-study interactive course is designed by Henley Business School faculty, the University of Reading Study Advice Team and the International Study and Language Institute. The course aims to prepare you for your learning journey at Henley and focuses on helping you build important study skills to succeed in your Masters and beyond. Skills such as curiosity and independent thinking, effective communication and collaboration, digital capabilities, storytelling, empathy and professional integrity are not only important in your course itself but are also sought after by employers in all areas of business. Therefore, they are instrumental in succeeding in your professional career. The learning journey of our Masters programmes is designed in a way that allows you to build such skills and this course intends to demonstrate exactly how, and therefore help you to make the most of your Masters. |
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Below is a list of programme modules that will be available in 2024/25, please note that some of these modules are new for the academic year. For any other modules which are available for both this academic year and next, follow the “More Information” link to see more.
Part 1 Modules
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Digital Banking and Payment Systems (ICM314)In this module, you will learn how banking is transitioning toward digital forms of financial intermediation and how payment systems are evolving with the deployment of new technologies. We will explore the role of banks, central banks and money in the economy, how technology is reshaping the role of banks and how money is becoming decentralised. New business models for banking services and their regulatory implications will be discussed. Examples and case studies will be used to illustrate the key aspects of digital banking. Read moreThe course focuses on (1) entrepreneurship, intrapreneurship, change management and business models and (2) the services financial intermediation provides (3) types of money and central banking (4) new payment systems (5) peer to peer lending, crowdfunding and other forms of disintermediation (6) Tech platforms and banking services (Tencent, Alibaba, Google, Facebook etc.) (7) new bank start-ups (8) and new banking models. Academic authors
Emeritus Professor Brian Scott-Quinn
|
10 |
Econometric Analysis for Finance (ICM337)This module equips you with the quantitative tools used by market participants. The module uses a mixture of (1) lectures where the theory and concepts are introduced and (2) seminars and workshops where we apply the knowledge to practical cases. It is an introductory applied econometrics module with an emphasis on finance. Read moreThe aims and objectives of the module are to give students an introduction to econometrics so that they might understand the econometric techniques used in the finance research literature. Via case studies and computer modelling exercises, students then learn how to apply these techniques to real data. Emphasis is placed on practical applications of the techniques in the global financial markets. The module aims to encourage the development of IT and data handling skills: in particular, the use of Python as the software to apply the econometric techniques to data from Eikon and Bloomberg. Academic authors
Professor Michael P. Clements
|
20 |
Financial Markets and Institutions (not for credit) (ICM332)This module provides an introduction to international financial markets and an overview of financial institutions. The main characteristics and risks of a range of financial markets are presented: equity, fixed income, foreign exchange, futures and commodity markets. A series of interactive workshops are used to learn about ethical investing and alternative trading systems. Read moreTo provide an economic framework for understanding global financial markets, financial institutions, market players and the importance of liquidity and price efficiency. Participants will gain an understanding of commercial and investment banks, mutual funds, central banks, stock, bond and repo markets. Also, participants will learn about specific characteristics and risks of foreign exchange markets as well as futures markets and commodity markets. |
0 |
Programming for Fintech (Python) (ICM316)In this module you will be introduced to Python, a programming language that has become an industry standard and is widely used to produce innovative financial products and services. Common applications include big data analysis and manipulation, algorithmic trading, portfolio analysis, and machine learning algorithms. Students who complete this course will be able to write programming functions in Python, process data files including reading, modifying and writing data to external files. Specifically, students will be able to read and write to Excel, CSV and Text files, connect to databases, obtain and process data from the Web, as well as use Python for Finance and Econometrics applications including developing event based trading strategies and back testing with historical data. By the end of the module students are expected to produce a simple Python application to solve real world financial problems. No prior programming experience is required. |
20 |
Securities and Investments (ICM331)This module focuses on cash securities evaluation (fixed income, equity, and FX) and the use of these securities for investments (derivatives and portfolio theory). Part I of the module applies general valuation methods to specific financial instruments: fixed income, equity securities, and FX. It describes the characteristics of each security/market and develops practical strategies for finding its value and assessing its risk. Part II of the module provides an in-depth introduction to financial derivatives (futures and options) and their evaluation. Part III of the module analyses the main framework behind portfolio theory and optimum asset allocation, followed by the introduction of the main pricing models, their applications and limitation.
Equity and FX trading simulations sessions (INVEST sessions) are paired with the modules. Exercises based on Eikon, and Bloomberg data will be used. Read moreThe module deals with the valuation of fixed income and equity securities. It focuses on the basic characteristics of each security and the strategies used for approximating their fundamental value and assessing their risk. Its primary aim is to discuss how certain characteristics and relationships can affect the value of fixed income and equity securities and how can they be exploited to form optimal investment strategies. The module also develops ways of optimally selecting portfolios of assets and develops models of how these portfolios may be priced in financial markets. Through a detailed overview of derivatives instruments, their characteristics and valuation, it is shown how they can enhance portfolio returns and help in the management of investment risk. The analytical techniques introduced in this module are widely applied in other elements of the programme. Academic authors
Dr Miriam Marra
|
30 |
Part 2 Modules
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Blockchain, Cryptocurrencies and Applications (ICM318)Blockchain technology is rapidly changing the financial industry and beyond. Countless applications are being explored in payments, insurance, lending, fund raising, settlement of securities transactions and contract execution. In this course we will explore what a blockchain is and how you can create one with simple Python codes. Cryptocurrencies, one of the most popular uses of blockchain, are explored in detail. The module will present technical concepts at a high level suitable for students whose main interest is finance and the financial applications of blockchain. Academic authors
Professor Andrew Urquhart
|
20 |
FinTech Regulation and Data Protection (ICM320)Regulation is often seen as an obstacle to innovation, or innovation as a way of avoiding regulations. However, successful Fintech products and services must comply with the letter and spirit of financial regulations, and effective regulation of Fintech is essential to protect wider public interests. This module will place the relationship between financial innovation and regulation at the centre of students' understanding of Fintech. Read moreThis course starts by introducing how financial regulation seeks to protect consumers and markets, looking at the rationales for regulation, national and international organisational structures, and approaches to regulation. Each of these will be linked to the impact that it may have on new financial technologies, recognising that Fintech is a broad term that covers a wide variety of products and services, each of which may be subject to regulation by different regulators and in different ways. Fintech innovations are often seen as a form of regulatory arbitrage. But the relationship between regulators and innovators need not be adversarial, and this module will also explore how regulators are engaging pro-actively with Fintech developers to encourage innovation and provide advice on compliance with regulation. It will also investigate the emerging potential of 'RegTech', namely the use of new technologies to facilitate the delivery of regulatory requirements. The module will then consider how financial and Fintech firms collect and manage data, the role of data monetisation in Fintech business models, and the challenges presented by the General Data Protection Regulation and by cyber-crime. Cyber-security is a key concern today and the module will examine the sources of cyber-vulnerability and the importance of instilling a strong cyber-security culture within an organisation. Academic authors
Dr Tony Moore
|
10 |
Insurance and Big Data (ICM319)The availability of unprecedented amounts of data made available by ever increasing computing power and data storage capacity, widespread use of Internet of Things devices, and powerful communications networks, have led to major changes in the insurance industry. The services it provides, how they are offered to its customers and at what price, and insurance risk analysis are undergoing rapid innovations. In this module you will learn how the evolution of the sector is unfolding and gain insights to the challenges and opportunities that it is generating. Read moreThe course focuses on (1) insurable risks and legal principles of insurance (2) types of insurance (3) insurers’ business model and intermediaries (4) big data applications in insurance risk analysis and pricing (5) insurance regulation and new ethical considerations (6) big data and insurance models (7) InsurTech and the evolving industry landscape. Academic authors
Dr Michalis Ioannides
|
10 |
Machine Learning and Big Data in Finance (ICM317)In this module you will learn how machine learning techniques borrowed from artificial intelligence can be used to solve common big data problems in finance. We will first explore the issues related to the collection, organisation and visualisation of large sets of structured and unstructured data. With the use of Python we then explore ways in which a computer can be trained to recognise patterns in the data and its popular finance applications. Read moreThe course focuses on (1) issues facing big data handling (2) high level description of distributed storage and processing of big data (Hadoop) (3) retrieval, organisation and cleaning of structured and unstructured data (4) visual analysis of a dataset (5) common machine learning techniques such as logistic regression, decision trees, K-nearest neighbours, k-means clustering, principal component analysis and deep learning tools like neural networks (6) finance applications. Academic authors
Mr Mininder Sethi
|
20 |
Students of the 12-month (9-month) programme select 20 (40) credits from a selection of electives :
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Big Data in Business (INMR89)This module focusses on the methods and techniques of using Big Data in business. Given the availability of large amount of data in business and organisation, there is an increasing need for organisations to assess how effectively Big Data can be utilised for business. In this module, students consider how organisations can benefit from Big Data, and analyse business and technological requirements to create value though Big Data and business analytics. Students will also explore recent developments in technologies surrounding Big Data such as text analytics, cognitive analytics and visualisation, and assess types of tools that can be utilised, including the use of state-of-the-art analytics tools. Academic authors
Prof Keiichi Nakata
|
20 |
Business Intelligence and Data Mining (INMR77)This module is concerned with using business intelligence and data mining techniques for managerial decision making. Data mining is the process of selection, exploration and analysis of large quantities of data, in order to discover meaningful patterns and rules which in turn structure business intelligence in context. In another words, data mining converts the raw data into useful knowledge required to support decision-making. Academic authors
Dr Yin Leng Tan
|
20 |
Digital Leadership (INMR94)This module develops critical digital knowledge and skills in digital concepts, leadership, teambuilding, capability and change planning and control to support the development of a digital technology solutions in businesses. It integrates leadership and e-leadership principles with a knowledge of digital technology and the practice of leading digital solution approaches and teams in a variety of leadership types at strategic level required by a business or consulting client. It provides appropriate capability and analysis tools and techniques to enable students to identify, manage and resolve digital leadership and supporting digital technology issues and enables the development of appropriate digital leadership approaches necessary to support digital business technology and related consulting situations. Read moreThe aim of Digital Leadership is to provide students with the leadership knowledge and principles of digital technology sufficient to understand and lead the organisation, development and implementation of a digital business using digital technology to meet strategic business needs. This will be achieved through an understanding of digital principles, technology and digital technology principles, leadership principles and the key elements of envisioning and leading digital business solutions and digital architecture teams via specific digital tools and techniques in a highly competitive and technology-rich environment. Academic authors
Prof. Vaughan Michell
|
20 |
Financial Econometrics (ICM204)Building on the material introduced in Quantitative Methods for Finance, this module covers a number of more advanced techniques that are relevant for financial applications, and in particular for modelling and forecasting financial time series. These include an introduction to maximum likelihood estimation and two-stage least squares, models of volatility, simulation techniques, and multivariate models. Case studies from the academic finance literature are employed to demonstrate potential uses of each approach. Extensive use is also made of financial econometrics software to demonstrate how the techniques are applied in practice. Academic authors
Professor Michael P. Clements
|
20 |
Investment Portfolio Management (new for 2022/23) (ICM340)This investment portfolio management module covers key topics, techniques and discussions, including investment styles, in relation to constructing and maintaining an optimal investment portfolio. The teaching approaches all topics from academic and market, practical perspectives. More detailed aims and learning outcomes are included below. Read moreThe module aims to build on the investment management foundation that has been introduced in the Securities, Futures and Options module. This investment portfolio management module covers the issues involved in understanding the investment management industry, constructing and maintaining an optimal investment portfolio (active, passive or smart beta investment styles), diversification, evaluating portfolio performance, risk management and portfolio rebalancing. The module will also introduce you to the world of alternative investments - the hedge fund industry, in particular. The compulsory, practical group project of the course will provide students with hands-on experience in constructing and managing a realistic investment portfolio. |
20 |
IT Project Management (INMR65)The module consists of theoretical foundation with practical focus for the topic of IT project management. The assessment uses a real life case scenario asking the students to apply theories and techniques learned from this module. Academic authors
Yinshan Tang
|
20 |
Private Equity and Venture Capital (ICM312)The objective of the module is to develop students’ appreciation of the practical aspects of raising venture capital finance for a private company, working with the venture capital investor in growing the business and achieving a successful exit. The focus of the module is on venture capital and high-growth ventures from the viewpoints of both the entrepreneur or management team and of the investing institution (general partner), although private equity as a whole is covered as well as the relationship between the private equity or venture capital firm and its own investors (limited partner institutions). Extensive use will be made of case studies and a business plan project in addition to guest lectures from invited experienced practitioners. Academic authors
Dr Keith Arundale
|
10 |
Research Project (ICM218)The aim of the research project is to allow students to define and execute a piece of research in finance on a topic of their choice, with direction from an academic supervisor and with assistance from a doctoral student support supervisor. Read moreThe self-directed nature of study for this model should encourage students to be resourceful in their search for relevant literature and data, and to manage the various stages involved effectively, leading to timely submission of the finished piece. Academic authors
Professor Charles Sutcliffe
|
20 |
Sustainable investments (new from 2023/24) (ICM2003)The aim of the module is to familiarise students with the main strategies employed in sustainable investments and the role that sustainable investment can play in addressing societal challenges such as climate change. Using real-world examples and ESG data, students will learn about the key challenges and opportunities that investors incorporating ESG criteria face. Academic authors
Dr Lisa Schopohl
|
20 |
Strategic Planning and Budgeting (ICM252)In order to raise capital from financiers or secure funding via government grants it is always necessary to produce a robust financial plan. This plan will then be used as a yardstick by all parties to monitor the performance of the business. Typically a detailed twelve month plan is required in addition to a summary level five year plan. Typically these plans will include comprehensive sections on revenue forecasts, profit and loss, cash flows, balance sheet, capex, financing and a commentary with further detail to help explain the figures. The aim of the module is to introduce students to the practicalities of developing and utilising financial models with a view to achieving the overall strategic objectives of an organisation. Students will also gain a thorough understanding of the interaction between the separate statements within a financial model. |
10 |
Understanding Management and Financial Research (Not for credit) (ICM116 (Not for credit))This module examines the steps involved in carrying out a PhD at the ICMA centre. Academic authors
Dr Alfonso Dufour
|
0 |
Additional optional modules only open to students with computer science or engineering background (choose 1 only)
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (CSMAI21)The aim of the module is to introduce students to current methods in artificial intelligence and machine learning |
20 |
Big Data and Cloud Computing (CSMBD21)The massively increased uptake of computing, with devices at all scales of operation, has driven the development of large-scale distributed systems capable of meeting the demands for handling scalable parallel data analysis and processing and supporting execution of analytical algorithms on computer clusters such as Hadoop. This module aims to introduce the concepts and design principles for big data analytics and advanced network-centric computing platforms. |
20 |
Part 3 Modules (12-month only)
Students on the 12-months programme should take 20 credits from the following:
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
Advanced Finance Theory with Empirical Applications (ICM289)This module is designed for advanced Master’s students and doctoral students. It has a very high technical content. It aims to equip the students with the foundations of theoretical asset pricing and with the relevant skills for performing empirical tests. Additionally, a few important corporate finance topics will be covered in the format of student presentations. The objective of the module is to prepare students to become independent and quality researchers. Academic authors
Professor Marcel Prokopczuk
|
20 |
Algorithmic and High Frequency Trading (ICM325)This module aims to provide students with an understanding of financial decision making in the context of alternative investments. Academic authors
Dr Alfonso Dufour
|
10 |
Alternative Investments (ICM327)In this module, alternative forms of financial investments are discussed. In particular, the following topics are covered: · Introduction to Alternative Investments: Hedge Funds: Market Structure, Strategies and Performance Evaluation · Macro and Managed Futures Funds · Funds of Hedge Funds · Commodities: Physical and Financial Markets. Energy, Agricultural, Metals. · Real Estate: Investment Types. Commercial and Residential markets. Valuation Approaches · Collectables: Art, Wine and other Special Forms of Investments Read moreThis module aims to provide students with an understanding of financial decision making in the context of alternative investments. Academic authors
Professor Marcel Prokopczuk
|
10 |
Stock Index Futures (ICM308)The module is less quantitative option open to all MSc students that builds on the coverage of futures contracts from term 1. By the end of the module it is expected that students will be aware of the different ways of constructing stock market indices and the implications of these differences, how futures contracts are traded and the identity of some of the close substitutes for trading index futures, how futures can be priced using an arbitrage relationship, how futures can be used for hedging the price risk of the underlying, and the various uses that fund managers make of these instruments. Academic authors
Professor Charles Sutcliffe
|
20 |
Structured Products (ICM326)An applied, innovative approach to the structured product market from a practical point of view. Topical issues are addressed in a systematic way to discuss the principles of financial engineering and application to structured products. Academic authors
Professor Marcel Prokopczuk
|
10 |
Work Placement and Project (ICM309)This module gives students the opportunity to pursue a work placement with an external organisation broadly related to the general sphere of their degree studies. The aim of the module is to allow participants to gain work experience in a career path of interest, develop a wide range of employability skills, build their network and enhance market awareness. The maximum duration of the placement is 3 months and it takes place during the summer period (June-August). Placements should be secured by students independently. The Centre’s career development office can support students in their search and application process. Placements secured by students are subject to the approval of the module convenor. The module is assessed by a 3,000-word project based on the work experience gained. Academic authors
Dr Michael Smith
|
20 |
*The module or course content descriptions set out on this page are correct for those being taught in the current academic year. Modules or course content marked as optional are indicative and may be subject to change. Please note, constraints in timetable scheduling may mean you are unable to take some optional modules at the same time as others.
Our master's in finance courses are available only on a full-time basis with the option of studying for 9 or 12 months.
Learning options
Full-time: 9 months
Full-time: 12 months
Students will be resident and undertake full-time study in the UK. Under both, the 9 and 12-month programmes students take compulsory and/or elective modules in Part 2.
The 12 month option involves taking an elective module(s) between June and August, which would also mean a reduction in the number of taught modules taken in the spring term.
Course structure
October – December: Part 1 Autumn Term
January: Part 1 Exams. Please note that the January Exams will start 1 week before the official start of the Spring Term.
January-April: Part 2 Spring Term
May – June: Part 2 Exams
June (9 month students only): Project/Research Study due
June – August (12 month programme only): Part 3
August/Sep (12 month programme only): Part 3 Coursework deadlines
| Fees | |
|---|---|
| 2023 entry | £15,300 |
Living expenses are in addition to the above fees. Overseas full-time participants can expect to spend approximately £9,400 on additional living expenses during the course of their studies. UK/Home full-time participants can expect to spend approximately £8,000 on additional living expenses during the course of their studies.
Scholarships
We offer a number of scholarships for UK/Home and International applicants. Please note that scholarship application is via the University of Reading applicant portal once an offer has been made. You can only apply when you have received an offer (conditional or unconditional). When you view your offer in the portal you will see the link to apply for scholarship(s) relevant to your offer.
For a full list of scholarships, visit our scholarships webpage.
Current scholarships
- Undergraduate Degree – Minimum 2:1 or the equivalent from an overseas institution*
- Degree Discipline – Any degree discipline, but must have a satisfactory level of numeracy and have basic knowledge of Mathematics and Statistics.
- GMAT – We may ask you to submit a GMAT score if we think it appropriate in your individual case. For example, if you have been out of education for more than a few years or have little evidence of any numerical ability. For information on the GMAT and the location of test centres worldwide, please visit www.mba.com
* Please note that due to increasing competition for places on our Masters programmes our entry requirements may change.
We operate a rolling admissions system and you are therefore advised to apply early in order to be sure of your place on our programmes. We experience high levels of demand, and it is possible we might have to close applications to some programmes once places are filled.
English requirements
Studying in a second language can be challenging. If your English language ability is below the minimum requirement, we may ask for evidence of proficiency. Alternatively, we may ask you to attend an English language course before you begin your studies with us.
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 with no component below 6.0 in any sub-skills |
| IELTS with pre-sessional English | 6.5 with no component below 5.5 in each of the four sub-skills |
Acceptance of LanguageCert Online and DuoLingo English qualifications
We appreciate the difficulties that some students are having with the availability of English Language tests, as the impact of the global pandemic continues. As a result of this, we are pleased to announce that we can now accept the non-SELT version of LanguageCert (which includes the online version) and DuoLingo as suitable English language qualifications. These can be accepted for direct entry onto Undergraduate (except Speech and Language Therapy), Postgraduate Taught (except Speech and Language Therapy) and Postgraduate Research programmes.
For information on individual programme requirements and other English language qualifications, please visit our English requirement equivalent page.
If you require specific advice on your qualification please contact admissions directly by e-mail or telephone on +44 (0) 118 378 5289.
UK visa requirements
If you are not a national of the European Union (EU), you may need to obtain a UK visa. This visa will allow to live and study in the UK. See the UK Border Agency website. Contact the University's International Office with any questions: intoff@reading.ac.uk.
Graduate Route
The UK's Graduate Route post-study work visa allows you to apply to stay in the UK for up to two years after you graduate, with the opportunity to undertake skilled work. Visit the University website for the latest information.
Our dedicated lecturers are happy to share their passion for their subject areas with students. This helps to build learners’ understanding and enthusiasm for their studies, which assists them with finding suitable postgraduate roles.
“Everything from amazing lectures to interesting and practical modules. Moreover, all sessions with professionals from Finance and FinTech sector helped me to find out my career path and build a network. Thanks for giving me this opportunity. It opened a door for me to FinTech world and a great workplace that I enjoy working at.”Finance and Financial Technology graduate, Analyst at Genesis – Code Less, Do More
Where are our 2021 graduates now?
2021 graduates in this area are working at the following organisations:
Morgan Stanley
Fidelity
Bank New York Mellon
Deutsche Bank
ICBC
S&P Global
Bangkok Bank
AIG
PwC
Erst & Young
L'Oreal
State Street Bank
Bank of East Asia
Metlife Investment Management
BlueBay Asset Management
Santander Bank
Please note the above statistics are based on respondents to our Masters Outcomes Survey in 2022, which was completed by our 2021 graduates, 12 months after graduation.
Respondents are from the following programmes: MSc Behavioural Finance, MSc Corporate Finance, MSc Finance, MSc Finance and Financial Technology, MSc Financial Risk Management, MSc Investment Management.
How can Henley Careers work with you?
Here at Henley we have an award-winning careers team here to support you through your time here and four years after graduating from us.
Here is how Henley Careers can help you:
- Careers Consultant appointments - Our Careers Consultant are here to help and support you with any careers related concern that you might have. Whether it’s advice on your CV, practicing for an interview, looking at possible reasons why applications aren't being successful or support planning your career goals, we’re here to help empower you to progress in your career.
- Events - Henley Careers organise numerous events aimed to help you build your confidence, develop the skills employers are looking for, network with employers and expand your industry knowledge.
- Alumni support - You can continue to book one-to-one appointments with your Careers Consultant and use our online resources for up to four years after you graduate to get help and support in your career.
- Career Smart - Get a head start in securing a graduate job by taking part in our online course, Career Smart. You can expect to learn about the graduate recruitment cycle in the UK, where to look and how to start applying to jobs, and the different types of roles available to you.
For more information please see our Careers page.
Continuing your career
Fintech brings together Finance and Technology. Through this course, you could find yourself working in exciting fintech start-ups or established banks. You can work in related organisations such as consultancies and regulators. You can also specialise in the technology side delivering new software and handling big data and machine learning algorithms. Alternatively, you can work on the finance side to win business, set up deals and deliver essential financial services to clients.
If you want to stay and work locally, London is not only a global finance hub but also a global fintech hub. It has a lively start-up scene and hundreds of mid-sized fintechs as well as major banks and asset managers. The ICMA Centre is a pioneer in finance education and renowned for its strong links with the financial services industry. If you plan to work elsewhere, acquiring this Masters qualification will impress potential employers.
Apply for 2023 entry now
Apply online now through the University of Reading’s online application service.
The online application service allows you to complete your application information, and attach electronic copies of your academic transcripts, certificates and other supporting information. It also provides a facility for an email request to be sent to your referees. This enables the referees to send your supporting references directly to us.
When to apply
We operate a rolling admissions system and it is recommended that you apply early to secure your place. There is no specific deadline and applications will be considered until the programme is full. However, to allow us time to process your application we recommend that you apply by the following dates:
| UK/Home applicants | International applicants |
|---|---|
| 1 August | 1 July |
After you apply
You will receive a confirmation email when we receive your application form. Your application is then reviewed by a member of staff. If successful, you will receive a formal offer letter outlining any necessary entry criteria you will need to meet. You'll then be asked to confirm your acceptance of this offer.
If you require a Certificate of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for your visa, details will be sent by email once all conditions of the offer have been met.
Throughout the admissions process we will keep you updated with key information via email. We also provide opportunities to interact with faculty and staff online.
Find us on Facebook and keep up-to-date with news and events at Henley or ask us a question. In addition, you can speak to a current student, our students are always happy to share their Henley experience.
The ICMA Centre is among the pioneers in finance education and renowned for its strong links with the financial services industry. The Centre was ranked number 6 in the UK for its Masters programmes in 2022 (Financial Times Masters in Finance Ranking). It is also part of Henley Business School – among an elite group of 75 business schools in the world to hold triple-accredited status from the leading UK, European and US accrediting bodies: AMBA, EQUIS and AACSB.
The Centre’s unique practice centred approach includes a number of finance education innovations. These will provide you with a solid grounding for a career in the industry. The approach aims to equip you with a skill set that sets you apart from graduates of other finance programmes. Your employability track record is also bolstered by an in-house comprehensive career development programme.
Reading has proximity to the world’s top financial centre (25 mins from London Paddington). Several leading professional bodies including the CFA, CISI, GARP and ICS validate our programmes and offer exam exemptions to our students.
Joining one of the top schools of finance in Europe, you will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities. You will have access to the latest technology and will be taught by world-renowned faculty and industry experts. Our innovative teaching and learning environment includes trading and financial analysis simulations. We also have the latest financial data and programming software. Our three dealing rooms are one of the largest facilities of its kind in the world. They provide an ideal setting for understanding how businesses and markets function in practice.
Our students’ learning experience is a top priority for academic faculty and administrative staff at the ICMA Centre. This is reflected in the latest student satisfaction rates in the PTES and NSS student surveys.
Student blogs
Since commencing the programme, Veda has attended various Henley Careers events, including Employer Panels and Industry Insights. Find out more about the careers support he has received and the opportunities available to students.
What's it like to study MSc Finance and Financial Technology at the ICMA Centre? Jin shares his experience of the programme and how he found the Programming for FinTech and trading simulation classes.
Are you interested in studying the Master's in Finance and Financial Technology? Our current student, Veda, has shared his top tips to prospective students! Learn more about his study advice and the scholarships available to students.
Speak to a current student
Contact us
For any questions of academic nature about this programme you are welcome to contact directly the Programme Directors, Dr Alfonso Dufour at a.dufour@icmacentre.ac.uk and Dr Simone Varotto at s.varotto@icmacentre.ac.uk
Admissions
If you have any questions about admissions, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Email: admissions@icmacentre.ac.ukTelephone: +44 (0)118 378 6497
“My experience with the ICMA centre was excellent and modules like energy finance and securities futures and options were useful to what I now do in my job and helped to build a solid foundation.”
The course is enriching and practical based which has helped me to navigate real life business challenges. The support and resources from the careers team has greatly improved my interpersonal skills.
With the impressive mock trading facilities, I can feel the real tension in the financial market. I also like the fact that we had the chance to speak with industry professionals at the beginning of the first term.
This Masters helped me a lot in terms of achieving my goals and improving my skills. I had the chance to learn a subject which is still at its beginning. I would highly recommend Henley and particularly this FinTech course.
The ICMA Centre gives students a wide range of choices to study what they are really interested in. Since finance and financial technology is quite unique and practical, there are also some special modules.
I did not have a background in finance. However, with some extra effort, now I totally understand the fundamentals of markets and how stocks are priced. Also, utilise the careers team, they are an awesome bunch!
Henley's programme structure and modules were very interesting and insightful. We were encouraged to learn python coding and were involved in numerous real-life scenario projects where we had to blend our financial knowledge and coding skills.
