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Study information

Programme Specification for the 2024/5 academic year

BSc (Hons) Finance Studies with Industrial Experience

1. Programme Details

Programme nameBSc (Hons) Finance Studies with Industrial Experience Programme codeUFS4SBESBE71
Study mode(s)Full Time
Academic year2024/5
Campus(es)Streatham (Exeter)
NQF Level of the Final Award6 (Honours)

2. Description of the Programme

BSc Finance Studies programme is designed for students who are interested in Finance in general and are interested in following a wide range of career destinations within the banking and financial services, private and public sectors, and the broader corporate world, as well as specialist postgraduate studies. Flexibility is embedded in the programme enabling you to tailor your studies to suit your personal interests and career aspirations. 

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

The School already offers accredited programmes in finance, BSc Finance with three pathways.  This programme offers a greater degree of flexibility to students.

The programme is intended:

  • to give students an understanding of finance and related subjects, and to develop an honours level of knowledge in finance.
  • to provide students with the necessary practical area specific and intellectual skills, such as analysis, problem-solving and reasoning, to enable them independently to achieve an understanding of finance concepts and problems, deal with complexity, explore alternative solutions, demonstrate critical evaluation and integrate theory and practice.
  • to provide students with the necessary personal and transferable skills to enable them to develop as independent, autonomous and reflective individuals and to prepare them for employment or future study.

4. Programme Structure

Entry to the degree is limited to:

  • students who have completed the common first stage of BSc Finance (including gaining a pass mark of at least 40% as an average of all elements in both BEF1015 Finance and Investment and BEA1008 Introduction to Financial Accounting modules), or
  • students on these degrees who at the end of their second stage can meet the compulsory module requirements (see section 5).

The BSc Finance Studies WIE is a 4-year full-time programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level 6 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into 4 stages. Each Stage is normally equivalent to an academic year. Stage 3 becomes Stage 4, and Stage 3 is replaced with 120 credits of alternative work and assessment. The programme is also divided into units of study called ‘modules’ which are assigned a number of ‘credits’. The credit rating of a module is proportional to the total workload, with 1 credit being nominally equivalent to 10 hours of work.

5. Programme Modules

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty web site

https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/accounting/finance/

You may take Option Modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. Descriptions of the individual modules are given in full on the Faculty web site

http://business-school.exeter.ac.uk/programmes/undergraduate/modules/

You may take elective modules up to 45 credits outside of the programme in stages 2 and 4 of the programme as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module. 

Stage 1


N/A - No direct entry to Year 1, BSc Finance Studies WIE is an exit route only. 

Stage 2


45 credits of compulsory modules, 75 credits of optional modules (min. 45 credits of Business School modules)

Compulsory Modules

CodeModule Credits Non-condonable?
BEA2018 Corporate Finance 15No
BEF2013 Investment Practice 15No
BEF2014 Financial Reporting and Analysis 15No

Stage 3


120 credits of compulsory modules 

Compulsory Modules

CodeModule Credits Non-condonable?
BUS3002 Business School Industrial Experience 120Yes

Stage 4


45 credits of options from the below list, plus 75 credits of other unspecified electives

Compulsory Modules

CodeModule Credits Non-condonable?
BEF3009 Financial Institutions' Risk Management 15No
BEA3018 Advanced Corporate Finance 15No
BEA3028 Sustainable and Responsible Finance 15No
BEF3010 Applied Finance Project 30No
BEA3026 Financial Modelling 15No
BEF3008 Equity and Fixed Income 15No

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

1. An understanding of the institutional framework necessary for understanding the role, operation and function of markets and financial institutions
2. Knowledge of the major theoretical tools and theories of finance, and their relevance and application to theoretical and practical problems.
3. An understanding of the relationship between financial theory and empirical testing, and the application of this knowledge to the appraisal of the empirical evidence in at least one major theoretical area, including the limitations and evolution of empirical test and theory.
4. An ability to interpret financial data, including that arising in the context of the firm or household from accounting statements and data generated in financial markets.
5. An understanding of the financial arrangements and governance mechanism and structures of business entities, and an appreciation of how theory and evidence can be combined to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of such arrangements.
6. An understanding of the factors influencing the investment behaviour and opportunities of private individuals.
7. An understanding of financial service activities in the economy and the factors that are changing these activities over time, and an appreciation of how finance theory and evidence can be employed to aid such understanding.
8. An ability to understand financial statements, and a reasonable appreciation of the limitations of financial reporting and disclosure practices and procedures.

Teaching is centred on problem-based and inquiry-led learning. There are three main components to the teaching methods:

1. Lectures/Seminars/Tutorials

These sessions contain three elements:

  • Taught Lectures
  • Taught Seminars/Tutorials
  • Academic study skills

2. Online Learning Platform

All lectures/seminars/tutorials are supported by online resources. Each student has the benefit of both a module lead (subject specialist) and an academic mentor, with whom they can develop their study skills, critical thinking skills, application of new knowledge, evaluate own progress and plan own development. 

There will be a range of regular formative assessment which seeks to build the skills and confidence of students whilst keeping them engaged with the programme. Summative assessment will include, but is not limited to: written examinations, applied exercise, case studies, presentations, portfolios, reflective essays, position papers, business improvement projects, proposals, problem-based essays, book and article reviews, visual images, videos, infographics, academic essays, reports, groupwork and peer assessment.

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

9. Illustrate arguments using reflections upon own practice and drawing from own reading of assigned academic texts.
10. Apply proven theories, framework and models when analysing simple problems.
11. Recognise where learning originates and translate new knowledge into suggestions for practice.
12. Use of a range of established techniques to initiate and undertake critical analysis of information.
13. Propose solutions to organisational problems and reflect upon the impact of those solutions through a process of critical thinking and reflection.
14. Explore and create business improvement ideas using range of creative thinking techniques.
15. Translate theoretical ideas into suggestions for application to practice.
16. Determine the suitability of proven risk and investment management models appropriate to the role together with relevant best practice.
17. Evidence critical thinking in the construction of written proposals.

See details in Section A Learning and Teaching Activities.

See details in Section A Assessment Methods.

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

18. Confident Communicator: Able to adapt and adjust both written and verbal communication styles, to meet the needs of diverse audiences.
19. Innovative problem-solver: Able to confidently explore challenges from different perspectives, to creatively offer practical and timely solutions.
20. Proactive collaborator: Able to actively build strong working relationships with others to have positive outcomes.
21. Digitally fluent: Able to embrace a variety of digital technologies to critically source, process and communicate information.
22. Resilient self-advocate: Able to develop self-awareness through a commitment to learning from experiences and taking responsibility for personal growth.
23. Critical thinker: Able to proactively analyse and evaluate information from a variety of sources to draw independent and well-founded conclusions.
24. Globally engaged: Able to recognise diverse individual and cultural perspectives, in order to communicate on interconnected world issues and sustainable decisions.

ILO 1

BEA2018 requires students to develop teamwork and presentation skills in debating discussion topics and producing team solutions to problems.

ILO 2

BEA2018 requires students to critically assess comments, suggestions, and practice in the context of finance.

BEF2013 requires students to apply statistical and financial mathematics techniques in decision making process.

ILO 3

BEA2018 requires students to work independently as well as in groups, and develop effective and efficient self-study techniques.

ILO 4

BEF2013 requires students to apply statistical and financial mathematics techniques in decision making process.

BEA2018 requires students to use information technology for information retrieval and numerical analysis.

ILO 5

Students in this programme are expected to manage time and tasks (submission of group work, presentations, mid-term assessments, final written exams); work independently (using resources to plan own learning, review answers and identify own learning points); adapt to change (reflecting the core difference between thought, critical analysis, use of evidence; management of ever-changing circumstances related to group work); seek and use feedback (using formative and summative feedback to develop); drive towards personal goals (reflect on input and align to personal goals).

ILO 6

BEA2018 requires students to interpret financial data in the light of established theories and apply and criticise finance models in a real-world context.

ILO 7

BEF2014 requires students to develop a sound knowledge of reporting and accounting principles.

BEF2013 requires students to demonstrate a sound understanding of the impact the investment environment has son financial services.

ILO 1

BEA2018 – Examination (ILOs 1-13)

ILO 2

BEA2018 – In Term Exam (ILOs 1-5 and 8-13), Examination (ILOs 1-13)

BEF2013 – Assignments (ILOs 1-11), Examination (ILOs 1-6)

ILO 3

BEA2018 – Examination (ILOs 1-13)

ILO 4

BEF2013 – Assignments (ILOs 1-11),

Examination (ILOs 1-6)

BEA2018 – In class tests (ILOs 8-13), Examination (ILOs 1-13)

ILO 5

This ILO is very general, and across the programme it is assessed through a mixture of individual/group essays/reports, presentations, MCQ exams, and written examinations.

ILO 6

BEA2018 – In Term Exam (ILOs 1-5 and 8-13), Examination (ILOs 1-13)

ILO 7

BEF2014 – Assignments (ILOs 1-13), Examination (ILOs 1-7)

BEF2013 – Assignment (ILOs 1-11)

7. Programme Regulations

Classification

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.

10. Admissions Criteria

Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

(Quality Review Framework.

14. Awarding Institution

ICAS (Institute of Chartered Accountants in Scotland)

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy (ESE)

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Not applicable to this programme

Partner Institution

Not applicable to this programme.

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

Not applicable to this programme.

18. Final Award

BSc (Hons) Finance Studies with Industrial Experience

19. UCAS Code

Not applicable to this programme.

20. NQF Level of Final Award

6 (Honours)

21. Credit

CATS credits ECTS credits

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

[Honours] Finance

23. Dates

Origin Date

17/11/2022

Date of last revision

15/02/2024