Programme Specification for the 2019/0 academic year
MSc Finance and Investment (9 Months)
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | MSc Finance and Investment (9 Months) | Programme code | PTS0SBESBE08 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Full Time |
Academic year | 2019/0 |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 7 (Masters) |
2. Description of the Programme
The MSc Finance and Investment is designed for graduates interested in following a career in investment analysis or portfolio management. Established over 35 years ago, the programme has an international reputation for providing excellent training for employment in the financial sector. It will prepare you for the challenge of a career in finance by providing a broad knowledge base, combined with extensive practical sessions, to help develop your confidence and ability.
This is a full-time programme, completed over a nine month period. In the first term you will gain a firm foundation in research methods for investment and finance, investment analysis, financial management, and financial instruments. In the second term you can choose six or seven optional modules. In addition, non-assessed intensive computer training covering Thomson Reuters Datastream and other financial databases and software systems, is incorporated into relevant modules.
The School has an agreement with the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) which confers the status of CISI Centre of Excellence upon the Xfi Centre for Finance and Investment. As a graduate of the MSc Finance and Investment you will be eligible for the award of the CISI Diploma and will therefore receive a globally recognised, professional certificate in addition to your Masters degree.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
1. The programme is intended to provide students with the in-depth skills necessary to analyse problems arising in the field of finance and investment and to reach reasoned solutions to these.
2. The taught modules are intended to bring students up to date with results and issues arising in several of the core areas of academic financial research.
3. Practical sessions are intended to provide students with the additional skills necessary to apply their knowledge to complex situations arising currently in financial markets
4. It is intended that students completing the programme will be equipped to follow careers such as investment analysts or portfolio managers, or enter research programmes.
4. Programme Structure
Your MSc Finance and Investment programme is a 9 month programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). 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.
Interim Awards
Postgraduate Diploma:
(a) A Postgraduate Diploma is awarded when a student gains at least 120 credits including at least 90 at Level M on a designated programme.
Postgraduate Certificate:
(a) A Postgraduate Certificate is awarded when a student gains at least 60 credits including at least 45 at Level M on a designated programme.
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.
Your MSc Finance and Investment programme is a 9 month programme of study at National Qualification Framework (NQF) level 7 (as confirmed against the FHEQ). 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.
This programme is available for study nine months full-time over three terms from October to June and is University-based throughout this time. During the programme you will study modules totalling 180 credits.
Please note that all options are available timetable permitting and may change.
Stage 1
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BEAM031 | Financial Instruments | 15 | No |
| BEAM046 | Financial Modelling | 15 | No |
| BEAM072 | Principles of Finance | 15 | No |
| BEAM032 | Investment Analysis 1 | 15 | No |
| BEFM010 | Investment Research Methods 1 | 15 | No |
Optional Modules
You will choose options totalling 105 credits from a regularly updated selection.
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| BEAM050 | Advanced Corporate Finance | 15 | No |
| BEAM033 | Banking and Financial Services | 15 | No |
| BEAM035 | Derivatives Pricing | 15 | No |
| BEAM036 | Domestic and International Portfolio Management | 15 | No |
| BEAM042 | International Financial Management | 15 | No |
| BEAM038 | Investment Analysis 2 | 15 | No |
| BEAM052 | Corporate Governance and Finance | 15 | No |
| BEAM053 | Mergers, Management Buyouts and Other Corporate Reorganisations | 15 | No |
| BEAM054 | Alternative Investments | 15 | No |
| BEEM103 | Optimisation Techniques for Economists | 15 | No |
| BEEM011 | Applied Econometrics 1 | 15 | No |
| BEEM100 | Macroeconomics | 15 | No |
| BEEM101 | Microeconomics | 15 | No |
| BEEM119 | Economics of Banking | 15 | No |
| BEEM015 | Industrial Economics and Strategy | 15 | No |
| BEEM117 | Economics of Corporate Finance | 15 | No |
| BEAM061 | Advanced International Taxation | 15 | No |
| BEAM065 | Bank Management | 15 | No |
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. the ability to analyse critically problems arising in portfolio management, corporate finance, financial instruments and investment analysis (including where appropriate international issues); | A1: BEAM031 (ILO1), BEAM046 (ILOs4-12), BEAM072 (ILOs1-7), BEAM032 (ILOs1-5), BEFM010 (ILOs1,3, 7) A2: BEAM031 (ILO1), BEAM04 (ILOs1-12), BEAM032 (ILO2), BEFM010 (ILOs1-7) A3: BEAM031 (ILO2), BEAM046 (ILOs4-12), BEAM072 (ILOs2, 5), BEAM032 (ILOs 2-3), BEFM010 (ILOs1-7) A4: BEAM046 via assignment reports BEFM010 via Section B of written exam | Assessment takes place through written examinations (A1-3):
By written assignments (A1-4):
By personal presentations (A 4):
|
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: | |
5. the ability to develop rigorous theoretical arguments based on mathematical and analytical reasoning; | Classes, assigned exercises, practical classes (B5-7)
Preparation and presentation of reports requiring critical surveys of empirical literature (B8-9):
Class solution of assigned problems developing the use of concepts and models (B5 and B7):
| Assessment through examinations (B5-8):
Written reports (B1-9):
Personal presentations (B8-9)
|
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: | |
10. A global outlook: Our graduates are engaged and prepared for the demands of global business and society. | 10. BEFM010 Investment Research Methods incorporates new research on investment from various countries, and is taught to the internationally recognised CFA syllabus. BEAM046 Financial Modelling addresses the international aspects of finance through the estimation of the fair value of exchange rates BEAM031 Financial Instruments explores universally applicable theories, models, and concepts relevant across countries and developments in developed and emerging markets. BEAM072 Principles of Finance states that investment theory and corporate finance are international by nature and the principles taught can be applied in any country. BEAM032 Investment Analysis 1 uses International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) which apply to more than 100 countries around the world. 11. BEAM032 Investment Analysis 1 requires students to critically assess the content of annual reports and to develop a framework for assessing a firm’s financial performance. BEAM046 Financial Modelling emphasises real world application of finance theory using practical classes used following lectures. The module covers the implementation of quantitative financial models and includes financial statement analysis, passive and active portfolio management, risk management and the valuation of exchange rates. BEAM031 Financial Instruments aims to give students insights into practical aspects of fund management through lectures/seminars by senior fund managers. Also to access a wide body of empirical research literature and critically appraise it. BEAM072 Principles of Finance introduces students to finance theory and financial management, and analyses models and evidence relating to a firm’s optimal capital structure and appropriate dividend policy. BEFM010 – Investment Research Methods 1 requires students to develop rigorous theoretical arguments, analyse quantitative problems, interpret financial data and problems and critically evaluate tools. 12. BEAM046 Financial Modelling requires that students collaborate on a group assignment to evaluate investment portfolios. BEAM032- Investment Analysis 1 requires the students to work together to solve problems put forth by the lecturer. 13. BEAM032 Investment Analysis 1 familiarises students with the standards expected by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) BEAM046 Financial Modelling looks at the sustainable operation of financial and fair valuation of security prices. BEAM072 Principles of Finance states that students will learn about the fair valuation of financial assists which is of interest to those involved in sustainability. 14. BEAM046 Financial Modelling instructs students in the advanced use of Excel and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) | 10. BEFM010 – Examinations BEAM046 - Individual assignment and group assignment BEAM031- Examination BEAM072 – Examination and In Class Test BEAM032 – Examination and Group Problem sets (ILO 1-5) 11. BEAM032 – Examination and coursework ( ILO 1-6) BEAM046 – Individual assignment and group assignment (Module ILOs 10-15) BEAM031 – Examination (Module ILOs 3, 4, 5 -9 and 12) BEAM072 – Examination and In Class Test (ILOs 8-10) BEFM010-Mid term exam and final exam (ILO 1-11, 14) 12. BEAM046 – Group assignment (Module ILO 17) BEAM032 – Group Problem Sets (ILO 1-8) 13.BEAM032 – Examination and coursework BEAM046 – Examination and group written assignment BEAM072 - Examination and In Class Test 14. BEAM046 – Individual assignment and group assignment (Module ILOs 2, 18 and 19) |
7. Programme Regulations
Credit
Postgraduate (PG) Programmes: The programme consists of 180. The pass mark for award of credit in PG modules (NQF level 7) is 50%.
Progression
Condonement is the process that allows you to be awarded credit (and so progress to the next stage or, in the final stage, receive an award), despite failing to achieve a pass mark at a first attempt. You are not entitled to reassessment in condoned credit.
Postgraduate (PG) Programmes: Up to 45 credits of failure can be condoned on the following conditions:
a. You must have completed and been assessed in modules amounting to sufficient credit for the final award (i.e. 180 credits for a Masters; 120 credits for a PGDip; and 60 credits for a PGCert).
b. You must pass the modules marked with a 'Yes' in the 'non-condonable' column in the tables above.
c. You must achieve an average mark of at least 50% across the full 180 credits of assessment in the stage, including any failed and condoned modules.
d. Condonement can only be applied to failed modules where a mark of 40 – 49 has been achieved.
Classification
The marking of modules and the classification of awards broadly corresponds to the following marks:
Postgraduate Degrees
Distinction 70%+
Merit 60-69%
Pass 50-59%
Full details of assessment regulations for UG programmes and PGT programmes assessment regulations can be found in the Teaching Quality Assurance Manual (TQA) on the University of Exeter website. Generic marking criteria are also published here.
Please see the Teaching and Quality Assurance Manual for further guidance.
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
Personal and Academic tutoring: It is University policy that all Colleges should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors. The role of academic tutors is to support you on individual modules; the role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
The Postgraduate Student Handbook can be accessed via ELE at the following address: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=1645
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.
(http://as.exeter.ac.uk/support/admin/staff/qualityassuranceandmonitoring/tqamanual/fullcontents/)
12. Indicators of Quality and Standards
Certain programmes are subject to accreditation and/or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs).
13. Methods for Evaluating and Improving Quality and Standards
The University and its constituent Colleges review the quality and standard of teaching and learning in all taught programmes against a range of criteria through the procedures outlined in the Teaching Quality Assurance (TQA) Manual Quality Review Framework.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
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
0
18. Final Award
MSc Finance and Investment (9 Months)
19. UCAS Code
C822
20. NQF Level of Final Award
7 (Masters)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 180 |
ECTS credits | 90 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 14/11/2013 |
Date of last revision | 26/09/2018 |
|---|