About this course
Develop the skills to help businesses make informed decisions, on this MSc in Business Analytics and Finance.
You'll study topics on corporate finance, portfolio management and credit scoring, along with the latest analytical techniques.
A 3-month placement opportunity with a company like British Airways or JP Morgan will give you valuable practical experience. When you graduate, you'll be well prepared for a career in finance, banking or data analytics.
This degree is ideal if you want to advance your data analytics skills and you’ve carried out a quantitative study. It will also suit you if you have relevant professional experience.
We align our teaching with the latest sector thinking by developing the course content with our Business Advisory Board. The board includes industry experts from organisations such as:
- Rolls Royce
- BT Openreach
- Ford
- Shell
Our competitive industry placement project will boost your career prospects as you take on a real-world challenge. This will form the basis of your dissertation.
You’ll also benefit from the expertise of the Centre of Operational Research, Management Sciences and Information Systems (CORMSIS), one of the country’s strongest analytics research groups. Your learning is informed by specialist research, and you can personalise your studies with optional modules. For example, you can choose to focus on:
- financial risk management
- advanced analytics
- simulation
- revenue management
Course lead
Dr Steffen Bayer is your course lead. Steffen’s research explores predictive analytics using simulation methods applied in different fields. He teaches the Simulation module. Read about Dr Bayer's research and publications.
Accreditations
“The MSc in Business Analytics and Finance is a perfect blend of theory and practice; giving you both the necessary theoretical knowledge while providing you with the hands-on practice of real-life business scenarios.”
MSc Business Analytics and Finance Taster Lecture
Course location
This course is based at Highfield.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in a subject with an element of quantitative study such as:
- finance
- economics
- sciences
- engineering
- computer science
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
We do not accept the following subjects:
- Language Studies – degrees that focus on learning a language or how to translate, such as 'Business English', 'Applied English', or 'Translation', are not acceptable. However, this restriction does not apply to ‘English’ and ‘English literature’ degrees of the kind taught in the UK.
- Art/Design/Vocational Studies – degrees that focus on learning a particular form of art, craft or vocation. These include degrees in art, graphic design, photography, television broadcasting, script writing, or performance/dance.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 7.0
- reading
- 6.5
- writing
- 6.5
- speaking
- 6.5
- listening
- 6.5
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
On this master’s degree in Business Analytics and Finance your studies will run for a full 12 months.
The first 9 months cover taught modules. The 3- month industry placement takes place during the summer.
From June to September you’ll work on your dissertation.
There are 2 sets of exams, in January and in May.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
Changes due to COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 situation is improving, any future restrictions could mean we might have to change the way parts of our teaching and learning take place in 2021 to 2022. We're working hard to plan for a number of possible scenarios. This means that some of the information on this course page may be subject to change.
Find out more on our COVID advice page.
For entry in Academic Year 2021-22
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules:
In this module we begin by looking at the types and sources of finance for a company. Next we seek to understand the cost of capital and the major theories that guide us. Next comes sources of long-term finance: capital, debt and hybrid finance. Finally, ...
The module will start by defining the concept of data analytics and the CRISP-DM process as consisting of three steps: data pre-processing, data mining and post-processing. Next, we will zoom into the data mining step and distinguish three types of data ...
This module will provide you with a sound foundation in the application of the many tools and techniques of management science. You are expected to learn the tools and the applications of modelling, optimization, computing and programming in solving pract...
This module provides you with the opportunity to engage with econometrics theory focusing, in particular, on analysing financial markets and firms’ investment and financing decisions. The module will systematically prepare you with the necessary skills to...
You must also choose from the following modules:
Having learnt the basic techniques and principles of business analytics in semester 1 modules, this module will introduce you to a number of advanced applications of business analytics in practice. These include data management using database engines, GLM...
This module covers topics such as investment appraisal, evaluation of corporate investment, M&A, corporate governance issues in both theoretical and empirical aspects, and thus provides the knowledge which may be required for managers. The materials may b...
The dissertation stage of your Postgraduate programme involves an extended, independent investigation of a topic of your own choosing and the preparation of a 15,000 word dissertation describing your work. You will attend 10 sessions where you will work ...
The module aims to introduce the students to the basics of portfolio theory. Beginning with a summary of the reasons why both private investors and large institutional investors might wish to own share portfolios, the module progresses to consider how ris...
The module explores bank regulations as well as theoretical and practical techniques to measure market risk, interest rate risk and credit risk. It also discusses the theoretical and practical aspects of the risk management techniques employed in the fina...
The aim of this module is to provide a broad introduction to portfolio selection and derivatives from a theoretical and practical viewpoint. The course will show the interaction between asset management and derivatives.
The global and rapid growth of managing by projects in every sector, industry, and company type has led to the development of pan-sector theories and bodies of knowledge in project management. The specific nature of projects as temporary and unique activi...
The module teaches the students the fundamentals of writing structured computer programs and good computer programming practice, also focussing on some special features of python which make it especially useful for Data and Decision Science. In its second...
The module provides an introduction to the theory and practice of Revenue Management
This module provides a practical introduction to the theories and techniques of simulation. The approach taken is very broad and covers different forms of simulation, including discrete event simulation, system dynamics and agent-based modelling. The mod...
The summer project dissertation stage of your Master's programme involves direct work with a company where you will need to develop a solution for a real problem they currently propose, as discussed in the project brief, and the preparation of a 15,000 wo...
Learning and assessment
Learning
As well as learning practical techniques you’ll develop your critical evaluation, financial decision-making and mathematical modelling skills through:
- lectures and seminars
- individual and group exercises
- computer classes
- private study
- workshops
You’ll also explore topics in more depth through:
- exercises using real-world data
- case studies
- numerical problem solving
You can gain specialist experience using analytics, modelling, coding and programming software using tools such as Excel, Python, SIMUL8 and SPSS. You’ll also learn to use SAS, a leading data analytics programme, to prepare you for the SAS base programmer certification.
Assessment
Assessment methods vary between modules and may include:
- examinations
- individual coursework
- group work
- dissertation
Modules such as Credit Scoring and Simulation have a practical computer-based assignment, using commercial software, so that your mathematical modelling skills can be assessed.
Dissertation
You'll use the methods, techniques and skills you learn in the taught part of the course to write a 15,000-word dissertation. Your summer project will form the basis of this.
Academic Support
We’ll assign you a personal tutor, and you’ll have access to a senior tutor.
Careers
You’ll boost your salary potential by graduating with the business analytics and finance skills employers are looking for. Our graduates have gone on to work for financial, business and government organisations including:
- the Bank of England
- Home Credit China
- the National Health Service (NHS)
Some of our industry partners offer one-to-one career development sessions and you’ll also be invited to our yearly analytics recruitment fair run by CORMSIS, which attracts a wide range of employers.
Careers services at Southampton
We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2020). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV/resume and interview skills workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a thriving entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:
- our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
- a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
- our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £12,608.
- EU and international students pay £24,060.
Deposit
When you accept your offer to study on this course you’ll be asked to pay a deposit. This is non-refundable. The deposit amount is:
- UK students: £250
- EU and international students: £1,000
Full terms and conditions and details of how to pay this deposit will be sent to you in your offer letter.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of Southampton you get a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our online application form.
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Submit your application.
Application deadlines
UK students
Applications must be received no later than 4 weeks before the start of the course. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.
International students
We recommend you apply at least 6 weeks before the start of the course to ensure you're able to meet our requirements and apply for a visa in time.
We cannot guarantee students who do not meet these deadlines will be able to begin their course.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a £50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for any postgraduate taught course that starts in or after September 2021.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of Southampton student, if you're applying for a Master of Research (MRes) degree, or if you're applying for a PGCE course via UCAS, you will not need to pay the fee. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to send 2 academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We'll assess your application on the strength of your:
- academic achievements
- relevant professional experience
- personal statement
- academic references
We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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