Why study this course?
You will gain advanced analytical abilities and technical skills in empirical finance and modelling and acquire an in-depth understanding of the financial markets and institutions both in the UK and abroad, preparing you for a professional career in the financial industry.
Highlights
- Learn the research methods used in modern corporate finance and understand the relevance of corporate finance theory in an applied work setting
- Follow a case study approach in core modules and develop analytical skills that can be used in everyday financial measurement applications
- Experience a warm and friendly learning environment with small group teaching allowing a high level of student-teacher interaction
- Learn about the functioning and rationale of leading financial institutions both in the UK and abroad
- Pursue advanced studies in finance and related areas
- Explore financial management, econometrics, corporate finance, portfolio management, and financial data analysis using Bloomberg tools
- Take part in a live trading floor workshop with Amplify Trading, guided by two seasoned traders
- Have the opportunity to obtain two certifications without additional costs: Bloomberg Market Concept (BMC) and Environmental Social and Governance (ESG)
Teaching
Traditional lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer lab work in small groups.
Assessment
Continuous assessment and end-of-semester exams.
Dissertation
A 15,000-word dissertation in an area of your choice that is relevant and appropriate to the MSc.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
You will take four compulsory modules for the MSc. Each compulsory module typically comprises:
- 20 lecture contact hours
- 5 or 10 contact hours for seminars, workshops, and tutorials
- intensive independent study
If you choose not to complete the dissertation requirement for the MSc, there is an exit award available that allows suitably qualified candidates to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) instead, finishing the course at the end of the second semester of study.
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
There is a long-standing tradition of Finance graduates working in a wide variety of challenging and rewarding posts including:
- academia
- banking
- commerce
- diplomatic service
- economics
- finance
- government
- industry
- insurance
They work in the UK, Europe, and North America, and more frequently in locations such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and Thailand.
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. Our Careers Centre can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development.
Further your education
Many graduates pursue PhDs at St Andrews or beyond. Funding includes ESRC awards and Business School studentships, offering RCUK-level stipends and fee waivers for home and EU students.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support for those looking to freelance as well as create their own business.
It has an active entrepreneurship community, giving you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, as well as one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why St Andrews?
Industry connections
The Masters Extra (MX) is a programme of events focused on careers and personal and professional development, designed specifically for taught Masters students in the University of St Andrews Business School. The series of talks, workshops, networking opportunities and activities includes guest lectures from entrepreneurs, experienced managers, and leading researchers.
Trading Workshop
In collaboration with Amplify Trading, a leading global financial trading and training firm, you will have the exclusive opportunity to participate in a day-long trading workshop in a live trading floor environment. You will be guided by two seasoned traders using specialist software.
Bloomberg Trading Suite
You will also benefit from accessing the Bloomberg Trading Suite, an invaluable resource that facilitates dynamic learning through real time streaming of data. This is used in modules throughout the programme.
You can obtain two certifications − Bloomberg Market Concept (BMC) and Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) – as part of your degree.
Community
The Management Society, a student-led organisation, hosts a broad range of activities, both subject-related and social. The University also has a number of other student societies relating to the management discipline.
Alumni
As a graduate of St Andrews, you become part of a prestigious and globally connected alumni community. This lifelong membership offers access to career services, networking opportunities, and exclusive resources. Engaging with the University's worldwide alumni network ensures you remain connected to St Andrews, no matter where your career takes you.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 undergraduate Honours degree in a quantitative subject such as economics, finance, mathematics, etc. from the UK or the equivalent international qualification. Applicants with relevant work experience are welcome, and the University may take this into account when evaluating applications.
- If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV that includes your personal details with a history of your education and employment to date
- personal statement explaining why you have chosen the programme, why this subject is important to you, and why you have applied to study at the University of St Andrews in particular (500 words)
- one original signed academic reference
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £14,850
- Rest of the world: £29,990
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 14 March 2025
