University of Birmingham - College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
MSc Financial Data Science
Birmingham, United Kingdom
DURATION
1 Years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
31 Aug 2024*
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2024
TUITION FEES
GBP 10,530 / per year **
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* for UK students I International applications will close 7 May 2024
** for UK students| £27,270 for international students
Introduction
Our MSc Financial Data Science programme is a ground-breaking fusion of finance, mathematics, statistics and data science, designed to propel your career in the financial industry to new heights.
In an era defined by data, proficiency in statistics and data science is indispensable. Our programme empowers you with advanced statistical techniques and machine learning algorithms tailored specifically for the financial services industry. Through hands-on projects and real-world applications, you will gain practical experience in harnessing data to drive informed financial decisions.
The core modules cover essential topics including statistical inference, deep learning, time series analysis, and algorithmic trading. These modules equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to analyse financial data effectively and make informed decisions in a dynamic market environment.
In addition to the core modules, you have the opportunity to tailor your learning experience by choosing from a range of optional modules. These modules explore advanced topics such as financial mathematics, statistical modelling, machine learning, computational statistics, and stochastic processes, allowing you to specialise in areas of particular interest.
Throughout the programme, you engage in hands-on learning experiences, including practical projects and case studies that apply theoretical concepts to real-world financial datasets. You also benefit from guest lectures and seminars delivered by industry experts, providing valuable insights into current trends and practices in the financial industry.
Overall, our MSc Financial Data Science programme offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to financial education, preparing you for a wide range of careers in finance, data analysis, and financial technology. With a focus on practical skills, industry engagement, and experiential learning, our programme equips you with the tools and expertise needed to succeed in today's competitive job market.
Why study Financial Data Science Masters at Birmingham?
- We offer a unique opportunity to master the tools needed to navigate the complexities of modern finance by combining expertise in finance, mathematics, statistics, and data science
- Through hands-on learning and collaboration with industry experts, you gain practical skills and insights essential for success in investment banking, asset management, and financial technology.
- You benefit from guest lectures and seminars delivered by industry and/or subject experts, providing valuable insights into current trends and practices in the financial industry.
- We commit to fostering a collaborative learning environment. Through group projects, seminars, and networking events, you engage with peers and industry professionals, building valuable connections and honing your teamwork and communication skills.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Postgraduate Loans (PGL) for Masters students
UK and EU students (with settled or pre-settled status) looking to pursue a Master's programme in the UK can apply for a non-means-tested loan from the British government via the Student Loans Company (SLC).
The loan will be paid directly to you, into a UK bank account. It is intended to contribute towards the costs of Masters study and whether the loan is used towards fees, maintenance or other costs is at your discretion.
Scholarships
We offer a range of postgraduate scholarships for taught programs and research opportunities to ensure the very best talent is nurtured and supported at the postgraduate level.
The University of Birmingham is proud to offer a range of scholarships for our postgraduate programmes. With a scholarship pot worth over £2 million, we are committed to alleviating financial barriers to support you in taking your next steps.
Each scholarship has its own specific deadlines and eligibility criteria. Please familiarise yourself with the information on individual scholarship web pages before applying.
Curriculum
This course consists of 180 credits, two-thirds from taught modules (core modules are compulsory, choose several optional modules) and one-third from your research project.
Core modules
- Algorithmic and High-Frequency Trading - 10 credits
- Deep Learning 1 - 10 credits
- Foundations of Statistical Inference - 20 credits
- Time Series and Prediction - 10 credits
- Financial Data Science Project - 60 credits
Optional modules
Choose 70 credits. Example optional modules are listed below:
- Advanced Mathematical Finance - 20 credits
- Bayesian Inference and Computation - 20 credits
- Computational Statistics - 10 credits
- Data Visualisation - 10 credits
- Deep Learning 2 - 10 credits
- Financial Mathematics - 20 credits
- Interest Rate and Credit Risk Modelling - 10 credits
- Large Scale Optimization for Machine Learning - 10 credits
- Mathematical Finance - 20 credits
- Mathematical Securitisation - 10 credits
- Quantitative Funds Management - 10 credits
- Statistical Machine Learning - 20 credits
- Statistical Modelling - 20 credits
- Stochastic Processes - 20 credits
Please note: The modules listed on the website for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
Teaching and assessment
You will delve into master-level coursework that intricately blends advanced theoretical concepts with real-world applications of statistics and data science in the financial services industry. The curriculum is richly augmented with contemporary computational techniques reflecting the dynamic nature of the data science and finance landscape.
Your academic journey will be further enriched by a hands-on research project, mentored by leading figures in the realms of data science and finance. This combination of advanced coursework and practical research experience is designed to provide comprehensive training in the analysis of data within the context of the financial sector. Throughout the program, you will develop robust interdisciplinary research skills and refine your ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.
Program Tuition Fee
Career Opportunities
Graduates of our MSc Financial Data Science programme are equipped with a versatile skill set that opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities in the financial industry and beyond. Some potential career paths include:
- Quantitative Analyst: Utilise advanced mathematical and statistical techniques to develop and implement quantitative models for pricing securities, managing risk, and optimising investment strategies.
- Data Scientist: Apply data mining, machine learning, and statistical analysis techniques to extract insights from financial data, informing strategic decision-making and enhancing business performance.
- Financial Engineer: Design and develop innovative financial products and solutions, leveraging computational techniques and quantitative methods to address complex financial challenges.
- Risk Analyst: Assess and manage financial risks by analysing market trends, evaluating creditworthiness, and developing risk mitigation strategies using statistical models and data analysis tools.
- Investment Analyst: Conduct in-depth research and analysis of financial markets, companies, and investment opportunities to support investment decision-making and portfolio management strategies.
- Financial Technology (FinTech) Specialist: Innovate and develop technological solutions for financial services, such as algorithmic trading platforms, robo-advisors, and blockchain applications, integrating data science techniques to optimise efficiency and performance.
- Consultant: Provide strategic advice and consulting services to financial institutions, corporations, and government agencies on a wide range of financial and data-related issues, leveraging expertise in finance, mathematics, statistics, and data science.
Overall, graduates of our program are well-positioned to pursue rewarding careers in various sectors of the financial industry, driving innovation and contributing to the advancement of data-driven decision-making in finance and beyond.
University Careers Network
Preparation for your career should be one of the first things you think about as you start university. Whether you have a clear idea of where your future aspirations lie or want to consider the broad range of opportunities available once you have a Birmingham degree, our Careers Network can help you achieve your goal.
Our unique careers guidance service is tailored to your academic subject area, offering a specialised team (in each of the five academic colleges) who can give you expert advice. Our team sources exclusive work experience opportunities to help you stand out amongst the competition, with mentoring, global internships and placements available to you. Once you have a career in your sights, one-to-one support with CVs and job applications will help give you the edge.