MSc in Finance
Siena, Italy
MSc
DURATION
2 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* the amount for each international student is based on the student’s country of origin and the course chosen
Key Summary
About: The MSc in Finance at The University of Siena is a two-year English-taught programme in quantitative, economic and management fields. It covers quantitative finance (stochastic calculus, derivatives, interest-rate models, econometrics), financial economics (microeconomic models, asymmetric information, decision under uncertainty, monetary economics) and management of firms and markets. The programme offers international mobility (Erasmus, North America, Australia) and double degrees with Ljubljana and Romanian-American University.
Career Outcomes: Graduates enter financial markets, risk management, corporate finance, quantitative asset management and trading. Roles include portfolio manager, trader, risk manager and market analyst, applying quantitative modeling, derivatives pricing and regulatory risk control.
The MSc Programme in Finance is a two-year course delivered entirely in English on financial applications, models and solutions from corporate, economic and quantitative perspectives. The programme covers the most important technical and quantitative aspects of finance in regular use in financial institutions.
The MSc in Finance program is intended to prepare students for a wide range of careers both inside and outside the financial industry, including advanced corporate finance, financial engineering and risk management, quantitative asset management, macroeconomic and financial forecasting, quantitative trading, and applied research.
The MSc in Finance will provide knowledge in three main fields:
Quantitative Area
Students study in depth the methods used in financial markets to price financial securities: basic principles of stochastic calculus, no-arbitrage principle and risk neutral (martingale) pricing, derivatives pricing, interest rate derivatives, stochastic volatility models, and financial econometrics.
Economic Area
Students are exposed to the theoretical framework of modern financial economics: microeconomic models for business and finance, models with asymmetric information and decision under uncertainty, monetary economics and central banking approaches.
Management Area
Our fundamental courses will provide the knowledge to study the financial behaviour of financial and non-financial firms and financial markets.
The programme provides several international mobility programs at qualified European (Erasmus), North American and Australian universities, as well as double degree programs with the University of Ljubljana and the Romanian-American University (Bucharest). More double degree agreements are in progress.
The curriculum puts a particular emphasis on corporate finance, financial engineering and risk management, quantitative asset management, macroeconomic analysis, quantitative trading, and financial regulation.
Through a mix of theory and practice, interaction with finance practitioners and empirical sessions in our info-providers lab facilities, our MSc has been designed as a smooth transition to the finance industry.
Several scholarship options are available, please visit the university website for information.
The MSc in Finance prepares students for a wide range of professional roles in financial markets, risk management, and corporate finance. Below are some of the potential career paths and their related skillsets:
Jobs in Financial Markets
Professionals in financial markets require strong analytical skills to evaluate risk and return factors associated with various types of investments. They must possess a deep understanding of market dynamics, including the impact of economic conditions and regulatory constraints on trading and management strategies. The ability to interpret and respond to these factors is crucial for designing and implementing effective trading and portfolio management solutions.
Potential Job Roles:
- Proprietary Portfolio Manager
- Portfolio Manager for Third Parties
- Trader in Financial Markets
Expert in Analysis, Control, and Financial Risk Management
Success in this area demands an advanced understanding of the determinants of risk and profitability across different market segments. Professionals must be skilled in identifying how market factors and regulatory constraints influence portfolio performance and trading strategies. Additionally, expertise in the measurement and control of financial risks is essential to ensure sound financial decision-making and the protection of institutional assets.
Professional Opportunities:
- Risk Manager
- Financial Consultant
- Market Analyst
- Manager of Financial Intermediaries
- Manager in Financial Directorates of Non-Financial Corporations
Why Studying in Siena?
The University of Siena, located in the historic city of Siena in Italy, is an attractive choice for higher education for various reasons.
Tradition and Prestige: Established in 1240, the University of Siena is one of the oldest universities in Italy and Europe. It has a rich history and a longstanding reputation for academic excellence.
Diverse Course Offerings: The University of Siena offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate programs in various disciplines, including humanities, sciences, medicine, engineering, economics and social sciences. This allows students to pursue their interests and career goals.
International Environment: The University of Siena attracts students from all around the world, creating a diverse and multicultural learning environment. This exposure to different perspectives and cultures can be highly enriching for students.
Quality of Life: Siena is known for its relaxed lifestyle, friendly locals, and delicious cuisine. The city’s manageable size and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal location for students looking to balance their studies with a vibrant social life.
Research Impact: The University of Siena’s research output is recognised globally, with its faculty and researchers contributing to significant advancements in various fields. The university’s research publications and citations in international journals reflect its commitment to high-quality research and global impact.
Research Opportunities: The University of Siena has strong research programs and collaborations with other institutions, both in Italy and internationally. This can provide students with valuable opportunities for research and professional development.
Affordability: Compared to universities in some other countries, tuition fees at the University of Siena are relatively affordable. Additionally, the cost of living in Siena is generally lower than in larger Italian cities like Rome or Milan.
Exchange Programs: The University of Siena participates in several international exchange programs, such as the Erasmus+ program, which allows students to study abroad for a semester or academic year, providing valuable international experience.
Career Prospects: Graduates from the University of Siena have a strong record of finding employment or continuing their education, both within Italy and internationally. The university’s reputation and connections can help students access opportunities in their chosen fields.
Beautiful Location: Siena is a picturesque city with a rich history and stunning architecture. The city’s medieval cityscape and scenic countryside provide a unique and inspiring setting for studying.
Language and Cultural Immersion: Studying in Siena offers the opportunity to learn or improve Italian language skills, as well as gain a deep understanding of Italian culture and history.
Studying Abroad
International students enrolled at the University of Siena can participate in several international exchange programs, such as the Erasmus+ program, which allows our students to study abroad for a semester or one academic year, providing valuable international experience.
Our International programs allow students of the University of Siena to spend a study period (from 2 to 12 months) at one of the other 500 partner universities worldwide.
It is possible to carry out the mobility during each study cycle (bachelor, master of PhD), attend courses and sit exams, prepare thesis work and carry out internship activities. Participants in the International mobility programs will get full recognition for the credits obtained abroad.


