MSc
Banking and Finance

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Key Information

Campus

Brayford Pool

Start Date

September 2025

Typical Offer

See More

Duration

1 year

Academic Year

Course Overview

MSc Banking and Finance is designed to prepare students for a career in the financial sector, where demand is high for specialists with knowledge of corporate finance, banking and financial market, investment and sustainable financial management.

In line with the latest developments and challenges within the global financial services sector, the programme is designed to provide advanced skills, essential for a successful career in retail, commercial, sustainable finance, investment and private banking.

The core curriculum encompasses a diverse range of subjects including finance, economics, quantitative methods, and fintech. Students will delve into the latest financial theories, acquire advanced skills to analyse financial matters and critically examine the current challenges and issues facing financial institutions.

In addition to the standard MSc Banking and Finance route, students can select from two additional pathways which lead to the awards of MSc Banking and Finance (Finance and Investment) or MSc Banking and Finance (Sustainable Financial Management), allowing students to align their academic journey with their career aspirations and areas of expertise.

Why Choose Lincoln

Delivered by a diverse, international teaching team

Flexible study pathways to align with your career aspirations

Access to the industry-standard Bloomberg Terminal

Hear from visiting speakers from industry

A student working on a tablet

How You Study

The MSc in Banking and Finance is a one-year Master's course combining advanced study and research. The base programme includes four core modules: Fintech, Applied Corporate Finance, Portfolio Analysis and Responsible Investing, and Sustainable Financial Reporting. The remaining modules are defined by choice of pathway.

The first term gives a comprehensive foundation knowledge of financial markets, institutions, and intermediaries, along with a focus on understanding the role of banks and other institutions within this framework.

From the second term, students will have the opportunity to explore one of the following specialisations: Banking and Finance, Finance and Investment, or Sustainable Financial Management. Students following the Finance and Investment route can study specialist topics such as fixed income and wealth management and investment and valuation. Students following the Sustainable Financial Management pathway can study topics such as sustainable financial reporting and the green economy and sustainable development governance.

Each student will be expected to write a dissertation, giving the opportunity to work with one of the Department's experienced lecturers on a selected topic and apply your knowledge to a specific problem.

Modules

              † Some courses may offer optional modules. The availability of optional modules may vary from year to year and will be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed. Optional module selection may also be affected by staff availability.

              Applied Corporate Finance 2025-26ECO9207MLevel 72025-26This applied course focuses on the up-to-date empirical evidence in the field of corporate finance. Students have the opportunity to develop knowledge about the empirical research process that helps them develop economic intuition about key corporate finance decisions in practice. Topics cover some of the most engaging ones in corporate finance, including valuation and pricing, governance and control, financial distress and bankruptcy, issues in raising capital, capital structure and dividends, and executive compensation and incentives.CoreBanking and Financial Markets 2025-26FIN9114Level 72025-26The module focuses on the role of financial managers managing a special type of business – the commercial bank. The module gives a brief introduction to the banking and financial markets in an open and globalized economy context, including the organization and structure of banking and financial markets. The module starts with the analysis of the economy and financial markets, the monetary policies, and then analyses the specialist management issues of banking business.CoreFinancial Inquiry and Project Analysis 2025-26FIN9121Level 72025-26The Independent Study provides an opportunity for students to undertake a piece of original research that broadens and deepens the application of digital skills and extend their knowledge base independently. The focus is upon the ability of students to take ownership of their own project and to complete the research project, demonstrating their abilities as independent learners and producers.CoreFinancial Technology 2025-26ECO9209MLevel 72025-26This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the major areas of Financial Technology, the ability to understand blockchain technology, and why so many firms are implementing the technology, as well to reflect on the history, behaviour, and impact cryptocurrencies have had on the financial sector. Students will gain a broad appreciation of recent developments in FinTech, including money and payment, digital finance, alternative finance and, importantly, FinTech regulation.CorePortfolio Analysis 2025-26FIN9115Level 72025-26This module aims to provide concepts and theories of portfolio analysis with a focus on equities. It explores the analytical framework of asset pricing models and introduces the concepts associated with the efficient market hypothesis. The module makes use of data-driven information platforms and integrated analytics software, e.g., Bloomberg, which draws upon statistical concepts of mean, variance, covariance and correlation and uses basic rules pertaining to these.CoreAnalytical Techniques for Finance 2025-26FIN9120Level 72025-26The module will equip students with an understanding of tools of quantitative finance. The module involves introducing the student to statistical software packages, such as SPSS and STATA, for exploring and exercising the application of quantitative analytical techniques. This aspect of the module will feature multiple regression as well as quantitative techniques for the analysis of survey data.OptionalFinancial and Sustainable Reporting 2025-26FIN9118Level 72025-26This module is concerned with the presentation and analysis of financial and non-financial information in corporate annual reports. It covers how the financial statements are generated and reported in accordance with IFRS and how financial information is important to different users, how Blockchain, FinTech, etc will affect financial reporting practice , and why sustainability disclosure is an important feature of the annual corporate report.OptionalFixed Income and Wealth Management 2025-26FIN9116Level 72025-26OptionalGovernance and Risk 2025-26ACC9704Level 72025-26This module examines corporate governance concepts and principles in both national and international contexts, developing key skills necessary to support the development of good governance, risk management, control, internal audit, and stakeholder dialogue throughout an organisation. The module provides an overview of the role of boards and directors in corporate governance and also develops an understanding of the essential role that corporate social responsibility (CSR) plays in corporate governance worldwide.OptionalInternational Macroeconomics and Finance 2025-26FIN9026MLevel 72025-26This module equips students with an in-depth and applied-oriented understanding of theoretical and empirical problems addressed in the field known as International Finance (also known as International Macroeconomics / Open Macroeconomics) and to bring students up to the research frontier in International Finance. It draws heavily on financial modelling and financial econometrics.OptionalLincoln Student Managed Investment Fund - Masters 2025-26FIN9106MLevel 72025-26Initiated from 2015 and officially founded in 2018, the LSMIF is set up with a structure similar to any other professionally run fund management company with students running every aspect of the fund, from CEO to analyst. It is one of only few of this kind in the United Kingdom. The fund uses money raised from donors to invest in shares of companies listed on London Stock Exchange. It is organized, run and managed the same way as an investment company in the real world. The fund has got sponsorship and advisory support from UK leading wealth management companies such as Brewin Dolphin and Mattioli Woods with senior officers from them joining the Board of Advisors. This fund gives students the opportunity to work as analysts, investment managers, CFO, CIO, CEO etc. Students also have the chances to meet, discuss and learn from experts in the field in Quarterly Investment Committee Meetings series. Students are given additional training relating to their works.OptionalMachine Learning Applications in Finance and Economics 2025-26ECO9221MLevel 72025-26Machine learning has become more prominent recently due to the availability of vast amounts of data and more affordable computing power. Machine learning excels at handling large and complex volumes of data with more variables than observations, something the business, policy, economics and finance has in increasing quantities. Leading banks and financial services companies are deploying AI technology, including to streamline their processes, optimise portfolios, decrease risk and underwrite loans among other things. Having the skills to master sift through the plethora of data, to find useful patterns will be highly prized over the coming years.OptionalRisk Management in Banking 2025-26FIN9024MLevel 72025-26This module provides the students with a technical and broad overview of risk management in banking. The module can benefit students by expanding their understanding of the strong ties between banking risks and financial markets. It can also enable the students to have a critical understanding of the regulatory framework.OptionalSustainable Development 2025-26ECO9225Level 72025-26Since the World Trade Organisation commenced in 1995, the pattern of trade has changed significantly by cutting trade barriers particularly in developing countries. However, removing trade barriers and opening up markets do not necessarily generate sustainable development in practice. Rich countries and large multinational corporations dominate the global marketplace and in turn, trade is inherently unequal and poor countries seldom experience rising well-being but increasing unemployment, poverty, and income inequality.OptionalSustainable Financial Management 2025-26FIN9119Level 72025-26Investing with a positive impact is not only feasible but also financially rewarding. However, determining the actual impact of investments can be challenging. This module offers insights into the obstacles and benefits of sustainable finance from both corporate and investor perspectives.OptionalValuation and Investments 2025-26FIN9117Level 72025-26The module focuses on the role of investors who have to deal with typical transactions in the capital markets from business valuation to equity capital market products and to mergers and acquisitions or leverage buyouts. The module also does business valuation and analyses typical business models, the process of investment and how it is executed. The module will review different valuation techniques used for different business types using a case study analysis approach.Optional

              What You Need to Know

              We want you to have all the information you need to make an informed decision on where and what you want to study. In addition to the information provided on this course page, our What You Need to Know page offers explanations on key topics including programme validation/revalidation, additional costs, contact hours, and our return to face-to-face teaching.

              How you are assessed

              Assessment methods reflect the differing theoretical and practical approaches and learning outcomes of each individual module. These methods will vary from module to module. Each student will also be expected to write a dissertation, providing the opportunity to work with one of the Department's experienced lecturers on a selected topic and apply your knowledge to a specific problem.

              Industry Partnerships

              The standard MSc Banking and Finance course has been approved as an academic partner for the Financial Risk Manager certification by GARP, the world's leading organisation for risk managers. As part of the FRM University Affiliation Course, eligible students can apply for FRM scholarships that cover the cost of registration for the FRM examination. Approval is currently pending for the named pathway programmes. The University is also in process of applying for University Accredited Partner Affiliation with the CFA Institue.

              GARP logo

              Finance Simulation

              Our approach to teaching incorporates a range of innovative elements aimed at providing students with practical exposure to financial markets. One of the key highlights of the academic year is our financial markets simulation events delivered by Amplify Trading. Amplify Trading is an award-winning FinTech company offering professional training solutions to the world’s largest financial institutions (including Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, Deutsche Bank, UBS, S&P).

              During the simulation events, students can use the FlowTrader platform to experience the different roles, operations, and objectives within financial markets, operating on simulated or real market prices. Our students may also have opportunities to gain a place on the Amplify Summer Analyst Programme.

              Guest Lectures

              Through the academic year, our students have the chance to hear from experts from a wide range of industries who will share their knowledge. Previous speakers include Director of Financial and Strategic Risk at NatWest Group, Dr Alessandra Mongiardino, and mathematician, Dr Simon Smith.

              Bloomberg Terminal

              Students can use our Bloomberg Terminal, which is designed to help industry professionals make better-informed investment decisions by offering the latest market news along with historical data and an international network to communicate securely and reliably. Bloomberg offers a practical resource for students to reinforce the theories they learn in lectures, and enable them to become familiar with the tools used by today’s financial services professionals.

              An academic working with a student in the Bloomberg lab

              Student Managed Investment Fund

              Lincoln International Business School offers the Student Managed Investment Fund (LSMIF), which is an investment fund created, operated, and maintained by students within the school, with everything running within the real-world environment of finance.

              One of only a handful of its kind in the UK, students will be managing real money with the objective of making positive returns while managing risk. Industry veteran and long-time lecturer Hao Quach can help support the students throughout, utilising his years of experience in all aspects of investment banking and 20 years teaching in many countries.

              How to Apply

              Postgraduate Application Support

              Applying for a postgraduate programme at Lincoln is easy. Find out more about the application process and what you'll need to complete on our How to Apply page. Here, you'll also be able to find out more about the entry requirements we accept and how to contact us for dedicated support during the process.

              A student listening in a seminar

              Entry Requirements 2025-26

              Entry Requirements

              This is a non-specialist degree and although a background in the subjects covered is welcome, it is not essential. The entry requirements are a minimum of a 2.2 honours degree or equivalent and grade B in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent. Evidence of quantitative methods or mathematics during an undergraduate degree (or A Level Grade C or above in Mathematics) is valuable.

              Students from a variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply and applicants may be invited for interview to provide effective information and guidance or for non-standard entry.

              Overseas students will be required to demonstrate English language proficiency equivalent to IELTS 6.0 overall, with a minimum of 5.5 in each element. For information regarding other English language qualifications we accept, please visit the English Requirements page https://www.lincoln.ac.uk/studywithus/internationalstudents/englishlanguagerequirementsandsupport/englishlanguagerequirements/.

              For further advice on IELTS and the support available, please contact the International College by email at internationalcollege@lincoln.ac.uk.

              Course Fees

              You will need to have funding in place for your studies before you arrive at the University. Our fees vary depending on the course, mode of study, and whether you are a UK or international student. You can view the breakdown of fees for this programme below.

              Course Fees

              The University offers a range of merit-based, subject-specific, and country-focused scholarships for UK and international students. To help support students from outside of the UK, we offer a number of international scholarships which range from £1,000 up to the value of 50 per cent of tuition fees. For full details and information about eligibility, visit our scholarships and bursaries pages.

              Funding Your Study

              Postgraduate Funding Options

              Find out more about the optional available to support your postgraduate study, from Master's Loans to scholarship opportunities. You can also find out more about how to pay your fees and access support from our helpful advisors.

              Two students working on a laptop in a study space

              Career Development

              This programme with pathways is designed to provide you with advanced skills essential for a successful career in retail, commercial, sustainable finance, investment or private banking.

              This course is ideal for those wanting to work as a loan officer, private banker, private wealth consultant, or contribute to the back and middle offices of an investment bank in roles such as risk management, sustainable finance and reporting, or support services.

              Academic Contact

              For more information about this course, please contact the Programme Leader.

              Dr Samy Amer
              samer@lincoln.ac.uk

              Working in Partnership

              Lincoln International Business School works with students and organisations to enhance the contribution of business to society. For students, that means developing their business skills and knowledge to improve their career readiness.The University of Lincoln is a member of AACSB, a global nonprofit association connecting educators, students, and businesses to achieve a common goal: to create the next generation of great leaders.

              AACSB logo

              Postgraduate Events

              To get a real feel for what it is like to study at the University of Lincoln, we hold a number of dedicated postgraduate events and activities throughout the year for you to take part in.

              A group of students sat around a table, working together on a project
              The University intends to provide its courses as outlined in these pages, although the University may make changes in accordance with the Student Admissions Terms and Conditions.