MSc Public Financial Management

Program Overview

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The MSc Public Financial Management program at SOAS University of London is a distance learning program that provides a comprehensive understanding of public finance principles and practices. It equips individuals with the skills and knowledge to manage public finances effectively, addressing real-world challenges in public financial management. The program combines theoretical and practical approaches, emphasizing active learning, case studies, and collaborative projects. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the public and private sectors, including financial analysis, public policy, and project management.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview: MSc Public Financial Management (Distance Learning)

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Program Description:

The MSc Public Financial Management program at SOAS University of London is a distance learning program that provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of public finance principles and practices. This program combines theoretical and practical approaches to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge to manage public finances effectively.

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Program Objectives:

• Provide students with a detailed understanding of public finance theory and practice.
• Equip students with the analytical and problem-solving skills necessary to address real-world challenges in public financial management.
• Develop students' capabilities in planning and managing public budgets, designing and implementing effective public finance policies, and utilizing tools for financial analysis and forecasting.
• Foster critical thinking and ethical decision-making skills necessary for effective public financial management.

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Unique Features:

• Offered via distance learning, allowing flexibility in study schedule and location for working professionals.
• Led by experienced academics and practitioners in the field of public finance.
• Focus on current issues and challenges in the global context of public finance.
• Emphasizes real-world case studies and simulations to provide practical application of theoretical concepts.
• Encourages active participation and collaborative learning through online discussions and group projects.

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Outline:

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Program Structure:

The MSc Public Financial Management program consists of six core modules:

• Public Financial Management: Planning and Performance
• Macroeconomic Policy and Financial Markets
• Public Financial Management: Revenue
• Bank Regulation and Resolution of Banking Crises
• Decentralisation and Local Governance
• Project Appraisal
Each module is 10 weeks in duration and requires students to complete two assignments and a three-hour examination. Additionally, students can choose to complete a dissertation as part of the program.

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Program Content:

• Public budgeting and revenue management
• Public expenditure and debt management
• Financial management in decentralization
• Project appraisal and evaluation
• Public policy and financial markets
• Bank regulation and crisis resolution

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Course Schedule:

The program is offered in two intakes per year, with modules typically available in at least two of the year's study sessions. This allows students to plan their studies around their professional and personal commitments.

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Module Descriptions:

• Public Financial Management: Planning and Performance: Introduces students to the key concepts and practices of public budgeting and financial management, including budget preparation, performance measurement, and accountability.
• Macroeconomic Policy and Financial Markets: Examines the role of monetary and fiscal policies in managing national economies, exploring their impact on financial markets and the public sector.
• Public Financial Management: Revenue: Analyzes the various sources of government revenue, including taxes, borrowing, and aid.
It also explores the design and implementation of effective tax policies.
• Bank Regulation and Resolution of Banking Crises: Investigates the role of bank regulation in maintaining financial stability and explores the mechanisms for resolving banking crises.
• Decentralisation and Local Governance: Examines the theoretical and practical aspects of decentralization, including the allocation of functions and resources between different levels of government.
• Project Appraisal: Provides students with the tools and techniques for evaluating the feasibility and potential impact of public investment projects.

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Assessment:

Assessment in the program is based on a combination of coursework and examinations.

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Coursework:

• Two assignments per module
• Dissertation (optional)

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Examinations:

• Three-hour examination at the end of each module

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Assessment Criteria:

• Understanding of key concepts and principles
• Analytical and problem-solving skills
• Critical thinking and ethical decision-making
• Quality of written communication

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• Online lectures and seminars
• Individual and group assignments
• Online discussions and forums
• Case studies and simulations

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Faculty:

The program is led by experienced academics and practitioners in the field of public finance, drawn from SOAS's renowned Centre for Financial and Management Studies (CeFiMS). The faculty brings diverse real-world experience and expertise to the program, ensuring students receive a high-quality and current education.

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Unique Teaching Approaches:

• Emphasis on active learning and student participation
• Use of real-world case studies and simulations
• Collaborative learning through online discussions and group projects

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Careers:

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Career Prospects:

Graduates of the MSc Public Financial Management program are equipped with the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of career paths in the public and private sectors. Potential career opportunities include:

• Financial analyst
• Public policy analyst
• Budget officer
• Tax policy specialist
• Project manager
• Research analyst

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Career Outcomes:

Recent graduates of the program have secured employment in various organizations, including:

• Central Finance Ministries
• Line Ministries
• Sub-national Governments
• Parliament
• Consultancies
• International Finance Institutions

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Career Support:

SOAS provides career support services to help students with their career development. These services include:

• Career advising and guidance
• Job search resources
• Networking opportunities
• Skills development workshops

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Funding Opportunities:

• Students may be eligible for financial aid options, including postgraduate loans, scholarships, and sponsorships.
• Students are encouraged to explore funding possibilities through various institutions and organizations, including their local British Council, British High Commission, or British Embassy.

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Conclusion:

The MSc Public Financial Management program at SOAS University of London provides a comprehensive and rigorous education in the field of public finance. This program is an excellent choice for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the public sector, private sector, or non-profit organizations. The program's distance learning format makes it accessible to working professionals who wish to continue their studies while fulfilling their professional commitments.

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Tuition fees 2022/23 MSc Single module £10,920 £1,820 Fees are inclusive of all required resources. Fees may increase each year, therefore may be higher in subsequent years of study. Pay as you learn Our distance learning programmes can be paid in full at the time of enrolment or on a pay as you learn basis. Postgraduate loans If you have been a resident in England for 3 years you may be eligible. See postgraduate funding and finance for more information. Look through the postgraduate scholarships available. Alternatively, we recommend students approach their local British Council, British High Commission or British Embassy, for information on local funding. Dependent on nationality, employment circumstances and other factors, funding and sponsorship sources can include: United Nations (UNESCO, FAO, UNDP, UNEP etc); Bilateral Aid Agencies (SIDA, GTZ, etc), European Union; British Council; UK Department for International Development / Foreign & Commonwealth Office; NGOs; Educational and other charitable trusts.