Financial Technology, MSc

Program Overview

The MSc Financial Technology program at the University of Aberdeen combines expertise in mathematics, computer science, finance, and economics to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the rapidly growing FinTech industry. The program covers a diverse range of topics, including programming, machine learning, data science, financial crime, and cyber security. Graduates are well-equipped for careers as software developers, business analysts, consultants, data scientists, and other roles within the FinTech sector.

Program Outline

Degree Overview

Overview:

The MSc Financial Technology program at the University of Aberdeen brings together expertise in mathematics, computer science, finance, and economics to deliver a fully integrated learning experience in Financial Technology (FinTech). This program aims to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this rapidly growing field.

Objectives:

• Equip students with the fundamental programming skills in Python, a dominant programming language in FinTech.
• Provide students with a thorough understanding of machine learning and data science concepts relevant to FinTech.
• Highlight the inherent risks in the FinTech industry, such as security breaches and their impact on financial institutions.
• Develop students' critical thinking and communication skills for effective problem-solving in FinTech.

Program Description:

This program is offered jointly by the University of Aberdeen Business School and School of Natural & Computing Sciences, leveraging expertise from both fields. It is open to individuals from any academic background, offering an opportunity to acquire specialized knowledge and skills in FinTech.

Outline

Program Content:

The MSc Financial Technology program covers a diverse range of topics, including:

• Stage 1:
• Introduction to Programming
• Database Systems and Big Data
• Financial Mathematics I
• Financial Mathematics II
• Stage 2:
• Applied Econometrics
• Advances in Machine Learning in Finance
• Financial Crime and Cyber Security
• One of the following options:
• Empirical Methods in Finance Research
• Portfolio Analysis
• Financial Analysis and Markets
• Stage 3:
• FinTech Dissertation

Structure:

The program consists of three stages, each comprising a set of compulsory and optional courses. Stage 1 lays the foundation with introductory modules on programming, databases, and financial mathematics. Stage 2 advances into more specialized areas like econometrics, machine learning, and financial crime, and allows students to choose one elective based on their interests.

Assessment

Assessment Methods:

The program employs a variety of assessment methods to evaluate students' comprehension and application of acquired knowledge and skills. These methods include:

• Individual and Group Presentations: Students are required to present their work to their peers and instructors, demonstrating their ability to articulate concepts and engage in discussions.
• Reports: Students prepare comprehensive reports on assigned topics, showcasing their research and analytical skills.
• Academic Essays: Students develop their research and writing skills by composing essays on relevant topics in FinTech.
• FinTech Dissertation: The dissertation project serves as a capstone assessment, requiring students to independently research a chosen topic, analyze data, and present their findings in a scholarly manner.

Teaching

Teaching Methods:

The program adopts a multifaceted approach to teaching, incorporating various methods to cater to different learning styles and maximize student engagement. These methods include:

• Group Projects: Students work collaboratively on projects, fostering teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Lectures: Instructors deliver lectures covering core concepts and providing comprehensive overviews of key areas in FinTech.
• Research: Students are encouraged to engage in research and pursue independent study, fostering their critical thinking and analytical abilities.
• Seminars: Interactive seminars allow for in-depth discussions of specific topics, facilitating knowledge exchange and peer-to-peer learning.

Careers

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the MSc Financial Technology program are well-equipped to pursue diverse career paths within the dynamic FinTech industry. Potential career options include:

• Software Developer: Design and develop software applications for financial institutions and FinTech startups.
• Business Analyst: Analyze business needs, requirements, and processes to develop and implement solutions within the FinTech space.
• Other Roles: The program equips graduates with a versatile skillset applicable to a range of roles, including positions in risk management, compliance, and marketing within the FinTech sector.

Other

Program Highlights:

• Industry Relevance: The program's curriculum is tailored to address the evolving needs of the FinTech industry, ensuring graduates possess the most sought-after skills and knowledge.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: Combining expertise from diverse fields, the program provides a holistic understanding of FinTech, encompassing its technical, financial, and economic aspects.
• Strong Industry Links: The program benefits from the Business School's strong industry connections and the School of Natural & Computing Sciences' world-renowned expertise in intelligent systems.
This ensures students gain valuable insights from industry professionals and stay abreast of current trends.

EU / International students: £27,000 UK: £15,700 In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.