The MSc Finance provides a firm foundation in Finance, Financial Economics and Empirical Finance and has been ranked among the top 55 Finance programmes in the world by the Financial Times in their 2023 Masters in Finance pre-experience ranking.
The programme provides a solid grounding in modern finance and economics with a particular emphasis on techniques and models and their application to real-world problems.
As well as providing you with firm academic foundations, this course also aims to develop the individual. You will learn vital skills expected of graduates alongside ‘soft’ skills of team working, creative thinking and high-impact communication.
You’ll also benefit from our exclusive calendar of guests and events. Recent speakers have included senior executives from Newsmith Capital, Burger King, UBS and Cable and Wireless.
The MSc Finance has received recognition by the CFA Institute for its Affiliation Program, which is a global association of investment professionals that offers the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) designation. Affiliated status is granted to institutions whose degree programmes incorporate at least 70% of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK). This provides a solid grounding in the CBOK, which positions students well should they plan to sit the CFA exams.
The CFA qualification is a globally recognised industry designation and affiliated universities are seen as a desirable postgraduate destination, offering programmes that provide a strong foundation in all aspects of finance and a practical knowledge of the finance sector.
Ideal for those who want to get a firm foundation in finance, financial economics and empirical finance whilst also learn vital skills like team working, creative thinking and high impact communication.
The University of Liverpool Management School is one of an elite group of institutions worldwide to hold the gold standard ‘triple-crown’ accreditation from AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.
MSc programmes in Accounting and Finance, Fintech, Finance and Finance and Investment Management have been officially recognised as academic partners of the CQF Institute, the rapidly growing global organisation for professionals in quantitative finance and the awarding body for the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF).
The Finance programme has affiliate status with the CQF Institute, allowing our students to register for free membership and gain access to resources such as events, research, careers tools, workshops and thought leadership materials.
The course is also accredited by CFA.
AACSB Accreditation Standards require a high quality teaching environment, a commitment to continuous improvement, and curricula responsive to the needs of businesses. This achievement means that the Management School meets specific standards of excellence. It also means it's committed to on-going improvement in delivering high quality education.
AMBA is the highest standard of achievement in postgraduate business education. MBA students and graduates, business schools and employers all recognise it as a gold standard. AMBA's rigorous criteria and assessment process ensure that only programmes that demonstrate the highest standards in teaching, learning and curriculum design; career development and employability; and student, alumni and employer interaction achieve accreditation.
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Programme is a global recognition scheme that links academic degrees to the CFA charter, one of the most respected professional qualifications in finance and investment. In short, it shows employers and students that the course is professionally rigorous, globally benchmarked, and a direct stepping stone towards the CFA charter.
The CQF Institute's Academic Partners represent the best in financial education around the world. The Academic Partnership Program is dedicated to supporting the professional development of students studying in the field of finance and quantitative finance.
Students can register as free members and will benefit from a wealth of resources at the Institute, including leading industry insights via technical conferences and talks, networking with key decision makers and career opportunities from top financial companies.
The School is also accredited by EQUIS, which is the leading international system of quality assessment, improvement and accreditation of higher education institutions in management and business administration. Institutions that are accredited by EQUIS must demonstrate not only high general quality in all dimensions of their activities, but also a high degree of internationalisation and corporate connections.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
This 12-month programme consists of five compulsory modules and three optional modules followed by a dissertation over the summer period on completion of Semester two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| CORPORATE FINANCE AND VALUATION (ACFI906) | 20 |
| PORTFOLIO ANALYSIS (ACFI923) | 10 |
| FINANCIAL ECONOMETRICS (ACFI901) | 20 |
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| FINANCIAL MARKETS, FINANCIAL REGULATIONS AND ETHICS (ACFI824) | 10 |
| BANKING AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS (ACFI812) | 10 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
This 12-month programme consists of five compulsory modules and three optional modules followed by a dissertation over the summer period on completion of Semester two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| SECURITY ANALYSIS AND INVESTMENT (ACFI825) | 20 |
| DERIVATIVES (ACFI918) | 20 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
This 12-month programme consists of five compulsory modules and three optional modules followed by a dissertation over the summer period on completion of Semester two.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| DISSERTATION (ACFI912) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Delivery of the programme is via lectures, seminars, discussions on research papers, case studies, group work, podcasts, Bloomberg, Adobe Connect and tutorials.
As a traditional teaching method, interactive lectures provide students the opportunity to learn the subject with an in-depth input from the lecturers whereas seminars and group work provide further avenues for interactive learning from other group members.
Following semester two you will complete a dissertation with the support of an academic supervisor.
Teaching time will account for an average of 10 hours per week and you should anticipate an additional 25 hours of self-directed study and group work.
In semester one and two, you will take modules totalling 120 credits. The dissertation completed during the summer period is worth 60 credits and students will be supported by their academic supervisor.
Students are required to complete 180 credits to achieve a full MSc.
Subject to meeting specific criteria outlined by the University, students will graduate with a Pass, Merit or Distinction.
Assessment tasks are varied and some may be designed specifically to meet the learning outcomes of a particular programme of study, but students can expect to be assessed via coursework, essay, group work, presentations, case studies, negotiation exercises, reports and examinations. The weighting of individual components will vary from one module to another. All assessment information is included within the module specification.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
This programme is delivered by the triple-accredited University of Liverpool Management School.
The School has a thriving international master’s community with a comprehensive, interdisciplinary programme of social and extra-curricular events and dedicated careers and employability support.
Learn more about the MSc Finance programme at the University of Liverpool Management School, including our research-focused teaching, software and database access and outstanding facilities including our Bloomberg trading suite.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
I chose Liverpool because I fell in love with the city. There’s always so much to do, so many things happening, and lots to learn about the city. The university is also part of The Russell Group, which always looks good for future career prospects.
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
Graduates of this programme will be equipped to take up positions in Financial Institutions and other career opportunities in government agencies, large corporations, consultancy firms, investment banks and many other branches of the finance industry.
From day one, you will have access to a specialist, in-house postgraduate careers team and have access to one-to-one careers guidance, workshops, seminars, and employability initiatives.
Graduates will gain a sound theoretical grounding in finance and will develop a range of analytical and transferable skills that will help them to enter the financial services sector and undertake key roles in:
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £15,000
Part-time place, per year - £7,500
Full-time place, per year - £32,000
Part-time place, per year - £16,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
If you've graduated with an undergraduate degree in Chemistry, and you've accepted a place on a master's course, you could be entitled to a £10,000 contribution towards your tuition fees. Please note your master's can be in a range of subject areas, and is not restricted to Chemistry. This award is available to one student per academic year who's considered to be from a widening participation background.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in Finance, Accounting or Economics. Exceptional candidates with degrees in other subjects (with a significant component of finance) will be considered. Students who lack the usual academic qualifications but have appropriate professional qualifications (with good grades) will be considered individually on merit. Grades in modules relevant to Finance must average 2:2 (particular emphasis will be placed on final-year finance modules). |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Have a question about this course or studying with us? Our dedicated enquiries team can help.
Last updated 31 March 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions