MSc Finance by Research
Pursue rigorous financial research - ideal for ambitious minds and critical thinkers that are interested in advanced financial theory.
Apply Now
Course overview
About the course
Driven by a commitment to academic excellence and analytical rigor, the MSc in Finance by Research at The University of Buckingham offers a distinctive pathway for mastering advanced financial theory and empirical methods. Designed for ambitious minds, this programme empowers critical inquiry, fosters independent research, and cultivates the expertise needed to lead in global financial markets or pursue doctoral studies at top-tier institutions.
The MSc in Finance by Research at The University of Buckingham is a rigorous, research-focused degree for graduates seeking to explore advanced financial theory, empirical analysis, and real-world financial systems through original inquiry. It is awarded at Level 7 on the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ).
Positioned at the intersection of academic scholarship and financial innovation, the programme allows you to engage with some of the most pressing questions in finance—including asset pricing, behavioural finance, risk modelling, digital finance, and the integration of AI into financial markets. It is ideally suited for individuals aiming to pursue a PhD or research-oriented career in finance, consultancy, or policy development.
Guided by expert supervisors, students undertake an independent research project culminating in a substantial dissertation. While the programme does not include assessed taught modules, candidates may audit selected postgraduate finance courses to enhance their methodological and theoretical foundations.
With the opportunity to complete the programme in just 12 months (full-time), and supported by a competitive tuition structure, the MSc in Finance by Research offers both academic depth and practical advantage.
The MSc in Finance by Research is designed to:
- Cultivate researchers who can generate, interpret, and evaluate new financial knowledge through rigorous academic inquiry.
- Encourage critical thinking and empirical exploration in areas such as asset valuation, corporate governance, AI in finance, market microstructure, and behavioural economics.
- Equip students with advanced methodological skills, enabling them to conceptualise, design, and execute research using both qualitative and quantitative techniques.
- Promote reflexivity in financial research by examining the ethical, regulatory, and global dimensions of finance in a changing world.
Graduates of this programme are expected to contribute meaningfully to academic debates and professional practice in the ever-evolving field of finance.
Course Highlights
- A research-only programme without any compulsory taught modules.
- Designed to provide an immersive and intellectually rich experience in advanced financial research.
- A distinctive pathway for mastering advanced financial theory, designed for highly driven individuals.
Course breakdown
This advanced research-based degree is delivered by the Buckingham Business School and is available on a full-time basis over one year or part-time over two years.
You can commence your studies in either September or January, providing flexibility to suit individual schedules and commitments.
View course modules
+
Teaching and assessment
We keep class sizes small so you won’t get lost in the crowd. You will be assigned a personal tutor to support you every step of the way, and our academic and student support teams will ensure you have the tools to success in your studies. We value the quality of your learning experience.
Teaching methods
One-to-One Supervision
You are assigned an academic supervisor with expertise in the chosen research domain. Supervision includes regular 30-minute meetings (typically weekly) to guide topic refinement, research design, and writing progress.
Supervisors provide tailored guidance, regular feedback, and support in developing rigorous methodologies to ensure the research meets publishable academic standards.
Progression and Research Presentation
Weekly meetings foster continuous progress and intellectual development. Although the programme does not include formal taught modules, you are encouraged to audit selected Level 7 courses—such as Financial Analysis and Portfolio Modelling and Empirical Techniques in Finance – to deepen your conceptual and analytical expertise.
At the end of each term, all students present their research progress in a formal academic setting, allowing them to mark progression and to refine their work through peer and faculty feedback.
Assessment Methods
Independent Research Dissertation
Students produce an original, sustained piece of research of approximately 25,000–30,000 words, demonstrating academic depth, methodological competence, and a clear contribution to the field.
The dissertation is evaluated independently by two assessors (one internal, one external). A viva examination is not typically required, unless specifically recommended by the Faculty Research Committee.
After your course
Graduates of the MSc in Finance (by Research) are well-positioned to pursue a wide range of high-level career opportunities across the UK’s dynamic financial and professional services sectors. With a strong foundation in independent research, analytical thinking, and advanced financial knowledge, alumni are highly sought after for roles in corporate finance, financial analysis, auditing, and strategic portfolio consulting.
The research-intensive nature of the degree also opens doors to specialist positions in policy analysis, regulatory bodies, and think tanks, as well as academic and doctoral pathways for those interested in contributing to the future of finance scholarship. Employers across both the public and private sectors value the depth of expertise and critical insight that research graduates bring, making this qualification a powerful stepping stone to leadership and specialist roles in the finance professions.
Graduates of the MSc in Finance by Research are equipped with critical research capabilities and specialist knowledge that open diverse and high-impact career pathways.
Whether pursuing a career in academia or industry, graduates leave the programme with the intellectual foundation and professional polish to succeed in research-intensive roles
Here are just some of the career opportunities and skills that can stem from studying on this course:
Career opportunities
- Doctoral Research and Academia: Preparation for PhD programmes and eventual careers in higher education and scholarly research.
- Finance and Investment Analysis: Advanced roles in portfolio management, market research, asset pricing, and financial analytics.
- Regulatory and Public Policy: Research and advisory positions in central banks, regulatory agencies, and international financial institutions.
- Financial Technology and Data Science: Application of AI and quantitative methods to real-time financial modelling and algorithmic trading.
- Professional Services and Consultancy: Roles in financial advisory firms, think tanks, or economic consultancies where research is central to strategy development.
Career skills
- Research and Analytical Skills
- Communication Skills
- Project Management
- Leadership and Collaboration
- Technical and Digital Skills
- Networking and Professional Development
- Career-Specific Transferable Skills
- Teaching and Mentoring
Careers and Employability Support
Our courses strive to effectively combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. The Buckingham tutorial teaching model means that our students are well prepared as they embark on their careers and future study.
Find out more about our Careers and Employability Service.
Further study
Further your expertise in your field of study with our doctoral degrees.
“Upon completing my postgraduate degree, I have undoubtedly obtained the necessary independent and research skills to embark on my professional journey. The extensive knowledge I have acquired through this advanced degree sets me apart from other candidates, giving me a distinct advantage.”
Eleanor, Postgraduate student
Entry requirements
See our general University entry requirements for information on flexible entry, mature students and alternative qualifications.
The standard entry requirements for this course are:
A minimum of an upper second-class honour’s degree (2:1) in accounting, finance, banking, economics, or a closely related discipline from a recognised institution.
Application Materials
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Two academic references
- A research proposal (min. 3,000 words) detailing the research question, objectives, methodology, and scholarly context
- Personal statement (max. 700 words) explaining your motivation and background
- CV or résumé
- Certified translations of documents not in English
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
Interview
Shortlisted applicants are invited to a formal interview with the Programme Director to discuss the viability and scope of their proposed research.
Exceptional Admissions
Applicants with substantial, relevant professional experience may be admitted without a formal degree, subject to Faculty approval and the quality of their research proposal.
International Applicants
Find out about our requirements and see useful information for international applicants:
If you are uncertain whether you will be eligible to apply for this course, please contact our Admissions team.
Course fees
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | 1st Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 | |
Month Year Full-time (2 Years) | UK | £00,000 | £00,000 |
| INT | £00,000 | £00,000 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We have bursaries and scholarships available for both home and international students at undergraduate and postgraduate level, and these are awarded based on location, merit or financial need.
Funded scholarships and bursaries may be awarded across all schools of study, and represent a partial remission from tuition fees. Bursaries are means-tested and are intended for those who need a contribution towards their fees in order to study at Buckingham.
Students applying for this course may be eligible for the following:
View all scholarships and bursaries.
How to apply
Apply direct
Apply online from this page as:
- You can apply until shortly before the course starts.
- There are no application fees.
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘Apply Now’ button.