Postgraduate courses in Banking and Finance

Banking and finance is a very wide area full of multiple jobs. In sectors where there are multiple jobs, it makes it easier to find a title that will best suit your skills and interests.

If you want to progress in your career in the sector, now is the time to take the leap. Let’s be honest, we all love money, why not work with it?

What is banking and finance?

Finance is the management of money. It is a term used for matters concerning the management, creation and study of money and investments. In short, finance is a simple term that describes activities to do with banking, leverage, credit, debit, money and investments. 

Banking is exactly what you think it is. It’s the services offered and business conducted by a bank. 

Courses

There are quite a few postgraduate courses to choose from in banking and finance and most courses all have the same title. Full course details can be found on University websites and course overviews. Some courses also give an option of studying full time or part time. 

Courses in banking and finance will prepare students for a highly analytical, skilled and forward thinking sector. They will create opportunities for graduates to work in banking, financial services, finance and financial consultancies. Most courses cover the same criteria. Areas covered include how to manage assets, liquidity and risk, credit analysis, interest, statements and rates. 

These courses will allow students to develop the necessary skills and requirements to gain employment. Such skills will include analyzing financial institutions and instruments, markets, consumer demands and competition. Students will also be provided conceptual and theoretical grounding in current concepts and techniques in banking, policy, risk management and associated areas. 

Here is an idea of some courses that are available: 

• Banking and Finance
• Money, Banking and Finance
• Finance and Investment
• Financial Management 
• International Banking and Finance

Entry requirements

Entry requirements can often differ depending on the specific course and university you study at. As this is a postgraduate degree, an honours degree is required in order to apply. In some cases, a 2.2 degree will suffice however in other cases a 2.1 degree is required. As this can vary in courses, it is important to carry out the required research in your specific university choice.

You can find entry requirements for each course on the course overview online or on University websites. 

Salary Expectation

Your salary when working in banking and finance can change depending on your experience. There are also a few job titles to choose from. Those starting out as corporate investment bankers may earn between £30,000-£40,000. 

With experience of around three years that wage could possibly increase to in or around £50,000 and those with significant experience may possibly earn anything up to £150,000. The average salary of a financial advisor can range between £30,000 to £45,000. This can also increase depending on your client base. 

Job options

Potential jobs in the banking and finance sector include: 

• Auditor

An auditor is an accountant that reviews an organization’s financial records to make sure everything is running smoothly. 

• Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts provide guidance to businesses and individuals making investment decisions. 

• Financial Manager

A financial manager performs data analysis and advises on profit maximising ideas. They are responsible for the financial health of an organization. 

• Investment Banker

As an investment banker you will provide financial advice to companies and governments to raise money for various uses. 

• Bank Teller

Bank Tellers provide account services to customers such as receiving  deposits, loan payments and cashing checks. 

• Customer service

Similar to a bank teller, you will work direct;y with customers in aiding them where they might need help or advising them on what steps to take next in their search of information or more guidance. 

Skills and requirements 

Important skills to work in finance include:

• Strong interpersonal skills
• Strong communicator 
• A good manner when working with clients
• A problem solver
• Critical thinker 
• Knowledge of IT software
• Works well with others
• Ability to work under pressure
• Numeracy skills
• Ability to lead a team when necessary 
• Strong organisation skills 
• Good time management