Studying finance abroad

What is finance?

Finance as a field of study focuses on the management of money, whether it’s saving, investing, borrowing, or planning for the future. You will learn how people and businesses make smart choices with their resources, from budgeting at home to big corporate deals or investing in stocks. At its core, finance is about making your money work for you in the best way possible.

During a finance degree you will dive into how money works and how to manage it smartly. You’ll study a range of topics, mixing number crunching with strategy, and learning how businesses make their financial decisions.

You’ll also explore areas like stocks, real estate, or corporate finance. It’s perfect if you love solving problems and want to help people and companies grow their wealth and make informed choices.

Why study finance abroad?

Studying finance abroad can be a great choice for international students. You’ll gain a global perspective on money management, experience different financial systems, and build a diverse network of peers. Plus, you’ll be able to learn form top professors and have access to new job markets.

Living in a new country also boosts your adaptability – something that employers love and look for in new graduates.

What you will study

During a finance degree, you’ll study a variety of topics, including:

• Financial Accounting: Understanding and analysing financial statements.
• Corporate Finance: Managing a company’s financial decisions and investments.
• Investment Analysis: Learning about stocks, bonds, and portfolio management.
• Risk Management: Identifying and minimising financial risks.
• Financial Markets: Studying how markets operate and the role of financial institutions.
• International Finance: Exploring global financial systems and exchange rates.
• Economics: Understanding how economic factors impact finance decisions.
• Personal Finance: Budgeting, saving, and wealth management strategies.
• Ethics in Finance: Learning responsible and ethical financial practices.

If you are interested in subjects related to finance, consider these options:

Accreditation

For finance programs, the typical degree types awarded are:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Usually a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Finance or sometimes a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Finance. Some universities may offer it as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) if the program has a broader focus on liberal arts.
• Master’s Degree: Often a Master of Science (MSc) in Finance or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a finance specialisation.

Careers

Getting a finance degree opens doors to a wide range of careers. You could work as a financial analyst, evaluating investment opportunities, or as a financial advisor, helping your clients to manage their money.

Investment banking offers high-stakes deal making, while risk management roles focus on minimising financial threats. Other options include corporate finance, managing a company’s budget, or asset management, overseeing investment portfolios.

Careers in insurance, wealth management, and financial consulting are also popular. With finance skills in demand, you will have plenty of opportunities across industries and countries.