MSc International Financial Management
The Surrey Business School has successfully secured further international student places for this programme. We are therefore reopening to all applicants. Places are limited and early application is encouraged.
The rise in importance and complexity of financial management in an international environment poses a great challenge for financial managers in multinational corporations. This programme aims to meet the needs of future finance and accounting professionals in not only the financial sector but also other large international corporations.
You will be provided with the theoretical framework and practical skills that finance and accounting professionals working in multinational corporations need. The programme also provides a valuable foundation for those contemplating academic careers and further study in the applied finance and accounting field at PhD level.
An integrated approach consisting of finance, accounting and international business is taken so as to provide a coherent business view that explores the interrelationships between the various components of the programme.
The programme is distinctive in that it combines an international orientation with finance and accounting. The high level of international content draws on the Surrey Business School recent research activities and teaching strengths in this area. Further, the programme’s wide international dimension includes emerging economies as well as Anglo-American and continental European contexts.
Entry standards
Applicants should usually hold a Bachelors degree (UK Lower Second/2.2 or above) or equivalent qualification from a recognised British or overseas university in a related subject including accountancy, finance, economics, business administration, management, mathematics, physics, science and engineering. If an applicant’s Bachelors degree is not in a subject related to this MSc, some relevant work experience would be an advantage. Each applicant is assessed on their own merit; higher level professional qualifications may also be accepted.
As a result of their high popularity, we have successfully secured further places for our postgraduate programmes in this area. We are therefore extending our deadline for submission of applications to 31 May 2012. Applications received after this date will only be considered subject to availability of places.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
MSc International Financial Management - structure and modules
Module Titles
Compulsory Modules
- Principles of Accounting
- Foundations of Finance
- Corporate Finance
- International Business Management
- International Corporate Governance
- International Finance
- Quantitative Methods in Economics
- Dissertation
Optional Modules
- International Financial Reporting
- Econometrics
- International Trade
Module Overview
This programme consists of seven compulsory modules, one optional module from a range of three, and a dissertation.
Compulsory Modules
Principles of Accounting
This module is designed to give you a practical study of the basic principles and advanced knowledge of financial accounting systems used around the world, and addresses the major issues to be reformed.
Foundations of Finance
This module aims to provide a complete introduction to financial theory through a study of the problems of investing capital, specifically valuation of securities both as individual investments and their contribution to risk and return in a portfolio context.
Corporate Finance
The aim of this module is to provide a substantial course in corporate finance following the Foundations of Finance module. This exposure will help you understand some of the more difficult materials in corporate finance and also present corporate finance as the working of a number of integrated and powerful institutions.
International Business Management
This module gives an overview of key topics in the areas of international business and international management. It pays special attention to issues such as globalisation, FDI theory and patterns, the role and importance of the multinational company (MNC), managing human resources within the MNC, and comparative studies of cultural and institutional influences on the management of MNCs.
International Corporate Governance
This module builds on financial economics theories to encompass the latest developments in corporate governance worldwide. The theoretical study is supported by empirical evidence in which corporate governance develops by examining the legal structure and capital market for various countries at macro level, and the firm's structure which influences the effectiveness of corporate governance at macro level. It takes an international approach by contextualising its development and providing a stimulating range of academic and practitioner research, and topical case studies. The module is designed as a substantial course in finance at Masters level appropriate to degrees in accounting and finance, generic business and management studies, and MBA.
International Finance
The aim of this module is to provide you with an understanding of worldwide financial markets and the main types of securities traded in these markets, as well as how to use these securities to hedge risks in world financial markets.
Quantitative Methods in Economics
Finance is regarded as applied economics. A good grasp of quantitative methods in economics is essential for finance and accounting-related studies. This module is an introduction to the techniques of econometrics and the use of an econometric package.
Optional Modules
International Financial Reporting
This module builds on the Principles of Accounting module and aims to address issues that arise for complex business entities from both conceptual and technical angles within the context of international financial reporting standards and national GAAPS.
Econometrics
This module builds on the Quantitative Methods in Economics module. Asymptotically valid methods of estimation and hypothesis testing are introduced. Limited dependent variable and panel data models are also examined.
International Trade
This module will equip you with knowledge of international business operations. Important trends in international trade will be analysed and an overview of the main theories of international trade will be provided.
MSc International Financial Management - entry standards
Entry standards
Applicants should usually hold a Bachelors degree (UK Lower Second/2.2 or above) or equivalent qualification from a recognised British or overseas university in a related subject including accountancy, finance, economics, business administration, management, mathematics, physics, science and engineering. If an applicant’s Bachelors degree is not in a subject related to this MSc, some relevant work experience would be an advantage. Each applicant is assessed on their own merit; higher level professional qualifications may also be accepted.
As a result of their high popularity, we have successfully secured further places for our postgraduate programmes in this area. We are therefore extending our deadline for submission of applications to 31 May 2012. Applications received after this date will only be considered subject to availability of places.
English language requirements
Non-native speakers of English will normally be required to have IELTS 6.5 or above, with a minimum of 6.0 in each component (or equivalent).
Please note that the University of Surrey offers English language programmes and is also an IELTS Test Centre.
Planned intake
50
Start date
Full-time: SeptemberProgramme Leader
MSc International Financial Management - fees and funding
Fees
International Financial Management (full time):
UK/EU - £9,190
Overseas - £14,830
MSc International Financial Management - professional context
Professional recognition
The Surrey Business School is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
MSc International Financial Management - teaching
Teaching
The teaching and learning strategy builds upon the work carried out in the Research Methods module. It is designed to allow you to take responsibility for your own learning and progress, supported by individual supervision during which you will be able to explain, discuss and refine your particular ideas with your supervisor.
The teaching and learning methods will include regular individual supervision.
You will agree with your supervisor the objectives of your study, the arrangements for any fieldwork, and the development of research instruments. The supervisor will also comment on drafts of the your work.
Each module is assessed by one or more of the following:
- Individual assignments (essays, case studies)
- Group presentations/assignments (practical problem-solving cases)
- Examinations (open or closed book)
- Individually supervised dissertation
Staff perspective
I like this programme because it combines finance and accounting with an international business orientation. It provides the theoretical framework and practical skills not only for those who want to pursue their career in financial institutions, but also for those who aim to work in multinational corporations in other industries. Further, the programme has a wide international dimension including not only Anglo-American and continental European contexts but also emerging economies. These distinctive features of the programme greatly enhance the employment opportunity for our graduates, which has been a significant advantage of the University of Surrey over other universities in the UK.
I am very proud of our teaching team. The high level of international content draws on the School of Management’s research activities and teaching strengths in these areas. Our teaching team consists of both active researchers and individuals who have substantial professional experience and professional qualifications in the subject areas.
You will benefit substantially if you decide to take a professional qualification in the accounting and finance area because our modules are closely linked to some of the examinations for a professional qualification. The research-rich contexts of our modules also open the door for those who want to further pursue PhD study.
I thoroughly enjoy teaching this programme because I meet a very international group of students every year, including those from the UK, Continental Europe, America, the Far East, South Asia, the Middle East and Africa, and have learnt a lot of things from different cultures.
MSc International Financial Management - learning
Facilities, Equipment, Academic Support
The Surrey Business School prides itself on its high teaching standards, research excellence, employment record, international reputation and flexible teaching methods and has an outstanding group of academics committed to education.
Throughout your time at Surrey you will have access to a range of services and support. The School is committed to developing your study skills through a variety of different teaching methods and tutorials. In addition, our learning resources are second to none.
You will work in the new state-of-the-art School of Management building which is wireless networked and has well-equipped computer laboratories, dedicated high-quality seminar rooms and a 400- seat auditorium.
When you wish to relax and meet friends, the School offers a purpose-built student common room, its own coffee shop and the Lakeside Restaurant which operates as a professional business but is also a fundamental part of the School’s Hospitality Management programmes.
Dissertation and Projects
Dissertation
The dissertation is the final element of the programme and it provides an opportunity for a sustained period of research. It allows you to concentrate on topics that are of particular interest to you and it draws upon a range of different aspects of the taught programme, particularly the Research Methods module. It also gives you an opportunity for you to work on your own with individual supervision.
The module is designed to allow you to:
• Undertake an original piece of research adding to existing knowledge
• Demonstrate an ability to select, define and focus upon an issue at an appropriate level
• Develop and apply relevant and sound methodologies
• Analyse the issue; develop recommendations and logical conclusions
• Be aware of the limitations of research work.
You will also be expected to demonstrate an awareness of any ethical dilemmas that arise in your research.
MSc International Financial Management - graduate profile
Graduate Profile: Nana Oye Amoa
MSc International Financial Management
My experience as a postgraduate student has been very challenging, as the programme is demanding. However, if I had to do it all over again I certainly would, and it would certainly be at the University of Surrey.
I chose Surrey because of the reputation it has acquired over the years for its academic excellence. Most friends and relatives vouched that the teaching standards here were second to none.
Choosing to study International Financial Management was certainly the right choice for me. It did put me on my toes, but the teachers were so amazing; they made it all look easy and understandable.
The social life in Guildford and on campus is amazing! The University is like a little town of its own and all the important amenities are just a stone’s throw away – they really thought of how to make students from all walks of life feel comfortable on campus. You certainly forget you are miles away from home.
There is also tremendous student support available for all. Whatever situation you seem to find yourself in, there is help every step of the way!
Before my Masters degree I was working as a Client Services Representative for a Standard Chartered Bank in Ghana. Upon graduation, I intend to gain some experience working in the UK as a financial analyst. I believe the many skills I learnt at Surrey – communication, interpersonal and problem-solving skills, how to be an effective team player, attention to detail and the habit I cultivated of doing extensive research – will definitely play to my advantage.
I would definitely recommended other students interested in my discipline to study at Surrey; actually I already have!
Graduate Profile: Zhen Zhu
MSc International Financial Management
Prior to joining the University of Surrey, I had been working for seven years, since completing my undergraduate studies in China.
Within the Shanghai Securities Regulatory Bureau of the China Securities Regulatory Commission (CSRC), my main responsibility was listed company supervision. Every day, I faced the fast-changing stock market. I particularly enjoyed the teamwork spirit. Listed company supervision is a complex task. Only through teamwork can the organisation and individual achieve the regulatory goal effectively.
There is a wonderful environment at the University, which I enjoyed. In addition to lectures and seminars arranged by the School of Management, there are many other workshops and activities that I have been able to take part in. Besides, I read a lot after class, which I think is very important at postgraduate level.
I have learned a lot from the dedicated, expert and enthusiastic teachers at Surrey and enjoyed sharing views with classmates from many different counties. All of the modules were interesting, challenging and informed by the latest development of the international financial markets. In addition, there were many case study and group works which improved my practical skills and understanding of theories.
Having recently graduated, I am finding the Surrey MSc very useful, as it is opening more opportunities for me to further progress in my career.
I have learned the international financial theoretical and practical knowledge based on the developed financial market, which could provide helpful practical experience for Chinese financial reform. Therefore, I believe there is a bright prospect ahead to fulfil my potential.
MSc International Financial Management - more
Partner Institution
This programme is available to study, in full or part, at the Surrey International Institute (SII), based at DUFE, China.
www.surrey.ac.uk/study/sii
Why choose the MSc International Financial Management at the University of Surrey?
- This innovative programme combines accounting and finance with applications in international business
- There are opportunities to develop skills in specialised areas through a wide choice of optional modules
- The programme develops a finance and accounting education with an international outlook
- The programme is delivered by dedicated staff in a research-led environment
The University of Surrey is one of only ten UK universities accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and one of 34 UK universities accredited by the Association of MBAs (AMBA).
- Surrey is ranked among only five per cent of UK universities with double international accreditations
- Accredited by the Institute of Financial Services (IFS)
MSc International Financial Management - apply
You can apply for this programme online using the link(s) below. We recommend making an application as soon as you can, even if you do not have all the necessary supporting information ready at that time.
As part of the application process, you will be asked to enter a username and password. If you've used our application system before, please enter your details or click the forgotten password link.
If you are a new user, you will need to create a username and password by clicking the New User button.
Start date
Full-time: SeptemberProgramme length
12 months full-time
Programme Leader
For general enquiries
T: 0800 980 3200 or
+44 (0)1483 681681
E: pg-enquiries@surrey.ac.uk
For admissions enquiries
T: +44 (0) 1483 686300
E: somadmissions@surrey.ac.uk