Finance

Finance as a discipline addresses one of the most fundamental activities in a market economy: the allocation of capital. It examines how individuals, corporations and governments raise, invest and manage money, how financial markets price risk and uncertainty, and what the theory of finance tells us about optimal decision-making in the face of incomplete information. Finance graduates are among the most sought-after in the graduate labour market, with the quantitative and analytical skills they develop applicable across an exceptionally wide range of professional contexts.

At Aston University, which has a strong reputation for professionally oriented business education, this four-year programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study finance in an international academic environment and develop the global perspective that is increasingly important in financial careers. You will cover the core areas of corporate finance, investment theory, financial markets, derivatives and risk management, portfolio management, behavioural finance, international finance and quantitative methods. The year abroad can take place at a range of international partner institutions, and the experience adds both academic breadth and personal development to your degree.

The typical entry tariff is 120 UCAS points.

Finance graduates move into investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, financial analysis, risk management, treasury, insurance, private equity, the civil service and management consultancy. Professional qualifications from bodies such as the CFA Institute, ACCA or CIMA are commonly pursued by graduates as they develop their careers. The international dimension of the Aston programme, combined with its practical and professional focus, positions graduates well for roles in global financial organisations.

Many also continue to postgraduate study in finance, financial economics or business administration.