Masters in Finance from Abroad – Top Universities & Jobs

A master’s in finance is a gateway to a flourishing career in international finance, banking, and other high-paying sectors.Demand continues to be high for master’s graduates in fund management, investment management, banking, securities, stock trading, and financial consulting. This is why admission to finance programs can be very competitive. Some general master’s in finance requirements include GMAT scores, English language proficiency scores, bachelor’s degrees, and work experience. 

Start Your Study Abroad Journey with upGrad Abroad

Reasons to Study Masters in Finance Abroad

 Here are compelling reasons to opt for a finance degree abroad:

1. Gain a Global Finance Perspective:

An MSc in Finance offers a comprehensive global outlook on the subject. Tailored to the international finance market, this program provides practical experience, equipping students with insights into the workings of the global finance industry.

2. Prepare for a Professional Career:

In a competitive job market, a Master's in finance can significantly enhance your prospects. Whether aiming for a finance-related position or contemplating entrepreneurship, this degree imparts the necessary knowledge and skills. 

3. Acquire Diverse Skill Sets:

Enrolling in an MS in finance exposes you to a range of skills applicable in a professional setting. 

4. Meet High Demand:

International students find Masters in Finance programs to be in high demand. Upon completion, you can pursue further education, such as a PhD or specialized courses in finance. 

Top Universities Offering Masters in Finance Courses 

Here is a list of the top universities offering PG courses in finance across leading global nations. 

Specializations under Masters in Finance 

There are varied masters in finance subjects within the spectrum of the overall master in finance syllabus. Some of the top specializations in the field include the following: 

1. Corporate finance
2. Accounting
3. Financial modelling
4. Financial reporting
5. Financial regulation
6. Capital markets
7. Econometrics
8. Quantitative methods 
9. Investment management 
10.  International finance
11.  Financial markets 
12.  Financial Engineering 

Levels of Education 

Masters in Finance programs are postgraduate finance courses. 

Average Fees Required for the Program

The average fee for a master’s in finance  is as follows: 

• USA- $50,000-60,000 per year. 
• Australia- $19,038-67,661 per year. 
• Canada- $15,000-99,500 per year. 
• UK- £32,000 per year. 

Job Prospects After Master’s in Finance 

Masters in Finance programs are the gateway to rewarding future careers in fields like banking, financial services, insurance, management, and investments. Aspirants can find work as financial consultants, working on investment management, asset allocation, retirement planning, tax planning, and estate planning. They can also find job roles as financial planners, analysts, advisors, counselors, stockbrokers, and retirement counselors. There are other job roles, such as quantitative analysts, statistical experts, risk management experts, and investment bankers. The latter also involves debt management, venture capital, and mergers and acquisitions. 

Graduates can also find jobs as auditors at public and private organizations. Corporate finance careers involve consulting, loss and risk management, planning, resource allocation, investment analysis, budgeting, and returns on investments. Some go on toward becoming finance officers taking care of balance sheets, cost reports, client statements, etc. Some other careers include company secretaries, accounting technicians, commodities brokers, corporate treasury managers, actuaries, financial regulators, financial traders, loan officers, pension managers, public finance accountants, stockbrokers, retail bankers, and more. 

Expected Remuneration/Salary

Here are the average Master of Finance salaries according to Payscale: 

1. UK- £47,000 per year. 
2. USA- $1,19,000 per year. 
3. Canada- CAD 73,000 per year. 
4. Australia- AUD 81,000 per year. 

Top Scholarships for Masters in Finance 

Scholarships are important in supporting students pursuing master's degrees in finance across various countries. Here are some noteworthy scholarships for master's in finance:

• Hani Zeini Scholarship - USA
  • Geared towards international students with a demonstrated financial need and an interest in pursuing innovative or entrepreneurial careers.
• Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:
  • Open to accredited college or university students in any program.
  • Submission of an 850-word essay addressing the main business challenges of the 21st century.
• Amount: USD 1,000
• Chevening Scholarships - UK
• This Scholarship is funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and targets emerging leaders and influencers early in their careers, including those pursuing master’s courses in the UK.
• Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:
  • Citizenship in a Chevening-eligible country.
  • Minimum of 2 years (equivalent to 2,800 hours) of work experience.
• Amount: USD 21,964
• UNIL Master’s Grants in Switzerland for Foreign Students - Switzerland
  • Offered by the University of Lausanne, this scholarship is available to students seeking master’s courses in finance or any discipline at the university.
• Scholarship Eligibility Criteria:
  • No prior enrollment with UNIL.
  • A bachelor's degree from a top university.
  • Language proficiency with a minimum B2 level in French or English.
• Amount: Monthly stipend of USD 1,594.69