Course overview
The course has been crafted with industry partners, ensuring that you acquire practical, industry-relevant skills essential for success in the finance sector.
You explore the effects of emerging financial technologies and the growing influence of sustainability factors on investment choices. Engage with real-time financial data, undertaking an extensive data analysis project and using cutting-edge datasets to gain hands-on experience.
Course details
Course structure
Year 1 core modules
Accounting Principles and Systems
You are introduced to the basic concepts of financial accounting, developing knowledge of bookkeeping, accounting adjustments, and final accounts preparation for sole traders and companies. You learn how to record transactions, enter journals in the ledger, and produce accounting reports using an accounting information system. By the end of the module, you are able to prepare a simple set of financial statements, incorporating statement of profit and loss, and statement of financial position for sole traders and companies.
This is a 30-credit module.
Introduction to Economic Principles
Using appropriate economic analysis methods, you develop fundamental understanding of critical real-world economic issues. You also explore economic principles, models and their policy implications.
This is a 30-credit module.
Principles of Finance and Investment
You are introduced to the fundamental concepts of finance and investment, including types of assets and liabilities, issues of risk and return, diversification, valuation, capital structures and capital budgeting.
This is a 30-credit module.
Quantitative Methods in Business and Economics
Economics is both an academic and practical subject, with mathematics and statistics playing a fundamental role in research and problem solving. You are introduced to essential quantitative methods, allowing you to review fundamental numerical skills which develop into key mathematical and statistical methods for economics and business.
This is a 30-credit module.
Year 2 core modules
Applied Mathematics and Statistics for Economists
You explore the use of mathematics in the conceptualisation of economic theory, and its use to solve specific problems. You also study the essential econometrics methods implemented in quantitative data analysis.
This is a 30-credit module.
Banking and Financial Institutions
You explore the environment in which the financial service sector operates. Recognise the essential role that financial institutions play, the risks they face, legal and regulatory frameworks and emerging challenges. Learn about the key components of the financial system, as well as key forces that drive changes in the industry. You also look at the insurance and banking sectors. Understand banking operations in commercial and retail settings, gaining an insight into the consumer element of banking.
This is a 30-credit module.
Dive into the transformative impact of technology on the financial sector, from the complexity of artificial intelligence, blockchain and crypto assets, to the convenience of digital banking. As the world becomes increasingly digital, gain a deep understanding of the risk regulation, compliance and ethical implications of fintech. Explore the importance of cybersecurity in protecting assets and financial operations, preparing you to shape the future of digital finance with a strong ethical understanding.
This is a 30-credit module.
You are introduced to basic investment strategies, focusing on portfolio management and asset valuation. Use professional statistical software and gain hands-on experience in analysing various assets, including developmental finance institutions, exchange-traded funds and stocks. Gain an insight into the world of investment banking markets, equipping you with the quantitative skills you need for today's investment landscape.
Final-year core modules
Financial Econometrics and Data Analysis project
You focus on practical econometric and data analysis techniques in finance. Work with real financial data, building skills for market analysis and investment decisions. Explore econometric models, statistical tools, data cleaning and manipulation to uncover trends. You become proficient in using econometrics software for econometric modelling and data visualisation. Develop strong quantitative skills ready for data-driven finance research.
This is a 30-credit module.
Portfolio Management and Financial Derivatives
You cover important topics in modern investment portfolio analysis such as stocks, bonds, foreign exchange and international securities. You also deeply analyse hedging strategies using derivative instruments such as forwards, futures, options and swaps. Gain a strong understanding of model formation, portfolio analysis, investment strategies and hedging techniques.
This is a 30-credit module.
Explore the role of corporate finance and the market it operates in, considering domestic and international settings. You study the ways businesses use these markets to create and maintain shareholder value by taking investments and financing decisions. Also, you learn about the use of financial instruments to reduce risk.
This is a 30-credit module.
Sustainable Finance and Investment
You are introduced to the complex relationship between sustainable finance, businesses and financial decisions. Gain comprehensive knowledge of the origin, content, scale and scope of sustainable finance, and its implications internationally.
This is a 30-credit module.
Modules offered may vary.
How you learn
You learn independently and collaboratively, engaging with peers and tutors through tutorials, seminars, directed exercises and IT-based activities. You also have access to industry-standard datasets and software.
We also offer a virtual investment competition, allowing you to apply your knowledge and skills in a practical, real-world context. This competition provides a platform to test your financial knowledge and gain valuable experience in investment decision making.
How you are assessed
Aligned with professional body requirements, you are assessed through exams, virtual investment strategy design, group presentations and data analysis projects. These assessments are designed to provide you with a solid understanding of the subject and prepare you for challenges in the finance world.
Our Disability Services team provide an inclusive and empowering learning environment and have specialist staff to support disabled students access any additional tailored resources needed. If you have a specific learning difficulty, mental health condition, autism, sensory impairment, chronic health condition or any other disability please contact a Disability Services as early as possible.
Find out more about our disability services
Find out more about financial support
Find out more about our course related costs
Entry requirements
Entry requirements
80-104 tariff points from at least two A levels (or equivalent) and GCSE grade 4 (or equivalent) in maths.
For general information please see our overview of entry requirements
You can gain considerable knowledge from work, volunteering and life. Under recognition of prior learning (RPL) you may be awarded credit for this which can be credited towards the course you want to study.
Find out more about RPL
Employability
Career opportunities
You are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in a diverse range of career paths, making you a valuable asset in the world of finance. This course opens doors to career opportunities such as:
- banker: undertaking roles in commercial, retail or virtual banking, understanding the inner workings of financial institutions
- financial advisor: offer personalised financial guidance to individuals and businesses, helping them achieve their financial goals
- financial analyst: analysing financial data to provide insights and recommendations for investment decisions
- fund manager: oversee investment portfolios and make strategic decisions to maximise returns
- insurance specialist or risk analyst: for those working in the insurance sector, assessing risk and managing portfolios
- pension fund manager or retirement strategist: responsible for managing and strategising pension funds to ensure the financial security of individuals and organisations
- researcher: conduct in-depth financial research, contributing to industry insights and advancements
- valuation expert or analyst: for professionals specialising in asset and business valuation, particularly in the context of mergers, acquisitions and investments.
Learning platform
Our virtual learning environment (VLE) is the platform you use to access your online course
Teesside University online learning courses are delivered through the Brightspace Learning Environment.
Here are some of the benefits.
- You can use it on your smartphone, tablet and computer.
- And you can use it anytime, so that you can plan your learning to fit your own schedule.
- It's easy to use and navigate.
- Modules are set out by topics and themes. You can use the progress bar to understand where you are in your modules, and appreciate your achievements.
- We support you to become familiar with your VLE, helping you to start learning quickly.
- You get feedback, help and guidance from tutors throughout your course through the VLE, and you can ask questions at any time.
- Our tutors use a live activity feed to keep you updated about your course.
- You can create a student profile, collaborate with other students and take part in online discussion forums.