critically evaluate information

apply logic and reasoning

pursue independent enquiry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Cognitive skills are developed across modules and between stages. A combination of teaching methods are used to enhance these skills. Students are encouraged to evaluate information and think independently throughout their course, in lectures, small group tutorials, and interactive learning sessions.

Methods of Assessment

A combination of assessment methods including assignments, presentations, class tests and examinations are used to evaluate cognitive skills. Students are awarded marks for their ability to demonstrate critical thinking and originality.

communicate ideas in both written and presentational forms

use ICT software effectively

work both independently and in groups

manage their own time and workloads effectively

engage with employers and practitioners

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Transferable skills development permeates teaching and learning throughout the degree programme. The teaching and learning environment is supportive of the need to assist students in developing and enhancing their communication, IT, team working and employability skills.

Methods of Assessment

Students are asked to prepare and deliver presentations, and structure and write assignments, which encourages them to improve their oral and written communication skills. These formats also give students experience of using a range of software, and allows them to advance their technical abilities. Some assessments are group based, which helps develop an awareness of how to work as a team, whilst others are individual based, which promotes time management skills.

appreciate the importance of internationalisation

engage with issues around ethics, responsibility and sustainability

understand the role, operation and functions of international financial institutions and markets which underpin the global financial industry, including an awareness of the broader economic, social, ethical, legal, political, regulatory and environmental issues which influence their operation.

critique and apply the theoretical concepts of finance.

understand the behaviour, financing, ethical considerations and regulations influencing the financial decisions of individuals, firms and governments.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Knowledge transfer in relation to financial institutions and markets primarily takes place in lecture format. Small group tutorials also provide the opportunity for students to discuss and debate these issues in more detail. Practical application of financial theories is typically developed in computer labs using statistical software or in the smaller group Trading Room. The international dimension to various issues are included in modules throughout the course, and concerns around ethics, responsibility and sustainability are embedded when discussing topics.

Methods of Assessment

Knowledge acquisition and practical application is assessed through a range of class tests, examinations, take home tests, multiple choice tests, projects and presentations. Relevant discussion of the international and ethical aspects to any subject is also regarded as a positive.

obtain, manipulate, empirically analyse and interpret financial data in the practical application of financial theory using relevant technology/statistical packages.

have demonstrated necessary competency in the required level of English Language skill.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Students are encouraged to become proficient using a range of industry relevant software/statistical packages. In Stage 1 students will have the opportunity to identify and extract relevant data using the sources such as Bloomberg or other financial databases. In Stage 2 students are introduced to data manipulation and analysis using applications such as Excel, VBA and the statistical package Stata. In Stage 3 students engage in data analysis using empirical techniques in the statistical package R. Students also have the option to develop technical programming skills relevant to the financial industry using the software Python.

Students study the English Language and Study Skills (ELSS) module in Stage 1 in order to develop their proficiency in reading, writing, speaking and listening in the English Language to the required level necessary to progress to Stage 2.

Students complete coursework and assessment to develop reading, writing, speaking, and listening along with study skills in an academic context reflective of university expectations.

All Stage 1 academic modules are taught in small classes with specific instruction in the vocabulary and use of English appropriate to each academic module.

Methods of Assessment

Practical collection and analysis of data is typically examined using applied research projects. Theoretical content relating to this is assessed using a combination of class tests and examinations.

Writing: academic research essay; reading and writing exam

Reading: annotated bibliography; reading and writing exam

Speaking: seminar discussion (group); research presentation (individual)

Listening: academic lecture assessments; listening exam