Finance and Investment - BSc (Hons) *
Currently viewing course to start in 2027/28 Entry.
Our BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment course explores how financial markets and investment decisions shape businesses, organisations and the wider economy....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time/Part Time
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2027
- Fees View course fees
- Subject
- Location City Centre
This course is:
Available with Professional Placement year
Open to International Students
Overview
Our BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment course explores how financial markets and investment decisions shape businesses, organisations and the wider economy. You’ll develop a strong understanding of and practical skills in financial analysis, investment management and the principles that underpin decision-making in the investment sector, applying your knowledge to practical financial scenarios and contemporary issues.
Alongside your technical knowledge, you’ll develop the analytical, problem-solving and communication skills needed to work effectively in finance and investment roles. We are a Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) Education Partner and are also affiliated with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute, with the course content aligned to the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge. You’ll also have opportunities to develop your wider employability through our BCU Award scheme, helping you connect your academic learning with the skills and experience expected across the finance and investment sector.
Based in Birmingham, the UK's second city and a major financial centre, you will study in a vibrant, diverse environment with strong connections to local, national, and international businesses. You will be taught by a highly qualified academic team with substantial industry and professional experience, bringing real-world insight into every aspect of your learning.
What's covered in this course?
As you progress, you will become more effective and creative in problem-solving, as well as being able to critically advise individuals and companies in the UK and internationally. The modules are designed to enhance and develop your theoretical understanding but also to apply acquired knowledge to the finance and investment sector. You will be equipped with the data-driven analytical skills that are increasingly essential in modern financial markets.
The course has some mandatory subject areas which help you gain the key underpinning knowledge for the course; however, in your second and final year, you also have the opportunity to select some subjects based on your specific areas of interest, enabling you to specialise in areas, as well as allow you to tailor your course to a specific career path.
The course also offers the option of a professional placement year, giving you hands-on industry experience, the chance to put your learning into practice and valuable experience to take into your future career.
The diversity of our student body and the teaching team, plus the use of international teaching materials, gives the course an international focus. Moreover, you can choose to spend a year or a full semester studying your modules overseas at a partner institution.
Professional Placement year
This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.
If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course.
Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.
Why Choose Us?
- We have a strong focus on employability and through placement opportunities and our links with local businesses, we aim to ensure you graduate not only with your degree but also with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on your chosen career.
- We are a Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) education partner and are also affiliated with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute.
- We pride ourselves on being the University for Birmingham and supporting and giving something back to the local business including in accounting, finance and economics communities including HSBC, Standard Life Insurance and Goldman Sachs. These links help us enhance students’ experiences by giving them access to industry experts for guest lectures, exciting placement opportunities and other chances to engage with the business community as a whole.
- Through the City Trading Room we aim to infuse learning with exposure to real-world experiences. We give you the chance to work on real-life projects using industry-standard software. This offers a unique opportunity for you to gain this invaluable experience during your studies.
- STEAMhouse offers amazing opportunities for entrepreneurial students to kick start and build a business. Services available include the Incubator which helps focus and solidify business ideas and the Hatchery which offers support in getting your business off the ground.
Open Day
Join us for our next Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 10 October
Course in Depth
First Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
You will learn about the financial environment in which a business operates, as well as being able to conduct investment appraisals and explain the major types of long-term capital and their distinguishing features. You’ll also learn to recognise the key tools that are used to identify risk. Assessment is carried out through writing a business report.
Fundamentals of Accounting and Business 20 credits
Economics Principles 20 credits
This module is designed to develop your knowledge and understanding of data intelligence tools and techniques, introducing you to the different approaches that are used to manage, mine and visualise complex data sets to facilitate effective decision-making within National and International organisations.
Culminating in a report based upon business case studies, this module will teach you to recognise different data collection processes, as well as how to present data effectively for users in business and management. You’ll also learn to apply statistical methods to investigate relationships between business variables.
Leadership, Future Skills and Personal Branding 20 credits
Second Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits).
Corporate Finance is a rigorous and comprehensive module that is designed to broaden your understanding of the main issues in modern corporate finance. Corporate Finance is concerned with how businesses raise funds and invest those funds to provide a return to investors. This module aims to equip you with the skills and knowledge required by a financial manager to make appropriate investment and financing decisions for a business in a global environment.
You will use a number of analysis techniques for challenging traded prices, in order to assess whether investments are appropriately priced. You’ll learn to critically appraise the usefulness of corporate financial statements in light of accounting and investment research.
Risk Management and Insurance 20 credits
You will conduct a 1,500-word report (with accompanying Excel spreadsheets) as you employ knowledge of capital budgeting, cost of capital and other financial concepts. You’ll also demonstrate the use of formulas, function and commands in Excel.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
Financial Data Science 20 credits
Our understanding of the economy is contested. Reflecting this there are discernible schools of economic thought which vary in the extent to which they recommend government intervention, and in their understanding of market processes. This module offers you a relativist introduction to the major works of four great, and very different, thinkers: Adam Smith, Karl Marx, John Maynard Keynes and Friedrich Hayek.
This module introduces you to personal investments and wealth management of individuals. You will learn about the wealth management process and be able to develop investment policy statements for individuals given their unique goals, constraints and circumstances. In addition, you will develop a thorough understanding of the different global tax regimes. You will also develop analytical skills in estate planning and risk management of personal investments.
Intermediate Macroeconomics and Economic Policy 20 credits
Entrepreneurial and Sustainable Finance 20 credits
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Professional Placement (Optional)
In order to qualify for the award of BSc (Hons) Finance And Investment with Professional Placement Year you must successfully complete the following module.
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree. The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
Final Year
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits).
Financial Derivative Strategies and Valuation 20 credits
Contemporary Trends and Ethics in Finance 20 credits
This module will see you estimate the risk and return of investment in different asset classes for an investment portfolio and utilises the ‘CITY Trading Room’ facility and software. You’ll also assess portfolio performance by measuring investment performance and attribution analysis. Assessment is delivered as a report.
You will critically appraise the basis of risk/return characteristics of bonds, as well as evaluating the characteristics, risks and behaviour of equities. You will be assessed through an examination.
In order to complete this course you must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
Alternative Investment and Algorithmic Trading 20 credits
A rise in importance and complexity of international financial management poses a challenge for multinational organizations and those wish to pursue a career in the sector. This module will provide you an intuitive and real world grasp of the concepts and issues in international finance which includes foreign exchange rate movements, managing exchange rate risks and foreign investment issues faced by of modern companies. A wealth of examples and cases are provided to enable you to see the implications of the subject to business, mostly from a multinational corporation’s perspective. You will be encouraged and supported to undertake case studies and investigate contemporary issues relating to international finance.
Financial Markets and Institutions 20 credits
Research Design and Practice 20 credits
Accounting, Finance and Economics Research Project 20 credits
Financial technology (Fintech) integrate technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain and data science into traditional financial services to make them safer, faster and more efficient. It is one of the fastest-growing industries, with companies innovating in almost every area of finance from mobile banking and insurance to cryptocurrency and investment apps, Fintech has broad applications.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Download course specification
Download nowArtificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is integrated throughout the course, helping you develop the digital skills, critical thinking and professional judgement needed in the modern finance and investment sector. You’ll develop your AI literacy and learn to use AI responsibly and transparently, while critically evaluating its outputs and considering issues such as accuracy, bias, reliability, data privacy and intellectual ownership.
You’ll apply AI and digital tools to areas such as data analysis, investment evaluation and business forecasting, developing the ability to use technology alongside independent professional judgement. AI is used in different ways across learning and assessment, and course content is regularly reviewed to reflect emerging technologies and evolving industry practice.
Sustainability, SDGs and Ethics
Sustainability, ethics and responsible practice are embedded throughout the Finance and Investment course, reflecting the increasingly important role they play in financial markets and investment decision-making. You will explore how financial decisions can affect organisations, investors, communities and the wider environment, developing your ability to balance financial objectives with ethical, social and environmental considerations.
Throughout the course, you will consider areas such as environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations, responsible and sustainable investment, ethical decision-making, financial regulation, climate finance and the impact of emerging financial technologies. You will also explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relevance to issues such as sustainable economic growth, inequality and climate action. This will help you develop the professional judgement needed to evaluate investment and financial decisions responsibly in a changing global economy.
Trips and visits
You will have the opportunity to go on relevant trips such as visiting the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange.
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2027/28.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
112 UCAS Tariff points. Learn more about UCAS Tariff points.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £10,050 in 2027/28
- Apply via UCAS
- Part Time
- 5 Years
- Show fees
- £1675 per 20 credits
- Year 1 - 80 credits
- Year 2 - 80 credits
- Year 3 - 80 credits
- Year 4 - 80 credits
- Year 5 - 40 credits
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year.
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £19,220 in 2027/28
Guidance for UK students
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
2) Through a country representative
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
3) Through UCAS
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
Personal statement
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the three areas you’ll need to address:
- Why do you want to study this course or subject?
Here’s where you explain what makes this course exciting to you. Think about your motivations for studying the course and your future plans. If you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons.
- How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
This is your chance to show what you’ve learned at school or college. You should include the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from education or training and how this will help you succeed in your chosen course.
- What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?
Not everything you’ve learned comes from the classroom. Life experience counts too! You might want to talk about work experience, employment, or volunteering and how they’ve helped you develop the skills needed for your chosen course or future career.
Worried about Personal Statements?
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
Employability
You’ll have opportunities to develop your employability throughout the course, supported by our Careers and Student Opportunities team. You can access careers advice, guidance and support to help you identify your strengths, explore career options and prepare for life after graduation. Visiting lecturers, industry events and other opportunities to engage with finance professionals can help you build your professional network, gain insight into different careers and develop your understanding of the sector. You’ll also have opportunities to take part in activities designed to develop your professional skills and gain experience that you can draw on when applying for placements, internships and graduate roles.
The finance specialism and professional alignment of the programme enables progression into a career as a fund manager, financial analyst, investment banker or financial manager. Recent graduates have gone on to work for companies such as BNY, Access Bank, Gallagher Bassett, SEFE and Evelyn Partners.
Placements
In order to apply and enhance the skills you learn from the course, you will have the option to undertake a year-long work placement in the UK or overseas. Shorter-term work placements, voluntary work and internships will also be available.
We boast partnerships with businesses across the globe, including AXA Insurance, HSBC, Lloyds Bank and PwC.
Facilities & Staff
Accounting, Finance and Economics facilities
Take a look around the facilities available to you as an Accounting, Economics and Finance student at BCU.
Our staff
Dr Navjot Sandhu
Professor
Dr Navjot Sandhu is Deputy Head of Management at Birmingham City University. She has a wide range of experience of developing, delivering higher education courses programmes, modules at the undergraduate and postgraduate level.
More about NavjotDr Md Rubel Khondoker
Lecturer in Finance
Dr Md Rubel Khondoker is a Lecturer in Finance at Birmingham City University. He holds a PhD in Finance from Middlesex University London, is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), and has over a decade of experience teaching finance at undergraduate and postgraduate level in UK higher education. Rubel secured CFA University Affiliation...
More about Md RubelDr Abdul Ghafoor
Senior Lecturer (Finance)
Abdul Ghafoor is Senior Lecturer of Finance at Birmingham City University. Previously, he worked as Lecturer of Finance at Monash University. He is also a Non-resident Research Fellow at IPAG Business School Paris, France. He holds a Ph.D. in Finance from the University of Malaya, Malaysia. His areas of research are corporate finance,...
More about AbdulDr Xiehua Ji
Senior Lecturer in Finance
Xiehua Ji joined BCU in April 2017 as a Lecturer in Financial Services after completing his PhD and MSc at Durham University. Prior to his teaching experience and consultation experience at Durham University, he had industry experience in a commercial bank.
More about XiehuaDr Simeon Babatunde
Senior Lecturer - Accountancy, Finance and Economics
Dr. Simeon A. Babatunde is a seasoned professional with over two decades of cumulative experience spanning various sectors, including Investment Banking, Asset Management, Consultancy, and other financial institutions. His extensive career has seen him in management roles, contributing both nationally and internationally.
More about Simeon