Critically evaluate and interpret financial theories

To analyze, interpret, and evaluate financial information through independent learning and enquiry

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Cognitive skills are developed across the modules within the degree programme. The numerical and statistical components of the modules focus particularly on problem solving, logical reasoning and data management and analysis using statistical packages. Independent enquiry, critical evaluation and interpretation, abstraction and assimilation are key elements in all modules. Self-assessment and reflection are developed by formative feedback particularly on tutorial presentations and within the group work assignments.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of cognitive skills, both summative and formative, occurs in the form of course homework, oral presentations, project work and class test/exam.

Synthesise evidence to support decision making

Communicate information and construct evidence-based arguments.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Transferable skills development will permeate the teaching and learning on the degree programme. Successful completion of coursework requires students to gather information from a range of sources, select and assimilate relevant information and to complete tasks within deadlines.

Methods of Assessment

Assessment of coursework requires students to use a range of media (e.g., worked solutions and proofs, essays, Powerpoint presentations, statistical based project work) to demonstrate their learning. Completion of the dissertation develops skills in independent research enquiry, data analysis and presentation.

Apply computational, quantitative and statistical techniques to financial problems

Determine their professional, ethical, and social responsibilities.

Discuss the economic, political, legal, regulatory, and social implications of global financial
markets

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

The Postgraduate Diploma in Finance follows a structured curriculum based upon current thinking in asset pricing, money and banking, research methods in finance, corporate finance, market microstructure, the pricing of derivatives and time-series financial econometrics.

Acquisition of knowledge and understanding is through structured exposition based on lectures, directed reading of academic journals which are particularly applied to student presentations and group projects, tutorials, computer-based laboratory work, group work, and private study.

Methods of Assessment

Class tests/exams, individual and group projects, take-home tests, individual and group oral presentations and case study investigations are used to assess student learning.

Demonstrate digital proficiency with financial databases and software.

Construct arguments and solve problems in the context of finance

Explain the function and operation of markets and institutions within the financial industry.

Teaching/Learning Methods and Strategies

Mathematical skills, through problem solving, and computer application, are at the core of the work undertaken by a specialist in finance. Consequently, these are core elements in each semester of the degree and are built upon across modules and throughout the course of the programme. The economic and financial environment both influences and generates the work in which financial specialists are involved and therefore in these areas problem solving, data analysis and computer application skills are developed and built upon across modules. In addition, up-to-date finance, economic and risk related literature is integrated into the curriculum, with an important element being the ongoing development of the students’ ability to communicate, debate and critique this literature.

Methods of Assessment

Both summative and formative assessment methods are used throughout all modules.

Formative assessment takes two main forms. First, weekly homework is aimed at promoting understanding, logic and accurate calculation. Secondly, weekly discussion of key theories and academic readings are used to develop understanding, logical argument and critical assessment.

Summative assessment also takes a variety of forms. In all modules, end-of-term class tests/exams are used to gauge and assess understanding and the acquisition of knowledge. Cumulative assessment is also built into all modules to assess ongoing understanding.