Finance BSc

Finance is one of the most dynamic and influential fields in the modern world. It focuses on how individuals, companies and governments manage money, investments and risk. A Finance degree gives you the skills to analyse financial data, understand global markets and make decisions that shape organisations and economies. It is a strong choice for students who are analytical, ambitious and interested in the workings of business and money.

Course Structure

Most Finance degrees last three years full time, with many universities offering a four-year option that includes a placement year or study abroad. Some institutions also offer joint courses, such as Finance and Economics or Accounting and Finance.

The course blends lectures, seminars, case studies and practical simulations. Early modules cover core financial principles, while later years allow for specialisation in areas such as corporate finance, risk management, investment banking or international finance.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Entry requirements vary, but the following subjects are especially useful:

• A levels: Mathematics is highly valued and sometimes required. Economics and Business Studies are also excellent choices. Typical offers range from BBB–AAB.

  
  

• BTECs: Business, Enterprise or Applied Science are often accepted, particularly with high grades.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Mathematics and Economics at Higher Level are preferred.

  
  

• A strong mathematical and analytical background will help you succeed.

  
  

What Makes a Strong Application

Finance courses are competitive, and universities look for applicants with both academic strength and a genuine interest in financial markets. A strong application should include:

• Good grades in mathematics and business-related subjects.

  
  

• Relevant experience, such as part-time jobs in retail or business, internships, or involvement in investment or enterprise clubs.

  
  

• A personal statement demonstrating problem-solving ability, commercial awareness and an interest in global financial issues.

  
  

• Extracurricular activities such as managing personal investments (even virtually), running a small business or following financial news.

  
  

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

• Studying Finance gives you a wide range of valuable and transferable skills, including:

  
  

• Numerical and analytical ability: Interpreting financial data and market trends.

  
  

• Problem-solving and decision-making: Making informed financial choices under uncertainty.

  
  

• Communication skills: Explaining complex financial information to non-specialists.

  
  

• Teamwork and leadership: Working on group projects and business simulations.

  
  

• Commercial awareness: Understanding how markets, industries and governments interact.

  
  

• Adaptability: Responding to fast-changing financial environments.

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Finance Students

To prepare for your studies and show intellectual curiosity, here are four accessible and engaging books:

“The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham

A classic on value investing and understanding financial markets.

“Liar’s Poker” by Michael Lewis

A witty, insider’s view of life on Wall Street in the 1980s, still highly relevant today.

“Fooled by Randomness” by Nassim Nicholas Taleb

Explores risk, probability and the role of chance in finance and life.

“The Big Short” by Michael Lewis

An engaging account of the 2008 financial crisis and how financial markets can go wrong.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Finance graduates typically earn between £28,000 and £35,000 in entry-level roles such as financial analyst, investment banking analyst or risk consultant. With experience, salaries can rise to £45,000–£70,000 in management roles. Senior professionals in investment banking, asset management or consultancy can earn well over £100,000.