Global Financial Trading MSc

Postgraduate

Adult female wearing a beige jacket looking at a monitor displaying a graph

Develop expertise in investment, financial trading, and risk management. Gain the skills needed to launch a successful career in the global financial industry.

Year of entry

2025-26

Location

Coventry University London (City of London)

Study mode

Full-time
With Professional Practice
With Professional Placement

Duration

1 year full-time
18-20 months full-time with professional practice
Up to 2 years full-time with professional placement

Course code

LONT111,
LONT112

Start date

September 2025
November 2025
January 2026
March 2026
May 2026
June 2026

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

The title of this course will change to Investment, Risk and Trading MSc in April 2025. All other course content and learning outcomes will stay the same.

Course overview

This course is for you if you have an interest in a career in investment, financial trading or risk management in the financial sector.

Develop your expertise in both traditional asset classes such as equity, forex and fixed income, and alternative asset classes such as commodities, infrastructure, hedge funds, private equity and cryptocurrencies amongst others.
Learn comprehensive trading techniques and active risk management modelling.
Master Python programming and Bloomberg terminal utilisation.

Global ready

An international outlook, with global opportunities

Icon of human figure in front of a whiteboard

Teaching excellence

Taught by lecturers who are experts in their field

Employability

Career ready graduates, with the skills to succeed

Why you should study this course

Technology focus: gain proficiency in Python programming and utilise Bloomberg terminals for real-world financial data analysis.⁴
Professional certifications: you will have the opportunity to earn Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC) and ESG certifications at no additional cost to enhance employability.
Industry connections: benefit from a network of financial professionals in London and gain insights through guest speakers and networking events.²
Career advancement: course content aims to prepare you for professional positions in investment banks, asset management firms and proprietary trading.
Practical experience: boost your CV with additional professional practice on campus, a nine-week internship, or a longer professional placement. See the modules for more details.

What you'll study

Throughout the course, we’ll teach you how to enhance your valuation and analytical skills for traditional and alternative asset classes so you can make informed investment decisions.

Modules

Equity and Fixed Income Strategies and Derivatives – 30 credits

Focus on investment strategies using equity, fixed income, and derivatives. Gain a strong understanding of market structures, how to value equity and fixed income, and how to price derivatives so you can integrate these concepts into various investment strategies and understand the risks and returns involved.

Compulsory

Hedge Funds and Other Alternative Investment Strategies – 30 credits

This module provides an introduction to hedge funds and alternative investment strategies. Evaluate risk and return and explore how to design and implement strategies using alternative investments such as digital assets, commodities, and private equity. The module will also discuss the role of ESG, green finance, and credit-based strategies in alternative investment management.

Compulsory

Econometrics and Algorithmic Trading – 30 credits

This module covers how to use econometrics and machine learning to develop trading strategies. Learn the fundamentals of algorithmic trading, including constructing, back-testing, and managing the risk of trading models. The module also explores market microstructure for developing more sophisticated trading models.

Compulsory

Market and Credit Risk Management – 30 credits

Master's with professional practice

This is an extended master’s course incorporating a 6-8 month period of professional practice. This will either be an on-campus simulated experience or a six-month external placement.

If you selected this variant of the master’s course you will:

apply your academic knowledge and skills to a real-world project brief related to your field of study
gain valuable industry insights and skills as you combine academic learning with practical experience
start your professional practice after completing the first 120 credits of your course
External professional placements² must be sourced by the end of semester one, to start at the end of semester two. If you are unsuccessful at sourcing a six-month placement, you will automatically commence the on-campus simulated experience. You’ll be assessed on your learning through the 60-credit Professional Practice Project (dissertation). This project will be linked to your professional practice experience
The professional practice option incurs a higher fee than the 12-month master’s programme. Additionally, you will incur increased living expenses due to the extended duration of the course.

For full terms and conditions please visit the extended master’s landing page.

Optional

Master's with professional placement

If you successfully secure a placement in industry within your first semester, this master’s with professional placement option allows you to extend your 12-month master’s course up to an additional year to complete the placement before starting your final 60-credit module.

Gain valuable industry insights and skills as you apply your academic knowledge and skills to a professional placement.
The placement must be sourced and secured by you during your first semester. Our careers and employability team are available to support you with the sourcing process.
Start your professional placement after completing the first 120 credits of your course.
You’ll be assessed on your learning through the 60-credit Professional Placement Project (dissertation). This project will be linked to your professional placement experience.
The professional placement option is subject to additional fees, living costs, visa requirements, availability, competitive application and university approval of the placement.²

For full terms and conditions please visit the extended master’s landing page.

Optional

To complete your master’s, you will complete one of the following 60-credit modules:

Dissertation – 60 credits

Apply key learnings through an in-depth research project on a chosen topic. You will be guided by an academic supervisor to identify a research problem based on a literature gap or a real-world organisational issue. Through independent research, you will select appropriate methods, critically evaluate findings, and deliver meaningful insights and recommendations.

Building on research methods classes, you should strengthen skills in literature analysis, data collection and interpretation, supported by one-on-one supervision. Completing the dissertation should equip you with expertise in critical analysis, specialised knowledge in your topic, and the ability to present research findings clearly and logically.

If you have completed either a professional placement² or professional practice experience, your dissertation will be linked to it and will assess this experience.

Internship Project – 60 credits

Apply your knowledge and skills in a real-world setting. Through a supervised nine-week internship, you will work on challenging and hands-on projects with industry mentors. You should develop critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills, while building a strong professional network. Our dedicated careers and employability team will guide you every step of the way from internship sourcing and application to completion.

You will be responsible for sourcing your nine-week internship by the end of semester two of your course. All internships are subject to university approval and will be completed during semester three of the course. Your final 60-credit project will be based on this experience.

Internship experiences are subject to additional living costs, availability, competitive application and university approval of the placement.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

Teaching and learning methods may include:

lectures
seminars
tutorials
presentations
group projects
workshops.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time postgraduate student, you will study modules totalling 180 credits each academic year. A typical 30-credit module requires a total of 300 hours of study. Study hours are made up of teaching contact hours, and guided and independent study.

Teaching hours

Teaching hours may vary, depending on where you are in your studies, but on average you will have between 8 and 12 teaching and learning hours each week. You will also have the opportunity to attend optional sessions including time with a Success Coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback.

Guided and independent study

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You will be digging deeper into topics, reviewing what you’ve learnt and completing assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress to the end of your studies, you’ll spend more time on independent learning.

Online learning

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods, including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which could vary depending upon the module. Assessment methods may include:

reports
tests
essays
practical coursework
assignments
presentations.

The Coventry University assessment strategy aims to ensure that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

An honours degree 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in any related discipline or at least two years work experience in the finance sector.

We recognise a breadth of qualifications, speak to one of our advisers today to find out how we can help you.

Select your region to find detailed information about entry requirements:

You can view our full list of country specific entry requirements on our Entry requirements page.

Alternatively, visit our International hub for further advice and guidance on finding in-country agents and representatives, joining our in-country events and how to apply.

Typical entry requirements

An honours degree 2:2 or above (or international equivalent) in any related discipline or at least two years work experience in the finance sector.

English language requirements

IELTS: This course requires IELTS of 6.5 overall, with no component lower than 5.5.

If you don't meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by successfully completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.

For more information on our approved English language tests visit our English language requirements page.

Fees and funding

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£11,200 £13,000 (with professional practice) £1,500 professional placement fee (if placement secured)	Not available
EU	£11,200 per year with EU Support Bursary £13,000 (with professional practice) per year with EU Support Bursary £1,500 professional placement fee (if placement secured) per year with EU Support Bursary £18,600 per year without EU Support Bursary £20,400 (with professional practice) per year without EU Support Bursary £1,800 professional placement fee (if placement secured) per year without EU Support Bursary	Not available
International	£18,600 £20,400 (with professional practice) £1,800 professional placement fee (if placement secured)	Not available

For advice and guidance on tuition fees³and student loans visit our Postgraduate Finance page and see the university's Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them.

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**EU Support Bursary

Following the UK's exit from the European Union, we are offering financial support to all eligible EU students who wish to study an undergraduate or a postgraduate degree with us full-time. This bursary will be used to offset the cost of your tuition fees to bring them in line with that of UK students. Students studying a degree with a foundation year with us are not eligible for the bursary.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Bloomberg Trading Floor

Enter the world of finance on our Bloomberg trading floor. Use industry-standard software to analyse real-time data and market trends. Gain the experience and practical skills you need to succeed in the global markets.

female delivering a presentation holding a laptop

Study rooms

Our study rooms on the second floor are perfect for group work, revision sessions and independent study. With modern facilities and flexible booking options, they’re the ideal environment to stay focused and collaborate with classmates.

IT Suite

Our IT Suite offers the latest hardware and software for programming, cybersecurity and data analysis. Develop the skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving tech industry.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Careers and opportunities

Successful graduates may seek positions as:

Algorithmic Trading Analyst: develop and implement computer programmes to automate trading decisions, leveraging quantitative skills and market knowledge to optimise investment strategies.
Investment/Credit Analyst: evaluate investment opportunities or assess the creditworthiness of borrowers, providing critical insights for informed decision-making in finance.
Risk Management Professional: identify, analyse, and mitigate financial risks, protecting organisations from potential losses and ensuring financial stability.
Portfolio Manager: manage investment portfolios on behalf of clients, aiming to maximise returns while adhering to risk tolerance and investment objectives.
Financial Analyst: analyse financial data, interpret market trends, and provide recommendations for investment strategies and financial decision-making.
Corporate Financier: advise businesses on capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and other financial matters, contributing to strategic growth and financial health.
Asset Management Professional: oversee the investment of funds on behalf of individuals and institutions, aiming to achieve specific financial goals and maximise returns.
Trading and Brokerage Professional: execute trade and facilitate transactions in financial markets, connecting buyers and sellers and ensuring efficient market operations.
Roles in International Financial and Government Institutions: apply financial expertise to address global economic challenges, promote financial stability, and contribute to the development of sound financial policies.
Opportunities in Academia, including further PhD study: conduct research, contribute to the advancement of financial knowledge and educate future generations of finance professionals.

On successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

critically construct and evaluate equity and fixed income active and passive strategies, employing quantitative techniques and financial derivatives.
synthesise an advanced understanding of risk and return characteristics and apply devise strategies based on alternative investment asset classes.
develop sophisticated econometrics, financial time series and machine learning models to identify trading opportunities using algorithmic trading platforms.
construct, critically evaluate, and simulate advanced market and credit risk models for the purpose of managing active and passive investment risks.
demonstrate effective self-management and independence by employing rigorous reflective skills in planning, behaviour, and motivation to meet the demands of the field in investment, trading and risk management, taking responsibility for personal learning and continuous professional development aligned with clearly identified career goals.
conduct independent and critical analysis of complex issues in the areas of investment and finance employing appropriate quantitative research methodologies, synthesise findings to formulate well-substantiated conclusions and recommendations, and effectively communicate the outcomes with innovation and rigour.

How to apply

UK students

To apply to study for a postgraduate course at Coventry University London, you can apply online

Master’s / Master’s with Professional Placement / Master’s with 9-week internship: LONT111
Master’s with Professional Practice: LONT112

How to apply

For further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

(+44) 024 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form.

International students

International students should apply directly to the university. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

Master’s / Master’s with Professional Placement / Master’s with 9-week internship: LONT111
Master’s with Professional Practice: LONT112

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an postgraduate degree view our International hub.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

(+44) 024 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form.

Disclaimers

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.

Your next steps

Student life

Accommodation

Fees and funding

Global Financial Trading MSc

Course overview

Global ready

Teaching excellence

Employability

Why you should study this course

What you'll study

Modules

How you'll learn

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours

Guided and independent study

Online learning

Assessment

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements

English language requirements

Fees and funding

*Irish student fees

**EU Support Bursary

Facilities

Bloomberg Trading Floor

Study rooms

IT Suite

Careers and opportunities

How to apply

¹Accreditations

²UK and international opportunities

³Tuition fees

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

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