Master of Finance
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2024
You're viewing degree information for Australian students
You're considered an Australian student if you are any of the following:
- Australian or New Zealand Citizen
- Australian Permanent Resident (including Permanent Humanitarian Visa holders)
Program Code
DMFC
SATAC Code
4CM164 (Internal)
4CM165 (Internal)
Study as
Full-time
or part-time
Mode
On-campus/Online
Fees
$AU 32,500 per 1.0 EFTSL for students enrolled in 2024
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View full entry requirements Hide full entry requirements
Entry requirements
Applicants are required to have one of the following:
- A completed bachelor degree from a recognised higher education institution or equivalent; or
- A completed graduate diploma from a recognised higher education institution; or
- A completed graduate certificate from a recognised higher education institution.
Applicants who have:
- completed a bachelor degree in a business discipline; or
- completed a bachelor degree which includes a major in business, commerce, marketing or management; or
- completed a graduate certificate in a business discipline,
are eligible to enter the program with 0.5 EFTSL (18 units) Advanced Standing and complete the program in 1.5 years of full time study or equivalent part time study.
Degree overview
- Address global business challenges and further your career in financial markets, investment banking, corporate financial analysis and investment management.
- Engage with simulated financial markets in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and trading tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
- Complete 150 hours of industry placement with a local or international organisation.
- Tailor your studies by choosing elective courses that align with your interests or professional development needs such as global banking and financial technologies.
- Be mentored by a senior business leader through the Executive Partners Program.
- Study a curriculum informed by world-class research in Finance1.
- Qualify for Advanced Standing from previous qualifications and complete your degree in just 1.5 years.
- Develop career-ready skills employers are looking for once you graduate with enterprise skills embedded in all business courses within this program.
- UniSA Business is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide2 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2022.
- UniSA Business is accredited by both AACSB International and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies.
- UniSA is in the Top 10 in Australia for postgraduate teaching quality3.
- Ranked No. 1 in SA and Top 15 in Australia for Business and Economics4.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2UniSA Business is one of just 12 institutions in Australia and approximately 200 globally (from over 25,000 universities) to be EQUIS accredited. EFMD, March 2022. 3Ranked #9, ComparED (QILT) Course Experience Questionnaire 2019-20. Public universities. 42023 THE Subject Rankings.
Snapshot
With a Master of Finance you will be equipped to manage the challenges of the fast-developing global finance industry.
This degree has a strong focus on experience-based learning. You will use simulated financial markets in the Finance Trading Room to enhance your learning and engage in real world practical tasks in specialised fields in Finance. You can also choose to enhance your business consulting skills and experience through a professional business placement in Australia or overseas.
You will graduate ready for senior roles in the finance sector and be skilled in applying current theory to real-world issues.
What you'll learn
The Master of Finance is made up of 16 courses in areas such as financial theory and markets, investment management, corporate finance as well as econometrics. You will also study two electives as part of your studies. One of your elective options is a 150-hour industry placement either in Australia or overseas. The program will take 2 years full-time to be completed. If you are eligible for Advanced Standing*, it will take only 1.5 years.
*Advanced Standing for previous studies means you can complete the requirements of this qualification in less than 2 years. You can apply if you have successfully completed one of these degrees. A bachelor degree in a business discipline or a bachelor degree which includes a major in business, commerce, marketing or management, or a graduate certificate in a business discipline.
Study hours
For each course you study, you will need to allocate time for various classes such as lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Plus you will need additional hours to study in your own time to complete assignments, readings and projects, as well as to contribute to online discussion forums. So as a general rule, if you are studying full-time you would need to allocate 12–26 hours of study when at university and 14–28 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
This degree combines theoretical and hands-on learning. You can expect your assessment tasks to differ widely, for example you may have:
- case studies and reports
- essays and assignments
- examinations
- industry-relevant projects
- oral or online presentations
- journal or portfolios
- work placements
Global opportunities
Enrich your studies and your life – make overseas study part of your qualification. You may have the option to undertake an exchange, short-term program or study tour overseas while you study. We have links with universities worldwide, as well as a range of travel grants available to make going overseas much more accessible.
You can choose short-term or semester-long study from a range of universities and countries depending on your area of study and cultural interests.
Take a look at the global opportunities available.
Research
UniSA is recognised and respected for a comprehensive research program inspired by the contemporary challenges facing Australia and its region. Our focus is always on finding practical solutions and creating new knowledge. In the Master of Finance, our lecturers are leaders in their field. You could be learning from experts who are also researching areas such as international finance, investment, corporate finance and governance, behavioural finance, energy markets, banking, financial economics and financial technology (Fintech).
Our commitment to research with an industry focus is unprecedented. In the 2018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) rankings, all of our assessed research was rated at or above world-class with particular strengths in business and management and marketing.
Why Master of Finance
As a graduate, you can rest assured that the Master of Finance is a globally competitive degree that is respected internationally for its quality and relevance to industry.
In your studies you’ll focus on corporate finance and governance, investment management, behavioural finance and international finance. You will develop expertise in critical and strategic thinking within a highly-regulated industry framework. Under the guidance of our experienced research professionals, you will strengthen your research and analytical skills. You can also choose to enhance your business consulting skills and professional experience through 150 hours of business placement in Australia or overseas.
You'll also have the opportunity to learn in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and trading tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
UniSA Business is the only business school in South Australia accredited by both AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) and EFMD (EQUIS) – the world’s leading accreditation bodies recognising excellence in business education and research at a global level. These dual accreditations demonstrate the high standards we hold across all areas such as teaching, student learning and research, as well as our commitment to continually improving the quality of our programs.
An enriching student experience
Our flexible delivery and extracurricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred learning style, and career interests. You can benefit from online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and accelerated learning pathways. Plus, you can make the most of professional development courses endorsed by industry, build leadership skills by participating in the UniSA+ Award, or seek support at our on-campus Business Student Hub.
Real-world connections
Our teaching staff are industry experienced and maintain close working links with leading professional bodies such as Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute. This collaboration ensures the knowledge you take into your career will meet the dynamic needs of industry, and your qualification remains relevant and applicable.
While you study you can get valuable industry experience through industry placements in Australia, or an international study experience through more than 60 exchange partners across Asia, Europe, North America and South America. Our links to UniSA’s research facilities ensure your learning is connected to the latest technologies, theories and applications of finance knowledge.
Placements bridge the gap between study and work. Our connections to industry create opportunities for you to grow. These experiences build confidence in the business world and give you a competitive edge.
Online study
Part, or all, of this degree can be studied online. This means that you can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in an interactive online learning environment
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use discussion forums for team work and communication
With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment, you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle.
Please note that for some degrees, some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any applicable requirements will be detailed on individual course pages.
Executive Partners Program
Have you ever considered having a business mentor? As part of your studies, you can apply for our Executive Partners Program.
This is a unique opportunity for our postgraduate students to engage with highly successful industry executives to enhance your study and career. Our Executive Partners are either active, semi-retired or recently retired business professionals who have a wealth of knowledge and want to help you achieve your goals.
This could be you
You'll graduate from UniSA prepared for a range of careers - see where your studies could take you.
Your career
Graduates of this degree use their broad range of skills and specialist knowledge to pursue finance-related roles, both locally and abroad.
You could consider analyst or associate level roles in commercial banking, investment banking, equity research, trading desk, corporate finance consultant, private equity, corporate treasury, risk analyst, and credit analyst.
Professional accreditation and recognition
This program is recognised as a Financial Risk Manager (FRM) Academic Partner by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP). This status is granted to institutions whose degree programs incorporate at least 70% of GARP's FRM Body of Knowledge. By providing students the opportunity to become well-qualified FRM candidates, UniSA Business joins GARP in its commitment to advance risk management through education. "GARP is pleased to welcome UniSA to the GARP Partnership for Risk Education. The program, offered by UniSA Business, provides its students with an excellent opportunity to enhance their modeling and analytic skills. Students pursuing this degree should find themselves well prepared for the rigors of the FRM certification program and ready to embark on a career in the global risk management profession." Dr. Chris Donohue, Managing Director - Head of Research & Educational Programs, GARP
This program is recognised through the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute University Affiliation Program. Affiliated programs incorporate at least 70% of the CFA Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) for all three levels of the CFA Program exams, including ethics. This program positions students to undertake the Chartered Financial Analyst® exam, which has become one of the most respected and recognised investment credentials in the world. The CFA Institute University Affiliation Program signals to potential employers and the marketplace that the curriculum is closely tied to professional practice and is well-suited to preparing students to sit for the CFA examinations. As an Affiliated University, UniSA Business is eligible to grant a number of student scholarships for the CFA Program each year.
Industry facts
Applying to study with us:
- go to the top of this page and make note of the relevant SATAC code (see below) then click Apply
- you will be redirected through to the SATAC website to continue your application
You may be eligible for Advanced Standing. When applying through SATAC, please refer to the codes below. If you are uncertain about your eligibility, please include more than one SATAC code in your list of application preferences.
- 2 years - SATAC CODE 4CM164
- 1.5 years - SATAC CODE 4CM165
What is Advanced Standing?
Advanced Standing for previous studies means you can complete the requirements of this qualification in less than 2 years. You can apply if you have successfully completed one of these (please see entry requirements for further details):
- bachelor degree in a business discipline
- bachelor degree which includes a major in business, commerce, marketing or management
- graduate certificate in a business discipline
Scholarships
Every year, over 2,500 UniSA students are supported in their studies through scholarships and grants worth millions of dollars. Check out the scholarships below. One of them may be perfect for you. Visit our scholarships page for more.
Scholarship for student leadership
Available for students who are interested in undertaking specified activities with the aim of enhancing the overall student experience at UniSA.
International travel grants
Travel Grants are available to participate in our Study Overseas Programs. UniSA has agreement with over 80 institutions globally.
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UniSA Online – 100% online degrees designed specifically for online learning.
Your study experience and support
Our campuses have fantastic facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, tech zones, and spaces that simulate real work environments. You’ll also find student gyms and campus sport activities to keep you active. We also offer flexible study options, with online resources available for accessing lecture recordings, virtual classrooms, library resources and learning support.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation and private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages, or explore our student accommodation by Scape on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, an ideal location for students. It is within easy reach of UniSA’s city and metropolitan campuses, Rundle Mall shopping, the Central Market, Chinatown, and the West End’s vibrant nightlife. It is also across the road from the Adelaide train station, and on bus and tram routes.
Student services
The Business Student Hub is a dedicated and convenient support service for business students, from first year right through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties, and can help with referrals to support services across the University. The Business Student Hub is there to facilitate your life at university, so you get the most out of your UniSA experience.
You can also access a range of other student services including:
- academic counselling
- personal counselling
- social support services, including family support and nearby childcare
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- Wirringka Student Services, offering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students a supportive place to study
- UniSA’s Student Association, USASA, also provides a range of other services.
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers which you can work with face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies.
When you become a UniSA student you can contact Campus Central for help with anything related to your degree. They will help you with your ID cards, fees and any other questions you might have.
24/7 digital environment
Our learnonline facilities include a personal learning environment with virtual classrooms, lecture recordings, emails, learning support, administration, library access and results. The environment is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so you can tailor your learning to your life. We are continually investing in innovative digital technologies for a high-quality student learning experience.
Your program director
I am a Senior Lecturer in Finance, and my research is in the area of stock valuation and investment. Before academia, I worked in Finance and Management consulting for several years. I am an engineer by trade and hold an MBA, a MSc in Finance and Investment from Durham University and a PhD in Finance from the University of Sydney. Our programs are industry-informed and designed with the employability of our graduates in mind. Therefore, students will be engaged in industry-driven issues and apply theories to real world applications in the courses, while enhancing their soft skills. That’s why our graduates are sought after by top employers in Finance and Property industries.
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How do I apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
Applications for admission into the University of South Australia’s undergraduate and most postgraduate degrees are made via the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC). Visit satac.edu.au and follow the links.
For the MBA degrees please apply through the UniSA MBA Application Portal. Applications for a small number of degrees are submitted direct to UniSA through our Apply Online portal. It will be noted on the degree page if you need to apply via Apply Online.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Master of Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
Undergraduate
Yes. The deadline to apply to study a degree at UniSA for semester one (commencing late February) and be given equal consideration is in early December. While you may be able to apply after this date, you are not guaranteed to be considered equally with other applicants and your application may not be assessed in time for the main round of offers (mid January). Some degrees will not make any offers after the main offer round. Please click here find all of the key dates for applications here.Postgraduate
Most postgraduate degrees do not have a closing date for applications. However, there are exceptions, so it is best to check – either on the SATAC website, Apply Online or the degree homepage. Postgraduate offers are normally ‘rolling’, meaning they may be sent out at any time up until the program starts. This also means that applications may close at any time without warning, if the quota is filled earlier. For this reason, postgraduate applications should be submitted without delay. For more information, please contact our Future Student Enquiries team on (08) 8302 2376 or via the online enquiry form. -
What credit can I receive for previous studies?
Credit transfer or advanced standing
You may be eligible to receive a credit transfer or advanced standing for your chosen UniSA degree based on your previous studies, if they are in a related area at an equivalent or higher level. Receiving a credit transfer will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
Recognised prior learning
If you have related industry experience, you may also be eligible to receive recognised prior learning for this experience. Receiving recognised prior learning will normally reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and can reduce the duration of the degree.
How do I get credit?
Credit transfer and recognition of prior learning is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Program Director who will discuss your prior learning and experience with you to ascertain what credit you may be eligible for.
Many of our credit transfer arrangements are listed on our online Credit Assessor.
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Can I speak to someone regarding my study options?
UniSA welcomes the opportunity to speak with you regarding your study options. Our staff are able to talk to you about degree information, career outcomes and pathways, entry requirements, applications, and student life, so that you are able to make the best study decision for your future.
Click here to book a 1:1 appointment with one of our enquiries team.
If you are interested in studying an MBA please contact admissions@unisa.edu.au and our Future Student Enquiries team will contact you regarding your enquiry.
Alternatively, you can complete a MyCareerMatch career profile. MyCareerMatch is an online career profiling tool that you can use free-of-charge through UniSA. MyCareerMatch specialises in career profiles and provides you with a personalised career report outlining information about your personality style and a list of career options, which are complementary to your natural strengths and talents.
We have many events throughout the year where you can speak with a lecturer or tutor about your degrees of interest. You can find out what is happening at UniSA by visiting our events page or by signing up to our mailing list, so you're the first to know about careers events, information sessions, degree requirements, scholarships and more!
There are also many career counsellors external to the University that you can discuss your career options with. If you are unsure where to start your search, you can contact the Government's Work Ready team (formally Skills for All). Visit skills.sa.gov.au or call 1800 506 266.
You may also find Job Outlook a helpful resource in your decision-making.
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Where can I get further information?
It can be difficult to decide what degree you would like to do and where. You might find information from government organisations will help to weigh up your degree and provider options.
Find a course or a provider
TEQSA is a regulatory body for higher education providers. Use the TEQSA national register of higher education providers to search for a course or a provider. Compare courses and providers for undergraduates and postgraduates using the Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) online comparison tool.
More information on university admission
Visit the SATAC website to find out important news, events and information on applying to university in South Australia. Visit Study with Us to find out everything you need to know about studying at UniSA, admissions and the application process.
Questions about your application
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your application you should contact the Future Students Enquiries team in the first instance.
What others are saying
As an international student, studying a FASEA*-approved program at UniSA was the first step to becoming a certified Financial Planner in Australia. UniSA gave me the opportunity to build my confidence and professional network through a range of organised networking events with key contacts in the financial industry. Studying at UniSA was also an invaluable experience with access to the Iress Trading Room where we had the opportunity to trade and learn with market data.
*Financial Adviser Standards, The Treasury have taken on the responsibilities of the Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) as of 1 January 2022. The degree is a Financial Adviser Standards and Ethics Authority (FASEA) accredited program.
Karen Figueroa Vargas
Master of Finance (Financial Planning)
Paraplanner | GPW Gray Perry Wealth Advisers
Financial planning is a rapidly changing environment especially when it comes to legislation and compliance. Studying this masters degree at UniSA allowed me to build upon my existing knowledge and helped me to develop the transferable skills needed to adapt to the requirements of a role within today’s finance industry.
Andrew Galea
Master of Finance (Financial Planning)
Client Services Coordinator | UniSuper
