Master of Finance
Degree Level Postgraduate
Year 2020
You're viewing degree information for International students
You’re considered an International student if you are a citizen of a country other than Australia or New Zealand.
Program Code
DMFC
Fees
2020: AUD$ 35,900 per annum (per 1.0 EFTSL)
English Language Requirements
- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
International Admission by Country
See full entry requirements
CRICOS Code
082591D
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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.
English language entry requirements
International students who speak English as a foreign language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at the University of South Australia. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.English language testSee equivalence table for other qualifications and English Language tests accepted by UniSA (PDF)- IELTS total [6.5]
- IELTS reading [6.0]
- IELTS writing [6.0]
Degree overview
- Address global business challenges and further your career in financial markets, corporate financial analysis and investment management.
- Engage with financial market simulation programs in our state-of-the-art Iress Trading Room on campus, which includes a market data feed and financial analysis 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 Chinese banking.
- 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 for previous qualifications and complete your degree in just 1.5 years.
- The University of South Australia Business School is ranked in the top one per cent worldwide2 and has been awarded an overall five stars for excellence in the QS Stars Ratings 2019.
- Ranked in the Top 150 institutions in the World for Accounting and Finance3.
- UniSA is No.1 in SA for postgraduate employment outcomes in Business and Management4.
12018 Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA). 2UniSA Business School is one of just nine institutions in Australia and 180 globally to be accredited by EQUIS (from over 16,500 worldwide). EFMD, February 2019. 32019 QS Subject Rankings. 4QILT: Graduate Outcomes Survey Course Experience Questionnaire 2016-18 – Full-time Employment Indicator. Public SA-founded universities only.
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 financial market simulation programs in the new Finance Trading Room and engage with the global derivatives trading industry. You can also choose to enhance your business consulting skills and experience through a professional business placement in Australia or overseas.
You will be graduate ready for senior roles in the financial services 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, advanced investment management and the econometrics of financial markets. 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.
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 and contribute to online discussion forums (independent study). 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
- an industry-relevant project
- an oral or online presentation
- a journal or a portfolio
- a work placement
Global opportunities
International exchanges and intensive study-tours open doors to new possibilities and experiences, and our Business School has strong connections with prestigious universities in Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Travelling and studying with leading academic staff and your peers is a wonderful opportunity to develop first-hand knowledge of the international business environment. You’ll find the experience invaluable for your personal and professional development, giving you a global perspective.
UniSA has links with universities worldwide. 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.
Once you are a current student, you will be able to explore various study tours and exchanges and take advantage of Student Mobility Grants to make going on an overseas exchange or study tour achievable.
Research
The UniSA Business School 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 sustainability, choice, applied finance and economics.
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. Read more about our strengths in research.
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 advanced corporate finance, investment management and behavioural finance. You will develop expertise in critical and strategic thinking within a highly-regulated industry framework. Under the guidance of our highly-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 financial analysis tools – the same technology used by the world's leading banks and investment firms.
An enriching student experience
Our flexible delivery and extra-curricular opportunities are designed to suit your lifestyle, preferred way of learning and career interests. You can benefit from a blend of online and on-campus study, part-time or full-time learning, Summer and Winter School intensive courses, mentoring and networking opportunities with industry, and leadership skill development. You can also explore accelerated learning pathways and seek program support from our Business Student Hub.
Careers in Finance
Your career
Graduates of this degree use their broad range of skills and specialist knowledge to pursue management roles, both locally and abroad.
You could consider roles such as commercial banker, finance manager, financial controller, global fund manager or auditor in areas such as:
- commercial and investment banking
- corporate treasury
- brokerage
- foreign exchange funds management
- loans
- mergers and acquisitions
- policy or research
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, the Business School 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's School of Commerce, 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, the University of South Australia's Business School is eligible to grant a number of student scholarships for the CFA Program each year.
Industry facts
How to apply for international students will give you helpful information about the application process at the University of South Australia. When you are ready, apply through our International Application System. If you would like to talk to someone near you about studying at the University of South Australia, we have agents all over the world who can assist you. Find an Education Agent in your country.
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.
Vice Chancellor's International Excellence Scholarship
Recipients can get a 50% reduction on tuition fees for up to four years of full-time study for selected degrees.
International Merit Scholarship
Recipients can get a 25% reduction on tuition fees for their first year of study for selected degrees.
Your study experience and support
As a student at the University of South Australia you will have unique access to work placement opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events, internships, guest speakers and more.
Our campuses are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities including modern lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and areas that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform. We have health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and great student lounges. You will also have access to a range of community clinics, which provide professional and cost effective services in areas of health, law and psychology. There are campus sport activities to keep you active, and if you are keen to explore the social side of university life, there are movies, cooking demonstrations, parties and lots more.
Adelaide has a variety of accommodation options to suit different requirements and budgets. Options include dedicated student accommodation or private rentals. See our long-term accommodation pages for plenty of options. If you need somewhere to live, our new student accommodation by urbanest is on Bank Street in Adelaide’s lively cultural precinct, a perfect 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 convenient, central support service for Business School students, from first year through to graduation. The team provides expert advice on study options, elective choices and any academic difficulties. It also helps 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.
International Student Services will make your life at university easier. We want you to be successful, and if you need help we will be there to assist. Support services include:
- careers advice
- help with student visas and health cover
- personal counselling
- academic counselling
- fees and finance help
- common rooms
- prayer rooms
- security officers
- services offered through our student association, USASA
- accommodation services
We also offer study support from our Learning Advisers. You can work with them face-to-face or online. They are here to help you develop academically and professionally during your studies. They also offer help with the English language.
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 enrolment, ID cards, fees, timetables and any other questions you might have.
24/7 digital environment
This degree is offered online. With interactive online course materials and a 24/7 learning environment you can organise your study to suit your lifestyle. You can:
- study online, including accessing videos and course resources
- participate in virtual classrooms
- submit your assignments and get feedback online
- use forums and discussion boards for team work and communication
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.
Please note some on-campus attendance (such as to attend seminars, workshops or examinations) and/or placements may apply. Any requirements like this are detailed on individual course pages.
Your program director
I am a Senior Lecturer in the School of Commerce with research interests in international macroeconomics and finance. I have a particular interest in Asian economies and emerging market economies. I am a deputy editor of the Journal of International Commerce, Economics and Policy, and a Visiting Senior Research Fellow at the Center for Emerging Markets Policy at the George Mason University in Virginia, USA.
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How to apply?
There are a number of ways to apply to study UniSA's undergraduate and postgraduate coursework degrees.
You can access our online International Application System through our How to Apply page. The International Application System is an easy and secure online application and acceptance process. You will have visibility of your application through the secure online portal with the ability to download offer documents, submit your acceptance and make a payment.
Alternatively you can submit an application through one of the University's registered Education Agents.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC http://www.satac.edu.au/.
If you are applying for the UniSA Study Abroad or Study Abroad Plus program, you can submit your application online here.
Postgraduate study by research
For information on applying to do postgraduate study by research, including Masters by Research, PhDs or Doctorates, please visit http://unisa.edu.au/resdegrees. -
Is there a closing date for applications?
There is no closing date for submitting your application however the admissions process takes between one and three weeks from the date that we receive your application and all required supporting documentation.
If you are completing an Australian year 12 qualification in Australia or overseas, or the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme in Australia, you must apply through SATAC. Key dates for applications can be found here.
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What credit can I receive for previous studies?
You may be eligible to receive credit 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 credit will reduce the number of courses you undertake within the degree, and may also reduce the overall duration of your degree.
The amount of credit you may be eligible to receive is assessed on a case-by-case basis by the Admissions team.
The best way to determine your eligibility to receive credit or advanced standing is to apply using our International Application System which can be found on our How to Apply page. You will need to supply detailed syllabus documents with your application.
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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.
We also have many events throughout the year in Australia and overseas where you can speak with UniSA representatives about your area of interest. View our calendar of events in your home country by selecting the 'International' filter.
What others are saying
To me, teaching is more about inspiring my students to discover their purpose and potential rather than simply delivering knowledge in finance. Each student enters my classroom with a unique and valuable set of life experiences. I build upon these experiences and promote cooperation, multiple perspectives, real-world examples and critical thinking aligned with their professional aim.
Dr Reza Bradrania
