Universities / University of Essex
MSc Financial Engineering and Risk Management (MSc FERM)
A finance masters centred on asset pricing, derivatives, risk management and financial econometrics, with an applied empirical slant and a 10,000-word dissertation. Less stochastic-calculus heavy than maths-department programmes; includes a zero-credit maths preparation module.
What you’ll study
Core
- Dissertation
- Research Methods in Finance
- Financial Derivatives
- Asset Pricing
- Financial Time Series: Methods and Applications
- Risk Management
- Data Analysis: Cross Sectional, Panel and Qualitative Data Methods
- Postgraduate Mathematics Preparation
- Professional and Academic Development (PAD)
Electives
- One Essex Business School option from a list (20 credits); list not shown on page
Source: essex.ac.uk ↗
Before you apply
- Background
- 2:2 or equivalent in actuarial science, computer science, economics, engineering, finance, maths, natural science, data analysis or statistics; other 2:2 degrees with one relevant module, CFA Level 1-3, or at least a year of relevant work experience considered
- Maths
- linear algebra and differential calculus covered in pre-sessional maths module
- English
- IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 5.5 in each component
- Other
- CV required for non-standard backgrounds
Source: essex.ac.uk ↗
After graduation
- Typical first roles
- Financial engineering, Risk management, Financial analysis, Investment banking, Hedge funds, Financial regulation
- Employers
- Groupon, KPMG Group, Copal Partners, Capital Markets Intelligence, Credit Data Research, Right Freight Pvt Ltd
Source: essex.ac.uk ↗
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Checked 6 November 2026 against the sources linked on this page. Fees, units and requirements change each year, so confirm them on the programme’s website before applying.
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