Finance

Entry requirements

Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Commerce).

Every applicant must either

• be a graduate with a mathematically-oriented degree and normally have achieved an average grade of B+ in the papers satisfying the final year major subject requirements for that degree, or
• have equivalent alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Commerce).

In considering an applicant’s qualifications, regard will be had to the detail of the course of study followed to gain the qualification, as well as the applicant’s performance in the programme.

If your first language is not English you need to meet our English language requirements as follows: IELTS score of 6.5 in the academic module (with no individual band below 6.0); we also accept a number of other English language tests. Due to COVID-19, we currently accept Duolingo English Test (DET), IELTS Indicator Test, and TOEFL iBT Special home Edition.

Don’t meet the English language requirements? The University of Otago Language Centre English for Otago programme offers a pathway for Undergraduate and Postgraduate students to meet the English language requirements for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

Months of entry

February

Course content

The Master of Finance (MFinc) will equip students to be either professional practitioners or academic researchers in the field of Finance.

The Master of Finance can be completed in one year of full-time study which consists of a selection of papers plus either an applied or research project. The programme allows for the development of individual skills and applied or theoretical research and investigation. Starting with a sound background of coursework, students will have the opportunity to contribute to existing or new fields of research (applied or theoretical).

Graduates who follow the option of completing an Applied Project (FINC 501) will have a wide range of career opportunities in commercial and investment banks, brokerage and investment firms, insurance companies, treasury departments of non-financial corporations, regulatory agencies, consulting and accounting firms. Graduates completing the Master of Finance with a Research Project (FINC 580) will in addition have the ability to design and pursue a large project of independent research suitable to the PhD.

Information for international students

Otago offers students an unrivalled campus experience and a vibrant, social student culture. The majority of Otago’s 21,000 students live, work and play in Dunedin - New Zealand’s only true university city. Otago is home to over 3,000 students, from over 100 countries.

Fees and funding

New Zealand is a relatively affordable country to live in. Dunedin, being a student-focused city, has living and entertainment options for all budgets.

Students are eligible for the Otago International Excellence Scholarship.