Finance Programme
From Bachelor to Master
To start the MSc Finance in Groningen, students typically complete the BSc in Economics and Business Economics or the BSc in International Business, both offered at the University of Groningen. Within these programmes, you build a broad foundation in economics, business, and quantitative methods.
If your background does not fully meet the entry requirements, you may first need to complete a Pre-Master Finance. This one-year track provides the necessary academic preparation in accounting, economics, and finance before entering the Master.
Students who have completed a minor in Finance during their Bachelor’s studies (at Groningen or another Dutch university) are often also eligible for direct entry into the MSc.
The MSc Finance itself takes one year (full-time) and offers a broad curriculum, with the opportunity to specialise in different areas of finance through dedicated profiles.
MSc Finance
During the MSc Finance, you can tailor your programme according to your interests and career ambitions. You will also work on a research thesis while selecting electives.
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Sustainable Finance
Learn about the drivers of responsible finance, banking, and investing. Carry out analyses of real-world issues such as trade, the environment, and growth. You will be prepared to align financial decision-making with corporate social responsibility, focusing on challenges like climate change, renewable energy, and corporate governance.
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Quantitative Finance
Focus on advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational methods for finance. You learn to design and analyse models, optimise investment strategies, and price complex derivatives. This profile prepares you for careers as a quantitative analyst (quant) or risk manager, where strong analytical and programming skills are essential.
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Corporate Finance
Gain expertise in valuing companies and analysing financial strategies. Topics include shareholder value maximisation, principal–agent problems, and behavioural finance. This profile is especially suited for those aiming to work in investment banking, mergers & acquisitions, or corporate financial management.
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Investment and Asset Management
Develop your skills in portfolio management, valuation, and derivative pricing. Put theory into practice through a real-life investment game. This profile prepares you for positions in asset management, banking, and investment firms.
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General Finance
For students who prefer flexibility, this profile allows you to combine courses from the four profiles above. It is recommended to start in September if you choose this profile, as the February intake limits course options and makes completing the programme within one year more challenging.
Students who choose the Sustainable Finance profile, for example, can help investors make ethical choices by assessing the impact of investments on climate change, renewable energy, and social governance. Graduates of the Quantitative Finance profile are well-prepared for technical roles in banks, hedge funds, and pension funds. Those choosing Corporate Finance or Investment & Asset Management often pursue careers in investment banking, mergers & acquisitions, or portfolio management. The programme’s international orientation, combined with strong quantitative and analytical training, ensures that you will be competitive in both the Dutch and global labour markets.
