If students hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet the entry requirements for a master’s, a Pre-Master’s can help them gain a place on a postgraduate degree. For progression to the 1st year of a postgraduate degree at the University of Essex. Course length is determined mainly by students English language level (UKVI IELTS score).

Students on all course lengths take a set of common or similar modules to gain a solid base of skills for university. If their course is longer than 2 terms, students will take additional modules designed to improve one or more of their English language level, academic skills, and basic knowledge of particular subjects.

Master of Science - Financial Technology (Computer Science) To be competitive in the modern financial industry, it is not enough for a scientist to know how to write software, nor is it enough that one can mathematically analyse markets based on simplifying assumption by ignoring the computation required. The University of Essex MSc Financial Technology (Computer Science) course give students the understanding of the specifics and the intricacies of financial and economics markets, the ability to apply advanced computing methods and the ability to design and program solutions that successfully exploit the synergy between finance, economics, and computation.

The course will cover areas including: financial markets, big data analytics, blockchain, AI, and python programming. This course will give students both the theoretical and technical skills that are specific for the finance industry, as well as transferable skills such as the ability to develop and present an argument, and the ability to work independently and in groups.

The MSc Financial Technology suite of courses has three unique variants for students to explore so they can tailor their Masters in financial technology to suit their interests and goals. In addition to the MSc Financial Technology (Computer Science) course, there is also the option of MSc Financial Technology (Finance) and MSc Financial Technology (Economics), giving students the chance to specialize in their preferred area of study.

Essex's MSc Financial Technology (Computer Science) course will equip students with the skillset at the intersection of computer science, economics and finance. Students gain expertise that is in high demand in the finance industry in the UK, and will become competitive in one of the primary recruiting sectors in the country and beyond.

With a skillset that combines both technical and analytical know-how from internationally known hubs within the University of Essex, graduates will be able to find employment in very competitive financial institutions.