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 - Finance and Investment This University of Essex professionally recognised course provides advanced knowledge of finance and investment.

Essex develops students' analytical skills and use of quantitative tools through industry-standard Bloomberg software. Students tackle real-world investment decisions in Essex's virtual trading floor, designed with input from a practising Hedge Fund Manager. The trading floor replicates the professional setting students might find in the City, allowing them to develop the skills needed in industry and gain an advantage in the graduate recruitment market.

Students embark on a broad educational programme, preparing them to face the challenges of managing and working in organisations operating in varying and complex economic, social, political and cultural conditions. Upon graduation, students may be suitable for employment in a host of finance and investment posts. Students develop knowledge and skills in: portfolio theory, fixed-income securities, behavioural finance, and corporate finance.

MSc Finance and Investment is taught at Essex Business School. They’re ranked 25th in the UK for research quality and they embed the latest academic thinking in their teaching to ensure students experience the cutting-edge of contemporary finance. They’re an internationally diverse school, with the Masters students joining from more than 40 countries.

The University of Essex is a member of the CFA® Institute University Affiliation Program and the MSc Finance and Investment covers more than 70% of the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Program Candidate Body of Knowledge. Upon completing this course, students are well positioned to sit for the CFA exams, which are among the most widely-recognised and established qualifications in the UK.

By completing this course, students should understand the financial drivers of an increasingly complex business world and have the best foundation for their career in finance.

Many of Essex's recent graduates work for high-profile organisations and exciting SMEs worldwide, including: Deutsche Bank, Standard Chartered, GlobeOp Financial Services, Capital Markets Intelligence, and Credit Data Research. As well as enjoying careers in financial analysis, management, public administration and accountancy, many of Essex's graduates are successful entrepreneurs. Recent examples include international business incubator 0100Ventures and entrepreneurship website SlovakSTARTUP.