BSc in Banking and Finance with a Professional Placement Year, Cardiff University

48 Months

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About this course

This four-year full-time program provides students with a rigorous foundation in economics, emphasizing applications within the banking and financial services sectors. Students learn to utilize advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational tools to analyze financial data while gaining a critical understanding of the legal, regulatory, and ethical frameworks governing financial institutions. Importantly, the course integrates practical skills such as communicating complex analyses effectively to diverse audiences. A key feature is the inclusion of a professional placement year, offering real-world workplace experience supported by dedicated career services. The program fosters a comprehensive understanding of financial markets, risk, and portfolio management, preparing students for a broad range of career paths in banking, finance, government, and consultancy. The engaging learning environment benefits from state-of-the-art facilities, including 65-terminal trading rooms, and a faculty that brings diverse research insights into teaching.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for students who want a strong grounding in economics combined with practical skills tailored for the financial sector. Its multi-faceted approach, blending analytical tools with ethical and regulatory understanding, ensures graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the dynamic financial world. The inclusion of a professional placement enhances employability by providing hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and a chance to apply academic learning in real workplace contexts. The flexible module options allow students to focus on areas of personal interest, boosting their confidence and competence. Additionally, the state-of-the-art trading facilities and expert faculty make it a compelling choice for aspiring finance professionals who seek both rigorous academic training and practical industry exposure.

Specialisation

The curriculum combines core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and finance with optional modules in areas like financial derivatives, international finance, banking, and portfolio management. Students can tailor their final year to match personal interests and career aspirations by choosing from a wide selection of optional modules, including advanced econometrics and financial analysis. The program also emphasizes empirical work and real-world application, bridging theoretical understanding with practical skills through trading simulations, computer-based analysis, and a research project—particularly for those who undertake the placement year.

Course fees

Application fees

25.02L

1st year tuition fees

25.02L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need to meet specific entry requirements, including A-levels with grades AAB-BBB, including Maths, or equivalent qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate with at least 34-31 overall, or 6,6,6 in HL subjects with a grade 6 in HL Maths. GCSE English language at grade C/4 or equivalent is required. International applicants must demonstrate proficiency through exams like IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall, with at least 5.5 in each subskill), TOEFL, or PTE. The course also accepts various other qualifications, with specific grade conditions, and considers contextual data for offers to some applicants.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Cardiff University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates will develop a unique blend of technical, analytical, and communication skills, making them highly employable in finance, banking, consultancy, accountancy, and government sectors. The program's emphasis on practical skills, industry-relevant software, and real-world experience through the placement year prepares students for diverse roles. Alumni often secure positions as professional economists, financial analysts, or in related fields like financial journalism and policy advice. The skillset gained during the degree ensures graduates can evaluate economic arguments, formulate policies, and communicate findings effectively, supporting their career growth in highly competitive environments.

FAQs

What are the main features of the placement year?

During the placement year, students undertake a salaried internship, gaining practical experience in real-world workplaces. They receive support from the Placements Team, must have placements approved, and are assessed via reflective reports and presentations, which help build industry-specific skills and expand professional networks.

Can the final-year project be replaced by research work?

Yes. Students who have completed the placement year may opt to replace a taught module with a research project focused on their sector of experience, supported by a supervisor, to deepen their understanding and showcase applied skills.