Oxford MSc Financial Economics: Everything You Need to Know

 


The Oxford MSc Financial Economics is a top-tier program offered by the University of Oxford. It's designed to give students a deep understanding of financial markets and the economic theories that drive them. If you're looking to pursue a career in finance, this one-year course at Oxford’s Saïd Business School could be the perfect stepping stone. In this blog, we'll break down the key aspects of the Oxford MSc Financial Economics, including the class profile, fees, eligibility criteria, program structure, job prospects, and what makes this program unique.

Class Profile: Who Studies the Oxford MSc Financial Economics?

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics attracts bright minds from all over the world. The students in this program come from diverse backgrounds, but they all share a passion for finance and economics.

  • Class Size: 80-100 students

  • Average Age: 23 years

  • Gender Split: Around 40-45% women and 55-60% men

  • Nationalities: Over 30 different countries are represented

  • Academic Background: Most students have studied economics, finance, mathematics, engineering, or similar subjects

  • Work Experience: While work experience isn’t mandatory, many students have done internships or had full-time jobs in finance, consulting, or related fields before joining the program

This diverse and talented group of students makes for an exciting and enriching learning environment.

Fees & Financing: How Much Does It Cost?

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics is a significant investment, but it offers excellent returns in terms of career opportunities.

  • Tuition Fees: For the 2024-2025 academic year, the fees are about £55,000. This includes tuition, college membership, and access to Oxford’s resources.

  • Living Costs: You should budget an additional £15,000 to £20,000 for living expenses, including accommodation, food, and personal costs.

  • Scholarships: Oxford offers various scholarships based on merit and financial need. Some of these include the Saïd Business School Foundation Scholarships and the Oxford-Anderson Graduate Scholarship.

  • Loans: Many students finance their studies through educational loans or sponsorships from employers. Oxford also provides information on external scholarships and funding options.

While the cost is high, the potential career benefits make it a worthwhile investment for many students.

Eligibility Criteria: What Do You Need to Get In?

Getting into the Oxford MSc Financial Economics is competitive, and the program looks for students with strong academic backgrounds and a keen interest in finance.

  1. Academic Qualifications: You need a good undergraduate degree, ideally with a first-class or upper second-class honors in a relevant field like economics, finance, mathematics, or engineering.

  2. Math Skills: You should be comfortable with quantitative methods, which means you should have good grades in math and statistics courses.

  3. GMAT/GRE: A competitive GMAT or GRE score is required. Most successful applicants have GMAT scores above 700.

  4. English Proficiency: If English isn’t your first language, you’ll need to provide IELTS or TOEFL scores. Oxford looks for an IELTS score of 7.5 or a TOEFL score of 110.

  5. Statement of Purpose: You’ll need to write a statement explaining why you want to join the program, your career goals, and how the Oxford MSc Financial Economics will help you achieve them.

  6. References: Two recommendation letters are required, either academic or professional, to support your application.

Employment Upon Graduation: What Career Opportunities Are Available?

Graduates of the Oxford MSc Financial Economics are highly sought after by top employers in the finance industry. The program has an impressive track record of helping students secure jobs quickly after graduation.

  • Employment Rate: More than 95% of graduates find a job within three months of finishing the program.

  • Top Employers: Many graduates go on to work for leading firms like Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, McKinsey & Company, and BlackRock. Others find roles in central banks, hedge funds, and asset management companies.

  • Job Roles: Graduates typically take on roles such as investment banking analyst, financial consultant, portfolio manager, risk analyst, and economist.

  • Starting Salary: Graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, often ranging from £60,000 to £90,000, depending on the job and location.

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics opens doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities in finance.

Why Oxford MSc Financial Economics is Unique

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics is not just another finance program. It stands out for several reasons:

  1. World-Class Faculty: You’ll learn from leading academics and industry experts who are at the forefront of financial research and practice.

  2. Prestige of Oxford: A degree from the University of Oxford is recognized and respected worldwide, giving you a significant advantage in the job market.

  3. Interdisciplinary Learning: The program is a collaboration between the Saïd Business School and the Department of Economics, providing a well-rounded education that combines theory and practice.

  4. Networking Opportunities: As a student, you’ll have access to Oxford’s extensive alumni network, which includes leaders in finance, government, and academia. This network can be invaluable as you progress in your career.

  5. Cultural Experience: Studying in Oxford is a unique experience. The city’s rich history and vibrant academic environment make it an inspiring place to study and live.

  6. Practical Focus: The program emphasizes practical skills through real-world case studies, simulations, and the Finance Lab, ensuring you are job-ready when you graduate.

oxford msc financial economics

The Oxford MSc Financial Economics is an exceptional program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and network needed to excel in the finance industry. With its rigorous curriculum, world-class faculty, and strong employment outcomes, the program is a top choice for anyone looking to make a mark in the world of finance. Whether you want to become an investment banker, a financial consultant, or an economist, the Oxford MSc Financial Economics can help you achieve your career goals.

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