ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥

Top 20 for Economics in the Daily Mail University Guide 2026

Key facts

Typical offer

UCAS points:

112


A Level:

BBC


BTEC:

DMM


Contextual Offer:

Minimum of one to two grade reduction from our typical offer. Full details at dmu.ac.uk/contextual

Key facts

Duration:

3 yrs full-time


Study mode:

Full-time


UCAS code:

L102


Institution code:

D26

Typical offer

UCAS points:

112


A Level:

BBC


BTEC:

DMM


Contextual Offer:

Minimum of one to two grade reduction from our typical offer. Full details at dmu.ac.uk/contextual

UCAS code

L102

Duration

Three years full-time, four years with a placement

Study mode

Full-time

Hands on experience with industry standard tools like Bloomberg and Python, plus innovative modules in AI and Financial Applications, will equip you for real world challenges.

Overview

The Banking and Finance BSc (Hons) offers an exciting, academically rigorous pathway into the financial sector, combining in-depth theoretical knowledge with a strong focus on practical skills and employability. This course will equip you with the advanced technical abilities, industry insights, and professional mindset essential for success in the fast-paced world of commercial banking, corporate finance, and investment management.

Throughout the course, you will gain a solid understanding of financial markets while exploring the interconnected areas of data science, economic strategy, and regulatory supervision. Perfect for those with a keen interest in a quantitative approach, the programme places a strong emphasis on data analysis, econometric modelling, and financial reporting.

You will also gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge tools, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world application. Our innovative modules, including Artificial Intelligence and Financial Applications such as Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL), and industry standard software tools such as Python that will allow you to explore new methodologies in finance. You will have the chance to develop and evaluate applications that tackle real-world business problems. The course also offers access to our state-of-the-art Trading Room, where you can gain practical experience using industry-standard software, just like the professionals do.

Additional qualifications

In addition to your degree, you will have the opportunity to gain the below certificates:

  • Bloomberg Finance Fundamentals (BFF)
  • Bloomberg Market Concepts (BMC)
  • Bloomberg Environmental Social Governance (ESG)
  • Bloomberg Spreadsheet Analysis (BSA)
  • LSEG Finance Essentials
  • LSEG Workspace
  • LSEG World-Check One
  • LSEG DataStream

Clearing is open

Clearing is open

Secure an offer now, explore your options, and get support through every step of Clearing.

Our next Open Day is on
Saturday 03 October

Join us in 31 days and 10 hours.

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What you will study

Block 1: Global Financial Markets and Economics

This dynamic module bridges the gap between powerful economic theories and the reality of global financial systems. Divided into two stages, you will transition from understanding how money moves to analysing the forces that drive global markets.

Block 2: Statistics and Econometrics for Financial Decision Making

In this module you will learn how to collect, analyse, and model data from global markets and economic indicators. You will master the essential mathematical tools, statistical methods, and probability theories needed to decode complex financial relationships, uncover market trends, and back your business decisions with evidence. This module will give you the quantitative foundation required to complete the advanced financial module you will encounter later in the program.

Block 3: Financial Reporting and Analysis

This technically driven module equips you with the skills needed to navigate and build corporate financial reports. You will master the accounting standards, techniques, and principles used by global businesses and governments to track their wealth. You will learn how to analyse and interpret statements, giving you the tools to diagnose the financial health of a business. 

Block 4: Artificial Intelligence and Financial Data Analysis

This hands-on module bridges the gap between massive datasets, Business Intelligence (BI), and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to analyse data and extract further insight that can be used in a multitude of ways to improve and enhance corporate performance.

Focusing heavily on the advanced, value-adding capabilities of MS Excel, you will dive directly into premium financial databases like FAME and FT.com. You will learn to extract deep insights from real-world financial data and transform your findings into professional, executive ready reports that guide critical business strategy.

Block 1: Corporate Finance

This module introduces you to the core principles of corporate and public sector finance, exploring how individuals, firms, and governments strategically raise, allocate, and manage money to drive growth and create value.

You will explore mastering key areas such as financing choices, dividend policies, investment appraisal, and short-term working capital management. By connecting theoretical principles to real-world market scenarios, you will build the essential analytical toolkit required to evaluate corporate risk and optimise resource allocation to support organisations.

Block 2: Asset Pricing and Risk Management

This module introduces you to the quantitative analysis of accounting, financial, and economic data to evaluate the risk and expected return of traditional financial assets, including equities and bonds. By stepping into the Trading Room, you will explore how financial markets operate and master alternative techniques to manage the risk-return trade-off. You will analyse real estate, commodities, and cryptocurrencies and evaluate their unique risk profiles and behaviours.

Block 3: Bank Management, Regulation and Supervision

This module will provide you with the technical tools and strategic insight required to manage a commercial banking enterprise. You will master the mechanics of value creation and risk management, learning how to optimise asset and liability portfolios, manage bank capital, and handle retail credit risk. You will dissect the complex national and international regulatory frameworks that shape global banking strategies.

Block 4: Innovations in Financial Services

This module highlights the shifts in financial services, from the invention of the ATM to the rise of generative AI. You will analyse how FinTech, Open Banking, and automation are disrupting traditional business models and rewriting the rules of competition across banking, insurance, payments, and investments. Through theories of innovation and change management, you will learn to navigate the complex regulatory and ethical landscapes to deploy tech strategically, responsibly, and sustainably.

As part of this course, you will have the option to complete a paid placement year which offers invaluable professional experience.

The optional placement year allows you to gain a minimum of 40 weeks of paid, industry-relevant work experience in the UK or abroad. You will apply theory in a professional context while developing confidence, networks and employability skills. The placement is fully supported and quality assured by the university, and will enable you to graduate with a ‘BA with placement year’ award.

Our award winning Careers Team can help you secure a placement through activities such as mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and you will be assigned a personal tutor to support you throughout your placement.

Block 1: Ethics and Governance in Finance

This module critically examines finance, ethics, and societal impact. You will explore how governance and environmental frameworks ensure the stability of global financial systems. By dissecting real-world ethical dilemmas and professional industry standards, you will build a strong ethical compass equipping you to navigate market decisions responsibly and lead in the modern financial landscape.

Block 2: Investment and Portfolio Management

This module provides a comprehensive view of the modern asset management process, from drafting Investment Policy Statements (IPS) and executing fundamental and technical analysis, to measuring and presenting professional performance results.

Exploring a diverse range of equities, bonds, and alternative investments, you will bridge the gap between financial theory and live market execution. You will conduct independent research and engineer your own trading strategy, stress-testing your models using real-world data from the London Stock Exchange and major international markets.

Block 3: Artificial Intelligence and Financial Applications

This hands-on module bridges the gap between data science and financial strategy. You will master the core concepts of Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL), deploy fundamental algorithms using industry standard software tools (such as Python or R), and critically evaluate how AI shapes competitive corporate strategy.

Block 4: International Banking and Finance

This module examines the operations, risks, and regulatory frameworks that govern the global financial ecosystem. You will gain understanding into foreign exchange markets, corporate finance, and international investment strategies. From analysing how banks expand into new territories to mastering trade finance, you will evaluate how global financial institutions drive international trade, economic development, and systemic stability.

Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.

The Business School Diaries

Our facilities

The Trading Floor

A revolutionary space powering the next generation of finance professionals.

Learn more

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Our expertise

Profile picture for Dr Babar Syed

Dr Babar Syed

Senior Lecturer

Dr Babar Syed is Programme Leader for the BSc Economics and a Senior Lecturer in the School of Accounting, Finance and Economics at Leicester Castle Business School. An award-winning educator, he is recognised for his innovative and inclusive teaching practice. As a Bloomberg Faculty Advisor, Dr Syed has led the integration of Bloomberg for Education across multiple programmes, enhancing students’ applied learning and employability. His expertise spans applied econometrics, financial economics, and quantitative methods for economics and finance. His research focuses on financial econometrics, macro-financial modelling, and financial economics, with publications in well-reputed international journals. He holds a PhD in Quantitative Finance and is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

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Tuan Luong

Associate Professor

Tuan Luong is an Associate Professor at ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ and Vice Director of the Institute for Research in Economics, Environment and Data Science. He earned his PhD in Economics from Princeton University and researches how globalization affects firm performance, labour markets, and the environment, with a focus on its links to climate change. His work appears in leading journals, including the Journal of Development Economics and the Review of International Economics. A Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, he teaches across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international economics, and related fields.

What makes us special

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Block Learning

With block teaching, you’ll learn in a focused format, where you study one subject at a time instead of several at once. As a result, you will receive faster feedback through more regular assessment, have a more simplified timetable, and have a better study-life balance. That means more time to engage with your ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ community and other rewarding aspects of university life.

global-1

ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ Global

Our innovative international experience programme ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ Global aims to enrich studies, broaden cultural horizons and develop key skills valued by employers.

Through , we offer an exciting mix of overseas, on-campus and online international experiences, including the opportunity to study or work abroad for up to a year.

Finance students recently had an incredible opportunity to visit Orlando, Florida. The week-long academic trip was a deep-dive into the heart of US public finance and fiscal sustainability. It included a mix of academic visits, guest lectures, an international public administration conference, and plenty of opportunities to get to know University of Central Florida students. 

Get the business advantage

Which skills will give you the advantage after graduation?

At ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥, your degree is just the start. You can tailor your university experience by choosing from a wide range of opportunities to give you a real advantage in the world of global business. You’ll gain the opportunity to apply for paid work experience, gain global exposure and develop real-world business skills that employers value.

Graduate with experience, not just a degree

Join the Business and Law Placement Priority Club to get exclusive access to work opportunities just for ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ students. Apply for paid work placements, gain experience and develop those all-important industry connections.

Think and work globally

Some of our courses offer the opportunity to study overseas for a year or experience new cultures on week-long course trips. Expand your horizons and prepare to work in a global business world.

Whether your course offers the opportunity to study a block at the Dubai campus or weeks away exploring world-famous course-related locations, the world is yours to discover.

Here students talk about .

Solve real problems for real businesses

Pitch your solution to a live business problem with BizSpark – our unique industry competition. Apply and put into practice what you’ve learned by working with real companies on real-world challenges. It’s a CV-boosting way to develop your teamwork, problem-solving and presentation skills.

If you’re studying accounting or economics, use the skills you’ve learned in our state-of-the-art Trading Floor to help ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ win the global Bloomberg Challenge.

Lead with purpose

Develop your skills as a responsible business leader, prioritising ethical decision-making, sustainability and balancing the needs of all stakeholders.

As the only university in the UK appointed as Chair of the global hub for one of the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we’re creating positive social, economic and environmental change.

Sustainability is embedded into our teaching and learning, so you will graduate empowered to make a positive difference in the world.

Got a business idea? We’ll help you build it

Demonstrate your entrepreneurial skills and apply for a 12-month ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ Made placement opportunity to develop your business with financial and mentoring support.

You could also apply for support from The Crucible – our entrepreneurship programme for ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ graduates with a great business idea.

Embrace all the opportunities available. Take advantage of personalised support from our award-winning careers team, make the most of your access to the EFMD Careers Platform and stay connected with ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ when you graduate – we offer careers support for life.

Where we could take you

careers hub

Graduate Careers

Our Economics degree helps to open up a wide range of career opportunities for graduates in areas such business, finance and the civil service.

Our graduates have gone on to secure a range of professional roles at globally renowned organisations, including positions such as economic adviser and international finance manager. Some graduates have also forged successful careers working for major brands and companies such as the Government Economic Service (GES), KPMG, PwC, and Weetabix.

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Placements

During this course you will have the option to complete a paid placement year, an invaluable opportunity to put the skills developed during your degree into practice. This insight into the professional world will build on your knowledge in a real-world setting, preparing you to progress on to your chosen career.

Previous students have taken up placements in the private and public sectors, with leading companies such as TSB Head Office and Government Economic Service (GES).

Our Careers Team can help to hone your professional skills with mock interviews and practice aptitude tests, and an assigned personal tutor will support you throughout your placement.

Lauren landed a job offer after a successful placement year with the Government Economic Service (GES).

Take your next steps

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Find out about Leicester

We’re a campus-based university situated in the city centre, with the hub of activity in Leicester right on your doorstep - we’re one of the few universities in the UK where you’re getting the best of both worlds.

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Open Days - Book your place

We’d love to welcome you to one of our university Open Days where you can see for yourself what we have to offer.

How to apply

Save these details for your application.
Programme title:
Banking and Finance BSc (Hons)
Programme code:
L102

UCAS applications

  1. Register on UCAS Hub (create an account)
  2. Fill in your UCAS application form:
  3. Personal details (name, contact, residency)
    • More about you (any mental health conditions or long-term illnesses, parenting responsibilities, whether you’ve served in the armed forces)
    • Education history (qualifications taken or pending)
    • Employment history (if applicable)
    • Course choice
  4. Write your personal statement (why you want to study the course, skills, achievements, future goals)
  5. Get your reference (usually from a teacher/tutor/employer)
  6. Pay the UCAS fee (single choice or multiple choices)
  7. Submit the UCAS application before the deadline.
Save these details for your application.
Programme title:
Banking and Finance BSc (Hons)
Programme code:
L102

Apply directly as an international student

Find out more and apply
  1. Visit ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥’s international section and select the course you wish to apply for as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.
  2. Prepare your documents - gather the essentials:
    • Academic transcripts and certificates
    • Personal statement
    • English language proficiency evidence (e.g., IELTS)
    • Portfolio (if required by the course)
    • Copy of your passport
  3. Complete the application - submit via the ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ Online Portal
  4. Submit the application and supporting documents - you can still receive a conditional offer even if some documents will follow later
  5. Application review and offer - ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥’s Admissions team will assess your application and issue:
    • A conditional offer (pending remaining docs, test results, etc.)
    • Or an unconditional offer, if all requirements are fulfilled

Key facts

Course title

Banking and Finance

Award

BSc (Hons)

UCAS code

L102

Institution code

D26

Study level

Undergraduate

Study mode

Full-time

Start date

September 2027

Duration

Three years full-time, four years with a placement

Fees

2026/27 UK tuition fees:
£9,790

2026/27 international tuition:
£16,800

Fees in subsequent years may rise. See the undergraduate tuition fees page for details

Additional costs

Entry requirements

Typical offer

UCAS points:

112


A Level:

BBC


BTEC Extended Diploma:

DMM


Contextual Offer:

ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ operates a generous contextual offer for students from underrepresented backgrounds in Higher Education.

This is a minimum of one to two grade reduction from our typical offer and full details including eligibility criteria can be found at dmu.ac.uk/contextual


T Levels:

Merit


Access to HE:

Pass with 30 Level 3 credits at Merit


International Baccalaureate (IB):

28


GCSEs:

5 x GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including English and Maths


Alternative Qualifications

We welcome applications from mature students with non-standard qualifications and recognise all other equivalent and international qualifications.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, an IELTS score of 6.0 overall with 5.5 in each band (or equivalent) when you start the course is essential.

English language tuition, delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.

Scholarships

ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships and bursaries to help you realise your academic ambitions.

International student scholarships

Find out about available international scholarships or visit our fees and funding page for more information.

Additional costs

The core textbooks for all modules are available in the Kimberlin Library, and journal articles in your reading lists are also mostly available electronically from your myÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ login.

Some students like to purchase their own text books or print course documents and we suggest allowing approximately £200 per year for this.

All students are required to pay for their DBS check if required for your programme or placement.

In addition students will be required to pay for their travel costs to placements or project locations.

All students are provided the opportunity to participate in ÔÂÎèÖ±²¥ Global trips. These trips are subsidised by the university, and the cost and subsidy varies by location.

Learn more about fees and funding information.