Course details

Master of Finance (MFinc)
NZQF Level 9

About the course

The Master of Finance (MFinc) will equip students to be either professional practitioners or academic researchers in the field of Finance.The Master of Finance can be completed in one year of full-time study which consists of a selection of papers plus either an applied or research project. The programme allows for the development of individual skills and applied or theoretical research and investigation. Starting with a sound background of coursework, students will have the opportunity to contribute to existing or new fields of research (applied or theoretical).Graduates who follow the option of completing an Applied Project (FINC 501) will have a wide range of career opportunities in commercial and investment banks, brokerage and investment firms, insurance companies, treasury departments of non-financial corporations, regulatory agencies, consulting and accounting firms. Graduates completing the Master of Finance with a Research Project (FINC 580) will in addition have the ability to design and pursue a large project of independent research suitable to the PhD.Starts February (semester 1).Master of Finance information sheetInternational student scholarshipsThere are a limited number of School of Business Master of Finance (MFinc) merit based scholarships of NZ$10,000 for international students.Find out more about the scholarships

Entry requirements

  • Admission to the programme shall be subject to the approval of the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Commerce).
Every applicant must either
  1. be a graduate with a mathematically-oriented degree and normally have achieved an average grade of B+ in the papers satisfying the final year major subject requirements for that degree, or
  2. have equivalent alternative qualifications or experience acceptable to the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Commerce).
  • In considering an applicant’s qualifications, regard will be had to the detail of the course of study followed to gain the qualification, as well as the applicant’s performance in the programme.

About the provider

The University of Otago, New Zealand’s first university, was founded in 1869 and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes with a strong emphasis on research and academic excellence. Ranked in the top 1% of universities globally and 2nd in New Zealand, it is also 214th worldwide according to QS rankings. Recognised as the top university in New Zealand for student academic performance by the Tertiary Education Commission, 96% of its graduates either enter the workforce or pursue further study shortly after graduation. 

Located in Dunedin, a vibrant student city where students make up 20% of the population, the University benefits from a unique atmosphere. Dunedin, on the south-eastern coast of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, featuring Victorian and Edwardian architecture, picturesque hills, and wildlife reserves. 

The University’s campus is ranked the 5th most beautiful in the world by THE Student Voice, enhancing the educational experience. The Otago region offers diverse scenery and is close to popular destinations such as Queenstown. New Zealand is rated the 1st most beautiful country by Rough Guides 2024, is renowned for its natural beauty, Māori heritage, and multicultural society, providing a friendly, inclusive environment for students and residents. 

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