University of Exeter United Kingdom

MRes Finance (Pathway to PhD)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MRes Finance (Pathway to PhD) at the University of Exeter is your gateway to a research-focused career in finance and economics. This postgraduate programme is meticulously designed for ambitious students aiming to pursue a PhD, equipping you with advanced econometrics, finance theory, and rigorous research methodologies. You will delve into complex financial concepts and analytical techniques, preparing you for doctoral-level study and impactful contributions to academic and professional finance. If you aspire to push the boundaries of financial knowledge, this Master's degree provides the essential foundation.

You will study this full-time, on-campus Master's degree over two years, immersing yourself in a curriculum that builds from foundational microeconomic and macroeconomic theory to specialised optional modules in areas like sustainable finance, corporate governance, and financial technology. Your learning journey culminates in a substantial MRes dissertation, where you will apply your acquired skills to an independent research project under expert supervision. Graduates are ideally positioned for progression to a PhD in Finance, equipped with the analytical prowess and research experience demanded by leading academic institutions worldwide.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MRes Finance program provides a rigorous foundation in economic and econometric theory, alongside essential research methodologies. Students will delve into microeconomic, macroeconomic, and econometric principles across two terms, preparing them for advanced study. The second stage offers a wide array of optional modules in specialized finance topics, culminating in a compulsory dissertation to demonstrate independent research capabilities.

1 Stage 1 (Term 1): 60 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules

Research Methods I Compulsory
Microeconomic Theory I Compulsory
Macroeconomic Theory I Compulsory
Econometric Theory I Compulsory

2 Stage 1 (Term 2): 60 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules

Research Methods II Compulsory
Microeconomic Theory II Compulsory
Macroeconomic Theory II Compulsory
Econometric Theory II Compulsory

3 Stage 2 (Terms 1 and 2): 0 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules

Sustainable and Responsible Finance
Advanced Financial Accounting
Topics in Financial Economics
International Financial Management
Corporate Governance and Finance
Mergers, Management Buyouts and Other Corporate Reorganisations
Bank Management
Applied Empirical Accounting and Finance
Coding Analytics for Accounting and Finance
Fundamentals of Financial Technology
Optimisation Techniques for Economists
Economics of Corporate Finance
Topics in Microeconomic Theory I
Topics in Macroeconomic Theory I
Topics in Empirical Economics I
Topics in Microeconomic Theory II
Topics in Macroeconomic Theory II
Topics in Empirical Economics II
Portfolio Management and Asset Allocation
Equity Valuation Models and Issues
Credit Instruments and Derivatives
Quantitative Research Methods
Business and Management Research Design
Business and Management Research Skills
Advanced Research Methods and Analysis

4 Stage 2 (Term 3): 60 credits of compulsory modules, 0 credits of optional modules

Finance MRes Dissertation Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

61% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 8,387.00 USD 21,762.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,762.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 30,149.00 USD 43,524.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 645.00 - USD 1,289.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 1,934.00
Estimated Total USD 4,190.00 - USD 7,251.00

Living cost estimates are based on Streatham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising TechnologyAgricultural Research & DevelopmentAgricultural Technology & Precision FarmingBanking & Financial ServicesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCrop Production & FarmingInsurance & Risk ManagementInvestment Management & Asset ManagementPerformance & Growth MarketingPublic Relations

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte UK

EY

Ernst & Young

HSBC

J.P Morgan Chase Co.

KPMG International Limited (Klynveld Peat Marwick Goerdeler)

Lloyds Banking Group

Manchester City Council

Why Study MRes Finance (Pathway to PhD) at University of Exeter

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Exeter in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MRes Finance (Pathway to PhD) at University of Exeter

Can I work while studying?

International students can work during their studies, with up to 20 hours per week during term time for degree courses. During breaks, students can work full-time without a separate permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English proficiency requirements. Tests like IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and PTE have different score criteria that must be fulfilled.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Financial Analysts, Research Associates, Economists, or Investment Managers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MRes in Finance is a two-year program specializing in finance and economics. You'll receive PhD-level training in subjects like econometrics and finance theory to prepare for further study or employment.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MRes Finance (Pathway to PhD) program has an intake month in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your place.
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