Finance Study
Content & Prospects

Finance Study: Perspectives & Content

In an increasingly globalized and digitized world, finance plays a central role – be it in companies, in investments or in strategic planning. A degree in finance opens up a wide range of career opportunities, from working in international financial institutions to positions in management consulting or risk management. But what exactly do you learn in a finance degree program? And what prerequisites should you have? This article provides an overview of the content, benefits and prospects of a finance degree and shows why it is a future-proof choice for those with an affinity for numbers, economics and strategic thinking.

DID YOU KNOW?

In 2024, Munich Business School secured the top spot among private universities of applied sciences in the field of business administration from a recruitment perspective for the fifth time in a row.

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What qualifications are needed to study finance?

Here is a detailed overview of the requirements and personal qualities that are helpful for successfully completing a degree in finance:

Characteristics

  • Affinity for numbers and data:
    • Enjoy working with numbers, data and statistics.
    • Interest in analyzing complex relationships.
  • Analytical thinking:
    • Ability to approach problems systematically and develop well-founded solutions.
    • Logical and strategic thinking for financial models and investment decisions.
  • Interest in economics and finance:
    • an interest in topics such as the stock market, investments, corporate finance and financial markets.
  • Willingness to learn and curiosity:
    • a willingness to regularly engage with new developments in the financial world (e.g. fintech, cryptocurrencies, market analysis).
  • Discipline and stamina:
    • the program can be demanding, especially when it comes to mathematical and theoretical content. Self-organization is crucial.
  • Stress resistance:
    • Finance jobs often require quick and precise work under time pressure, which is something you will practice during your studies.
  • Communication skills:
    • Ability to explain complex financial topics in an understandable way.
    • Teamwork in projects or study groups is part of everyday life.
  • Technical interest:
    • Curiosity about digital tools, financial software and innovative technologies (e.g. blockchain, AI).

Munich Business School - biggest advantage

The following diagram shows in brief what the greatest advantage of Munich Business School is.

Studying Finance in Germany

In Germany, there are a number of opportunities to study finance, both in public and private institutions. The courses available range from bachelor's and master's programs to specialized courses of study. Here is an overview:

Dual study programs

A dual study program combines theory with practical experience in a company. Popular programs:

  • Finance & Accounting: Study at a university and work in the finance department of a company.
  • Banking & Finance: Partnerships with banks and financial institutions.

MBA in Finance

An MBA program is ideal for professionals who want to further their education in the financial sector. Focus:

  • Financial management.
  • International markets.
  • Financial leadership.

International programs in Germany

Many universities offer finance programs in English to attract international students:

  • English-taught programs: e.g. Munich Business School
  • Double-degree programs: partnerships with international universities.

With such a wide range of study options, Germany offers an excellent base for a career in finance, regardless of your level of education or professional goals.

Facts: Finance degree program at Munich Business School

At Munich Business School, you can study Finance in the Master's program. This gives you the perfect mix of business knowledge and practical experience and project management skills, for example through business projects, to help you shape your future according to your ideas. These are the most important facts about studying at MBS:

Duration of study:

18 or 24 Months

Degree:

Master of Arts

Start of Studies:

Every September

Degree program:

Master in Finance

Language of Study:

English

Tuition fees:

€ 8.580 per Semester

Form of study:

In person at the campus in Munich

Highlights:

Mentoring program, Electives and Business Project

Areas of focus:

Core areas such as Corporate Finance, International Finance, Company Assessment and Mergers and Acquisitions

That's what you will learn in your
Finance Study

Finance Course content

Area Course content
Business administration and economics Corporate finance and financial planning, controlling and cost accounting, accounting and annual financial statement analysis, micro- and macroeconomics
Financial markets Function and structure of capital markets, trading in financial instruments (shares, bonds, derivatives), principles of stock exchange trading
Corporate Finance Capital structure and sources of financing, investment appraisal, liquidity management and cash flow analysis
Risk Management Analysis and management of financial risks, hedging strategies, dealing with credit risks and market volatility
Investments & Portfolio Investment planning and diversification, valuation of assets (e.g. stocks, real estate), portfolio optimization strategies
Financial Mathematics & Statistics Calculation of interest, pensions and depreciation, risk and probability models, statistical methods for financial data analysis
International Finance Exchange rate dynamics and their effects, international capital markets, global risk management
Accounting & Controlling Financial reporting and analysis, international accounting (IFRS, HGB), strategic controlling
Financial technology (FinTech) Introduction to digital tools and technologies, blockchain and cryptocurrencies, automated trading platforms
Law and regulation Financial law and compliance, regulations such as Basel III and MiFID II, ethics and sustainability in the financial sector
Practical projects Analysis of financial reports, simulation of investment decisions, practical projects with banks or companies
Specializations Financial engineering (financial models and new instruments), behavioral finance (psychological aspects of investments), financial data science

Finance or business administration with a focus on finance?

Studying business administration with a focus on finance gives you a broader and more versatile foundation than a finance-only degree. While a specialized finance degree is heavily weighted towards financial topics such as markets, investments, and risk management, business administration also covers important areas such as marketing, human resource management, logistics, and corporate strategy. This comprehensive education makes you more flexible and gives you the opportunity to work in different functions within a company later on, not only in finance.

With a business degree, you can choose finance as your major and still rely on a broader understanding of business processes, which will help you make better financial decisions in the larger business context. Furthermore, many employers appreciate the versatility of a business degree, as it shows that you are not only able to analyze numbers, but also understand economic interrelationships and think strategically. This can be especially helpful if you aspire to leadership roles that require a broad perspective.

Studying Business Administration at MBS

Munich Business School not only offers you a first-class business administration degree, but also focuses it on international business so that you can pursue your chosen career anywhere in the world after graduation. The MBS Master in Finance offers many highlights such as semesters abroad, internships, business projects, plenty of networking opportunities and much more. At Munich Business School, you can expect small study groups, dedicated teachers and award-winning programs. But more importantly, your name matters to us. Here, you are not an anonymous member, but the driving force that motivates us every morning. As a small, private university, we take time for your concerns and offer you a customized study experience. Our lecturers have extensive practical experience and teach you skills that really count. In addition to in-depth business knowledge, we also promote values and abilities that bring you closer to sustainability and social responsibility as a future finance expert and optimally prepare you for a wide range of professions.

Benefits of Munich Business School

MBS offers students numerous advantages that are only possible thanks to the structure of a private university of applied sciences. You will benefit from the following advantages during your studies at Munich Business School:

Learn from the experts

Professors with business experience and guest lectures by specialists

Individualized support

Small class sizes & support through networking events, for example

Dual education

in finance and management

Becoming a generalist and a specialist at the same time

A broad business degree and specialized knowledge through interesting areas of focus

International future prospects

Students from around the world & a business project

That's how easy it is to study at MBS:

 

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Structure and completion of a finance degree program

A finance degree program is divided into different phases that impart both fundamental knowledge and specialization. The exact sequence varies depending on the university and the study model (bachelor's, master's, dual study), but typically follows this pattern:

Degree in finance

Bachelor's degree (BSc or BA)

  • Duration: 6–7 semesters.
  • Content: Fundamentals and initial specialization, ideal for entering the workforce or continuing on to a graduate program.
  • Thesis: On a practical or theoretical finance topic.
  • Possible titles: Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA), depending on the focus.

Master's degree (M.Sc., M.A. or MBA)

  • Duration: 3–4 semesters.
  • Content: In-depth knowledge and specialization in specific areas such as corporate finance, investment or financial engineering.
  • Final paper: Scientific investigation of a current financial topic.
  • Possible titles: Master of Science (M.Sc.) or Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Additional options and degrees

  • Dual studies: a combination of theory and practice, leading to a bachelor's degree (with professional experience).
  • Certifications (possible after graduation):
    • CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst).
    • CPA (Certified Public Accountant).
    • FRM (Financial Risk Manager).

With its clearly structured design and targeted preparation for entering the workforce, a degree in finance is an excellent foundation for a successful career in the financial world.


The Master in Finance program at MBS

The demanding Master's program combines the core competencies of the business and finance world. It teaches you a broad range of skills in the areas of strategy, management, and finance. You will gain in-depth knowledge in topics such as corporate valuation, corporate finance, and international finance while developing the key competencies necessary to take on responsible management roles. After graduating from the Master in Finance program, you will be ideally qualified to work as an expert in areas such as financial management, annual report analysis, mergers & acquisitions, risk management or capital markets.

Our teaching approach places a strong emphasis on practical relevance. During your studies, you will benefit from the experience of our lecturers, who, in addition to their academic work, are also actively involved in the business world. Their in-depth industry knowledge, practical insights and grounding in current research will equip you to master complex business challenges and make informed decisions in the future.

An integrated semester abroad at one of our more than 60 partner universities worldwide will enable you to further deepen your knowledge in the field of finance and prepare you optimally for specialist and management roles in the international economy. If that's not enough for you, you can add a second semester abroad and acquire two specialized Master's degrees in just two years – the perfect start to your international career!

International Focus

The studies at MBS focus on the international market. A large part of the course content is taught in English and MBS students come from all over the world.

Semester Abroad

Internationality is also expressed through the semester abroad. Students spend the last semester at one of our more than 60 partner universities around the world.

Business Project

Students work on a business project for a real company. In doing so, they apply the theoretical knowledge gained during their studies in practical applications.

Master in Finance - No. 1 Choice

The following diagram shows that the Master in Finance at Munich Business School is the No. 1 choice for your future in the financial world.

Course content of the Master in Finance MBS degree program

Degree-specific modules

The Master in Finance modules are specifically designed to prepare you for a career in international business and finance. The program is complemented by practice-oriented courses in leadership, management and specific finance topics to provide you with a comprehensive education.

Business Project

The business project is a central component of the program. Together with your team, you will work on a practical problem for a real company. You will be able to apply your knowledge directly and gain valuable practical experience. The projects vary depending on the industry and company and are as diverse as your future career opportunities.

Core Modules

The core modules provide you with general business knowledge in courses such as international management, business communication or responsible leadership. You will learn to understand global economic interrelationships and to incorporate social and cultural aspects into your decisions. Through the interdisciplinary approach, you will work with students from other programs to broaden your knowledge and perspectives.

Electives

With electives, you can customize your studies. Choose from a wide range of courses, e.g. on financial topics such as mergers & acquisitions or capital markets, or expand your profile with topics such as international business law, communication or a research project. This is how you set personal accents for your professional goals.

If you have any further questions or need more information, please do not hesitate to contact our student advisory service.

Looking to find out more?

Studienberater MBS: Uttamdeep Kaur, B.A.

APPLICATION

You must meet certain academic, linguistic and, in some cases, professional requirements to be eligible for our Master’s in Finance. You can submit your application documents at any time. However, given the limited number of spaces on our programs, we recommend applying well before your preferred start date.

Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

The main requirement for admission to the Master International Business study program is a successful Bachelor's degree (180 ECTS or more). Applicants with a degree in Business Studies/Management/Economics are entitled to apply for the program directly, applicants without a degree in economics can qualify for the program by completing the Pre Master Program. Upon request, we will gladly verify your documents in advance. Please contact your Program Advisor.

Language Requirements

English Proficiency

Applicants must proof their English language skills by passing one of the following language tests:

  • TOEFL iBT & Home Edition: min. 85 (min. of 22 in writing band, min. of 20 in all other bands; MBS TOEFL Institution Code: 5772)
  • IELTS & IELTS Online: min. level of 6.5– Academic Module
  • ELS English for Academic Purposes: Advanced Level 112
  • Duolingo English Test: Overall Score 115 or higher
  • Pearson PTE Academic: Overall Score 56 or higher
  • Cambridge: Min. 173 or Grade B or higher

Note: If the test is also used to apply for a visa, please check the requirements of the respective embassy in advance.

Test results can only be accepted if achieved within the last two years. If you are unable to obtain your test results before handing in your MBS application, please inform us about your planned test date.

The English proficiency test can be waived by the following candidates:

  • Applicants having completed their schooling in English (i.e., High School Diploma, IB)
  • Applicants having completed their first academic degree in English

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Application deadlines in detail

We accept applications all year round. However, we recommend that you apply as early as possible, as the number of places is limited.

Spring semester (Master International Business only)

  • Application guideline for Europeans (no visa): December 10
  • Application guideline for non-Europeans (visa required): October 31

Applicants from Vietnam, China and India should allow an extra month to apply for the relevant visas.

Winter semester

  • Application guideline for Europeans (no visa): July 15
  • Application guideline for non-Europeans (visa required): April 30

Applicants from Vietnam, China and India should allow an extra month to apply for the relevant visas.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Putting together your application

You must submit the following mandatory documents for us to consider your written application:

  • Answers to motivational questions (choice of questions provided during the online application process)
  • CV/résumé
  • Current passport-style photo (in color, with a light background)
  • A copy of your school-leaving certificate(s)*
  • A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate (incl. transcripts)*
  • Evidence of adequate English language skills (TOEFL, IELTS or ELS)
  • References (if available)
  • Completed application form
  • If you are interested in scholarship programs: personal cover letter (1 page) 

*Please submit the relevant original document, or a certified copy, as soon as you are accepted onto the program. 

Online application:
Apply online for the Master’s program in International Business

Step 2: Admission to the program

Eligible applicants will be invited to a personal interview, either in person in Munich or online via Microsoft Teams (approx. 30–45 minutes). The interview may include examining a case study.

As soon as you are accepted onto the program, you will have the opportunity to get to know Munich Business School a little better – before you make the final decision about your studies. And, of course, our student advisors will be available to answer any questions you have.

Step 3: Study Contract

When we confirm your place, we will send you confirmation of your acceptance along with two copies of your study contact. To secure your place, please sign and return one copy of the contract to us within two weeks. You can keep the other copy for your files.

Additionally, in order to be formally accepted onto the program, you must pay a one-off matriculation fee of €690 (EU/EFTA) or €1,490 (non-EU) and make an advance payment of €1.990. This advance payment will be deducted from your first tuition fee payment.

Step 4: Student Visa

If you are a non-EU citizen, you must apply for a student visa in order to start your studies in Germany. You will require a letter of invitation from Munich Business School to secure your visa – which we will be happy to provide once we receive your signed student contract and a copy of your passport.

More about student Visa

Scholarships

Munich Business School offers attractive scholarship programs amount up to EUR 4,000 of the overall tuition fee. (Up to EUR 2,000 on the 1st and 2nd master's semester).

If you wish to apply for a scholarship, you should include an application when you submit your overall application. You can find further information on our scholarships and financing page.

alumni field report

Well-balanced ★★★★★

"There is an appropriate balance of subjects with hard and soft skills, with important courses such as finance and equally important courses such as agile management or resilience management. Depending on your focus, you can dive deep into different areas.
The mandatory 30-week internship provides a good balance to the theory."

E. on StudyCHECK

Finance Salary

The salary after a finance degree varies depending on the professional field, industry, company size, location and work experience. Here is an overview of possible salary prospects for graduates in finance:

Starting salaries after graduating in finance

  • Bachelor's graduates: Starting salaries are usually between €40,000 and €50,000 gross per year.
  • Master's graduates: Starting salaries are generally higher, often between €45,000 and €65,000 gross per year.
  • Dual students: Often start with slightly higher salaries (approx. €45,000 to €55,000 gross per year) due to their practical experience.

Factors influencing salary

  1. Industry sector:
    • Banks and investment companies: Higher salaries, often supplemented by bonuses.
    • Management consultancies: Attractive remuneration, especially in large consultancies (e.g. Big Four).
    • Industrial companies: Solid salaries, especially in the finance departments of large corporations.
    • Start-ups and FinTechs: Competitive salaries, often with stock options or equity stakes.
  2. Company size:
    • Large, international companies usually pay higher salaries.
    • Smaller companies often offer a lower base salary, but flatter hierarchies and more development opportunities.
  3. Location:
    • Higher salaries in major cities and financial centers such as Frankfurt am Main, Munich or Hamburg.
    • In rural areas, entry-level salaries are usually somewhat lower.
  4. Professional experience:
    • Salaries increase significantly after 3–5 years of professional experience.
    • Finance executives can achieve salaries of over €150,000.
  5. Type of degree:
    • Master's degrees or specialized further training (e.g. CFA, MBA) increase entry and development opportunities.

Bonus and additional remuneration

  • Bonuses: In professions such as investment banking, consulting or asset management, bonuses are common and can make up a significant portion of total income.
  • Additional benefits: company car, pension plan, insurance, stock options.

International comparisons

Those working in international financial centers such as London, New York or Zurich can expect significantly higher salaries. Entry-level salaries in these markets often range from €70,000 to €100,000 gross per year, plus bonuses.

The salary after graduating in finance is above average, especially in high-paying sectors such as investment banking, management consulting or fintech. With growing professional experience and specialization, salaries often increase considerably. Particularly attractive remuneration is possible in international positions or in leading roles.

The Munich Business School in Numbers

750+
Number of Students

60+
International Partner Universities

60+
Founded Startups

57 %
International Students

Career opportunities after studying finance

Here is a clear table of job opportunities after a finance degree, the typical tasks and the possible starting salaries:

Job position Responsibilities Starting salary (gross/year)
Investment banker Company valuations, conducting IPOs, advising on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) €60,000–80,000
Financial analyst Analysis of financial markets and instruments, valuation of stocks and bonds €45,000–65,000
Portfolio manager Creation and management of investment portfolios, monitoring of returns and risks €50,000–70,000
Risk manager Analysis and management of risks, development of hedging strategies €45,000–55,000
Controller Monitoring budgets and costs, creating reports and analyses €40,000–50,000
Auditor Auditing annual financial statements, providing advice on tax and regulatory matters €45,000–60,000
Financial Consultant Advice on financial matters (e.g. investments, corporate finance) €50,000–70,000
FinTech specialist Development of digital financial solutions, working with blockchain, AI and data analysis €50,000–70,000
Treasurer Managing a company's liquidity, managing currency and interest rate risks €45,000–60,000
Asset Manager Managing large asset portfolios, advising institutional investors €50,000–65,000
Corporate Finance Manager Planning and implementing financing strategies, optimizing capital structure €45,000–60,000
Financial Data Analyst Analyzing large amounts of data to support financial decisions, creating forecasts €50,000–70,000
M&A advisor Advising on mergers and acquisitions, valuing companies and creating deals €60,000–80,000
Credit manager Assessing customers' creditworthiness, monitoring and managing credit €40,000–55,000
Private Banker Asset management for wealthy private clients, development of individual investment strategies €50,000–65,000
Management Consultant (Finance) Optimizing financial processes, strategic consulting for companies €50,000–70,000
Compliance Manager Monitoring compliance with legal requirements, developing compliance guidelines €45,000–60,000
Quantitative analyst Developing mathematical models for financial forecasting, optimizing trading strategies €60,000–90,000

If you would like more information about the professions of project manager and marketing manager, please take a look at our corresponding job profile:

Business Management Careers

3 job examples in the field of finance

The diversity of the finance sector is reflected in a number of exciting professional fields. Here is a closer look at three examples of professions:

Investment banker

Responsibilities: Supporting companies in raising capital, going public (IPOs) and mergers (M&A). Analyzing markets, valuing companies and developing complex financing models.

Special features: Investment banking is international and highly performance-oriented. The job offers attractive salaries and bonuses, but also long working hours and high pressure. It is ideal for ambitious, analytically strong people who want to help shape global projects.

FinTech specialist

Responsibilities: Developing modern financial technologies such as blockchain, apps and AI-supported systems. Analyzing data and optimizing digital financial processes.

Special features: The job combines finance and technology, making it ideal for creative minds with an interest in technology. FinTech specialists drive innovation and work in a dynamic, future-oriented environment.

DID YOU KNOW?

After an MBS Bachelor's or Master's degree, you can also take up all these professions abroad without any problems.

FAQ

What jobs are available after studying finance?

After studying finance, you can work in areas such as investment banking, portfolio management, corporate finance, risk management or controlling. Jobs in asset management, fintech or management consulting are also open to you. Your tasks range from analyzing and optimizing financial processes to developing investment strategies or innovative financial technologies.

What is a finance degree?

A degree in finance gives you knowledge of financial markets, corporate finance, investments and risk management. You will learn how to manage capital efficiently, analyze risk and make strategic financial decisions. It combines economics, mathematics and technology to prepare you for versatile careers in the financial world.

How do you become a corporate finance manager?

To become a corporate finance manager, you usually need a degree in finance, business administration or a similar field, supplemented by relevant practical experience in corporate finance or controlling. Additional qualifications such as a master's degree or certificates (e.g. CFA), as well as analytical skills and strategic thinking, will help you to grow into this role.

Why study finance and accounting?

A degree in finance and accounting offers you a solid foundation for understanding, managing and optimizing financial processes in companies. It prepares you for a wide range of well-paid career paths and gives you the skills to make strategic decisions using numbers and ensure financial stability.

What do you learn in financial management studies?

In financial management studies, you will learn how to analyze, plan and efficiently manage financial resources. This includes topics such as investments, risk management, corporate finance, financial markets, and how to create and interpret financial reports.

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Studienberater MBS: Uttamdeep Kaur, B.A.
PAGE-TITLE: Finance Study