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Introduction to Financial Markets

Classes

Wednesday 24 April - Wednesday 03 July 2024, 6pm-9pm

11 sessions - Check class timetable

Overview

Financial markets and services are central to the functioning of a modern economy. But what do they do, how do they work and who are the most important actors? Our Financial Markets short course introduces you to the main characteristics of financial markets and institutions at both national and international level. It helps you gain an understanding of the growth and significance of such markets today.

The course covers the theoretical and technical aspects of financial markets and highlights the practical issues of investment finance with the help of only elementary mathematics. Therefore, you do not need a high level of mathematical competence to successfully complete this course, although the ability to think logically is important. We will use simple mathematical equations to explain financial issues.

By the end of the course, you should have a good understanding of financial markets and their impact on savings and investments.

Teaching on our Financial Markets short course is through a combination of lectures, seminars and class presentations, either individually or in groups. Topics include:

  • Objectives of financial markets
  • Stock markets
  • Money markets
  • Bond markets
  • FX markets
  • Hedge funds and private equity
  • Derivatives
  • The nature of financial crises
  • The credit and banking crisis of 2008
  • The sovereign debt crisis from 2010

The course is assessed by two 1500-word assignments (30% each) and an in-class assessment (40%).

This can be taken as a standalone short course or as a part of:

15 credits at level 4

  • Entry requirements

    Entry requirements

    Most of our short courses have no formal entry requirements and are open to all students.

    This short course has no prerequisites.

    As part of the enrolment process, you may be required to submit a copy of a suitable form of ID.

    International students who wish to come to the UK to study a short course can apply for a Visitor visa. Please note that it is not possible to obtain a Student visa to study a short course.

  • How to apply

    How to apply

    You register directly onto the classes you would like to take. Classes are filled on a first-come, first-served basis - so apply early. If you wish to take more than one short course, you can select each one separately and then register onto them together via our online application portal. There is usually no formal selection process, although some modules may have prerequisites and/or other requirements, which will be specified where relevant.