Getting Started
The Master of Science in Financial Economics offered by Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and Department of Economics presents an unparalleled integration of theoretical foundations and real-world application, providing students with a comprehensive skill set to thrive as financial economists in an ever-evolving global landscape. This prestigious degree programme is meticulously developed to give graduates a profound understanding of economics, a wide variety of financial applications, an international perspective, and a mastery of practical competencies highly sought by illustrious companies and organizations spanning various industries.
Students embark on a transformative nine-month journey enhanced by the wisdom and direction of excellent practitioners from top multinational firms thanks to the combination of the experience of these institutions. Graduates emerge as well-rounded professionals capable of taking on difficult challenges and making wise decisions in the global financial arena thanks to this combination of academic rigour and real-world knowledge.
The MIF draws a diverse and energetic group of aspirational students from all over the world because it strongly emphasizes cultivating excellence and diversity. These people, who often have less than two years of professional experience, band together out of a common desire to start or advance their careers in consulting or international finance. In addition to enriching the overall learning experience, the programme provides an environment that stimulates cooperation, cross-cultural interchange, and networking opportunities, positioning students for success in the fast-paced and cutthroat world of finance.
Overview
The Oxford Saïd MIF program is a testament to the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation that defines the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. Rooted in the esteemed heritage of an 800-year-old world-class university, the MIF program stands as a vibrant and innovative offering tailored to have a profound global impact.
Oxford Said is dedicated to fostering and teaching people about successful careers in the dynamic field of finance as a top business school community. Beyond individual improvement and professional advancement, the programme concentrates on solving global issues that impact the future of finance and society as a whole.
The MIF programme exposes students to revolutionary concepts and ground-breaking research while heavily emphasizing cutting-edge educational approaches. Participants are given the required tools to affect good change inside organizations and the larger business landscape by examining the cutting edge of financial knowledge and practice.
The Oxford Said MIF programme wants to be a force for good, actively contributing to solving global crises rather than merely a doorway to lucrative professional prospects. The MIF community benefits from many resources, various viewpoints, and a supportive ecosystem due to being firmly ingrained in a top-tier university. This enables students to thrive and achieve success in their pursuit of excellence.
Ranking and Reputation
The business school, fully integrated into the top-ranked university, stands as a paragon of academic brilliance and unparalleled achievements.
Oxford University has achieved widespread acclaim and cemented its position as an academic leader by earning the prestigious first position in the most recent Times Higher Education World University Rankings.
According to the QS Top Universities rankings, the programme has an extraordinary 4th rank worldwide in the field of accounting and finance, which is a testament to the faculty and students’ unrelenting dedication and competence.
A further affirmation of the university’s dedication to quality in the field of finance and economics is the MSc Financial Economics program’s excellent 2nd place ranking in the world by QS Top Universities.
The MIF (MSc Financial Economics) programme has also been praised by The Financial Times, which placed it 10th overall and 2nd in the UK. Such recognition emphasizes the program’s significance and relevance, which is reflective of the success of its graduates in the financial industry.
Oxford University’s business school, a prestigious institution with a centuries-long tradition, continues to mould the next generation of leaders by establishing a transformative learning environment and giving students the information and abilities they need to succeed in a fast-changing global economy.
The business school is dedicated to upholding the greatest standards in business education, as evidenced by the fact that it has earned the coveted EQUIS certification from the EFMD (European Foundation for Management Development).
Being a part of the Global Network for Advanced Management expands the business school’s influence and reach while giving students access to prominent organizations and business professionals around the world. With a wider perspective and comprehension of worldwide business opportunities and problems, this membership promotes beneficial international relationships.
The business school has also received recognition for its work to advance diversity and gender equality through its involvement in the Athena Swan initiative. The university’s commitment to fostering an environment that supports and empowers women in academia and industry is demonstrated by the Bronze Award it got in 2018.
Class Profile
The Oxford Said Mif programme boasts a highly diverse and accomplished class profile, attracting students from all corners of the globe. The programme fosters a fully global and cross-cultural learning atmosphere, which boasts an amazing 90% representation of international students, enhancing the academic experience for all participants.
There are now 753 students enrolled in the curriculum, all of whom bring different viewpoints and life experiences to the classroom. This multicultural cohort creates a global network of professionals who can work together and learn from one another by representing a remarkable range of 21 nationalities.
With an average of 72 students per cohort, the class size is still small and ideal for deep engagement. A stronger feeling of community and individualized attention are made possible by the lower class size, fostering greater ties between students and instructors.
The student’s average age is 23, which reflects a mixture of recent graduates looking to improve their career prospects and professionals in mid-career looking to expand their skill sets or change career trajectories. This mixture of experiences and goals fosters a vibrant learning atmosphere and a stimulating interchange of ideas.
The Oxford Said Mif curriculum strongly emphasizes gender diversity, with women making up an outstanding 49% of the entire cohort. This emphasis on gender equality highlights the dedication to inclusivity and equal representation, delivering a balanced and equitable educational experience for all.
Students enrolled in the programme typically have four months’ worth of professional experience, on average. Some of the participants might be fresh grads making their first forays into the workforce, but others offer insightful industry knowledge from their brief but significant experience in the field.
The Oxford Said Mif program’s class profile demonstrates the institution’s commitment to building a multicultural, international community of professionals prepared to meet the challenges of a globally interconnected world. The programme continues to generate graduates who are well-equipped to have a worldwide influence in their chosen disciplines by promoting a collaborative and inclusive learning environment.
Employment Data
According to recent employment reports, the Oxford Mif programme has successfully securedplacements for its graduates in various prestigious organizations across the finance and consulting sectors.
Reputable financial firms like Bank of America, Blackrock, Blackstone, Citi UK, Credit Suisse, Deutsche Bank, Goldman Sachs, Houlihan Lokey, HSBC, JP Morgan, Lazard, Morgan Stanley, PIMCO, Rothschild & Co, and UBS have actively recruited alumni from the curriculum. Companies including Bain & Company, BCG, LEK Consulting, McKinsey & Company, and Oliver Wyma have expressed a strong interest in hiring graduates of the Oxford Mif programme in the consulting industry.
The programme has effectively put its graduates in various career settings, with a sizable portion of graduates obtaining jobs in the United Kingdom (UK), which accounts for 52% of placements. With 23% and 20% of graduates finding jobs in those regions, respectively, Europe and Asia have also shown themselves to be desirable locations for employment. Fewer graduates have also chosen North America as their destination, with 5% of them obtaining a job there.
Most of the program’s graduates have opted to pursue professions in the financial business; 83% did so after receiving their degrees. Graduates have shown to favour the consulting industry, with 14% choosing to pursue professions in the field. Approximately 3% of graduates have made a move into another industry.
The Oxford Mif curriculum has produced remarkable outcomes in terms of starting salary, with graduates earning respectable pay. The mean salary across all postings is currently £53,455. The average pay in the financial industry is slightly higher, reaching £56,847, which is indicative of the rich opportunities in this industry. The consulting industry has similarly provided high compensation, with a mean pay of £54,171.
Curriculum
Pre Arrival Preparation
The Oxford Mif Programme offers a comprehensive and well-structured pre-arrival preparation to equip international module participants with essential skills and knowledge in the financial markets and institutions. Prior to the commencement of the program, attendees are encouraged to attend a series of engaging and informative three-day pre-course events thoughtfully hosted by the esteemed Careers Service.
These conferences have typically been organized digitally, focusing on professional markets associated with the aforementioned regions or in person in well-known financial centres like London and Hong Kong.
The pre-course activities are made to give participants useful knowledge and exposure to various facets of the financial sector. These conferences include insightful seminars offered by prominent professionals and business leaders, as well as lectures led by academic faculty. To understand the dynamics and specifics of these well-known professional markets, participants may expect to delve into important areas such as global investment banking, asset management, and consultancy.
Participants will also be exposed to specialized mathematics and financial reporting coursework as part of the program’s academic requirements. This essential element makes certain that participants have the fundamental knowledge and analytical skills required to succeed in the financial industry. The programme also provides Python and Wall Street Prep classes, utilizing cutting-edge tools and technologies that are extremely pertinent in the modern financial world.
The Oxford Mif Programme strongly emphasizes supporting professional development and career growth in addition to the academic programme. During the pre-course phase, career seminars are held with the goal of giving participants important insights into career planning, personal branding, networking techniques, and interview preparation. These lectures are designed to provide participants with the knowledge and self-assurance they need to pursue lucrative careers in the financial industry.
The Oxford Mif Programme makes sure that foreign module participants are prepared to make the most of their academic trip by providing a comprehensive and thorough pre-arrival preparation. Participants are well-equipped to flourish in the demanding and constantly changing environment of global finance and emerge as effective leaders in their respective sectors because they have a solid foundation in finance, practical exposure to industry trends, and honed skill sets.
Core Courses
- Corporate Finance: In this module, students delve into the fundamental principles of financial accounting, gaining a deep understanding of how firms’ assets are valued and the key determinants that shape their financial structures. By studying corporate finance, students develop critical skills in analyzing financial decisions and strategies employed by businesses to enhance value and optimize capital allocation.
- Financial Econometrics: The Financial Econometrics course equips students with essential knowledge of empirical modelling and testing in finance. They learn to employ appropriate statistical techniques to analyze financial data and conduct empirical investigations in financial economics. This module plays a crucial role in helping students develop strong analytical and quantitative skills, which are essential for making informed financial decisions.
- Asset Pricing: In the Asset Pricing module, students explore the theory and practice of valuing claims and uncertain cash flows associated with various financial instruments, such as stocks, stock options, bonds, and foreign exchange instruments. By understanding the intricacies of asset pricing, students gain insights into risk management, portfolio optimization, and investment strategies in the context of financial markets.
- Economics: The Economics module introduces students to the application of basic economic tools in analyzing the market and firm behaviour. Students study topics like game theory, incentive theory, auctions, and the relationship between economics and finance. This module enhances their ability to comprehend and assess economic factors impacting financial decisions and market dynamics.
- Ethics and Finance: Ethics and Finance is a critical course that engages students in discussions about ethical issues prevalent in the financial world. Through interactions with practitioners and real-world case studies, students gain a deeper understanding of the ethical challenges faced in the finance industry. This course encourages responsible and sustainable financial practices, instilling a sense of ethical awareness in future finance professionals.
Electives
- Advanced Econometrics: Forecasting In this elective, students delve into sophisticated econometric techniques to develop powerful forecasting models. Oxford Saïd MIF participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of various time series analysis methods, exploring their applications in forecasting economic trends, financial market movements, and business performance. By honing their quantitative skills, students will be better equipped to make informed decisions in the face of uncertainty, crucial for careers in finance, consulting, and policymaking.
- Advances in Machine Learning with Big Data This course offers an exciting exploration of cutting-edge machine learning techniques in the context of big data applications. Participants at Oxford Saïd MIF will learn how to leverage vast datasets to build predictive models, enhance investment strategies, and optimize decision-making processes. Through hands-on projects and real-world case studies, students will develop the expertise needed to navigate the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, making them invaluable assets in industries reliant on data-driven insights.
- Asset Management The Asset Management elective equips Oxford Saïd MIF students with a profound understanding of portfolio management strategies and investment principles. Participants will analyze various asset classes, study risk assessment techniques, and explore portfolio optimization strategies. With a focus on real-world asset allocation challenges, graduates will be well-prepared to thrive in asset management firms, pension funds, and other financial institutions.
- Behavioural and Experimental Economics This elective delves into the fascinating intersection of economics and psychology, uncovering the role of human behaviour in economic decision-making. Participants at Oxford Saïd MIF will explore behavioural biases, experimental methodologies, and the implications of such insights on market dynamics and financial decision-making. Armed with this knowledge, graduates will have a unique perspective to address challenges in behavioural finance, consulting, and policy analysis.
- Financial Crises and Risk Management In this course, students examine the causes and consequences of financial crises and the risk management tools essential for financial institutions. Oxford Saïd MIF participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of systemic risk, stress testing, and crisis mitigation strategies. Students will develop the expertise needed to navigate turbulent financial environments by analyzing historical and contemporary crises, making them vital assets for risk management roles in banks and regulatory bodies.
- Corporate Valuation This elective focuses on the fundamental techniques and methodologies for corporate Valuation. Oxford Saïd MIF students will gain hands-on experience in analyzing financial statements, estimating cash flows, and determining the value of businesses in various contexts, including mergers, acquisitions, and investment decisions. Equipped with this skill set, graduates will be well-suited for roles in corporate finance, investment banking, and private equity, among others.
Finance Lab
Led by seasoned practitioners with extensive transaction and market experience, the programme is tailored to individuals seeking roles in investment banking, private markets investment, private equity, or asset management.
- Finance Lab: Investment Banking, The Investment Banking Finance Lab, provides students with a comprehensive toolkit to navigate complex financial situations. Through a series of practical models and real-life case studies, participants learn to evaluate and appraise diverse scenarios, including valuations, leveraged buyouts, and M&A transactions. Active participation in experiential workshops and seminars alongside leading banking firms ensures hands-on learning.
- Finance Lab: Private Markets Investment In the Private Markets Investment Finance Lab, students gain a deeper understanding of investing in private markets. Seasoned professionals guide participants through the intricacies of modern fund management, analyzing micro and macro viewpoints. This practitioner-led course is tailored for exceptional students with prior investing experience.
- Finance Lab: Private Equity, The Private Equity Finance Lab, delves into the specialized field of private equity. Participants learn from industry experts about various aspects of private equity fund management, deal structuring, and value creation. Real-world case studies and interactive sessions provide practical insights and equip students to excel in private equity roles.
- Finance Lab: Asset Management Masterclass Designed for outstanding students with prior investing experience, the Asset Management Masterclass offers an in-depth exploration of fund management from both micro and macro perspectives. This course, led by seasoned practitioners, equips participants with advanced techniques to analyze and manage investment portfolios effectively.
- Finance Lab: Real-Life Case Studies This immersive module allows students to actively participate in workshops and seminars using real-life case studies. Working alongside banking firms and funds, participants tackle financial challenges encountered in the industry, honing their problem-solving skills and gaining practical expertise.
The Oxford School of Finance’s MIF programme boasts an impressive roster of participating organizations, including renowned investment banks such as Bank of America and JP Morgan, esteemed private equity funds like Blackstone and KKR, and other influential players in the financial sector, such as Deloitte and FTI Consulting. This unique opportunity to learn from industry giants ensures students receive a well-rounded education and a competitive edge in the finance world.
Admission Requirements
The MSc in Financial Economics (MIF) course at the University of Oxford has particular entrance standards to make sure that applicants are capable of contributing to the program’s academic and professional environment as well as being well-prepared for the demanding curriculum.
Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree; a first-class or strong upper second-class honours (or its international equivalent) is preferred. Undergraduate applicants need not major in finance or economics, but it is imperative that they show that they have high quantitative abilities. All applicants should be proficient in calculus, fundamental vectors and matrices, probability, statistics, and econometrics. As part of the application assessment process, those with a Master’s degree will also assess their undergraduate performance. The online application form asks applicants to upload their university academic transcripts as proof of their university degree results or current progress.
GMAT or GRE scores are a prerequisite for applying to the MIF programme. No preference is given between the GMAT and GRE (General), which applicants must submit in order to be considered. Although there is no set minimum score requirement, it is advised that the analytical writing score be at least five and the verbal and quantitative scores be in the 80th percentile. GMAT/GRE scores shouldn’t be more than five years old at the time the programme begins. To allow enough time for score reporting, applicants are urged to take the exam at least 20 days before the application deadline. Uploading the official score report to the application portal is required.
Although it is not required, relevant experience from either full-time employment or internships will be taken into account when reviewing applications. A one-page CV is expected from applicants, outlining their experience in great detail.
For the application, two academic or professional references are necessary, one of which must come from the applicant’s present institution if they are currently enrolled in a degree programme. References must be from friends or family members, only from legitimate institutional or professional email accounts. The online application form should be used to submit them.
Additionally, candidates must submit a 500-word essay on the following topic: “How do you hope to see your career developing over the next five years, and how will the MIF help you to achieve these goals?”
The MIF program uses the Interview, preferably Kira Talent video assessment, to assess the applicants’ personality and ability to think on their feet. This includes four motivation and competency-based verbal questions and one written question. Applicants will receive instructions about completing the Kira Talent assessment after submitting their application.
English language proficiency must be demonstrated if the applicant is not a national of a majority English-speaking country as defined by the UK Visas & Immigration Office. English proficiency can be proven by completing a degree-level course entirely in English or by providing a valid TOEFL, IELTS, CAE, or CPE score. The respective minimum scores for each test are provided, and these scores must be achieved within two years of the program start date.
Program Costs and Financial Aid
Elite and thorough education in finance is provided at Oxford Said Business School’s MSc in Financial Economics programme. The overall cost for domestic and international students for the academic year 2023–24 is £52,560, which includes an exclusive lifelong membership to the Oxford Union that gives students access to a variety of academic and social possibilities.
Successful applicants must pay a non-refundable deposit of £7,900 within roughly 30 days of receiving their acceptance announcement in order to reserve a spot in the programme. The entire tuition fee will be subtracted from this deposit amount.
Before the program’s start date in September, the remaining amount of the tuition costs must be paid in full. Admitted students will get an invoice from Said Business School with the fees and the due date after completing the enrollment procedure. The payment can be made in a number of ways, and for international students, Flywire, a respected third-party platform for international money transfers, is accessible. It offers a variety of payment choices as well as bilingual services.
Prospective students are urged to account for increased living expenses related to studying in Oxford when planning their budget. With different information accessible for students bringing their families, the university offers recommendations on expected living costs for a single, full-time graduate student living in Oxford.
To assist students in managing their financial burden, the MSc in Financial Economics program offers several funding opportunities. These include:
- Academic Futures Scholarships: A single scholarship is available across the three Academic Futures streams, covering course fees and providing a grant for living costs.
- Oxford Saïd-HEC Montréal Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is valued at £53,000 and is awarded to one exceptional candidate.
- Rewley Scholarships: These partial awards, typically ranging up to £20,000, are granted to around 10 scholars in the MIF class, contributing towards course fees.
Prospective students are strongly advised to start thinking about financial possibilities as soon as possible, even before obtaining an offer, as funding for the programme is extremely competitive. It is vital to look into all of the funding options, including any outside prospects that the university may not have specifically highlighted. Additionally, funding alternatives for students who are enrolled in a course may be restricted, so it is crucial to confirm before the programme starts that the entire course, including living expenses, can be sufficiently paid.
Students who enrol in Oxford Said Business School’s MSc in Financial Economics programme may also have additional costs, such as buying a laptop, a bike, or warm clothes, especially if they are used to a warmer environment. Additionally, expenses for travel, social gatherings, electives abroad, and professional journeys should be considered when making financial plans.
Campus and Location
Oxford University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, provides a rich and vibrant campus environment that is highly conducive to academic excellence and personal growth for business students.
The campus provides a distinctive and stimulating environment for learning and research since it is surrounded by gorgeous buildings and steeped in history. For business students, the Oxford University campus’s main features include the following:
Academic Excellence: Oxford University has a long history of producing excellent academics, and its Said Business School retains this heritage. Top-notch teachers, state-of-the-art research facilities, and a demanding curriculum that equips students for leadership roles in the business sector benefit business students.
Modern Buildings: The campus is home to cutting-edge buildings, such as contemporary lecture halls, research facilities, libraries, and collaborative spaces. These services allow business students to participate in research that advances their understanding of business, engage in interactive learning, and access a wide range of academic resources.
Opportunities for Networking: Oxford University offers a distinctive networking environment that enables business students to meet with peers from many disciplines, cultures, and backgrounds. This exposure encourages interdisciplinary cooperation and provides priceless networking possibilities that can last far beyond the undergraduate years.
Innovation and entrepreneurship are actively encouraged on campus through a number of programmes and facilities, including the Oxford Foundry and the Skoll Centre for Social Entrepreneurship. These tools are available to business students, who can use them to foster their entrepreneurial aspirations and look into creative responses to global concerns.
As previously indicated, business students are granted lifetime membership to the illustrious debating organization and social club known as the Oxford Union. The Union offers students the chance to develop their viewpoints and participate in stimulating discussions by hosting a variety of events, seminars, and debates with notable figures from the business, political, and academic realms.
Access to Industry Leaders: Due to Oxford University’s reputation, eminent guest speakers and business executives frequently come to the campus to speak to students and share their knowledge and experiences. This interaction with actual company leaders improves learning and imparts useful, practical information.
Opportunities for Cultural and Social Engagement: Oxford University is in a city with a vibrant cultural history. Business students can immerse themselves in a rich social scene outside the classroom by visiting museums, theatres, concert halls, and student organizations. The exposure to so many other cultures aids in both the development of the individual and a well-rounded education.
Services for Career Development: Oxford University provides specialized services for career development to help business students. With the support of these programmes, students can begin successful careers in their chosen industries by receiving advice on internships, job placements, and career growth.
Research chances: The university’s broad resources and partnerships offer plenty of chances for business students interested in undertaking research to investigate issues in-depth and expand their understanding of the field.
Recap of Key Points
- Education: Applicants must possess a Bachelor’s degree.
- Work Experience: A minimum of 2 years of full-time work experience is required,
- GMAT/GRE: Good scores in the GMAT/GRE are mandatory for full-time applicants.
- TOEFL/IELTS: Valid TOEFL or IELTS scores are required if the medium of instruction is not entirely in English.
- Campus Location: Oxford Said MIF is situated in the aesthetic city of Oxford, a global business hub focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Regional Benefits: The program offers advantages such as exposure to diverse cultures and unique business practices in Asia, excellent connectivity, and a strong regional network.
- Resources Available: Oxford Said MIF provides resources like r extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities tracking, m sports facilities, publications, funds and scholarships, and support for student leaders.
- Program Costs: Tuition fees for the Oxford Said MIF program amount to £52,560
- Financial Aid: Oxford Said offers grants and merit-based scholarships for exceptional candidates. Applicants can also explore other funding options to support their MIF journey.
- Reminder: Visit the official website for detailed and updated information on the Oxford Said MIF program, including admission requirements, financial aid options, and any recent changes.
Call to action or next steps for interested readers
If you found this blog post on the Oxford Said MIF program insightful and are considering pursuing an MIF at Oxford Said, I encourage you to stay tuned for our upcoming blog on “How to Get into the Oxford Said MIF Program.” This blog will delve into crafting a robust application, including writing compelling essays, securing solid letters of recommendation, and presenting yourself effectively during interviews. We will also cover essential deadlines and offer valuable tips to enhance your chances of admission.
Whether you’re a prospective full-time or part-time student, this upcoming blog will serve as a valuable resource to navigate the application process successfully. It will equip you with the knowledge and insights to present your skills, experiences, and aspirations in the best possible light.
Getting into the Oxford Said MIF program is an exciting journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way. Stay tuned for our comprehensive guide on “How to Get into the Oxford Said MIF Program” and take the first step towards realizing your academic and career goals.
Remember, preparation and a thorough understanding of the application process can make a significant difference. We look forward to helping you navigate the path to your dream MIF program at Oxford Said.
