Asset Management

Course details

Run by the Department of Accounting Finance and Information Systems the MSc Asset Management is a 12 month Finance programme designed for those wishing to work in the international financial services industry, either in Ireland or abroad. 

Students on the programme have access to a dedicated lab with Datastream and other financial and hedge fund databases. 

The programme is structured as follows

Induction Week  

The course begins with an induction week providing you with the necessary preparation for the Core Modules in Semester 1. Here, the focus is on: team-building skills; IT skillscommunication and presentation skills.

Core Modules  

The core modules take place mainly in Semester 1 (September to December) and two running in Semester 2.  These modules provide you with the in-depth knowledge to analyse and apply solutions to topics such as Valuation, Project Finance and Analysis of Debt Instruments. These modules:focus on analysis and application;have a quantitative element; include regular student presentations.

Core Modules: 

• Project Finance
• Valuation
• Analysis of Debt   Instruments
• Asset Allocation
• Quantitative   Analysis
• Financial Analysis   and Forecasting
• Research Methods

Specialised Modules

The specialised modules begin in Semester 2 (January to March) and here you will learn and apply this knowledge to areas of real relevance to your future career such as aircraft leasing, risk management and funds. The modules here: focus on understanding and application; are case study and lecture driven; employ analysis using business IT systems.

Specialised Modules:

• Risk Management
• Venture Capital and   Private Equity
• Aircraft Leasing
• Funds Industry   Services and Regulation
• Business Leader Series

In this innovative module beginning midway through Semester 1 and finishing in Semester 2, you will get the opportunity to interact with senior executives and industry leaders from both the financial services sector. This module provides the perfect opportunity to hone your networking, communication and presentation skills.

• a weekly session will be chaired by industry experts.
• each week a different student group hosts the sessions.
• members of the student groups present the case study solution.
• the expert then gives feedback and advice to the class.

Professional Exams 

In this element of the programme you pursue a course of independent learning, under the supervision of an academic mentor, towards the CFA® level I and/or CAIA® level I exams. Guidance will be provided by our CFA® and CAIA® faculty representatives on the best approach for you to prepare for these examinations.

 Research Project 

The final element in the course takes place over the summer. You will get the opportunity to work, under the supervision of an academic mentor on an asset management research project. Each student will initiate, research and write a report on the asset management issue. The output from this project will include a detailed report and final presentation. This form of project will give you an opportunity to develop both analytical and professional skills. 

Entry Requirements

Applicants must normally have

• a 2H1 degree or equivalent in a business programme or
• Expectation of graduating with a 2H1 degree or equivalent in a business programme in the year of entry or
• A 2H1 degree or equivalent in a cognate discipline with a quantitative element.

Applicants who achieve a 2H2 degree, in either a business degree or a degree in a cognate discipline with a quantitative element, will be assessed on a case by case basis.