The MSFE programme aims to combine two central strengths of SMU – econometrics and finance – in a programme that meets the loud industry demand for professionals with the skills for deep analysis of increasingly complex financial problems in a new era of dynamic policy and regulation.

The complexities of the modern financial industry and its global linkages have multiplied rapidly over the last decade, producing many new challenges and opportunities. On one hand, the challenge faced by financial managers in fathoming the implications of new economic policies and regulations and new financial products has become increasingly daunting. On the other hand, a vast array of novel modelling, forecasting and surveillance methods has been developed in financial theory and econometrics to address these challenges. It is therefore important to equip talented professionals with the most advanced tools of economic theory, financial econometrics and computational methods to study the manifold problems faced by the financial industry.

The proposed Master of Science in Financial Economics (MSFE) programme addresses the need for a rigorous curriculum linking economics and econometrics to finance. The MSFE programme aims to combine two central strengths of SMU – econometrics and finance – in a programme that meets the loud industry demand for professionals with the skills for deep analysis of increasingly complex financial problems in a new era of dynamic policy and regulation. The proposed full-time degree programme will impart the foundational knowledge in economics and econometrics and the domain knowledge of the workings of the financial markets.

The programme will teach students how to apply the most advanced tools in economics and econometrics to finance. Its primary strength draws on the inherent multidisciplinary nature of the programme involving faculty with expertise in economics, econometrics and finance, thereby generating a unique “transformational” learning experience for students. Going with the theme of any coveted SMU degree and leveraging on its key geographic location, this programme will provide excellent networking opportunities. The possibility of academic and industry seminars for students with applied and research tracks will provide an ideal springboard for the technically sound but market orientated professionals.