Master's in Finance and Financial Technology (FinTech) ICMA Centre (University of Reading)

The advances in financial technology have brought about transformational changes in many branches of the finance industry. The introduction of blockchain technology and digital currencies have created a revolution in payment systems and generated widespread disintermediation via peer-to-peer lending and crowdfunding for firms, and online stockbroking and robo-advisory services for individual investors. Many of these innovations are based on the processing of large amounts of data (or “Big Data”) via machine learning algorithms.

Through this course students will specialise in digital banking and payment systems, Python programming and finance applications of machine learning algorithms. Students will also gain an in-depth understanding of big data in finance and insurance, along with emerging technologies including blockchain and cryptocurrencies. Through trading simulations, students will learn about securities, futures and options and algorithmic trading. The programme will also explore FinTech regulation and the challenges posed by data protection and cyber security. Students have the opportunity to complete the KNIME Level 1 Certification and develop their proficiency in the open source platform for data driven innovation.