MSc Finance: paving the way to a professional career

Jodie McLelland who studied the MSc in Finance programme at Strathclyde Business School, here talks about how the content of the programme has set her up for her professional career with a job lined up in September.

When I selected my undergraduate degree, I chose to study Economics and Finance before specialising in Finance in my final year. When I began researching graduate schemes, I decided that I wanted to complete CIMA but was concerned that I had no accounting experience. In order to gain some accounting experience and a further qualification, I decided a Masters was the best path for me.

I chose to remain at Strathclyde due to the great teaching I experienced at Undergraduate level but also the global reputation of the Accounting & Finance Department.

I have really enjoyed the MSc in Finance course. It has been a really exciting year where I have met some great people who I would have otherwise never crossed paths with. I have really enjoyed the classes. I feel that the course content is extremely interesting and relevant especially Behavioural Finance. It has further developed my existing knowledge and will allow for seamless progression on to my career.

During the programme, we were introduced to a trading platform that we were freely able to trade and offered a true insight into the complex trading industry. Several classes have organised guest lecturers from various companies which have allowed us to meet individuals currently working within the finance sector. This allowed for students to ask questions ranging from job roles to expectations in the organisations whom these individuals worked for.

The University student body is extremely diverse! This has been really interesting as I have had the opportunity to meet people from all over the world who have only come to Scotland to study this course. This has offered a glimpse into the unique cultures and lives of international students.

The staff have been extremely helpful throughout the duration of this course and the lecturers offer a great level of expertise in their fields. The library facility is great at Strathclyde. There are a large number of group work spaces and private rooms which are extremely beneficial for group projects. There are also many copies of all required course reading available to students which was incredibly helpful for revision.

I have really loved my time at Strathclyde University at both Undergraduate and Postgraduate level. It's provided me with great opportunities throughout my time! The staff have been extremely helpful and accommodating within the Accountancy & Finance Department. I feel like it has equipped me extremely well for my transition into my professional career.

I have secured a Finance Graduate position starting this month with First Group. During my three year programme, I will work towards a CIMA qualification.

My main advice to prospective students would be to keep up with compulsory reading! There is a great deal of content so ensure to stay on top of it. But most importantly, have fun meeting new people and - for those students who have travelled to Scotland to take part in the MSc - enjoy Glasgow!