30 Best Undergraduate Finance Schools In UK (July 2024)

When it comes to pursuing a degree in finance, choosing the right school can make all the difference in your educational journey and future career prospects.

With the year 2024 upon us, it’s an exciting time for aspiring finance professionals to explore their options.

Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or considering a switch in your academic path, this blog post aims to guide you through the top 30 Best Undergraduate Finance Schools In UK for the year 2024.

These institutions have consistently demonstrated their commitment to providing high-quality education, fostering financial expertise, and preparing students for success in the dynamic world of finance.

From prestigious universities in London to esteemed institutions across the UK, we’ll delve into the highlights of these schools and what sets them apart as leaders in finance education.

So, let’s embark on a journey to discover where your future in finance might begin in 2024!

best undergraduate finance schools in uk

30 Best Undergraduate Finance Schools In UK

Here is a list of the 30 Best Undergraduate Finance Schools in the UK for 2024, along with a brief overview of each school:

1. University of Oxford:

The University of Oxford is a world-renowned institution with a rich history and a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The Oxford Finance and Management Programme (OFMP) is one of the most prestigious undergraduate finance programs in the world, and it is known for its rigorous curriculum and its emphasis on quantitative analysis.

2. University of Cambridge:

The University of Cambridge is another world-leading institution with a long and distinguished history. The Cambridge Finance course is a highly selective program that is designed to prepare students for careers in finance and economics. The course is known for its rigorous academic content and its focus on real-world applications.

3. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE):

LSE is a world-leading university specializing in the social sciences, including economics and finance. The BSc Finance program at LSE is a highly respected program that provides students with a strong foundation in financial theory and practice. The program is known for its strong emphasis on quantitative analysis and its focus on international financial markets.

4. University of Warwick:

The University of Warwick is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Warwick is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The program is known for its strong emphasis on practical skills and its focus on corporate finance.

5. University of Bath:

The University of Bath is a research-intensive university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Bath is a highly regarded program that provides students with a strong foundation in financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on sustainability and its emphasis on ethical decision-making.

6. University of Manchester:

The University of Manchester is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Financial Management program at Manchester is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on risk management and its emphasis on financial modeling.

7. University of Edinburgh:

The University of Edinburgh is a world-renowned institution with a rich history and a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. The BSc Finance, Accounting and Economics program at Edinburgh is a highly selective program that is designed to prepare students for careers in finance, accounting, and economics. The program is known for its rigorous academic content and its focus on real-world applications.

8. Durham University:

Durham University is a world-leading research-intensive university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Durham is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on international finance and its emphasis on financial modeling.

9. University of Bristol:

The University of Bristol is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Bristol is a highly respected program that provides students with a strong foundation in financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate finance and its emphasis on financial modeling.

10. City, University of London:

City, University of London is a world-leading institution specializing in business and finance. The BSc Finance program at City is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on financial markets and its emphasis on quantitative analysis.

11. University of Glasgow:

The University of Glasgow is a world-renowned institution with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Glasgow is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on financial technology and its emphasis on ethical decision-making.

12. Lancaster University:

Lancaster University is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Management and Finance program at Lancaster is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of business and finance. The program is known for its focus on strategy and its emphasis on international business.

13. Queen’s University Belfast:

Queen’s University Belfast is a world-renowned institution with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Queen’s is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The program is known for its focus on corporate governance and its emphasis on risk management.

14. University of Exeter:

The University of Exeter is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Exeter is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The

15. University of Leeds:

The University of Leeds is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Leeds is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on financial markets and its emphasis on quantitative analysis.

16. University of Sheffield:

The University of Sheffield is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Financial Management and Accounting program at Sheffield is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate finance and its emphasis on risk management.

17. Cardiff University:

Cardiff University is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Cardiff is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The program is known for its focus on corporate governance and its emphasis on risk management.

18. University of Birmingham:

The University of Birmingham is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance and Economics program at Birmingham is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on quantitative analysis and its emphasis on international financial markets.

19. Newcastle University:

Newcastle University is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Newcastle is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The program is known for its focus on financial technology and its emphasis on ethical decision-making.

20. University of Nottingham:

The University of Nottingham is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Nottingham is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate finance and its emphasis on financial modeling.

21. University of Liverpool:

The University of Liverpool is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Financial Management program at Liverpool is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on risk management and its emphasis on financial model.

22. University of Southampton:

The University of Southampton is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Accounting and Finance program at Southampton is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of accounting and financial principles. The program is known for its focus on corporate governance and its emphasis on risk management.

23. University of Aberdeen:

The University of Aberdeen is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance and Investment program at Aberdeen is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on investment management and its emphasis on quantitative analysis.

24. University of Surrey:

The University of Surrey is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Surrey is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate finance and its emphasis on financial modeling.

25. Ulster University:

Ulster University is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance and Accounting program at Ulster is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate governance and its emphasis on risk management.

26. Swansea University:

Swansea University is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Swansea is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on financial markets.

27. Kent Business School:

Kent Business School is a leading business school with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at KBS is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on corporate finance and its emphasis on financial modeling.

28. Stirling Management School:

Stirling Management School is a leading business school with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at SMS is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on risk management and its emphasis on ethical decision-making.

29. University of Leicester:

The University of Leicester is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance and Economics program at Leicester is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on quantitative analysis and its emphasis on international financial markets.

30. University of Dundee:

The University of Dundee is a leading research university with a strong reputation for its business and finance programs. The BSc Finance program at Dundee is a highly respected program that provides students with a broad understanding of financial theory and practice. The program is known for its focus on risk management and its emphasis on financial modeling.

Finance Major Requirements In UK

The specific entry requirements for finance majors in the UK vary depending on the university, but there are some general requirements that are typically expected.

A-levels

Most universities require applicants to have achieved A-levels in a range of subjects, including:

Mathematics: Mathematics is a core subject for finance, so it is essential that you have a strong understanding of the subject. A-level Maths or an equivalent qualification is typically required.
Economics: Economics is another important subject for finance, as it provides an understanding of how economies work and how financial markets operate. A-level Economics or an equivalent qualification is often required.
Business Studies: Business Studies is a useful subject for finance, as it provides an understanding of how businesses operate and how they make financial decisions. A-level Business Studies or an equivalent qualification is often recommended.

BTEC Qualifications

If you have BTEC qualifications, you will need to check the specific requirements of the university you are applying to. However, in general, you will need to have achieved a DDD in a relevant BTEC qualification, such as:

BTEC Extended Diploma in Business
BTEC Extended Diploma in Accounting and Finance

International Baccalaureate

If you have an International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma, you will need to have achieved a score of 35 or above, with a minimum of 6 in the relevant subjects, such as:

Higher Level Mathematics
Higher Level Economics
Higher Level Business Management

Other Requirements

In addition to academic qualifications, some universities may also require applicants to have other qualifications, such as:

Work experience: Work experience in a finance-related role can be a valuable asset for your application. Many universities will consider this when making decisions about who to admit to their finance programs.
Relevant skills: You will also need to have strong quantitative skills, problem-solving skills, and communication skills.
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Pre-requisite Courses In UK

Prerequisite courses in the UK vary depending on the specific university and program you are applying to. However, there are some general prerequisites that are typically required for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in the UK.

Undergraduate Prerequisites

For undergraduate programs, most universities require applicants to have achieved certain GCSE or A-level grades in specific subjects. The most common prerequisites for undergraduate programs in the UK include:

English Language: GCSE English Language or an equivalent qualification is typically required for all undergraduate programs.
Mathematics: GCSE Mathematics or an equivalent qualification is typically required for most undergraduate programs, especially those in science, engineering, and business.
Science: GCSE Science (Double Award) or an equivalent qualification is often required for undergraduate programs in science, engineering, and medicine.
Specific Subjects: Depending on the specific program you are applying to, you may also need to have achieved GCSE or A-level grades in other subjects, such as History, Geography, or a foreign language.

Is Finance a Good Career In UK?

Yes, finance is a good career in the UK. There are many reasons for this, including:

High demand for skilled professionals: The UK has a strong and growing financial sector, and there is a high demand for skilled finance professionals. This means that there are plenty of job opportunities for finance graduates.
Good salaries: Finance professionals are typically well-paid. According to the National Careers Service, the median salary for finance professionals in the UK is £35,000 per year. The top 10% of earners in the sector can earn over £100,000 per year.
Good job prospects: Finance is a stable and growing industry, so there are good job prospects for finance graduates. The unemployment rate for finance professionals is typically low.
Variety of career paths: There are many different career paths available to finance graduates. Some of the most popular options include:
- Financial analyst
- Investment banker
- Accountant
- Actuary
- Financial advisor
Opportunities for advancement: There is plenty of scope for advancement in finance. Finance professionals can progress to senior positions within their organizations, or they can move into other areas of finance, such as investment banking or private equity.
International career opportunities: Finance is a global industry, so there are many opportunities for finance professionals to work internationally. This can be a great way to gain experience and develop your skills.

10 Reasons to Study Finance In UK

There are many reasons to study finance in the UK. Here are 10 of the most compelling reasons:

Here are 10 reasons to study finance in the UK:

Strong financial sector: The UK has a strong and growing financial sector, which means that there are plenty of job opportunities for finance graduates.
Good salaries: Finance professionals are typically well-paid. According to the National Careers Service, the median salary for finance professionals in the UK is £35,000 per year. The top 10% of earners in the sector can earn over £100,000 per year.
Good job prospects: Finance is a stable and growing industry, so there are good job prospects for finance graduates. The unemployment rate for finance professionals is typically low.
Variety of career paths: There are many different career paths available to finance graduates. Some of the most popular options include: Financial analyst, Investment banker, Accountant, Actuary, and Financial advisor
Opportunities for advancement: There is plenty of scope for advancement in finance. Finance professionals can progress to senior positions within their organizations, or they can move into other areas of finance, such as investment banking or private equity.
International career opportunities: Finance is a global industry, so there are many opportunities for finance professionals to work internationally. This can be a great way to gain experience and develop your skills.
World-class universities: The UK is home to many of the world’s leading universities, including the University of Oxford, the University of Cambridge, and the London School of Economics and Political Science. These universities offer a wide range of finance programs, from undergraduate degrees to PhDs.
Strong research focus: The UK is a leader in financial research, and many UK universities have strong research programs in finance. This means that you will have the opportunity to learn from some of the world’s leading experts in the field.
Professional networking opportunities: The UK is a major financial center, so there are many opportunities to network with other professionals in the industry. This can be a great way to learn about job opportunities and get your foot in the door.
Cultural diversity: The UK is a culturally diverse country, and there are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world. This can be a great way to learn about different cultures and develop your intercultural communication skills.

Why Choosing the Right College to Study Course In UK

Choosing the right college to study your course in the UK is an important decision that can significantly impact your future career prospects and overall educational experience. Here are some key reasons why it’s crucial to make an informed choice:

Academic Excellence: UK universities are renowned for their academic rigor and high standards of teaching. Selecting the right college ensures you’ll receive a quality education from experienced faculty and have access to top-notch facilities and resources.
Course Specialization and Reputation: Different colleges excel in specific areas of study. Choosing a college with a strong reputation in your chosen field ensures you’ll be exposed to cutting-edge knowledge, specialized facilities, and opportunities to network with experts in your chosen field.
Learning Environment and Culture: The college’s environment and culture play a significant role in your overall learning experience. Consider factors such as class sizes, student-to-faculty ratios, campus atmosphere, and the overall ethos of the institution to find a place that aligns with your learning style and preferences.
Career Prospects and Employability: The reputation and networks of the college can directly impact your employability after graduation. Choosing a college with strong alumni networks, industry connections, and career support services can provide you with a competitive edge in the job market.
Location and Lifestyle: The location of the college can influence your lifestyle and overall experience. Consider factors such as proximity to home, access to amenities and cultural attractions, and the overall vibe of the city or town to find a place that suits your preferences.
Funding and Scholarships: Explore the financial aid options offered by different colleges, including scholarships, grants, and bursaries. Choosing a college that aligns with your financial situation can reduce the burden of tuition fees and allow you to focus on your studies.
Personal Fit and Intuition: Ultimately, the right college for you should feel like a good fit. Consider factors such as the campus atmosphere, student body diversity, and the overall feel of the institution to find a place where you feel comfortable and excited to pursue your studies.

Conclusion

The UK offers a diverse range of undergraduate finance programs at top-tier universities, preparing students for successful careers in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of finance.

Whether you’re drawn to the prestigious institutions of Oxford and Cambridge or the specialized expertise of business schools like Warwick and CASS, there’s a program that matches your academic interests, career aspirations, and personal preferences.

As you embark on your journey to choose the right undergraduate finance program, carefully consider the factors that matter most to you.

Explore the academic strengths, course specializations, learning environment, career support services, and overall reputation of each university.

Remember, the right fit isn’t just about academic rigor; it’s about finding an institution that aligns with your learning style, values, and aspirations for the future.

FAQs

What are the tuition fees for undergraduate finance programs in the UK?

Tuition fees for undergraduate finance programs in the UK vary depending on the university, but they typically range from £10,000 to £35,000 per year.

What are the best ways to prepare for an undergraduate finance program in the UK?

There are a number of ways to prepare for an undergraduate finance program in the UK. These include:

Taking relevant A-levels or equivalent qualifications
Gaining relevant work experience or internships
Attending finance-related workshops or seminars
Reading books and articles about finance
Practicing your math and analytical skills

How are the job prospects for finance graduates in the UK?

Job prospects for finance graduates in the UK were generally positive, but they can vary depending on several factors, including the specific field within finance, the level of education and experience, and the economic conditions at the time.

Here are some key points to consider:

Diverse Opportunities: The finance industry in the UK is vast and diverse, encompassing areas such as investment banking, asset management, financial analysis, risk management, insurance, and more. This diversity provides a range of job opportunities for finance graduates to explore based on their interests and skills.
London as a Financial Hub: London is one of the world’s leading financial centers, and many major financial institutions, including banks, hedge funds, and investment firms, have a strong presence in the city. This makes it a prime location for finance professionals, with a wide array of job opportunities.
Competition: The finance sector can be highly competitive, with many candidates vying for prestigious positions. Having a strong academic record, relevant internships, and networking can significantly enhance your job prospects.
Regulatory Changes: The finance industry is subject to regulatory changes, and these changes can impact job prospects and the demand for specific roles. Staying updated on industry trends and regulatory developments is essential.
Salary Potential: Finance roles in the UK can offer competitive salaries and the potential for high earnings as you gain experience and progress in your career.
Brexit Impact: The UK’s withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit) has introduced some uncertainty into the finance sector. It’s important to be aware of potential changes in regulations and market dynamics resulting from Brexit.

What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an undergraduate finance program in the UK?

When choosing an undergraduate finance program in the UK, it is important to consider a variety of factors, including:

Academic reputation: The UK is home to many of the world’s leading universities, so you will want to choose a program that has a strong reputation for academic excellence.
Course specialization: Some universities offer specialized finance programs, such as financial management or investment banking. If you have a particular area of interest, you will want to choose a program that offers a strong focus in that area.
Career support services: Many universities offer career support services to help students with their job search. Choose a program that has strong career support services in place.
Location: The UK is a diverse country with a variety of cities and towns to choose from. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when choosing a location.
Cost: Tuition fees for undergraduate finance programs in the UK can vary depending on the university. Make sure you choose a program that you can afford.