Pursuing a Masters in Finance is a transformative step toward building a rewarding career in finance. Among the top destinations for this journey is SKEMA Business School, which offers an array of specialized finance programs designed to cater to diverse career paths within the finance industry. In this guide, we delve deep into the specifics of SKEMA's Masters in Finance programs, providing insights into the structure, curriculum, and unique features that make these programs stand out in the global finance education landscape.
1. Program Overview: Masters in Finance at SKEMA Business School
SKEMA Business School offers multiple specialized Masters in Finance programs, each tailored to equip students with skills and knowledge for specific finance sectors:
MSc Auditing, Management Accounting & Information Systems: Ideal for those aiming for expertise in auditing and financial management.
MSc Corporate Financial Management: Perfect for developing strategic financial decision-making and leadership in corporate finance.
MSc Financial Markets & Investments: A highly ranked program designed for those aspiring to excel in financial markets, investment banking, or asset management.
MSc Sustainable Finance & Fintech: A cutting-edge program that integrates sustainability with fintech trends, preparing graduates for emerging finance roles.
2. General Program Structure
SKEMA's Masters in Finance programs offer flexibility and a global experience:
Duration: 12-16 months (varies by intake)
Language: Courses are conducted entirely in English
Locations: Paris, Sophia Antipolis, Belo Horizonte (Brazil), Suzhou (China)
Intakes: September and January (depending on the program)
This structure allows students to immerse themselves in international finance hubs while gaining diverse cultural and professional insights.
3. Detailed Program Breakdown
MSc Financial Markets & Investments
Ranking: Ranked 4th worldwide by the Financial Times in 2023
Locations & Specializations:
Trading, Structuring & Portfolio Management (Sophia Antipolis)
Asset Management and Investment Banking (Paris)
Financial Analysis and CFA® Preparation (Raleigh, USA)
This program offers comprehensive training, preparing graduates for high-level roles in trading, investment banking, and portfolio management, and provides unparalleled global exposure.
MSc Corporate Financial Management
Locations: Paris, Sophia Antipolis, Belo Horizonte, Suzhou
Specialization Tracks:
Fund Raising & Innovative Investments (Paris)
Financial Advisory (Paris)
Private Equity and Alternative Investment (Sophia Antipolis)
Financial Risk Management (Belo Horizonte)
Digital Finance and Fintech (Suzhou)
This program offers diverse tracks that align with global finance trends, enabling students to specialize in the area most relevant to their career aspirations.
4. Key Program Features
What sets SKEMA's Masters in Finance programs apart is the blend of academic excellence and professional practice:
Bloomberg Terminal Training: Access to real-world financial data and analytics
Simulation Games: Hands-on experience in trading and portfolio management
International Study Trips: Opportunities to visit financial hubs and gain global perspectives
Strong Industry Connections: Partnerships with leading financial institutions ensure that students gain practical insights and networking opportunities
5. Curriculum Highlights
The curriculum is designed to offer a comprehensive understanding of finance:
Core Courses: Cover fundamental topics in finance, economics, and quantitative methods
Specialized Courses: Aligned with each program's focus, providing in-depth knowledge and skills
Electives: Allow students to tailor their learning experience to match their career goals
Professional Development Workshops: Equip students with soft skills such as leadership, communication, and negotiation
6. International Opportunities
One of the unique aspects of SKEMA's Masters in Finance programs is the emphasis on global exposure:
Multi-Campus Study Options: Study across SKEMA’s campuses in France, Brazil, China, and the USA
Diverse Student Cohort: Learn alongside peers from various countries, enhancing cultural competence
Global Internships: Access international internship opportunities that build valuable work experience
7. Career Impact and Opportunities
SKEMA places a strong emphasis on career readiness:
Access to a Global Corporate Network: Connect with leading finance companies worldwide
Tailored Career Services: Receive guidance on CV preparation, interview techniques, and job search strategies
Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Courses are designed to meet current job market demands, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for roles in investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, fintech, and more
8. Admission Requirements and Process
To apply for a Masters in Finance at SKEMA, you need:
Bachelor's Degree: A 3 or 4-year degree, depending on the program
English Proficiency: TOEFL (530), TOEFL IBT (71), TOEIC (810), or IELTS (6)
GMAT/GRE: Recommended but not mandatory
Professional Experience: Requirements vary by program
Application Process:
Complete the online application
Submit your CV, motivation letter, and academic transcripts
Provide two references
Pre-selected candidates may undergo a Visiotalent test and an interview
Key Application Dates: Rolling admissions with multiple deadlines, with the final deadline typically around June-July for September intake.
9. Tuition Fees and Scholarships
Tuition Fees (2024-2025):
MSc in one year: €18,000 - €25,000 (depending on the program)
MSc Financial Markets & Investments: €25,000
Application Fee: €100 (non-refundable)
Scholarship Opportunities:
Merit-Based Scholarships
Country-Specific Scholarships
External Scholarship Options
GOALisB can assist in identifying and applying for scholarships to make your education more affordable.
10. Accreditations and Recognition
SKEMA Business School is recognized worldwide for its excellence in finance education:
Triple Crown Accreditation (EQUIS, AACSB, AMBA)
CFA Institute University Affiliation Program
French Ministry of Higher Education Accreditation
These accreditations demonstrate the quality and global recognition of SKEMA’s finance programs.
11. Unique SKEMA Features
Global Finance Recruitment Day: Network with recruiters from leading financial institutions
Integration of AI in Courses: Learn cutting-edge finance applications using tools like Microsoft PowerPlatform
Focus on Sustainable Finance and Fintech: Stay ahead of industry trends
12. Faculty Expertise
SKEMA's faculty includes a mix of academic professors and seasoned industry practitioners, offering students insights from real-world finance experiences.
13. Career Opportunities for Graduates
Graduates from SKEMA’s Masters in Finance programs have secured roles such as:
Investment Banking Analysts
Asset Managers
Corporate Finance Specialists
Risk Managers
Fintech Analysts
The global alumni network across major financial centers provides a valuable resource for career growth and networking.
14. Assessment Methods
Your progress will be evaluated through a combination of:
Examinations
Group Projects
Case Studies
Presentations
15. Additional Learning Resources
Students have access to:
Financial Databases and Software
Professional Certification Preparation (e.g., CFA, FRM)
Conclusion
Choosing to pursue a Masters in Finance degree from SKEMA Business School equips you with the knowledge, skills, and global exposure necessary to excel in today's dynamic finance landscape. With multiple specializations, international opportunities, and a strong emphasis on practical experience, SKEMA's Masters in Finance programs stand out as one of the best investments for your finance career.
If you're ready to take the leap, reach out to GOALisB Admissions Consultants for personalized guidance on your application journey. Together, we can make your aspirations a reality.