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I have chosen to study MSc Applied Finance programme because I believe from the study I will develop an in-depth understanding of finance and investment, transferable intellectual skills that are key to a successful career in the field of financial services and desired by bodies such as the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC).

The course will allow me to apply latest thinking on financial and management to the analysis of the key problems being experienced by the world's major businesses and to develop the research skills necessary to tackle financial problems and issues. Most importantly, this programme would not only provide me with the theoretical knowledge but also train me on how to apply the knowledge in practice and in fact, the course emphasis on the ‘applied’ part of the learning.

My most recent qualification MBA in International Management has provided me only with generic knowledge in management; and learning outcomes are common to all students of MBA. I have, in fact, missed the most crucial domain of knowledge that I must have achieved as a master graduate. Furthermore, the knowledge was too much theoretical and bookish – I have always felt a vacuum in my attainments that I strive to give solid base. This MSc can complete the missing parts of the ‘total’ business and finance knowledge and skills that I aim to acquire.

From this MSc, I will have the opportunity to gain knowledge in newer but essential areas including Financial Reporting, Economics, Financial Markets, Institutions and Operations, Financial Regulation, Quantitative Methods, Fund Accounting, Derivatives and Alternative Investments, Fund Management.

These crucial areas, which I missed in my MBA study, will develop my skills to adapt appropriate strategic responses to different market environments through the study of organisations. I will also understand the impact of contextual forces on organisations, including legal systems, corporate governance and ethical, economic and environmental change issues. I will develop my knowledge of the financing of organisations including the sources, uses and management of finance and the use of accounting for managerial and financial reporting.

I am happy that I will be able to carry forward the management part of knowledge from my MBA to complement some parts of the learning aims of the MSc – this will help me understand this high profiled course better and I will be the chance to contribute valuable inputs in the learning and even for the tutors and fellow students.

The study will enhance my current knowledge; I will gain newer domain of knowledge and skills in Finance which I have completely missed as a business graduate. In particular, I will have the opportunity for the advanced study of both the theoretical and professional aspects of wholesale financial services to bridge the theory-practice gap; to prepare for a career in wholesale financial services by development of the necessary transferable intellectual skills; to develop an international perspective on wholesale financial services issues; to develop the ability to analyse financial problems critically, rationally and rigorously, to creatively and systematically apply knowledge and understanding of finance and investment concepts to complex issues, and to respond to the rapidly changing wholesale financial environment; to gain enterprise and innovation skills; to enhance lifelong learning skills and personal development so as to be able to work with self-direction and originality and to contribute to business and society as a whole.

On completion, in addition to the MSc qualification I will be entitled to get associate membership of the prestigious Chartered Institute of Securities and Investment (CISI). This membership will be ornamental for my career development. Furthermore, the programme would provide a strong base for further research based at PhD Level.

Therefore, there are comprehensive opportunities to acquire advanced level knowledge and skills along with professional discourses from the MSc – the course, in fact, will raise my capabilities to enviable standard in academic attainments and for career developments.

On successful completion of the MSc Applied Finance, I will be well-placed to pursue a career in accounting, banking, financial market, fund management, insurance and the stock market. I will have acquired the knowledge and skills to become an effective manager in the public or private sector and are likely to establish a career path in companies that are listed on stock exchanges around the world. The study, indeed, will be a turning point of my journey towards a successful career destination. I will be glad to have University of Ulster as my mentor for making my aspirations a true success.