Corporate -Finance
What will you learn?
The master’s programme in Corporate Finance is designed for ambitious students aiming for careers in corporate management and financial operations. Combining theory with practical application, the programme provides a strong foundation in financial risk management, investment strategies, and corporate decision-making. With an international perspective, it prepares students to navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.
Graduates will gain cutting-edge knowledge in management accounting, corporate finance, investment control, and financial markets while developing a deeper understanding of management theory. This will ensure students build a comprehensive knowledge of industry standards and methodologies.
A choice between two paths
Students can choose between a programme structure leading to a Master of Science (MSc) in Corporate Finance and a structure leading to a postgraduate qualification (MCF). Both structures require 90 ECTS credits. The curriculum can be completed in three terms, with full-time study in the autumn, spring, and summer.
MSc degree
Students finish 60 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and a 30 ECTS-credit master’s thesis.
Postgraduate qualification (MCF)
Students finish 90 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and can take an internship of up to 15 ECTS credits.
How will I learn?
Traditional classroom learning
Master's programmes in the Department of Business and Economics are on site.
Global expertise in English
Courses are conducted in English by both Icelandic and international specialists, offering students a global perspective on the material.
Organisation of teaching
The Department of Business and Economics courses are offered in two formats: as intensive modules with full-day sessions spanning two to four consecutive days or as weekly classes. Classes may be scheduled in the afternoon and on Saturdays.
Assessment
Courses feature a combination of assessment components, including group projects, individual assignments, and written or oral exams. Students may expect assignments and exams to occur outside of classroom hours, with final assessments typically completed shortly after each course concludes.
Internship
Students may pursue internships instead of elective courses, earning 7,5 or 15 ECTS credits. Each student is assigned a supervisor from the host company or institution and a faculty advisor for the duration of the internship. Internships are especially beneficial for students with limited work experience or those aiming to use their studies to explore new career opportunities.
*For further information, see the Guidelines for Internships in Master's Programmes.
What next?
Future prospects
Graduates develop expertise in critical areas of financial management, such as investment analysis, portfolio management, financial planning, risk evaluation, and financial accounting. They are prepared for successful careers as CFOs, corporate finance experts, financial analysts, and financial advisors across diverse sectors, including major corporations, banks, investment firms, and pension funds.
Achievement and skills
Graduates must thoroughly understand financial management techniques, particularly investment appraisal. With this knowledge, students can work effectively in investment management, investment planning, risk management, and financial accounting.
Upon graduation, students have:
- Dedicated suitable working procedures.
- Learned how to analyse and communicate numerical information.
- Learned how to utilise best practice tools and approaches in corporate finance and investment management.
- Critically assessed financial management methods to recommend and implement improvements.
- Mastery of relevant methodologies and analysis for understanding practical financial challenges and recommending successful solutions based on this analysis.
- Implemented an open interface for fresh ideas and innovation.
- Initiated, led, and accepted responsibility for the activities of individuals and groups.
- Developed the capacity to make independent, professional decisions and the knowledge to support them.
Area of work
The curriculum provides a diverse working environment in the financial divisions of large corporations, innovative businesses, or financial institutions such as banks, investment firms, insurance companies, securities firms, and pension funds.
Structure
Programme structure
Length of study
14 months (three terms).
Terms
- Autumn: August to December
- Spring: January to May
- Summer: May to September
Maximum study period
The programme structure is based on full-time study but students have the opportunity to study part-time. The maximum study period is two years (six terms).
Choice between two paths
Students can choose between a programme structure leading to a Master of Science (MSc) in Corporate Finance and a structure leading to a postgraduate qualification (MCF). Both structures require 90 ECTS credits. The curriculum can be completed in three terms, with full-time study in the autumn, spring, and summer terms.
MSc degree
Students finish 60 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and a 30 ECTS-credit master’s thesis.
Postgraduate qualification (MCF)
Students finish 90 ECTS credits in courses according to the programme structure and have the opportunity to take an internship of up to 15 ECTS credits.
Note
- Students can complete internships for a maximum of 15 ECTS credits instead of electives.
- The curriculum provides more information about the courses.
Facilities
Services and Good Facilities
Teaching occurs both online and at the RU building.
Class Rooms and Reading Rooms
Reykjavík University has outstanding facilities for teaching, reading, and student collaboration. The classrooms are well-equipped, and students can use group work areas. Students have access to general facilities all day and night.
Excellent Service
The university facility offers easy access to study and career help, an international office, and technical aid. The library provides excellent and diverse working facilities. The library provides access to books and scholarly publications, and information specialists host open hours during which students can browse around, ask questions, and obtain assistance with reference work.
Shops and Cafe
RU facilities include the Háskólabúðin (convenience store), a cafe, a World Class training facility, and the Málið canteen.
Teachers
Why choose our master’s programmes?
- Accelerated timeline: Earn your master’s degree in just 14 months with our full-time study programme.
- Exceptional internship opportunities: Gain hands-on experience with industry-leading organisations.
- Global expertise: Learn from both national and international specialists, offering a diverse and global perspective.
- Industry-aligned curriculum: Designed in collaboration with leading Icelandic firms, the programmes address both local and global business challenges.
- Courses delivered in English: All programmes are delivered in English, except Accounting and Auditing.