Higher Diploma in Arts(Finance)

at Maynooth University

The course consists of two semesters of taught modules and a research thesis over the 9 months of the academic year. A comprehensive range of modules in Finance, including Corporate Finance, Fixed Income Markets, Derivatives, Financial Modelling, and a broad range of optional modules. Students take six compulsory modules and six optional modules during the academic year which will be centrally timetabled by the Timetabling Office. To assimilate students from diverse academic backgrounds, the Programme Director will advise each student on which optional modules to choose to provide them with a solid foundation in Finance. 

An honours primary degree in any discipline. Students without any knowledge of Economics or Finance are strongly advised to have a good background in Statistics and Quantitative Methods and to be prepared to undertake substantial independent study to equip themselves with the expected level of Economics and Finance. Well-motivated, quantitatively-able honours graduates of any discipline are welcome to apply. Applicants must have a recognised primary degree which is considered equivalent to Irish university primary degree level, a primary degree in any other discipline and have at least 5 years relevant work experience. In exceptional cases, consideration will be given to candidates who do not hold a primary degree, but who do have at least 10 years’ relevant work experience, at least three of which are in a management position. 

The fees for Higher Diploma in Arts(Finance) may vary from €6,500 to €15,000 annually for tuition fees. The fee's prices may get higher for International Students.

After this 1-year intensive programme, graduates will be well-equipped with the skills to begin a career in the financial sector. This is a high-growth, constantly-evolving sector with diverse career opportunities at home and abroad.

Graduates who wish to continue their studies may pursue one of our MSc programmes subject to meeting the entry requirements.

Graduates of this programme are currently enjoying successful careers in Investment and Retail Banking, Portfolio Fund Management, Professional Accountancy, Corporate Recovery, Regulatory Agencies, NGOs, Government service, Stockbroking, Bond trading in the private sector. Others have taken up research positions at the Central Bank of Ireland, some continue to PhD programmes to pursue an academic career. The diverse careers of our graduates reflect the adaptability and flexibility of our graduates.