Entrance requirements
Graduate
Normally a strong 2.2 Honours degree or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Mathematics, Accountancy, Finance, Economics or other relevant quantitative subject. Science and Engineering disciplines will be considered where there is a significant mathematical component. Performance in relevant modules must be at UK 2:2 Honours standard (or acceptable equivalent).

We welcome applications from a diverse range of applicants so will also consider previous work experience alongside academic qualifications. Prior experiential learning in quantitative analysis, Mathematics or Finance based subjects in lieu of academic qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.

International Students
Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/

English Language Requirements
Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 14th August 2026 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.

Please note: international applicants will be required to pay a deposit to secure a place on this course.

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

This course is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests. If these interests do not describe you, this course may prepare you for work you may not find satisfying.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

Administrative

Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.

They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.

Career Prospects
Introduction
As many financial firms continue to expand their risk management functions, this programme opens a wide range of exciting career opportunities. These include applying cutting-edge quantitative modelling techniques, collaborating with traders to develop bespoke financial products, and managing and monitoring portfolio and product risks.

For further opportunities to enhance your studies and career prospects please see the school website.
https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/queens-business-school/student-opportunities/

Employment after the Course
Graduate prospects from the MSc Financial Risk Management are excellent; culminating in Queen’s being ranked third in the UK for Graduate Prospects in Accounting and Finance (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025). Graduates from this programme have secured roles with employers such as Royal Bank of Scotland, BNY Mellon, Citi, PwC, EY, Intel, and many others. Typical roles include financial and data analysts, risk managers, management consultants, and project managers.
https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/