Entrance Requirements

Good performance in the MSc in Banking and Finance (see below) or equivalent, and a high-quality proposal to pursue research on a topic that lies within our staff research interests.

English Language Requirements

For applicants for whom English is not the first language, a minimum standard of English proficiency is required: TOEFL 213/550, IELTS 6.0 or equivalent.

RAE Rating

In the latest (2008) Research Assessment Exercise, 15% of our research was rated as world-leading and a further 45% as internationally excellent.

Modes of Study

Full-time or part-time by research, possibly supplemented by taught modules as appropriate.

Start Date

October.

Contact

E-mail economics@stir.ac.uk.

Aims

This research degree is designed to allow good graduates of the University of Stirling's MSc in Banking and Finance, or its equivalent at other universities, to progress to a substantial programme of research in Banking and Finance. By the end of the period of study, students should be able to demonstrate their ability to conduct original investigations, to assess ideas critically, and to relate their investigations to a wider field of knowledge.

Structure and content

Students receive individual supervision by Economics staff, and by staff in the Accounting and Finance Division, as appropriate. Additional training is provided by means of taught modules or in University-level training programmes, as appropriate to the student’s prior training and the nature of the research.

Assessment

Students submit a thesis embodying the results of their research, at the end of the period of study, for examination.

Career opportunities

Successful completion of the degree qualifies students either for an academic career, or for a career in the financial sector and related sectors such as government and the financial press. The Department has links with potential employers in the financial sector which have been built up through the MSc in Banking and Finance.

Application

Applications should be made to the University Postgraduate Admissions Office. Applications are welcome at any time of year.

Possible Funding Sources

• University of Stirling Scholarships
• ORS Awards
• ESRC Award