Course summary

What causes inflation? How can unemployment be reduced? Can taxes ever be fair and efficient? How do energy and environmental markets work? How can economics inform and appraise public health policy? Big questions, looking for big answers – do you think you are up to the challenge? Almost every decision taken in our fast-moving social, commercial and technological world is dictated by economic imperatives at regional, national and global levels. In the current economic climate the role of the economist is becoming more crucial with the welfare and prosperity of nations dependent upon accurate interpretations and responses to continually shifting economic realities. Studying finance involves the investigation of how company managers and investors make financial decisions, how they manage risk and how financial markets function. The course addresses issues such as: how do stock markets work? How can I make money by trading futures and options? What would be the implications for Britain of adopting the Euro? How can companies reduce foreign exchange risk? Do shareholders benefit from corporate takeovers? Does corporate governance matter? Why do financial crises occur? What types of securities should be included in an investment portfolio? Finance teaching at Stirling is highly rated and you will gain a thorough grounding in the theoretical and analytical skills needed for a career in corporate finance, investment management or financial services. The course has five distinctive attributes: •It provides the opportunity to study finance in depth while also providing a broad understanding of the wider business environment. •The curriculum is regularly updated and so includes the latest developments in finance theory and practice, providing graduates with a cutting edge in the jobs market. •Reflecting the global nature of finance, the course is taught by staff from many different countries, bringing a wealth of experience into the classroom. •The course allows for flexible study. Students can switch to a related degree course at any stage up to the mid point in their studies. They can also combine finance with another subject. •Students on the finance course have the option of studying for a semester at a partner University in Europe or at Universities in North America, Asia and Australasia.