Part-time professional qualifications -...

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The ifs School of Finance is a not-for-profit professional body and registered charity, incorporated by Royal Charter.

Part-time professional qualificationsSupporting professionalism in banking and financial services

www.ifslearning.ac.uk

Board of Governors

Chairman: Dr Paul Fisher, Executive Director, Markets, Bank of EnglandPrincipal: Gavin Shreeve

Governors: Alastair CampProfessor Moorad Choudhry, Head of Treasury, Corporate Banking Division, RBSBrendan Cook, General Manager, Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC BankProfessor James Devlin, Deputy Dean, Nottingham University Business SchoolChristopher Egerton-Warburton, Partner, Lion’s Head Global PartnersProfessor Ruth Farwell, Vice Chancellor, Buckinghamshire New UniversityAmanda Francis, Managing Partner & Chief Executive, Buzzacott LLPCatharine French, Corporate Affairs Director and Chief of Staff, Retail and Business Banking, BarclaysSimon Lloyd, HR Director, Santander UKDavid Nicholson, Managing Director, Halifax Community Bank, Lloyds Banking GroupChris Sullivan, Chief Executive, UK Corporate Banking, RBSCathy Turner, Chief Administrative Officer, Lloyds Banking GroupAlastair Tyler, Academic Community RepresentativeProfessor Geoff Whitty CBE, School of Management, University of Bath

www.ifslearning.ac.uk 1

ContentsSupporting professionalism .......................................................................2

Why study with the ifs? ..........................................................................3

Professional routes ...................................................................................5

Alumni......................................................................................................6

ProgrammesProfessional Certificate in Banking ...........................................................8

Professional Diploma in Banking Practice and Management ....................10

BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Management

and Chartered Associateship ..................................................................12

BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Services

and Chartered Associateship...................................................................14

Part-time Postgraduate Programmes .......................................................16

Chartered Designations ..........................................................................18

Continuing Professional Development.....................................................19

Securing sponsorship .............................................................................20

Further information.................................................................................21

ifs School of Finance

8th Floor, Peninsular House36 Monument Street, London EC3R 8LJUnited Kingdom

T +44 (0)1227 829499F +44 (0)1227 786030E [email protected] www.ifslearning.ac.uk

2 www.ifslearning.ac.uk

About us

The ifs School of Finance is a not-for-profit professional body andeducational charity, incorporated by Royal Charter.

We have been educating financial services professionals for over 130years and have an unrivalled reputation within the banking andfinancial services industry for providing qualifications of the highestcalibre which equip our students with a detailed understanding ofthe industry and the practical skills to apply that knowledge in theworkplace.

What makes us unique is that we are the only professional body inthe UK that holds the same taught degree-awarding powers as auniversity. This means that our students can gain professionalqualifications recognised by financial services employers the worldover that are also full undergraduate and postgraduate degrees ona par with any other.

The need for professionalism in financialservices

Recent events have once again highlighted the need for thoseworking in the financial services industry to demonstrate the highestof professional and cultural standards. As the industry begins theprocess of rebuilding, it is now more essential than ever that financialemployees at all levels have the right skills and knowledge to performtheir roles effectively.

The ifs strongly supports the development and enhancement ofprofessionalism throughout your career.

Professional qualifications

Our qualifications give you the industry knowledge you need toperform your role to the highest of standards and, importantly, anunderstanding of the industry and the economy that enables you tofully appreciate the wider implications of the decisions you make.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

Once qualified, the ifs continues to support its members professionaldevelopment through the provision of industry analysis andinformation, networking opportunities and high quality CPDopportunities in the form of seminars, briefings and executiveeducation workshops.

Chartered designations

Those who complete our full undergraduate and postgraduatedegrees are eligible to apply for Chartered status. Chartered status isa mark of senior professional standing and academic achievement.It reflects a commitment to lifelong professional development.

The future will be brightest for those whodemonstrate the highest standards ofprofessionalism. Professional qualificationsare likely to be an increasing advantage inclimbing to the top of the banking world.More generally, they will be key indelivering improvements in the standard ofservice offered by the financial sector,which is so important to economic growth,not just to this country but to the globaleconomy.”

Dr Paul FisherChairman, ifs School of Finance

& Executive Director for MarketsBank of England

“ “Supporting Professionalism


Why study with the ifs?

Industry Relevance

Our programmes are highly relevant to today’s banking and financeprofessionals and are focused on producing graduates that have thecritical combination of knowledge, practical skills and understandingthat can be applied in the professional world. Crucially, they reflectwhat employers tell us that they look for in future leaders and assuch many major banks include ifs qualifications within theirmanagement development programmes.

We offer an enormous amount of industry engagement and interfacevia our extensive support and events network. This includes studentmentors, extensive online resources, Professional Networking Events,guest speakers and Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

Flexibility and adaptability

Our professional qualifications are specifically designed to becompatible with the existing commitments of those working in thefinancial services industry. The study options available provide a hugedegree of flexibility and enable you to balance your study with busywork and personal lives.

Staged awards

Our degree programmes are split into a number of levels and eachlevel of study leads to a well-respected industry benchmarkqualification in its own right. This flexible approach provides anumber of ‘stopping off’ points allowing you to build towards yourdegree over a period of time as your career develops, while providingrecognition of achievement at each stage.

Modular approach

All qualifications consist of a series of core, compulsory and optionmodules. These modules enable you to build a course of study thatcovers the core knowledge needed by all working in the industry butwhich also fits with the needs of your current or future roles. Bychoosing to take one or two modules a time you can study at a pacethat suits your other commitments and can accelerate or decelerateyour study intensity if your circumstances change.

Choose how you learnFor many of our models you can choose to study by Distance learningor Flexible learning.

Distance learning allows you to study independently withina clear framework, but at a pace that suits your personalcircumstances and study needs. You will be provided withcomprehensive learning materials, study guides and access toa subject specialist associate lecturer to support your studies.

Flexible learning complements the above with a series ofworkshops for each module. The workshops are designed tocover the most critical concepts contained within the syllabusof study and are offered subject to demand at a number oflocations throughout the UK.

95% of past ifs students apply theknowledge learnt in their job and 80%have additional responsibilities or havebeen promoted since completing theirqualification.

Results of the ifs Alumni Survey

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You will have access to a comprehensive range of services to inform,guide and support your studies.

ifs learning environment

The ifs’ secure website my ifslearning provides access to a widerange of resources and learning activities, resources include:

- electronic versions of learning materials, specimen papers andstudy planners

- study guide for each module, guiding you week-by-week through the module

- collaborative, highly relevant learning activities, closely supported by lecturers

- links to academic journals, industry articles and recommended reading

- discussion forums, blogs and other learning tools to encourage debate between fellow students and the course team

ifs KnowledgeBank

The ifs e-library provides a wealth of knowledge to assist you in yourstudies. The resources available through ifs KnowledgeBank include:

- a weekly reading list for every module which includes directlinks to books, journal articles and websites

- subject gateways written by research specialists and industryexperts

- over 21,000 academic and trade journals from EBSCO Business Source Premier

- accessible, action-oriented information on key managementtopics from Harvard ManageMentor

- company information and business intelligence from MintUK- fully searchable ebooks and reference tools from Credo,

MyiLibrary and EBSCO

Learning materials

Tailored learning materials are provided for each module, designed tohelp you successfully meet all the learning outcomes. Materialsinclude learning activities and sample questions to enable you to testand confirm your understanding of the subject area.

Expert faculty with real world experience

ifs tutors, examiners and authors are qualified to the highest levels,and are committed to enhancing the student experience whilesupporting research and development initiatives in their specialistfields.

Many members of the faculty are current or former practitionersthemselves and have worked in financial institutions of all types andsizes in a variety of functions. This means that they are able to bringreal world experience to their teaching and help you understand howtheory and concepts can be applied to workplace situations.

Unrivalled study support

87% of past ifs students said that thecourse had helped their professionaldevelopment

Results of the ifs Alumni Survey

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Professional Routes

*Levels 4, 5, 6 and 7 define the ifs awards in the Framework for HigherEducation Qualifications (FHEQ)

MSc in Banking Practice and Management

180 credits at FHEQ Level 7*

Chartered Fellowship

CharteredAssociateship

BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Services

240 credits at FHEQ Levels 5* and 6*

BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Management


Professional Diploma in BankingPractice and Management


Professional Certificatein Banking


The ifs qualification has helped me to berecognised within my work, has increasedmy knowledge and served as anadvantage in my moving to anothercountry with the same employer.

Alumni survey respondent

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ifs alumni are employed by every major banking institution in theUK and can be found in senior positions right across the internationalfinancial services industry. There are in excess of 59,000 alumni ofifs degree programmes in over 120 countries.

‘This course has covered a lot of areas which have been beneficial inincreasing my skills and knowledge while understanding how I candevelop my role and further my career. The Financial Markets andRisk module gives a good overview of the financial system and asbanks and building societies have different business models this wasvery helpful in my understanding of the recent global financial crisis.Being a traditional building society branch manager the Marketing inFinancial Services module gave me some good ideas for improvingsales and building further on long term customer relationships, whilethe Assessing Financial Performance module has increased myunderstanding of financial management especially the importanceof adequate cash-flow.’

Sheena Hunter, ifs PDFSM* studentBranch Manager, Darlington Building Society*now called PCertB®

‘The qualification has a big focus on understanding the fundamentalsof banking and areas such as core credit skills, which underpinseverything a bank does, play a big role. The importance of such skillshas been highlighted by the credit crunch and is key tounderstanding liquidity issues and managing risk. This qualificationhelped me take the academic theory learned and put it into aworking, everyday context that was relevant to banking. Added tothis, the tutors on the course were incredibly supportive and reallyensured the content was “alive” and tailored to the fast pacedenvironment of banking.’

Andrew Cooke, ifs degree studentAssociate, Leveraged Finance, HSBC Bank plc, UK

‘I was looking to widen my knowledge of the financial servicesindustry with the hope of progressing within my company. First Icompleted the Diploma then moved on to the BSc (Hons), with a full-time job and a family this proved to be a real challenge but, with thesupport of my family and my employer I was able to complete itsuccessfully. The tutors I liaised with during my studies were allapproachable, supportive and of great help as were the workshops,which I recommend to everyone. The qualification was very relevantto my role. It has enhanced my knowledge and understanding and Ihope will improve my future career opportunities.’

Michael Littler, ifs degree studentCredit Manager, Banking Services, Volkswagen BankUnited Kingdom Branch

‘I started out in banking with a law degree, which although a help,was not directly relevant to a career in finance. The maths andbalance sheet analysis on the course really help embed yourunderstanding and I think that, although you can learn strategy asmuch as you want, it is understanding numbers that is core tobanking. The Corporate Finance and Applied Credit Analysis modulesare critical to the job I do and go to the heart of a successful bankingcareer.’

Clare Burton, ifs degree studentCorporate Credit Analyst, HSBC Bank plc, UK

‘My Banking Director encouraged me to take a qualification with theifs as a route to developing a professional career in private banking.I already had an MBA but that focused more on generalmanagement and was not specific enough for banking. The ifsmodules were very relevant and the tutor and class interaction wasa big plus and very useful for helping to bounce off ideas and createa stimulating learning environment.’

Stephen Buckland, ifs degree studentSenior Manager, Duncan Lawrie Ltd, subsidiary of Camellia plc

Alumni

Programmes


The Professional Certificate in Banking isspecifically designed for those starting out ina management career in financial services,particularly in retail and commercial banking.It provides essential core knowledge of theindustry, the external environment in which itoperates and the interaction between thetwo.

The PCertB® is used by a number of major UK and internationalbanking institutions as an integral part of graduate management andexecutive trainee programmes and as such is recognised widely byfirms as the benchmark qualification for new entrants to the sector.

Depending on the modules taken, the PCertB® will enable you togain a broad understanding of:

• the environment within which the financial services industry operates and the main components of the financial system

• the impact of economic, institutional, market and regulatory factors on the financial services industry

• how organisations identify, understand and meet the needs, expectations and aspirations of their customers

• the principles of management, in terms of the management of people, systems and self

• the financial and non-financial measures commonly employed by financial services organisations to monitor performance in their core business sectors

• the principles of lending, credit assessment and credit control as they relate to both retail customers and corporate clients

• the role of relationship management in corporate and business banking

• the general principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics with application to financial products and markets and to the economy as a whole

• the law as it affects banking and bank customers

• the fundamental principles of Islamic banking and financial services

The PCertB® is a widely recognised and valued qualification in its ownright, but also forms the first stage of the ifs degree programme,culminating in achievement of the BSc (Hons) in Banking Practiceand Management or the BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting forFinancial Services.

Professional Certificate in Banking (PCertB®)

Far exceeded expectations - easily accessiblecourse, flexible and easily fit around work,engaged practitioner tutors, reallyinteresting modules covering whole rangeof financial services and banking areas. Ihonestly think it's brilliant and it's excellentthat the ifs offer it.

Survey respondent 2012

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Module options

Core Module Financial Markets and Risk* 30

Plus at least one optional Assessing Financial Performance 3030-credit module Corporate, Commercial and Business Lending 30

Corporate Relationship Management 30Fundamentals of Leadership and Management 30Introduction to Work-based Learning 30Marketing in Financial Services 30Retail Lending 30

Plus a combination from the remaining Economics 15optional 30-credit modules listed above Foundations of Islamic Banking and Finance 15and 15-credit optional modules Practice of Islamic Banking and Finance 15

Introduction to Banking Law 15Introduction to Quantitative Methods for Finance and Investment** 15

*This is a core module that must form part of the first 60 credits achieved.**Subject to approval

Duration

Each 30-credit module requires approximately 300 hours of studytime over a six-month period and each 15 credit module requiresapproximately 150 hours of study time over a four-month period. Bystudying a module at a time you can expect to complete your studieswithin two years. If you study more intensely the programme couldbe completed within 12 months. From the date of registering youhave a maximum of four years to complete the programme.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements for the PCertB® are:

• Tariff of 260 UCAS points or equivalent, to include at least one subject qualification at A2 level or the International Baccalaureate (28 points) OR

• UK degree or equivalent OR• Successful completion of a programme accredited by the ifs for

provision of credits at FHEQ Level 4

All students should normally hold GCSE Mathematics and EnglishLanguage at minimum grade C (or equivalent) or an IELTS score of6.0 with no element below 5.5. Students unable to meet thesecriteria should contact Student Services.

Holders of the following qualifications can claim 30-credits towardstheir PCertB® completion:• Diploma in Mortgage Advice and Practice (DipMAP®)• Diploma for Financial Advisers (DipFA®)• Diploma in Retail Banking and Conduct of Business (DipRBCB®)

Assessment

All 30-credit modules are assessed via a combination of multiple-choice or short answer examinations, a courseworkassignment and an End-of-Course Assignment.

All 15-credit modules are assessed via a multiple-choice or writtenexamination.

The ifs School of Finance Professional Diplomain Banking Practice and Management formsthe second stage of the ifs degreeprogramme and on successful completionleads directly to the ifs BSc (Hons) in BankingPractice and Management.

The PDipBPM® is designed to build on the core knowledge gained viathe PCertB® by developing more in-depth understanding of the roleof banking in society, the structure and management of financialservices firms and the detailed mechanics of core banking practices.The PDipBPM® may also be suitable for those already equipped witha number of years of banking experience or who have recentlycompleted a prior degree programme.

It is an ideal course of study for those looking to gain experience andfamiliarity with the sector and to deepen their general understandingof banking and finance while also developing some specialistknowledge.

Depending on the modules taken, the PDipBPM® will enable you togain a thorough understanding of:

• the management of human resources in organisations and the application of theories and concepts relating to organisational behaviour to ensure organisational effectiveness

• financial and risk management• marketing strategy and planning within national and global

financial services markets• the role of technology in customer communications • intermediation, credit creation and how financial markets are

structured • the monetary system and the ways in which monetary and fiscal

policy are used as key instruments in economic management• the regulation of financial institutions and markets with a focus

on capital adequacy and liquidity requirements • the relationships between financial institutions and their

corporate customers• the analysis of lending propositions and structuring of suitable

solutions • the principles and practices of international trade payments and

finance • the insurance market and how insurance companies operate in

the property and casualty and long-term markets• quantitative methods for finance and investment including the

application of statistical methods to analyse past data and infer future trends

• the retail financial services market, in particular transaction-based banking facilities, borrowing, protection and investments


Professional Diploma in Banking Practice and Management(PDipBPM®)

I believe these qualifications will lay a solidfoundation for a career in banking. The moduleswere relevant to the times and I have enjoyed thejourney so far. Completion of the PCertB® leadsto the PDipBPM® which I will be looking to getenrolled in early next year. Thank you for anenjoyable learning experience, I really havedeveloped in various areas that will be essential for my progression.

Survey respondent 2012

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Core Module Organisational Management in Financial Services 30Financial Services: The Commercial Environment 30

Plus two optional 30-credit modules Corporate Financial Services 30Finance of International Trade 30Insurance 30Quantitative Methods for Finance and Investment 30Retail Financial Services 30Work-based Learning 30

Duration

Each module requires approximately 300 hours of study time over asix-month period. By studying one module at a time you can expectto complete your studies for the PDipBPM® within two years.

From the date of registering you have a maximum of six years tocomplete the programme, which includes the FHEQ Level 4 modules.

Assessment

All modules, except Work-based Learning, are assessed via a writtenexamination and a summative coursework assignment. The Work-based Learning module is based on your performance against thesubject-specific and generic skills learning outcomes. Sources ofevidence will be employer observations and your own reflectivepersonal journal.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements for the PDipBPM® are:• 120 credits at FHEQ Level 4 through completion of the PCertB®

or equivalent

OR you may gain direct entry if you have:

• a UK honours degree or equivalent. If awarded more than seven years before the application to join the programme, evidence that relevant skills and experience are held to support study must be provided

Students not progressing from PCertB® are required to hold:• GCSE Mathematics at minimum grade C (or equivalent) and• GCSE English Language at minimum grade C (or equivalent)

or an IELTS score of 6.5 with no element below 6.0

Module options


BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Management and Chartered AssociateshipThe BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice andManagement provides and demonstrates theexpert knowledge and skills required toperform a senior management role within afinancial services organisation.

It develops a deep appreciation of management practice, thefinancial markets and the global commercial environment in whichbanking operates. It gives you the key analytical skills required toassess business performance, derive insight on the needs ofcustomers and formulate organisational and commercial strategy.

The programme also explores the cultural, ethical, social andeconomic issues within the financial services sector that are vitallyimportant for senior managers to address given recent industryevents.

Successfully completing the BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice andManagement gives you direct access to the ifs CharteredAssociateship programme. For more information please see page 18.

Depending on the modules taken, the BSc will enable you to gain anadvanced understanding of:

• the strategic management concepts and skills required for those successfully leading complex financial services organisations

• the detailed analysis and sophisticated techniques involved in structuring lending to medium sized and large corporates

• the drivers of globalisation in financial markets and its impact • strategic management in the consumer and small business

markets with a focus on key techniques for achieving growth • the application of risk financing techniques and their potential

financial impact on an organisation

• the core features of wealth management and international and private banking with a focus on identifying, assessing and meeting client needs

• the various techniques and models relevant to the evaluation of corporate investment opportunities and the linkages to shareholder objectives

• the ways that financial markets function, the major participants involved and their role in the financial system

• the application of valuation models to a range of finance sources and the selection strategies for corporate financing


Core Module Strategic Management in Financial Services 30

Plus up to three optional modules Credit Analysis and Lending 30to the value of 90 credits Corporate Finance 60

Globalisation of Financial Markets 30Retail Business Strategy 30Risk Financing and Management 30Wealth Management 30Advanced Work-based Learning 30

Duration

Each module, except Corporate Finance, requires approximately 300hours of study time over a six-month period. The Corporate Financemodule requires approximately 600 hours of study time over a year.By studying for 60 credits in a year, you can expect to complete yourstudies for the BSc (Hons) in Banking Practice and Managementdegree within two years.

From the date of registering you have a maximum of three years tocomplete the programme.

Assessment

All modules, except Corporate Finance and Advanced Work-basedLearning, are assessed via a written examination and a summativecoursework assignment. The Corporate Finance module is assessedvia two written examinations and two summative courseworkassignments.

The Advanced Work-based Learning module is based on yourperformance against the subject-specific and generic skills learningoutcomes. Sources of evidence will be employer observations andyour own reflective personal journal.

Entry criteria

Entry requirements for the BSc (Hons) are:• 120 credits at FHEQ Level 5 through completion of either the

Foundation Degree in Banking Practice and Management (FdSc) or the Professional Diploma in Banking Practice and Management (PDipBPM®)

OR you may gain direct entry if you have:

• a UK honours degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline that demonstrates coverage across the FdSc/PDipBPM® learning outcomes. If awarded more then seven years before the application to join the programme, evidence that the learning and skills have been maintained must be provided

Students not progressing from FdSc or PDipBPM® are required tohold:• GCSE Mathematics at minimum grade C (or equivalent) and• GCSE English Language at minimum grade C (or equivalent)

or an IELTS score of 6.5 with no element below 6.0

Module options


BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Servicesand Chartered Associateship

The BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting forFinancial Services develops core knowledge ofthe financial services industry alongside thekey numerical, analytical and evaluative skillsthat are central to a successful career infinance and accounting related roles.

The programme gives you a thorough grounding in the fundamentalprinciples of accounting and finance including the operation offinancial markets, the measures used to assess financial performanceand the essential concept of risk.

The course provides maximum exemption against the ACCA‘Fundamentals’ papers and as such provides a route to becoming aChartered Accountant. If accountancy is not your aim, theprogramme still provides valuable numerical, analytical and evaluativeskills for a range of careers in financial management.

Building on our professional links with the financial services sector,we are able to offer you opportunities to network with like-minded,career-oriented professionals and benefit from regular guest lecturesby senior finance and accounting professionals that will help to putyour studies in context.

Successfully completing the BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accountingfor Financial Services gives you direct access to the ifs CharteredAssociateship programme. For more information please see page 18.

The BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Services willenable you to gain an advanced understanding of:

• the core disciplines of accounting and finance and related disciplines of law, economics and quantitative methods within a financial services context

• key accounting and finance practices, theory and applications for business planning and risk management that underpin sound decision-making

• specialist accounting and finance concepts, theories and applications using practice-based approaches

• the impact of the changing regulatory and operating environment, technical change, and risk management on accounting and finance practice within a financial services context

• strategic, ethical and good governance / corporate governance and wider environmental issues as applicable to accounting and finance, and the range of means to manage and account for them

• the necessary skills and competencies to move on to further study within the discipline, including at Masters Level or to seek chartered status via recognised professional designations e.g. the ACCA

Undertaking a degree in finance and accounting provides an excellent platform

from which to start your career. The numerical andanalytical skills acquired on the degree provide asound basis for undertaking many roles. Internationalaccounting firms, large investment banks andfinancial institutions offer a variety of careeropportunities including traditional auditing andassurance work, management consulting, corporatefinance, tax planning and insolvency. An accountingand finance degree can open doors beyond thefinance department. Many accountants progress intosenior management positions, for example the ChiefExecutive Officers (CEOs) in many of the world’sleading companies are qualified accountants.

Dr Rachel BanfieldDean of Professional Higher Education

ifs School of Finance

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Programme structure

If you wish to study towards the BSc (Hons) in Finance and Accounting for Financial Services you will be enrolled on, and follow, the Level 4Professional Certificate in Banking (PCertB®) award as the first stage of your studies. See page 8 for more details about the PCertB® programmeand the modules you should study.

Compulsory modules Financial Services: The Commercial Environment 30Corporate and Business Law 30Performance Management 30Taxation 30Financial Reporting and Analysis 30Auditing, Governance and Risk 30Financial Management 30Final Year Project 30

Duration

Each module requires approximately 300 hours of study time over asix-month period. By studying for 60 credits in a year, you can expectto complete your studies for the BSc (Hons) in Finance andAccounting for Financial Services degree within four years.

From the date of registering you have a maximum of three years tocomplete each level of the programme.

Assessment

All modules except the Final Year Project are assessed via acombination of written examination and summative coursework. TheFinal Year Project is assessed by a short research proposal (750 words)and a 7,500 word dissertation.

Entry criteria

Students will be enrolled on the Professional Certificate in Banking(PCertB®) as the first stage of the three stage BSc (Hons) degreeprogramme. Please see the PCertB® entry requirements on page 9.

HSBC is committed to ensuring our peoplecontinue to enhance their knowledge and skills,increasing professionalism and strengthening the relationships with our customers. Thequalifications offered by the ifs School of Financeembed a core understanding of the financialservices market and the technical skills requiredto be our customers’ trusted adviser of choice

Gregg Carnaffan, Graduate Development Manager

HSBC Bank PLC, UK

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Part-time Postgraduate Programmes

MSc in Banking Practice and Management and Chartered FellowshipPostgraduate Diploma in Banking Practice and ManagementPostgraduate Certificate in Banking Practice and Management

In the current financial services environment, banks increasinglyexpect their managers not only to display leadership skills but also topossess an in-depth knowledge of the banking industry, whilstoperating to the highest professional standards.

The postgraduate programme in Banking Practice and Managementis aimed at professionals currently holding, or aspiring to, seniormanagement positions within the financial services industry. It coverstopics of critical importance in the banking sector and enables you todevelop the necessary analytical tools to evaluate contemporaryindustry issues, thereby differentiating you from your peers in thehighly competitive, fast-moving world of financial services.

Successfully completing the MSc in Banking Practice andManagement gives you direct access to the ifs Chartered Fellowshipprogramme. For more information please see page 18.

The ifs postgraduate programme:

» allows you to achieve the MSc in three distinct stages, offering youthe opportunity to gain a postgraduate qualification within an 8month study period

» provides direct entry to the prestigious ifs School of FinanceChartered Fellowship, only available to holders of the MSc in BankingPractice and Management

» is studied through a combination of online distance learningand face-to-face workshops, allowing you to study at your ownpace and where and when suits you best

» has been designed and delivered in collaboration with thefinancial services industry to ensure you develop the knowledgeand skills required for a successful management career

» differentiates you from your peers in the highly competitive, fast-moving world of financial services

» encourages and supports you to debate and discuss issues witharticulate and challenging colleagues, thereby enhancing the wayyou critically analyse and evaluate issues in the workplace

The real benefit is that the subjects, althoughspecific to a particular field, allow the student tofocus on areas of particular interest or where skillsspecifically need to be developed. For me, after anumber of years working in customer facingroles, its being able to think about theenvironment within which financial servicesorganisations operate. View points includeeconomic, regulatory and strategic perspectives.

Neil Ward BSc (Hons) ACIBMSc student 2011/2012

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The programme

The programme is split into three levels, each of which leads to theaward of a recognised postgraduate qualification in its own right.This flexible approach provides a number of ‘stopping-off’ points onthe way to achieving the full MSc and Chartered Fellowship.

Postgraduate Certificate in Banking Practiceand Management (PGCert)*

The first stage of the programme, the PGCert, comprises the corestrategic knowledge you will need to be a successful manager in thefinancial services industry. It is designed to enhance yourunderstanding of the functions of banks and the challenges whichthe industry faces as well as develop essential skills in analysing andcritically interpreting financial and non-financial information. ThePGCert also introduces the interrelated and important areas ofbanking regulation and risk management. You will study the keyprinciples of risk and regulation and the important systems andfunctions which seek to prevent catastrophic failure in financialinstitutions and markets.

Postgraduate Diploma in Banking Practiceand Management (PGDip)*

Following completion of the PGCert, the PGDip develops a broaderunderstanding of the nature and value of banking to customers, theeconomy and wider society. You will consider the economicenvironment from the perspective of both financial institutions andthe businesses they serve and will be able to tailor your studiestowards your own career interests through the selection of twooption modules.

MSc in Banking Practice and Managementand Chartered Fellowship

Having successfully achieved the PGDip, completion of the finaldissertation element brings together the knowledge and skills learntthroughout the programme and gives you the opportunity to buildon a topic of particular interest to you within the financial servicessector. Successful completion of the dissertation leads you to theaward of the MSc in Banking Practice and Management and also tothe prestigious Chartered Fellowship of the ifs School of Finance.

*Students would be asked to rescind their original award upon completion of the higher award.

Core modules Banking Structures and Strategies 15Financial and Bank Accounting 15Bank Risk Management and Regulation 15Dissertation 60

Plus two compulsory modules Banking and the Economic Environment 15Research Methods (dissertation preparation module) 15

Plus two optional modules* Capital Markets and Bank ALM 15Commercial and Business Banking 15Customer Channel Strategy 15Financial Services Marketing 15Strategic HR 15

Module options

* Availability of option modules subject to minimum student numbers.


Chartered DesignationsIn today’s financial services environment, professionals understandthe importance of being able to demonstrate that their technical,professional and academic understanding is up-to-date at all times.

Chartered designations are a recognised mark of senior status withinthe banking and finance arena and are awarded to ifs AlumniMembers who maintain their knowledge and skills post-qualificationthrough a programme of high-quality structured continuingprofessional development (CPD).

ifs Chartered titles give formal recognition to the application ofexperience and academic understanding as it sits within a structuredCPD scheme. As a result ifs alumni are confidently able todemonstrate on-going commitment to their own continuingprofessional development.

Unlike other schemes, ifs Chartered designations are not achievablevia a simple box-ticking exercise that merely focuses on the numberof CPD hours that can be claimed. Instead, applicants are required tocomplete one year’s quality CPD that is linked to pre-defineddevelopment outcomes.

Chartered Associateship

Chartered Associate status is only available to those who havesuccessfully completed an ifs BSc (Hons) degree or Associateshipqualification and have a minimum of two years’ relevant experience.

Once you have received confirmation that you have been awardedChartered status you will then be able to use the title CharteredAssociate of the ifs School of Finance, or the designation CAifs, andyour name will be added to the Chartered Associate directory. OnceChartered status has been gained, it must be maintained through anannual CPD programme.

Chartered Fellowship

The Chartered Fellowship of the ifs School of Finance is only availableto holders of the MSc in Banking Practice and Management and, assuch, Chartered Fellows are a select group of professionalsrepresenting the pinnacle of academic success, as well as a highstandard of achievement in the industry.

To achieve and maintain Chartered Fellow status, participants musthold a minimum of three years relevant professional experience andcomplete an annual programme of high-quality ContinuingProfessional Development (CPD) which contributes directly topredefined development objectives. Chartered Fellows are entitledto use the honorific ‘Chartered Fellow of the ifs School of Finance’and the designatory letters ‘CFifs’.

For more information please visit www.ifslearning.ac.uk/alumni

Given it had been some time since I passed mydegree and other regulatory certificates, I beganto feel that the knowledge I had learned hadbegun to go out of date. I think it is invaluableboth to myself (for my career development) andto Barclays that I keep my knowledge as up-to-date as I can in the ever-changing world offinancial services. Having looked at my options viathe ifs website, I decided that CharteredAssociateship would best suit my learning style,while allowing me to update my knowledge and learn new skills.

John Sprigg CAifs, AdvCeMAP, CeFAOperations Manager

Barclays Bank

“ “


The ifs offers a wide range of networking and CPD opportunities toits members that can support your studies and your ongoingprofessional development.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) demonstrates acommitment to continued learning. It provides valuable evidence ofstaying competent and encourages the development of new skills. Itis about seeking to increase your knowledge and professionalism andalways being ready to learn new ways of becoming more efficientand more effective.

Professional Networking events

The ifs holds a wide range of professional networking events acrossthe country. They offer an excellent opportunity for you to hear fromhigh profile industry leaders and expand your professional network.

High Flyers Network

The High Flyers network is designed for new entrants into theindustry such as those on management trainee schemes and is aimedat supporting career progression and enhancing your professionalconnections. Recent speakers have included Allister Heath, Editor ofCity AM, and Emma Sinclair, CEO, Target Parking.

Career development events

The ifs runs regular careers and development seminars covering awide range of personal development subjects. Recent topics haveincluded: Networking for Career Success, Creating the Right FirstImpression, The role of Psychometrics in the Recruitment Process andEffective Job Interview Techniques.

Executive Education

These comprehensive Masterclasses are designed to give attendeesenhanced understanding of vital industry issues and developments andare delivered by acknowledged industry experts. Student members areeligible to receive significant discount on registration fees.

Virtual networks

With people increasingly coming together and networking online theifs has a number of official private groups on all main social mediasites such as LinkedIn and Twitter. You are able to join these groupsand network with other students and ifs alumni by postingcomments and joining in discussions.

CPD Recording

All students have access to myCPD, the ifs’ online CPD recordingtool. Its user friendly interface cuts down on time needed to fill inlengthy record cards and gather paperwork. Overtime your recordwill build into a complete record of your professional development.This can then be used to help focus on or identify any developmentneeds.

Financial World

You will receive a subscription to Financial World magazine as part ofyour membership. Published 10 times a year, Financial World bringstogether some of the best financial journalists, commentators andobservers of the financial and economic scene. If you missed anyissues they are available for download on the Financial Worldwebsite, access to which is also included as part of your subscription.

ifs KnowledgeBank

The ifs e-library, KnowledgeBank, is available exclusively to ifsstudents and alumni. It offers access to a wealth of knowledge thatwill assist you with both your studies and professional development.It provides a range of support services including e-books, leadershipsupport tools and topical news pieces researched by ResearchSpecialists.

Networking and Continuing Professional Development


Securing sponsorship for your study

ifs professional qualifications require a significant level ofcommitment from you as an individual. However, if your employerfunds you to undertake this qualification, whether in full or in part,they will be making a considerable investment in your future careerin terms of finance and time, as well as showing faith in you as anemployee. You will need to demonstrate the benefits that thisqualification will bring to the organisation before that support isgiven.

When building a successful business case to present to an employer,there are four questions to bear in mind throughout the process:1. Who will read the business case?2. What is being asked of them?3. When must they give an answer?4. Why would they want to support their employee? What are the

benefits to the company?

Preparing and writing a business case

• Establish who will be involved in the decision-making process and understand the your company’s sign-off process (including the timescales involved.)

• Identify the company’s current business needs. How can they be addressed through the programme?

• Prepare a personal development plan to show how the programme will benefit not just the company but your own personal development.

• Demonstrate the personal commitment. How will the programme impact your home and social life? How much time can realistically be committed to studies each week?

• Find out the company’s policy regarding educational support. Has the organisation supported its employees through study in the past? Has the company provided support to anyone else on ifs qualifications?

• Consider any objections that may appear and responses to those objections.

A business case should be succinct, informative andcomprehensive. The information should be relevant anddemonstrate careful evaluation of all aspects - the cons as well asthe pros.

Established Schemes and programmes

The continued learning and development of staff is key to the successof an organisation and the individual themselves. Many companiesacross the UK already include specific programmes and courses aspart of an employee’s role. Such in-house programmes ensureconstant development and growth of the workforce. These schemescan often be supplemented by additional courses of particularinterest to the member of staff.

For sponsorship opportunities, you can enquire about establishedschemes and programmes already existent in the work place bycontacting your Human Resources team and can refer to thecompany’s intranet. It is also advisable to liaise with a Line Manageras sign off will ultimately need to be obtain from them.

Further information

If you have any questions regarding the programmeor your application, please contact the Admissions,Academic Management and Student Services Office:

W: www.ifslearning.ac.uk/professionalqualificationsT: 01227 829499E: [email protected]

ifs School of Finance ifs School of Financeifs House, 4-9 Burgate Lane, 8th Floor, Peninsular HouseCanterbury, Kent CT1 2XJ 36 Monument Street, London EC3R 8LJUnited Kingdom United Kingdom

T +44 (0) 1227 829499 T +44 (0) 20 7444 7111F +44 (0) 1227 784331 F +44 (0) 20 7444 7115E [email protected]

W www.ifslearning.ac.uk

Every effort was taken to ensure this publication was accurate at the time of going to press and the ifs School of Financeis not liable for any errors or omissions. The ifs reserves the right at any time and without notice to vary the content of its coursesand syllabuses previously announced and to modify as appropriate the eligibility criteria, facilities and arrangements for students.

Some photos are used courtesy of the University of London Union.

Quality, Innovation and Relevance in Financial Education

The ifs School of Finance is a not-for-profit professional body and registered charity, incorporated by Royal Charter.

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