MSc Financial Technology (FinTech)

University of Stirling

Financial technology, or fintech, is new technology that improves and automates financial services. Join a thriving global fintech market The global fintech market is booming. Valued at £92.72 billion ($115.34 billion) in 2021, it’s projected to soar to £752.79 billion ($936.51) billion by 2030. In the UK alone, the fintech sector is on track to reach £692.83 million ($862 million) by 2025. Scotland is a hub of fintech innovation. It’s embraced this momentum with a forward-thinking ten-year sector roadmap. This ambitious strategy aims to generate up to 30,000 jobs in the country (source: Investment Monitor 2022). Fintech is a disruptive technology and is revolutionising the financial landscape. It is leading innovation in how banks, insurance companies, and other institutions operate. We can help you lead this change, with support for creating new applications and building better business models. Many fintech companies are small start-ups, so the business and entrepreneurial skills you’ll gain on this course will be invaluable. Enhance your employability The MSc Fintech prioritises employability. We developed the course in collaboration with global firms like HSBC, Sainsbury’s Bank, JP Morgan, and MBN. It benefits from strong industry ties, offering student projects, guest lectures from partners like FinTech Scotland, and networking opportunities through The Data Lab innovation centre. Scotland is the UK’s second-largest fintech hub after London. It employs over 160,000 financial services professionals. Edinburgh ranks second among UK cities for fintech opportunities. Government-backed initiatives like Fintech Scotland support the industry. Stirling, with a strong financial services heritage, is becoming a key digital technology hub. The establishment of Codebase, the UK’s largest tech incubator, reinforces its status as a centre for innovation and growth. Gain cutting-edge fintech skills Our fintech Masters degree helps you build advanced skills in both finance and technology. This combination makes you a highly sought after graduate. You’ll study the latest developments in: manipulating data and scripting in Python, blockchain technology, digital currencies, internet computing platforms, data analytics, machine learning. You'll also delve into: financial theory, ethical and regulatory frameworks, start-up planning, managing disruptive technology. Gain practical experience A third of the curriculum is dedicated to hands-on learning through a large project. Many of these projects are done in collaboration with industry. Organisations range from innovative start-ups to established corporations. Examples of past projects include: Energy Optimisation Model - NatWest Group Developed a model to optimise on-site operations. Blockchain-Enabled Qualification Validation - RIBr Ltd, a Scottish digital consulting firm Designed an app and smart contract for distributed validation of qualifications. Understandable Analytics for Customers - Tesco Bank Created a system to explain how advanced analytics (ML and AI) assign scores and make decisions affecting customers. Financial Health Tool - Qpal, a digital payment solutions company Built a tool using the Open Banking API to guide users towards stronger financial health. For students interested in a January start, the duration of the course will be 21 months. For example, students starting in January 2026 will graduate in November 2027.