Those job prospects are projected to increase, too. According to a recent survey that included Fortune 500 companies, over a quarter of Western European employers had plans to increase hiring of graduates with a master’s degree in finance in 2024.
So, here’s a look at Europe’s top-ranked Master of Finance programs that you can apply for:
Top 10 Schools In Europe For A Master’s Degree In Finance
10. IE Business School
Based in the Spanish capital of Madrid, IE Business School offers an eclectic one-year Master in Finance.
While on the course, students have the unique opportunity to travel via trips to London, New York, and Ghana, where they can participate in unique projects and foster international connections.
The program has two intakes in April and September. Fees for the April intake stand at roughly $44,300, while enrolling in September will cost $45,300.
9. University of St Gallen
Surrounded by lakes in the old town of St. Gallen, this Swiss business school is renowned across the board for its top-ranked business master’s programs.
Running over three 12-week semesters, the Master in Finance blends financial theory with practical applications while also allowing students to benefit from the school’s strong connections to Swiss finance hubs like Zurich and Geneva.
The high quality of teaching doesn’t equate to astronomical fees either. The full-time program costs just $4,950 for Swiss nationals and approximately $11,500 for non-Swiss students—making it by far the cheapest option on this list.
8. London Business School
As one of Europe’s largest economic hubs, there are few better places to study a master’s degree in finance than in the heart of London itself.
Students at London Business School can choose between either the 10-month full-time program or a 16-month part-time option, depending on their needs. However, regardless of their pick, both cohorts have the option to spend a term at several business schools situated across Asia and Europe.
For both full-time and part-time students, the fees are set at around $81,000.
7. University of Oxford: Saïd
Oxford University enjoys a prestigious reputation worldwide—and the same is true of the Master in Finance program taught at its Saïd Business School.
Lasting two years at a total tuition fee of around $77,000, this program is designed for those who seek a rigorous experience in finance situated in the famed academic and cultural atmosphere of Oxford.
Not to mention, participants can engage in the Oxford Saïd Finance Lab, a hands-on experience that integrates real-life financial analysis with industry-specific workshops and case studies.
6. Nova School of Business and Economics
The only Portuguese school on this list, Nova School of Business and Economics offers a core 18-month long Master in Finance to students for around $14,300.
Nova offers multiple formats through which students can complete the program. For those wishing to participate in an exchange semester with an international school, the course lasts two years and cost $16,600. There are also options to complete a double degree with top schools like Bocconi University or NHH Norwegian School of Economics.
5. Edhec Business School
With a program taught in the French Mediterranean city of Nice, EDHEC Business School provides an idyllic location to gain a master’s degree in finance.
The course runs over 18 months, which includes a four-to-six-month internship or work experience placement. In the meantime, finance students study core subjects like advanced valuation, corporate risk management, financial accounting, and analysis.
The program costs approximately $32,800 and graduates frequently secure roles at top firms like EY and Goldman Sachs.
4. Essec Business School
With campuses in both France and Singapore, Essec Business School’s Master in Finance offers a flexible, global experience.
The program can be studied over either one or two years and places a heavy focus on international finance. As a result, over half of graduates land jobs outside of their country of origin and 96% enter roles with international assignments.
The one-year program costs about $29,100 for EU residents, while non-EU students pay $32,400, For the two-year program, the cost lies at around $44,000 for EU students and $47,800 for non-EU.
Also, for those looking to launch an accounting career, the program offers modules designed to prepare students for the CFA exam.
3. Skema Business School
©SKEMA Business School/Facebook
With campuses located across France and the US—Paris, Sophia Antipolis, and Raleigh—SKEMA Business School offers flexibility as well as various specialization options within its Master in Financial Markets program.
At the Raleigh campus, students can pursue a Financial Analysis and CFA Preparation track, while in Sophia Antipolis, the focus is on Trading, Structuring, and Portfolio Management. Alternatively, the Paris campus offers specialized tracks in Asset Management and Investment Banking.
No matter where students choose to study, the program can be completed in either one or two years, with the corresponding tuition fees of approximately $29,100 and $49,700. SKEMA also provides two start dates, allowing students to begin in either August or September to best fit their schedules.
2. HEC Paris
Renowned for its excellence in finance education as well as various other areas, HEC Paris offers a Master in International Finance that is highly regarded across global financial markets.
The program spans 10 months, designed to be an intensive, career-focused experience. Students also have the chance to participate in a study trip to London, where they can network with industry leaders and gain insights into one of the world’s foremost financial centers.
The total tuition fee sits at around $49,500. However, graduates of the program report an impressive average starting salary of $131,000—a solid return on investment.
1. ESCP Business School
Number one on this list, the ESCP Business School Master in Finance program is distinguished by its multicultural approach and emphasis on customizable structure.
Lasting 15 months, the program is taught at both ESCP’s Paris and London campuses, with students able to choose between an Investment Banking and Financial Markets track. They also complete a four-month long mandatory internship, designed to help them develop key practical skills.
With a tuition fee of approximately $32,300, the ESCP’s master’s degree in finance is an accessible investment for those seeking a high-quality finance education in Europe.