The Master of Applied Finance (MAppFin) is a specialist postgraduate finance programme designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for careers in finance, investment, banking and financial consulting. It combines academic rigour with industry-relevant application, including an industry project to solve real-world financial challenges.

 

The University of Auckland is New Zealand’s largest and highest-ranked university with a strong global reputation for research, teaching excellence and industry connections. It attracts students from around the world and offers comprehensive academic and student support services. The Business School is internationally accredited and part of the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, which helps position graduates for advanced finance careers and professional qualifications such as the CFA charter.

 

Why Study the Master of Applied Finance?

• Career-focused: Designed for both business and non-business graduates who want to develop advanced finance capabilities in areas such as investment analysis, corporate finance and risk management.
• Industry relevance: Coursework and projects build skills that employers seek in the financial services, banking, investment and consulting sectors.
• Practical learning: Includes an industry-based consultancy project where you work on a real financial issue with an organisation.
• Career advantage: The programme aligns with professional standards and helps prepare for finance credentials like the CFA

 

Subjects & Programme Structure

The 180-point programme is divided into two main parts:

Part I – Core Courses (105 points)

You complete seven core finance and related subjects:

• Business Accounting and Finance

• Economics for Financial Analysts

• Financial Markets Law

• Corporate Finance

• Investment Decision-Making

• Financial Risk Management

• Advanced Financial Management

Part II – Specialisation & Project (75 points)

• Choose two specialisation courses (30 points) from offerings such as:

  • Financial Modelling Techniques

  • Financial Analytics Applications

  • Sustainable Finance

  • Alternative Investments

• Applied Finance Industry Project (30 points): Work with a real organisation to address a financial challenge.

• Consultancy Practice (15 points): Develop professional skills needed to successfully undertake and present the industry project.

 

Specialisations

While this programme does not have formal majors, you can choose from emerging finance specialisation courses that focus on:

• Financial Analytics

• Financial Modelling

• Sustainable Finance

• Alternative Investments

 

Programme Highlights

• Combines core finance knowledge with practical industry application.
• Includes a real industry project that enhances employability and prepares you for real-world finance problems.
• Part of the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, aligning your study with globally recognised finance standards.
• Taught by faculty with industry and academic experience and access to facilities like the BNZ Financial Trading Room.

 

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Master of Applied Finance are prepared for specialist roles in finance and financial services, such as:

• Financial Analyst

• Treasury Analyst

• Investment Analyst

• Financial Consultant

• Investment Manager

• Corporate Finance Specialist

• Investment Banker

 

Visa Requirements (International Students)

International students must apply for a New Zealand student visa before traveling to study full-time. Requirements typically include:

• Official offer letter from the University.
• Proof of funds for tuition and living costs.
• Health & travel insurance (mandatory).
• Enrollment in a full-time qualification (180 points).

 

Latest Updates & Tips

• Start date flexibility: The MAppFin usually starts only in Quarter Four (September), so plan applications and visas accordingly as you may need to wait for the next intake.
• Admissions timing: Applying early is crucial — international applications should be submitted several months in advance of the intake date.
• The programme welcomes students from a variety of academic backgrounds — including engineering, science or social sciences — provided entry prerequisites are met.