Advanced diplomas, degree in financial services

The Institute of Financial Services-Malta is currently receiving applications for the forthcoming registration of the BSc (Hons) degree in Financial Services and Associateship.

The programme, which IFS-Malta offers in conjunction with the University of Malta permits students to build their knowledge and skills to enhance their career and promotion prospects alongside their full-time job. Indeed, the studies are aimed to complement their work experience with specialist streams in Risk and Insurance Management, Retailing Financial Services and Corporate Banking. Students can obtain an advanced diploma in one of these streams as an interim step towards obtaining the degree.

The degree itself is awarded by the renowned University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology (UMIST) which will soon merge with the University of Manchester to create the largest university in England. An accredited programme of regular lectures is held at the University of Malta.

Students who would have previously obtained qualifications at the graduate level are also exempted from parts of the programme, facilitating their completion of the degree. Thus, ACII holders need only complete four modules to complete the degree, which is also recognised for FCII. University of Malta's Bachelor of Commerce graduates (with Banking & Finance as one of their majors) may also complete the degree with passes in four modules. Other relevant qualifications receive appropriate exemptions.

Mr Paul Farrugia, Education Officer of the Institute said that through this programme Maltese students have an opportunity to complete an internationally recognised qualification without ever leaving the island. At the same time, full support is given locally through the provision of tuition by expert tutors which has ensured that the Maltese students' pass rate is persistently higher than the worldwide average.

The next registration deadline is August 15.

Details about the programme are available by calling 2124 0335, sending an e-mail to info@ifsmalta.org, or writing to 60 Guardamangia Hill, Pietà MSD 08.