The University of Ulster’s Business School has become the first in the UK to gain Chartered Financial Analysts UK recognition of its BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment Analysis degree.
This recognition confers the status of IMC (Investment Management Certificate) Advantage partner to the school highlighting the quality and relevance of its degree for graduates wishing to pursue high-level careers in the financial services sector.
Professor Richard Barnett, University of Ulster Vice-Chancellor explained: “Gaining CFA UK recognition is an outstanding achievement by the Finance team at the University of Ulster’s Business School.
“The BSc (Hons) in Finance and Investment Analysis allows students to study a cutting-edge finance curriculum, safe in the knowledge that their degree is recognised by a professional body with a reputation for academic rigour, professionalism and for promoting entry to high value-added careers across the financial services sector.
“It is testament to the teaching quality and vision of the team that this recognition has been achieved, even before the inaugural cohort of students enrolled on this degree course has graduated.”
A degree with Management Certificate (IMC) recognition provides the necessary foundation for graduates to work towards earning CFA Charterholder status which is regarded as the qualification of choice for those wishing to work in financial analysis and investment management globally.
Congratulating the Business School, Will Goodhart, chief executive, CFA UK, said: “The recognition agreement highlights that the BSc (Hons) Finance and Investment Analysis programme is highly relevant to professional practice, and indicates to top employers that Ulster graduates have made a conscientious first step towards a career in investment management.”
Bill Montgomery from Invest NI said: “We very much welcome this development by the University of Ulster, in response to industry needs, as CFA and IMC qualifications are internationally recognised and much in demand by inward investors.
“The recently published Northern Ireland Executive Economic Strategy highlights the importance of the Financial Services sector to Northern Ireland and we are committed to working with our partners to ensure that we have the relevant skills to grow this key sector further.”