Shaping the Finance Experts of the Future | An In-depth Look at the Master in Finance and Fintech with Professor Emanuele Bajo
9 August 2023The world of finance is constantly evolving, affected by technological changes that often escape those who need to be more thoroughly familiar with this field. Entering it as a key player today means being able to count on training that considers the high level of technology achieved. We reached out to Professor Emanuele Bajo, the Scientific Director of BBS’s Professional Master in Finance and Fintech, to get insights on how this Master’s program is shaping the finance experts of tomorrow.
How was the Professional Master in Finance and Fintech conceived, and what current needs of the contemporary financial market does it address?
Traditionally, the education system has provided and still generally provides strong vertical skills. As a result, those who graduate from universities or business schools today have a strong finance or technology background, rarely both. However, with the advent of digitalization, every financial player must pay attention to the need for a comprehensive understanding of both realms. This program aims to address this by providing state-of-the-art knowledge in finance and the technologies that are transforming how we all interact with financial actions.
What are the main skills that participants will acquire during the Master’s to meet the sector’s current needs?
The program is roughly divided between traditional Master’s courses in finance, such as financial markets and products, banking, risk management, and behavioural finance, and technological courses, such as big data analytics, machine learning, and blockchain. All courses adopt a hands-on approach, and in the program’s final phase, students examine and analyze the latest trends in fintech with a prominent consulting company. Typically, the program culminates with an internship experience.
Considering the rapidity with which new technologies (e.g. AI) and the dynamics of the Finance world evolve, how does the program ensure it keeps pace with the latest developments and provides cutting-edge training?
Our program is designed to stay at the forefront of the rapidly changing landscape of finance and technology. We continuously update our curriculum to incorporate the latest advancements and industry trends. Our faculty comprises experts with extensive industry experience and research expertise, ensuring students receive up-to-date knowledge and insights. Additionally, we foster collaborations with leading organizations and professionals in the field, providing opportunities for students to engage with real-world projects and stay connected to industry advancements.
What networking opportunities and connections to the world of finance and technology applied to the financial field are offered to the participants of the program? And how is collaboration between students and industry companies encouraged?
Participants in the program are presented with networking opportunities and connections to the world of fintech through guest lectures, partnerships with leading organizations, and, most importantly, through engagement with alumni who now work in the fintech space. By doing so, students gain exposure to influential professionals, fostering valuable connections for their future careers. Additionally, students have access to career development resources, including mentorship programs from alumni networks, further enhancing their engagement with the industry. This program actively promotes a dynamic and collaborative environment, bridging the gap between academia and industry to empower students with practical experiences and fruitful connections.
