3 Terms + Capstone Project
Master in Finance Program
Program
The Master in Finance is developed to enhance the participants’ understanding of financial mechanisms.
The program is offered on a full-time basis and consists of two (fast track) or three (regular track) academic semesters followed by an internship or master thesis semester. The second part of the third semester is delivered in an asynchronous mode so students can start their capstone project in early September of the second academic year.
The program is built on two specialization tracks: Financial Analysis (Track 1) and Banking, Capital Markets & Financial Technology (Track 2). The program’s curriculum is based on core courses and specialization track courses that rely on block course modules. Upon the completion of core courses, students proceed to their chosen career path through uniquely designed specialization tracks. Students of this program benefit from essential certifications; Bloomberg certification and CFA.
The program provides students with a wide spectrum of training to prepare the future financial leaders in financial analysis, financial technology, banking, risk management and capital markets. The program offers courses to help them gain a better understanding of advanced topics in finance, including machine learning, financial modelling, risk analytics and artificial intelligence for finance.
Throughout the program, our students are well equipped and ready for the industry through the coursework on the ethics of finance, sustainability, financial regulation and compliance.
Program structure
IÉSEG’s Master in Finance is designed for students who are eager to live a multicultural and international experience, and offers two different tracks based on participants’ academic background:
> Fast Track: Participants who have 4 years of higher education (4-year Bachelor, Master or “M1” validated by an official degree equivalent to at least 240 ECTS credits) may request exemption from the 3rd term.
> Regular Track: for all participants. Mandatory for participants who have 3 years of higher education (Bachelor in 3 years, Licence/”Bac+3″) validated by an official degree equivalent to 180 ECTS credits.
> IÉSEG reserves the right to admit candidates with a 4-year degree into the regular track depending on the quality of their application.
> Due to a bilateral agreement between India and France, Indian students are required to take the regular track, regardless of the length of the Bachelor’s degree obtained.

Course Content
The program is offered on a full-time basis and consists of 3 consecutive terms of courses followed by a professional experience.
ECTS
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the mathematical techniques and quantitative methods essential for financial analysis and modeling. Students explore the topics that form the backbone of financial mathematics as used in business practice, as well as key concepts such as the time value of money, risk and return, and the mathematics of financial instruments.
Through practical applications and problem-solving sessions, students develop the skills needed to apply these quantitative techniques to real-world financial problems, preparing them for the technical coursework of the program and its specializations.
This course delves into the statistical and econometric techniques used to analyze financial markets and financial data and to model relationships. Students learn to apply econometric methods, focusing on time series analysis, regression models, volatility models, and hypothesis testing. Application topics include volatility measurement, empirical asset pricing, risk measurement, and forecasting.
Emphasis is placed on practical cases using software tools for empirical analysis, allowing students to interpret and critically evaluate financial research and data. By the end of the course, students will have the quantitative skills needed to conduct rigorous financial analysis and contribute to decision-making in a range of finance roles.
This course equips students with foundational skills in algorithmic thinking and structured problem-solving. Through a step-by-step exploration of core programming concepts such as variables, conditionals, loops, and algorithm design, students learn to approach problems methodically and develop precise, logical solutions.
The course emphasizes clarity, correctness, and conceptual understanding before moving on to code automation, using tools like AlgoBox to visualize program behavior. Topics include the structure of algorithms, decision-making logic, repetition, and basic algorithmic strategies such as search and approximation.
Students also analyze and refine their solutions, gaining early insight into efficiency and modularity. Designed to support learners from diverse academic backgrounds, the course lays solid groundwork for programming.
This course offers an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices involved in managing investment portfolios. Students study asset allocation, diversification strategies, and risk-return optimization, gaining insight into the construction and management of both individual and institutional portfolios.
The course covers modern portfolio theory, the efficient market hypothesis, and the capital asset pricing model (CAPM), alongside alternative investment strategies and performance evaluation techniques. Through real-world case studies, hands-on projects, and the latest research in behavioral finance and market dynamics, Master in Finance students develop the analytical and decision-making skills required to design and manage portfolios that meet specific investment goals and risk tolerances in a dynamic financial environment.
This course offers a foundational exploration of the complex workings of global financial markets. Students study the fundamental principles governing these markets, including the roles of participants such as investors, institutions, and regulatory bodies. The course covers the structure and core functions of equity, fixed income, and derivative markets, along with the key financial instruments traded in them.
Emphasis is placed on understanding market efficiency, risk management techniques, and the impact of economic factors on market dynamics. By the end of the course, students will have a comprehensive understanding of how financial markets facilitate capital allocation and drive economic growth in both domestic and international contexts.
This course provides an overview of debt markets and the complex world of fixed income securities. Students learn about the various types of debt instruments, including government and corporate bonds, mortgage-backed securities, and other structured products, as well as the valuation methods, risk characteristics, and pricing dynamics specific to fixed income securities.
Through case studies and real-world examples, students gain practical insight into how interest rates, credit risk, and market liquidity affect bond pricing and trading strategies. The course also covers the regulatory frameworks governing debt markets and explores the role of central banks and monetary policy in shaping fixed income markets.
By the end of the course, students will have the analytical tools and knowledge needed to navigate debt markets and make informed decisions in this complex field.
This core course explores the complexities of financial systems on a global scale, focusing on the interplay between international markets, currencies, and institutions. Key topics include foreign exchange markets, exchange rate determination, international trade finance, and capital flows.
Emphasis is placed on the implications of globalization for financial decision-making by multinational corporations, governments, and investors. The course also covers international financial institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank, as well as the regulatory frameworks governing cross-border transactions.
Through case studies and simulations, students gain practical insight into managing currency risk, evaluating investment opportunities in foreign markets, and navigating geopolitical influences on international finance.
This course provides an in-depth study of derivatives, financial instruments whose value is derived from an underlying asset or benchmark. Students examine the main types of derivatives, including futures, forwards, options, and swaps, and their uses for hedging, speculation, and arbitrage.
The course covers essential topics such as pricing models, risk management strategies, and the mechanics of trading derivatives on both exchange-traded and over-the-counter markets. Emphasis is placed on the role derivatives play in managing various types of financial risk, including interest rate risk, currency risk, and commodity price risk.
Through case studies and practical exercises, students develop the analytical skills needed to evaluate derivative contracts and build effective hedging strategies for corporate and institutional clients.
Coming soon
This course provides students with the knowledge and critical perspectives needed to address the sustainability and ethical challenges facing organizations in a rapidly changing global environment.
The first part of the course introduces major sustainability issues affecting businesses, including:
Climate change
Biodiversity loss
Social justice
Labor conditions
Global supply chains
Students explore key concepts, frameworks, tools, and standards for assessing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) impacts, and how organizations can rethink their strategies and redesign their business models to support sustainability transitions. Throughout the course, they reflect critically on ecological limits, stakeholder responsibilities, and the ethical role of business in advancing sustainable development.
The second part of the course is devoted to program-specific applications tailored to the needs of each master’s program.
By the end of the course, students will be able to critically evaluate sustainability and ethical challenges, apply relevant ESG frameworks and ethical reasoning to organizational decision-making, and propose practical solutions that contribute to sustainable business practices.
Credited language courses for all levels are included in the program. French is mandatory for all non-French-speaking students.
Native French-speaking students can choose another language (Chinese, Spanish, German; list subject to change).
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of financial accounting, focusing on the preparation, analysis, and interpretation of financial statements. Students will learn the fundamental concepts of accounting, including the accounting cycle, accruals, revenue recognition, and expense matching.
Topics covered include the preparation of balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). Emphasis is placed on understanding the role of financial accounting in providing information to external stakeholders such as investors, creditors, and regulatory authorities.
Through innovative pedagogical approaches, students will develop the skills needed to analyze financial statements, assess financial performance, and make informed decisions based on accounting information. The course will help them build a solid foundation in financial accounting principles and be prepared to apply them in various business contexts.
This course focuses on the systematic evaluation of financial statements to assess the financial health and performance of companies. Students will learn analytical techniques to interpret financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement.
The course explores key measures used in this field, such as financial ratios, liquidity ratios, profitability ratios, and leverage ratios, and their application in evaluating profitability, operational efficiency, and financial risk. It also covers methods for comparing companies within the same industry and across different sectors, as well as techniques for forecasting future financial performance based on historical data.
Through case studies and real-world examples, students will develop skills in identifying financial strengths and weaknesses, conducting financial due diligence, and making informed investment and lending decisions. By the end of the course, they will be equipped with the analytical tools and knowledge needed to critically examine financial statements and communicate their findings effectively to stakeholders.
This course focuses on using Power BI, Microsoft’s powerful business analytics tool, to create compelling and interactive data visualizations. Students will learn how to connect to various data sources, transform and model data, and design visually appealing dashboards and reports.
The course covers techniques for creating calculated columns and measures using DAX (Data Analysis Expressions) to enhance data analysis capabilities within Power BI. Through hands-on projects and practical exercises, students will gain proficiency in building insightful visualizations that facilitate data-driven decision-making across different business domains.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of corporate finance, focusing on the financial decisions made by corporations to maximize shareholder value. Students will explore key topics such as capital budgeting, capital structure decisions, dividend policy, and working capital management.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the theoretical frameworks and practical applications of financial concepts, including the time value of money, the cost of capital, and risk-return trade-offs. The course covers techniques for evaluating investment opportunities, such as net present value (NPV) analysis, internal rate of return (IRR), and sensitivity analysis. Students will also examine the role of financial markets and institutions in corporate financing decisions, including debt and equity financing options.
Through case studies and real-world examples, students will develop the analytical skills to assess financial performance, optimize capital allocation, and make strategic financial decisions in competitive business environments. By the end of the course, they will have a solid foundation in corporate finance principles and be prepared to apply them in various managerial roles within corporations.
This course provides a comprehensive review of the methodologies and techniques used to determine the value of a firm. Students will delve into both the theoretical frameworks and the practical applications of firm valuation, including discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, comparable company analysis (CCA), and precedent transactions analysis.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the factors that influence a firm’s valuation, such as industry dynamics, market conditions, and the macroeconomic environment. The course covers advanced topics including the estimation of the cost of capital, terminal value calculation, and adjustments for non-operating assets and liabilities.
Through case studies and valuation exercises, students will gain hands-on experience in applying valuation models to real-world scenarios and making valuation judgments. By the end of the course, they will have developed the skills needed to critically evaluate and estimate the value of companies across different sectors and markets.
Coming soon
This course explores the strategic and financial aspects of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), looking into the processes by which companies restructure and expand through these transactions. Students will examine the motivations behind M&A activity, including achieving economies of scale, market expansion, synergies, and strategic realignment.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the various stages of the M&A process, from initial valuation and deal structuring to post-merger integration and performance evaluation. The course covers different types of M&A transactions, such as mergers of equals, asset acquisitions, and hostile takeovers, along with the regulatory and legal considerations that govern them. Students will gain practical insights into negotiating M&A deals, conducting due diligence, addressing challenges related to cultural integration and stakeholder management, and executing successful M&A transactions in complex and dynamic business environments.
Coming soon
This course explores the principles and practices of credit risk management within financial institutions and corporate environments. Students will examine the process of assessing, monitoring, and mitigating credit risk across various types of lending and investment activities.
Emphasis is placed on understanding credit risk measurement techniques, including credit scoring models, credit ratings, and probability of default (PD) estimation. The course covers methodologies for evaluating borrower creditworthiness, assessing collateral, and structuring credit agreements to minimize risk exposure. Topics also include credit risk modeling, stress testing, and the regulatory frameworks governing credit risk management practices.
Through case studies and practical exercises, students will develop skills in identifying, quantifying, and managing credit risks effectively. By the end of the course, they will be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed credit decisions, optimize risk-return trade-offs, and contribute to the overall financial stability of organizations.
Coming soon
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to investigate complex organizational challenges through rigorous research methods. Students learn to identify and analyze business problems, select and apply appropriate research methodologies, and critically engage with academic and professional sources to build robust, evidence-based knowledge.
Emphasis is placed on developing creative solutions to organizational issues and communicating research findings effectively through clear, persuasive, and professional presentation techniques. The course combines a common foundation in research methods with program-specific applications that reflect the research needs and practices of each master’s program.
By the end of the course, students will be able to design and conduct methodologically sound research that supports informed decision-making in organizational and business contexts.
The Career Program aims to help IÉSEG students build and implement their career plan in line with their aspirations, skills and the socio-economic reality of the market.
The objective is to facilitate their integration into the job market, in an environment that allows them to develop personally and professionally.
All students benefit from a credited program tailored to their track or major, taught by a dedicated team of experienced professionals. The Career Program includes collective credited courses, digital resources, and on-demand coaching provided by the Career team for those who need additional support.
A cycle of thematic events fosters connections with companies and helps students build their professional networks. Our teaching approach blends various methods, including digital modules, interactive and blended learning, coaching, peer-to-peer learning, learning by doing, live scenarios, debriefing, and reflection, in line with IÉSEG’s teaching and learning strategy.
Credited language courses for all levels are included in the program. French is mandatory for all non-French-speaking students.
Native French-speaking students can choose another language (Chinese, Spanish, German; list subject to change).
This course provides an in-depth exploration of the role and functions of investment banks in the global financial system. Students will examine the various divisions within investment banks, as well as capital markets and sales and trading.
The course emphasizes the process of raising capital through debt and equity markets, structuring financial transactions, and providing advisory services to clients. It covers key topics such as valuation techniques, financial modeling designed for banking practices, due diligence, and regulatory considerations in investment banking operations.
Through case studies and real-world examples, students will gain practical insights into the complexities of deal-making, negotiating transactions, and managing client relationships in the investment banking industry. By the end of the course, they will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue careers in investment banking.
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the key functions, tools, and strategic considerations that shape modern corporate banking. It begins with a foundation in banking business models, risk management, credit frameworks, and regulatory influences such as the Basel rules and central bank policies.
Students then explore the structuring and syndication of corporate credit facilities, integrating credit analysis, pricing strategies, and practical deal mechanics. The course also emphasizes strategic value creation through client relationship management, ESG-linked financing, and digital innovation in banking services. With a blend of theoretical insight, real-world case studies, and guest speaker contributions, it equips students with the analytical and strategic skills needed to navigate the evolving landscape of corporate banking.
This course focuses on the role and operations of banks and other financial intermediaries in the banking system. Students will explore the functions of commercial banks, investment banks, and other financial institutions in facilitating the flow of funds between savers and borrowers.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the regulatory framework governing banking activities, including capital requirements, liquidity management, and risk management practices. The course covers key topics such as deposit-taking, lending, asset-liability management, and the creation of financial products and services tailored to customer needs. It prepares students by giving them insights into the challenges and opportunities facing banking institutions in a dynamic economic environment.
This course immerses students in a dynamic, hands-on banking simulation designed to replicate real-world banking scenarios. Participants take on roles within a virtual banking institution, making strategic decisions across various departments such as retail banking, corporate banking, risk management, and financial operations.
The course integrates knowledge of banking principles, regulations, and customer needs to optimize profitability and manage risks effectively. Students experience the complexities of banking operations, including customer acquisition and retention, loan origination and credit assessment, investment portfolio management, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
The course gives students opportunities to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations, develop critical thinking skills, and enhance their teamwork and decision-making abilities. Students following this specialization will thus have gained valuable insights into strategic banking management and be prepared to navigate challenges in the competitive banking industry.
This course examines the regulatory framework governing the financial services industry, with a focus on the principles and practices of compliance and risk management. Students will explore the roles and responsibilities of regulatory bodies such as central banks, financial regulators, and international organizations in overseeing the banking, capital markets, and financial technology sectors.
The tools and methods presented in the course will enable students to learn the regulatory requirements related to financial stability, consumer protection, and anti-money laundering (AML), among others. The course covers key topics such as regulatory reporting, corporate governance, conduct risk, and the implementation of regulatory reforms after the global financial crisis.
Through case studies and real-world examples, students will gain practical insights into navigating regulatory challenges, ensuring organizational compliance, and managing regulatory relationships effectively. By the end of the course, they will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to assess regulatory risks, develop compliance strategies, and contribute to ethical and responsible practices within financial institutions.
This course delves into advanced concepts and strategies related to derivative securities, focusing on their application in capital markets, money markets, and risk management. Students will explore sophisticated derivative products beyond basic options and futures, including exotic options, structured products, and complex derivatives used in institutional settings.
The course approaches pricing models, trading strategies, and hedging techniques associated with advanced derivatives through analytical methods. It covers topics such as volatility trading, interest rate derivatives, credit derivatives, and the role of derivatives in managing portfolio risk and enhancing returns.
Through case studies and practical exercises, students will develop proficiency in valuing complex derivative securities and assessing their business impact on financial institutions and capital markets. The course thus builds the rigorous analytical skills and practical knowledge needed to navigate and leverage advanced derivative instruments effectively in financial services and capital markets.
This course provides the tools and methods for market risk analysis and measurement that are critical for financial institutions, traders, and market participants. Students will explore the various types of market risk, including interest rate risk, foreign exchange risk, equity risk, and commodity risk, and examine the techniques used to quantify them.
The course places primary emphasis on market risk models such as Value at Risk (VaR), stress testing, and scenario analysis, and on their application in risk management frameworks. It also covers regulatory requirements for market risk management, including Basel Committee guidelines and regulatory capital calculations.
Further topics include risk-adjusted performance measurement, risk appetite frameworks, and the integration of market risk with other forms of risk management. Through case studies and simulations, students will gain practical insights into identifying, measuring, and mitigating market risk exposures in financial institutions.
This course explores advanced strategies and techniques in asset management, focusing on factor investing and its application in portfolio management. Students will delve into the principles of factor investing, which involves targeting specific risk factors such as value, momentum, size, quality, and low volatility to enhance portfolio returns or manage risk.
The course introduces factor models, factor attribution analysis, and the construction of factor-based portfolios. It also covers advanced topics such as multi-factor models, factor timing strategies, and the integration of factor investing with traditional asset allocation approaches.
Students will also examine empirical evidence and case studies on the efficacy of factor investing across different market environments. The course prepares them to implement factor-based investment strategies, evaluate factor performance, and manage factor exposures in investment portfolios.
This course builds on foundational Python programming skills to explore advanced topics and techniques for applications in banking, capital markets, and financial technology. Students will delve into advanced Python libraries and frameworks such as NumPy, Pandas, SciPy, and scikit-learn, focusing on their application in financial data analysis.
The course emphasizes developing scalable and efficient solutions to financial problems, and covers data management, analytics, and the integration of Python with financial APIs and databases. Students will gain proficiency in writing clean, maintainable code and applying advanced programming techniques to real-world financial challenges. The methods and frameworks covered equip them with the skills needed to leverage Python effectively in the finance industry, enhancing their ability to innovate and optimize processes in the banking, capital markets, and financial technology sectors.
This course in the Banking, Capital Markets & Financial Technology specialization track prepares students to learn and apply the essential machine learning techniques for solving complex finance problems. Students will delve into supervised learning algorithms tailored to financial data analysis, measurement, and prediction practices.
The course covers key concepts including regression-based and classification-based financial machine learning, feature engineering, model evaluation, model selection, regularization, overfitting, and the bias-variance trade-off specific to financial datasets. Through hands-on projects using real-world financial data, students will gain practical experience in implementing machine learning algorithms to solve financial problems and carry out predictive analytics.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills to leverage machine learning effectively in finance, enabling them to extract insights, make informed decisions, and innovate within the banking, capital markets, and financial technology sectors.
This course equips students with the essential mathematical foundations needed to understand and analyze the quantitative dynamics of modern capital markets. It covers key topics such as probability and statistics, linear algebra, calculus, and optimization techniques, providing a unified toolkit for tackling complex financial problems.
These mathematical concepts form the backbone of advanced applications including machine learning in finance, derivative pricing, portfolio optimization, and continuous-time financial models. Emphasis is placed on both theoretical understanding and practical relevance, preparing students to engage with the analytical challenges of today’s data-driven financial landscape.
The course is designed to offer the rigor needed for further study in quantitative finance within the Banking, Capital Markets & Financial Technology track.
The Connected Vision Tour – Hackathon immerses students in an experiential learning environment within the Banking, Capital Markets & Financial Technology specialization track. The course encourages collaborative problem-solving using cutting-edge technologies and lets students work in teams to develop innovative solutions, gaining practical experience in rapid prototyping, agile development, and presenting their ideas to industry mentors.
The course culminates in presentations where teams showcase their solutions, fostering entrepreneurial skills and innovation in financial services. Throughout the hackathon, students have access to sessions with professionals from leading financial institutions and/or technology companies, who offer guidance and feedback on their projects.
This close interaction with the industry helps bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical application, ensuring that students are well prepared for careers in the financial sector as they demonstrate their ability to tackle complex financial challenges with creativity and technical competence.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to investigate complex organizational challenges through rigorous research methods. Students learn to identify and analyze business problems, select and apply appropriate research methodologies, and critically engage with academic and professional sources to build robust, evidence-based knowledge.
Emphasis is placed on developing creative solutions to organizational issues and communicating research findings effectively through clear, persuasive, and professional presentation techniques. The course combines a common foundation in research methods with program-specific applications that reflect the research needs and practices of each master’s program.
By the end of the course, students will be able to design and conduct methodologically sound research that supports informed decision-making in organizational and business contexts.
The Career Program aims to help IÉSEG students build and implement their career plan in line with their aspirations, skills and the socio-economic reality of the market.
The objective is to facilitate their integration into the job market, in an environment that allows them to develop personally and professionally.
All students benefit from a credited program tailored to their track or major, taught by a dedicated team of experienced professionals. The Career Program includes collective credited courses, digital resources, and on-demand coaching provided by the Career team for those who need additional support.
A cycle of thematic events fosters connections with companies and helps students build their professional networks. Our teaching approach blends various methods, including digital modules, interactive and blended learning, coaching, peer-to-peer learning, learning by doing, live scenarios, debriefing, and reflection, in line with IÉSEG’s teaching and learning strategy.
Credited language courses for all levels are included in the program. French is mandatory for all non-French-speaking students.
Native French-speaking students can choose another language (Chinese, Spanish, German; list subject to change).
This advanced specialization course provides a broad examination of the strategies and practices involved in managing the financial affairs of high-net-worth individuals and families. Students will explore the principles of private wealth management, including goal setting, asset allocation, risk management, and estate planning.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the unique needs and preferences of wealthy clients and tailoring investment strategies and financial plans to achieve their personal and financial objectives. The course covers various investment vehicles available to private clients, including equities, fixed income securities, alternative investments, and structured products. Topics also include tax planning, philanthropy, family governance, and intergenerational wealth transfer strategies.
Through case studies and simulations, students will develop practical skills in client relationship management, financial analysis, and portfolio construction for affluent individuals. By the end of the course, they will be prepared to provide personalized wealth management services, address complex financial challenges, and uphold their fiduciary responsibilities in serving private clients effectively.
This course builds upon foundational valuation principles to delve into the advanced methodologies and techniques used to determine the value of a firm. Students will explore sophisticated valuation models, including discounted cash flow (DCF) analysis, adjusted present value (APV) analysis, and option pricing models applied to real options in strategic decision-making.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the complex factors influencing firm valuation, such as industry dynamics, market conditions, and macroeconomic variables. The course covers advanced topics including the valuation of intangible assets, synergy analysis in mergers and acquisitions, and the impact of financial distress and restructuring on firm value.
Students will develop proficiency in applying advanced valuation techniques to diverse business scenarios, including cross-border transactions and emerging market contexts. The course will equip them with the analytical skills and strategic insight needed to critically evaluate and estimate the value of companies in complex and dynamic environments.
Coming soon
This course explores the diverse landscape of alternative investments beyond traditional stocks and bonds, focusing on strategies that offer unique risk-return profiles and diversification benefits. Students will examine various types of alternative investments, including private equity, hedge funds, real estate, commodities, and structured products.
Emphasis is placed on understanding the characteristics, valuation methods, and performance metrics specific to each alternative asset class. The course covers the role of alternative investments in portfolio construction, risk management techniques, and regulatory considerations. Topics also include due diligence processes, liquidity constraints, and the impact of market cycles on alternative investments.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to investigate complex organizational challenges through rigorous research methods. Students learn to identify and analyze business problems, select and apply appropriate research methodologies, and critically engage with academic and professional sources to build robust, evidence-based knowledge.
Emphasis is placed on developing creative solutions to organizational issues and communicating research findings effectively through clear, persuasive, and professional presentation techniques. The course combines a common foundation in research methods with program-specific applications that reflect the research needs and practices of each master’s program.
By the end of the course, students will be able to design and conduct methodologically sound research that supports informed decision-making in organizational and business contexts.
This course gives participants an in-depth understanding of entrepreneurship, new business development, and business plan writing.
Through lectures, testimonials, fieldwork, and group assignments, participants are confronted with the how, where, when, with whom, and why of starting and developing new business activities.
As part of an international and multicultural team, participants work on an operational business plan with one of two aims:
The creation of a new venture (NVC track)
The acceleration of new business for an already established SME (NBD track)
The course thus goes beyond theory: hands-on experience is gained through out-of-class fieldwork covering all steps of the entrepreneurial decision-making process, for example idea generation, feasibility analysis, industry study, market analysis, marketing plan, production plan, product development, and financial statements.
In doing so, participants acquire entrepreneurial knowledge and behaviors that support innovative solutions and new value creation.
This course equips students with the analytical tools and strategic perspective to understand how geopolitical dynamics impact global business environments. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students explore the influence of political risk, international relations, and global power shifts on trade, investment, supply chains, and corporate strategy.
Emphasis is placed on real-world cases and interactive discussions to help students assess geopolitical risk and adapt business decisions accordingly. By the end of the course, participants will be able to integrate geopolitical thinking into strategic planning, enabling responsible and resilient decision-making in complex international contexts.
Particular attention is given to the social impact of geopolitical shifts, encouraging students to consider how business decisions can promote inclusive growth, ethical practices, and long-term societal resilience.
This is a modular, asynchronous course designed to give participants a comprehensive and integrated understanding of AI and its transformative impact on business strategy. Bridging technical knowledge and strategic insight, the course guides learners through a rich curriculum that explores how AI drives innovation, enhances operational efficiency, and creates sustainable competitive advantages.
The learning journey culminates in real-world case studies that demonstrate how leading organizations have successfully integrated AI into their strategies, operations, and innovation processes. These examples provide actionable insights and help bridge theory and practice.
Crucially, the course also addresses the broader societal and environmental impacts of AI, placing ethical, ecological, and workforce considerations at the heart of strategic decision-making. By the end of the course, participants will understand not only how AI works, but also how to deploy it responsibly and strategically for long-term business success in complex, dynamic environments.
Creativity is one of the critical components of an organization’s ability to survive and thrive in today’s competitive and dynamic markets. This course gives participants a rich understanding of how creativity can be fostered and managed in a work setting.
They will acquire knowledge of the various theoretical conceptualizations of creativity (how to define it), its antecedents (what makes you and others more creative) and its outcomes (what impact it has), as well as of design thinking techniques and tools to lead teams through the creative journey.
Here are some of the questions we will address:
How do creative ideas happen?
How can we foster our creativity and the creativity of those around us?
What are the paths of creative development of individuals who succeed in their creative endeavors?
What are the implications for fostering and managing creativity in the workplace?
What are the obstacles to creativity?
What is the nature of creativity in teams and organizations?
During the course, a variety of teaching and learning techniques (including design thinking) will be used to help participants think critically and imaginatively about different perspectives on creativity.
To make learning a shared experience between participants and the instructor, the course integrates real challenges and practical experiences of creativity: projects, presentations, experiential exercises, and critical reflection on the course materials.
This advanced course offers a comprehensive exploration of how organizations can effectively manage, measure, and align performance at individual, team, and organizational levels. It begins by clarifying the concept of performance management: what it is, what it is not, and what characterizes effective strategic performance practices.
Students will examine the challenges of defining and measuring performance accurately, and how to align performance indicators with broader strategic goals such as employee engagement, retention, and organizational growth. Throughout the course, they will work with a range of human resource management tools applicable at the various stages of the performance management cycle. Legal, ethical, and reporting considerations, as well as software solutions, are also addressed to provide a holistic understanding of modern performance systems.
A key focus of the course is the social dimension of performance management. Students will explore how to design systems that are valid, reliable, and fair for all employees, with a strong emphasis on eliminating bias and supporting diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
The course encourages critical assessment of whether performance systems genuinely enable all individuals, regardless of background, to demonstrate their full potential. This includes addressing how organizational culture, leadership behaviors, and system design can unintentionally disadvantage certain groups, and how such challenges can be effectively mitigated in practice.
Credited language courses for all levels are included in the program. French is mandatory for all non-French-speaking students.
Native French-speaking students can choose another language (Chinese, Spanish, German; list subject to change).
This course explores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the context of modern business practices. It provides the fundamentals of blockchain, including its decentralized nature, cryptographic principles, and consensus mechanisms, and is designed to help students learn about blockchain applications beyond cryptocurrencies, such as supply chain management, digital identity verification, smart contracts, and decentralized finance (DeFi).
The course covers important topics in this domain, such as blockchain architecture, scalability challenges, regulatory considerations, and the integration of blockchain with existing business processes. Students will have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in implementing blockchain solutions and assessing the strategic implications of blockchain adoption for business innovation and efficiency.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to leverage blockchain technology effectively in various industries, primarily banking, capital markets, and financial technology.
This advanced specialization course explores the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques and technologies in capital markets. Students will delve into advanced AI algorithms and models used to process financial data, predict market trends, and optimize investment strategies.
Emphasis is placed on understanding how AI can enhance decision-making processes in trading, portfolio management, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance within financial institutions. The course also covers topics such as natural language processing (NLP) and sentiment analysis, as applied to real financial data.
Students will gain practical experience in developing AI-driven solutions tailored to capital market challenges and will be equipped with the skills to leverage AI effectively to extract insights of practical relevance.
This course delves into advanced machine learning techniques and their applications within the financial industry. Students will explore sophisticated algorithms and models tailored to financial data analysis, prediction, and decision-making.
Going beyond supervised machine learning, the course places greater emphasis on unsupervised learning, which can be used to enhance trading strategies, portfolio management, risk assessment, and financial forecasting. Key topics include ensemble methods, deep learning architectures for time series data, reinforcement learning for trading strategies, news analytics, and large language models applied to financial cases and business problems.
By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills to leverage the full spectrum of machine learning methods effectively in financial prediction and in finding solutions to managerial challenges.
This course focuses on the application of data analytics techniques to risk management and asset allocation within financial institutions. Students will explore the principles and methods of data-driven decision-making, with an emphasis on quantitative analysis, statistical measurement, and predictive analytics.
The course covers key topics such as data analytics for sustainable finance, climate change, risk measurement and mitigation strategies, and the use of big data in financial forecasting. Students will learn how data analytics can enhance risk assessment processes, improve asset allocation strategies, and optimize portfolio performance.
This course aims to equip students with essential tools and strategies for effective trading in global financial markets. Unlike traditional courses on investment practices, it gives participants training in and insight into the operational aspects of trading desks, including the use of advanced trading platforms, market analysis tools, and order execution strategies.
Through practical simulations and case studies, students will develop proficiency in using key trading tools such as algorithmic trading systems, charting software, and market data analysis tools. The course covers trading across various asset classes, including equities, derivatives, and currencies, and explores the impact of regulatory environments on trading practices.
By the end of the course, students will be prepared to navigate global markets effectively and make informed trading decisions using the advanced tools and strategies available on modern trading desks.
This course equips students with the knowledge and skills required to investigate complex organizational challenges through rigorous research methods. Students learn to identify and analyze business problems, select and apply appropriate research methodologies, and critically engage with academic and professional sources to build robust, evidence-based knowledge.
Emphasis is placed on developing creative solutions to organizational issues and communicating research findings effectively through clear, persuasive, and professional presentation techniques. The course combines a common foundation in research methods with program-specific applications that reflect the research needs and practices of each master’s program.
By the end of the course, students will be able to design and conduct methodologically sound research that supports informed decision-making in organizational and business contexts.
This course gives participants an in-depth understanding of entrepreneurship, new business development, and business plan writing.
Through lectures, testimonials, fieldwork, and group assignments, participants are confronted with the how, where, when, with whom, and why of starting and developing new business activities.
As part of an international and multicultural team, participants work on an operational business plan with one of two aims:
The creation of a new venture (NVC track)
The acceleration of new business for an already established SME (NBD track)
The course thus goes beyond theory: hands-on experience is gained through out-of-class fieldwork covering all steps of the entrepreneurial decision-making process, for example idea generation, feasibility analysis, industry study, market analysis, marketing plan, production plan, product development, and financial statements.
In doing so, participants acquire entrepreneurial knowledge and behaviors that support innovative solutions and new value creation.
This course equips students with the analytical tools and strategic perspective to understand how geopolitical dynamics impact global business environments. Through an interdisciplinary approach, students explore the influence of political risk, international relations, and global power shifts on trade, investment, supply chains, and corporate strategy.
Emphasis is placed on real-world cases and interactive discussions to help students assess geopolitical risk and adapt business decisions accordingly. By the end of the course, participants will be able to integrate geopolitical thinking into strategic planning, enabling responsible and resilient decision-making in complex international contexts.
Particular attention is given to the social impact of geopolitical shifts, encouraging students to consider how business decisions can promote inclusive growth, ethical practices, and long-term societal resilience.
This is a modular, asynchronous course designed to give participants a comprehensive and integrated understanding of AI and its transformative impact on business strategy. Bridging technical knowledge and strategic insight, the course guides learners through a rich curriculum that explores how AI drives innovation, enhances operational efficiency, and creates sustainable competitive advantages.
The learning journey culminates in real-world case studies that demonstrate how leading organizations have successfully integrated AI into their strategies, operations, and innovation processes. These examples provide actionable insights and help bridge theory and practice.
Crucially, the course also addresses the broader societal and environmental impacts of AI, placing ethical, ecological, and workforce considerations at the heart of strategic decision-making. By the end of the course, participants will understand not only how AI works, but also how to deploy it responsibly and strategically for long-term business success in complex, dynamic environments.
Creativity is one of the critical components of an organization’s ability to survive and thrive in today’s competitive and dynamic markets. This course gives participants a rich understanding of how creativity can be fostered and managed in a work setting.
They will acquire knowledge of the various theoretical conceptualizations of creativity (how to define it), its antecedents (what makes you and others more creative) and its outcomes (what impact it has), as well as of design thinking techniques and tools to lead teams through the creative journey.
Here are some of the questions we will address:
How do creative ideas happen?
How can we foster our creativity and the creativity of those around us?
What are the paths of creative development of individuals who succeed in their creative endeavors?
What are the implications for fostering and managing creativity in the workplace?
What are the obstacles to creativity?
What is the nature of creativity in teams and organizations?
During the course, a variety of teaching and learning techniques (including design thinking) will be used to help participants think critically and imaginatively about different perspectives on creativity.
To make learning a shared experience between participants and the instructor, the course integrates real challenges and practical experiences of creativity: projects, presentations, experiential exercises, and critical reflection on the course materials.
This advanced course offers a comprehensive exploration of how organizations can effectively manage, measure, and align performance at individual, team, and organizational levels. It begins by clarifying the concept of performance management: what it is, what it is not, and what characterizes effective strategic performance practices.
Students will examine the challenges of defining and measuring performance accurately, and how to align performance indicators with broader strategic goals such as employee engagement, retention, and organizational growth. Throughout the course, they will work with a range of human resource management tools applicable at the various stages of the performance management cycle. Legal, ethical, and reporting considerations, as well as software solutions, are also addressed to provide a holistic understanding of modern performance systems.
A key focus of the course is the social dimension of performance management. Students will explore how to design systems that are valid, reliable, and fair for all employees, with a strong emphasis on eliminating bias and supporting diversity, inclusion, and social justice.
The course encourages critical assessment of whether performance systems genuinely enable all individuals, regardless of background, to demonstrate their full potential. This includes addressing how organizational culture, leadership behaviors, and system design can unintentionally disadvantage certain groups, and how such challenges can be effectively mitigated in practice.
Credited language courses for all levels are included in the program. French is mandatory for all non-French-speaking students.
Native French-speaking students can choose another language (Chinese, Spanish, German; list subject to change).
4- to 6-month internship or work experience anywhere in the world. Alternatively, students can opt for a consulting project or a thesis.
Please note that courses are subject to change; please check with the local contact if you have any questions.
Zoom on… the two specializations
Our program offers two distinct specializations, allowing students to tailor their studies to career path:
> Specialization in Financial Analysis
The financial analysis track focuses on the corporate finance pillar, equipping students with advanced technical skills necessary for in-depth financial analysis, corporate valuation, and strategic financial decision-making. The track prepares students for roles such as financial analysts, corporate finance advisors and financial managers.
> Specialization in Banking, Capital Markets, and Financial Technology
Our banking, capital markets and financial technology specialization targets the dynamic sectors of banking and capital markets, integrating the latest advancements in financial technology. The specialization prepares students for careers and leadership positions in investment banking, trading, financial technology and capital markets. The graduates acquiring this unique specialization aim at working at leading international financial institutions, asset management firms, banks, companies and organizations.
Workshops and Corporate Events
Alongside the courses, the program includes various workshops and corporate events to further develop your personal and professional skills. These cover a range of topics, such as conflict management in cross-cultural environments and intercultural communication.
Our Career Program helps participants to establish their professional career plan by working on their skills, personal strengths, and using networking tools to be prepared to meet recruiters’ expectations internationally.
INTERNSHIP
During their internship, students are able to combine theories of management with hands-on experience and apply the cross-cultural skills they have developed at IÉSEG.
Business Development Intern, Depositary Analyst, Financial Analyst, Financial Risk Manager, Operation Analyst, Research Content Manager, Risk Management Specialist, S&M Controlling Intern, Strategy & Corporate or Talent Acquisition Partner for example: the internship opportunities offered by the program at the end of the curriculum are multiple.
Some companies which hire our interns: Audi, DataYes, advinda Investor Cloud, Industrial Securities Co.Ltd., Huajing Securities, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Quilvest Asset Management S.A., Langham Hall, Alter Domus, Thomson Reuters, Amundi Asset Management, etc.
The internship can be undertaken in France or abroad. Most students have done their internships in Asia, in Europe, in Africa or in South America for example.
Corporate involvement in the program
Companies are an integral part of the academic life of the Specialised Master. Throughout the program, students have the opportunity to meet and network with companies of all sizes on topics related to the master, such as conferences, in-class interventions, challenges or tailor-made recruitment. Partnerships may vary from one to another and new opportunities may be proposed according to needs and availability.
Examples of previous events organized for the Master in Finance*:
> Expediciones de aprendizaje: SRB, BDO, SWIFT, UBS, ROTSCHILD, FEBELPIN, SOCIETE GENERALE CIB, ENGIE ENERGY TRADING, RECOVR, CACEIS, DELOITTE LUXEMBOURG, PWC LUXEMBOURG, LUXEMBOURG HOUSE OF FINANCIAL TECHNOLOGY
> Company presentations and job opportunities: presentation of opportunities and access the Traineeship campaign program – EUROPEAN CENTRAL BANK
> Company presentation and tips to apply – SOCIETE GENERALE
> Conference “Green finance: what’s next” – BANQUE DU LUXMBOURG – RSM – ROTHSCHILD
> In class Intervention: Management for sustainability – Sustainable Finance – ALLIANZ TRADE
> Conference “Women in Finance” – CAP GEMINI – EY – MAZARS
*Non-exhaustive list
CFA Institute University Recognition Program

Our program prepares students for the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA®) level 1 examination that is the first step (out of 3) that leads to the attainment of the CFA® credential awarded to investment and finance professionals by the world-renowned CFA® Institute.
The CFA® charter offers a permanent advantage in the job market and distinguishes CFA charter holders throughout their career paths. Furthermore, our program gives students the possibility to participate in the global CFA® Research Challenge that constitutes an intensive training in the domain of financial analysis.
The Master in Finance curriculum covers at least 70 percent of the CFA Program ‘Candidate Body of Knowledge’ (CBOK) and places a particular emphasis on the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Consequently, it positions students well to obtain the Chartered Financial Analyst® (CFA) designation, which has become the most respected and recognized investment credential in the world.
Through participation in the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program, IÉSEG is able to grant up to 19 student scholarships per year. Students who choose to participate in the CFA level 1 exam are offered 16 hours of coaching sessions.
They are also provided with a unique opportunity to represent IÉSEG in the CFA Institute Research Challenge, an international student contest aimed at promoting best practices in equity research.
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