Master of Science in Data Analytics and Financial Technology (Distance Learning)

The Programme is accredited by the Cyprus Agency of Quality Assurance and Accreditation in Higher Education (CYQAA)

The Postgraduate Study Programme MSc in Data Analytics and Financial Technology is a joint Inter-university Degree Study Programme between the Department of Administrative Science and Technology and Department of Accounting and Finance of the Hellenic Mediterranean University (GR) and the Department of Accounting and Finance and Department of Computer Science of Neapolis University Pafos. It leads to a joint Master’s Degree of Studies of the two Higher Education Institutions without requiring a recognition process by D.O.A.T.A.P. The programme is aimed primarily at graduates of Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Administration and Computer Science.

The Inter-institutional Postgraduate Study Programme (I.P.S.P.) in “Data Analysis and Financial Technology” aims to develop a high level of research and educate graduates in the field of finance and computer science at the postgraduate level through the ten courses offered.

The purpose of the Programme is to arm the student with a very wide theoretical and practical arsenal of knowledge and analytical skills so that he/she can comprehend and develop the subject of data analysis and financial technology. The aim is also to educate students appropriately so that they develop critical thinking with the ultimate objective of producing research in the subject matter.

The proposed postgraduate programme in Data Analysis and Financial Technology responds to the specialised needs created by modern and classical methods of financing and managing capital resources of corporate organisations, modern financial instruments, banking needs and methods, and public involvement for raising and offering resources. With the specialised knowledge and skills that will be acquired from this programme, the graduates will be able on the one hand to apply the new methods and knowledge in these subjects in the world of businesses and organisations, and on the other hand they will have acquired the necessary specialisation background to advance their research to a higher level such as that of the doctorate.

In particular, the proposed I.P.S.P. aims to:

• prepare students for the high-level staffing of financial/economic departments and/or directorates of the private or public sector in Greece or abroad
• train specialised scientists who will assist the process of Big Data management and use technology for the provision of financial solutions (Financial Technology or FinTech), due to the unprecedented scale of data produced daily, as well as the needs of data analysis for the export of valuable knowledge in the fields of finance.

The above is a result of market globalisation but also the development of technology and computer science, the growth of data that offer, among other things, sources such as the World Wide Web, social networks, and the recent trend for open data. As an industry, FinTech refers to emerging technology companies aiming to compete with traditional financial institutions and offering a range of services, from mobile phone payment solutions, crowdfunding platforms or online micro-finance, to online portfolio management tools and international capital transfers. FinTech companies are attracting the interest of both the various users of banking services, as well as investment companies, who see them as the future of the finance sector.

Therefore, the role of Data Analysis and Financial Technology, which requires excellent knowledge of modern theories and practices of Computer Science and Finance combined with the concept of Big Data, highlight new opportunities for economic growth, elements that are considered particularly important today.

Holders of the Postgraduate Specialisation Diploma (PSD) in “Data Analysis and Financial Technology” from the proposed I.P.S.P. will have sufficient knowledge to pursue an international career, taking up positions with a particularly high level of knowledge in the organisation and management of the modern financial environment.

The teaching method used in the programme is a combination of lectures and interactive teaching methods. More specifically, the teaching method in the programme is participatory and interactive, so that students can develop their interpersonal skills through their active participation in the learning process. Learning activities and teaching methods include lectures, simulation games, discussion and debates, problem solving, group work, case studies. Students will present case studies in groups where their ability to support their views will be assessed. The exercises aim at the deeper understanding of the concepts developed during the lecture and better preparation for the exams. In addition, an educational film has been included that deals with a relevant issue for the purpose of critical discussion and argumentation by students in groups. Finally, they include a panel form of discussion with a coordinator where recent research articles will be discussed.

Teaching is based on distance learning and takes place in an online environment. The capabilities and techniques provided by ICT and asynchronous means of communication are exploited.

Teaching is based on academics’ and students’ interactivity and active involvement in the learning process, utilising multimedia material that will be tailored to the particular needs of distance learners.

In order to better understand the concepts and serve the educational teaching, the students are divided into groups. A total of six [6] teleconferences will take place, of which only the first will be the same date for all groups. Teleconferences are recorded giving each student the opportunity to repeat them often as he or she wishes.