Who is this course for?  

The MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) is designed for students who want to lead at the intersection of financial innovation, economic insight, and digital technology. Whether you're a recent graduate in economics, business, finance, or a numerate field like computer science or engineering, this programme offers the skills and confidence to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry. 

You’ll explore how digital financial tools (from blockchain and AI to advanced analytics) are transforming markets, banking, and regulation. The curriculum balances theory and application, giving you both the economic context and technical expertise needed to assess and shape the future of financial systems. 

The programme is delivered full-time over one academic year. Students complete a blend of core and optional modules in areas such as:

• Financial Technology & Innovation
• Behavioural Finance & Economics
• Programming and Data Science for Finance
• Machine Learning Applications in Fintech
• Financial Regulation and Compliance
• Advanced Econometrics and Policy Analysis 

In the summer, you’ll complete a supervised research project or dissertation, applying your learning to real-world Fintech problems and datasets. Optional modules allow you to tailor your learning to interests such as cybersecurity, ethical finance, or digital payments. 

This course is ideal for ambitious, analytically-minded students with a passion for solving complex problems and embracing digital transformation in finance. 

What will I study? 

The MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) is delivered full-time over one academic year and offers a rigorous, multi-disciplinary learning experience. The programme blends core modules in finance, economics, and data analytics with specialised electives in emerging financial technologies. 

Rationale Behind the Course Design 

The structure of the MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) reflects the urgent need for professionals who can bridge the gap between economic theory, financial systems, and digital innovation. The programme combines rigorous analytical training with hands-on technical skills, preparing graduates to assess and shape the future of finance. 

By integrating core economic and financial principles with programming, data analysis, and machine learning, students gain the tools to navigate—and lead—in a fast-moving, data-driven industry. Elective options and the final project allow you to specialise in areas aligned with your interests and the evolving needs of global Fintech employers. 

Core modules include: 

• Financial Technology & Innovation - explore the development and impact of digital assets, smart contracts and digital finance.
• Behavioural Economics and Finance - understand how human behaviour shapes financial decision-making and market outcomes.
• Programming for Finance - develop practical coding skills using Python or R to work with financial data and build tools for analysis.
• Econometrics - apply statistical methods to real-world economic and financial problems using advanced modelling techniques.
• Machine Learning in Fintech - gain insight into how AI is transforming risk modelling, customer profiling, and fraud detection. 

Elective modules may include: 

• Financial Regulation and Compliance
• Blockchain and Digital Currencies
• Financial Data Visualisation
• Digital Payments and Infrastructure
• Cybersecurity and Financial Risk 

Summer Dissertation or Applied Project 
In the final phase of the programme, students complete a dissertation or industry-facing project that applies their learning to a real-world Fintech challenge. This research-driven component allows students to investigate trends, evaluate tools, or analyse large datasets relevant to the digital finance ecosystem. 

The curriculum is designed to be dynamic and responsive, offering flexibility to explore areas aligned with your career ambitions - from data science and analytics to financial policy and innovation. 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• Blends Economics and Technology: Bridges the gap between economic theory and cutting-edge Fintech tools like machine learning and blockchain.
• Hands-On Learning with Real Data: Work with real-world financial datasets, coding environments, and applied case studies across the Fintech ecosystem.
• Customisable Learning Pathways: Choose from optional modules in areas like digital currencies, cybersecurity, and ethical finance to shape your own specialisation.
• Built Around Industry Needs: Designed in consultation with Ireland’s Fintech leaders and FPAI members to meet current and future workforce demands.
• Supervised Research or Industry Project: Complete a research dissertation or applied Fintech project tackling real industry challenges and emerging innovations.
• Study in a Leading Fintech Location: Take advantage of Galway’s strong presence in finance and analytics with connections to major employers like Stripe, Mastercard, and Deloitte. 

Careers 

The MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) prepares you for a future-focused career in one of the fastest-growing sectors in Ireland and globally. You’ll graduate with a rare blend of skills in economic thinking, digital innovation, and data analytics—skills that today’s employers are actively seeking. 

2025 Outlook for Fintech Talent in Ireland

1. Hiring Intentions
According to the FPAI Irish Fintech Survey published in April 2025:
91% of Irish fintech firms plan to hire new staff in the next 12 months. This reflects a strong expansion mindset across the sector, despite global uncertainties. 
Firms are particularly focused on attracting technical and senior talent, with 59% citing Ireland as a favorable location for accessing such professionals.

2. Government and Investment Support
The Enterprise Ireland & PitchBook 2025 Report highlights: 
Over €90 million invested in more than 200 Irish fintech and financial services companies from 2018 to 2023.
A new €250 million Seed & Venture Capital Scheme is backing fintech innovation through 2028. 
Ireland’s fintech workforce is described as “robust,” with strong university alignment and strategic support.
3. Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the growth, firms report:

Difficulty attracting candidates to in-person roles post-COVID.

Challenges in finding diverse talent, with 83% of firms noting this as a concern

Typical roles include: 

Fintech Analyst, Risk & Compliance Officer, Blockchain Consultant, Financial Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Specialist, or Regulatory Strategist. 

You’ll also build the critical thinking and research skills to continue into a PhD or academic research, especially in areas such as financial innovation, behavioural finance, or economic policy. 

Whatever your path, the MSc Fintech equips you to step confidently into a dynamic, high-impact industry and help shape the future of how the world transacts. 

The MSc in Economics and Finance combines innovative teaching methods with practical, hands-on learning to ensure a comprehensive educational experience. You will learn through a mix of interactive lectures, seminars and workshops led by expert faculty. Real-world case studies, data-driven projects and coding exercises will enable you to apply theoretical knowledge to practical problems. 

Group projects and collaborative activities will enhance your teamwork and communication skills, while individual assignments and the final dissertation will help you develop independence and critical thinking.  

Throughout the programme, you will have access to cutting-edge resources, including industry-standard software and real-world datasets, to support your learning and professional growth.

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Throughout the programme, your progress is assessed through various coursework and exams, including reports, essays, presentations, and computer assignments. 

1. Continuous Assessment - Regular coursework, including essays, presentations, in-class tests, and language exercises. Students receive regular (weekly) feedback on their progress. (30%).
2. Examinations - Written exams take place before Christmas and in May. Written and oral exams evaluate proficiency in grammar, vocabulary, comprehension, and communication. The Final Examination accounts for 50%.
3. Project Work - Research and subtitling projects and translation assignments allow students to apply their skills in real-world contexts. (10%).

Course queries: 
economics@universityofgalway.ie

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Féidhlim McGowan 
Lecturer above the bar in Economics, 
Behavioural Economist,  
J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics 
College of Public Policy, Business and Law 

E: feidhlim.mcgowan@universityofgalway.ie

Graduates of the MSc Fintech (Economics and Financial Technology) will leave with a powerful combination of technical, analytical, and professional skills that are highly valued across industries. 

You will be able to: 

• Interpret and analyse complex financial data using programming languages and data visualisation tools.
• Apply economic and financial theory to real-world scenarios and policy contexts.
• Use coding and machine learning techniques to solve challenges in digital finance, risk, and compliance.
• Communicate clearly and confidently to diverse audiences - from technical teams to executive decision-makers.
• Manage projects independently, demonstrating initiative, strategic thinking, and time management.
• Collaborate in interdisciplinary teams, contributing insights from economics, technology, and finance.
• Adapt quickly in fast-changing environments, bringing critical thinking and creative problem-solving to new tools and trends.
• These are skills that employers consistently look for - whether you choose to work in a startup, a multinational, a regulatory body, or to pursue further study or research.

Normally a H2.1 degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent) with Economics to intermediate level*. However, candidates with a significantly high H2.2 honours degree and who have achieved a 2.1 average in relevant Economics modules in a business degree, will also be considered. * By "intermediate level economics" we mean courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics at a level typically done in second or third year of an undergraduate programme. Applicants with a single year of Economics and a 2.1 may be required to take an online preparatory course before registering on the programme. 

As this programme covers the intersection of finance and technology, we also welcome applicants with at least a 2:1 or equivalent in Engineering, Computer Science, Mathematics or Technology. Such applicants should highlight their suitability for the programme in their personal statement, citing appropriate evidence (e.g. work experience, internships, extracurricular activities, etc.). Applicants without an Economics background shall be required to take an online preparatory course before registering on the programme. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

For applicants whose first language is not English, an English language proficiency of IELTS score of 6.5 is required (with no less than 6.5 in Writing and no less than 6.0 in any other band) or equivalent.  

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotas will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€11,500		€20,500	€140		€11,640	€20,640

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

If your course has a specific scholarship associated it with it please list it and if it requires a separate application form please provide the link. 

Applicants to our MA in Drama and Theatre Studies who have accepted and paid their deposit by 15 May 2025 will have their applications considered for this scholarship competition which is adjudicated by a panel of Drama and Theatre Studies staff.  

Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships 

J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics at University of Galway is committed to attracting high calibre students from around the world and offers generous scholarships across all our postgraduate programmes, including the MSc Fintech. To be eligible candidates must have achieved a H1 (or international equivalent) in their primary degree and scholarships are offered on a competitive basis. Scholarships are awarded up to 50% of the programme tuition fees. Click here to learn more.  

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for each the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.  

Applicants with a single year of Economics and a 2.1 may be required to take an online preparatory course before registering on the programme. 

Applicants without an Economics background shall be required to take an online preparatory course before registering on the programme. 

Irish Fintech and Payments Association provides a list of stakeholders in the Fintech Space.  

https://www.fpai.ie/

https://www.fpai.ie/fpai-member-directory/