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M-COM in Finance at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is Finance at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Finance specialization program at University of Kerala focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and analytical skills crucial for the dynamic financial sector. It delves into core financial concepts, market operations, investment strategies, and international finance, reflecting the evolving needs of the Indian economy. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse roles in financial management, analysis, and advisory services across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for B.Com, BBA, or BBM graduates aspiring for a career in finance, investment banking, or corporate finance. It also caters to working professionals seeking to enhance their financial acumen for career advancement within financial institutions or corporate roles in India. Individuals keen on understanding complex financial instruments, market dynamics, and strategic financial decision-making will find this specialization highly beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue rewarding career paths such as Financial Analyst, Investment Manager, Portfolio Manager, Risk Manager, and Corporate Finance Executive within India. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The strong curriculum provides a solid foundation for pursuing professional certifications like CFA or NISM, aligning with industry growth trajectories in Indian financial services.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Conceptual Foundations- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on understanding the core theories of management, economics, and accounting in the first two semesters. Attend all lectures, participate in discussions, and clarify doubts promptly. Utilize university library resources and online platforms like Investopedia for supplementary learning. Form study groups to reinforce complex concepts.
Tools & Resources
University Library, Investopedia, Peer Study Groups
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for advanced finance subjects and provides the analytical framework required for all roles in the financial sector, enabling better problem-solving skills.
Develop Quantitative and Analytical Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Pay special attention to ''''Quantitative Techniques for Business'''' and ''''Accounting for Managerial Decisions''''. Practice numerical problems regularly. Utilize software like MS Excel for data analysis and financial modeling exercises. Seek help from faculty or seniors for challenging topics and participate in university workshops on analytics.
Tools & Resources
MS Excel, University Workshops, Practice Problem Sets
Career Connection
These skills are fundamental for financial analysis, risk assessment, and decision-making roles, making graduates highly valuable in investment banking and corporate finance.
Engage in Business Research and Reading- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond textbooks, cultivate a habit of reading business newspapers like The Economic Times and Business Standard, and financial magazines. Follow economic policies and corporate news. This will enhance your understanding of the business environment and current affairs, crucial for ''''Business Environment and Policy''''.
Tools & Resources
The Economic Times, Business Standard, Economic Journals
Career Connection
Staying updated on economic trends and business policies is vital for roles in financial planning, market research, and strategic management, offering a competitive edge in job interviews.
Intermediate Stage
Master Core Finance Concepts and Applications- (Semester 3)
Deep dive into ''''Financial Management'''', ''''Financial Markets and Services'''', and ''''Security Analysis and Portfolio Management''''. Work on case studies, simulate investment scenarios, and track real-time stock market data. Explore virtual trading platforms to gain practical experience without financial risk. Participate in college-level finance competitions.
Tools & Resources
NSE Academy Virtual Trading, Case Study Competitions, Financial News Portals
Career Connection
Proficiency in these areas directly prepares you for roles in investment management, equity research, and financial advisory firms, enhancing employability in the capital markets.
Pursue Internships and Industry Exposure- (During/After Semester 2 (Summer break))
Actively seek summer internships or short-term projects with banks, financial institutions, or wealth management firms after Semester 2. This hands-on experience is invaluable for connecting theoretical knowledge with real-world practices. Network with professionals during industry events and guest lectures.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Industry Workshops
Career Connection
Internships provide practical skills, industry insights, and professional networking opportunities, often leading to pre-placement offers or strong recommendations for future job applications.
Develop Presentation and Communication Skills- (Semester 3)
Actively participate in group presentations, seminars, and debates within the department. Hone your ability to articulate complex financial concepts clearly and concisely. Join relevant student clubs (e.g., finance club) to practice public speaking and build confidence. Effective communication is essential in client-facing roles.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International (if available), Departmental Seminars, Student Clubs
Career Connection
Strong communication and presentation skills are highly valued in roles requiring client interaction, team collaboration, and report presentation, directly impacting career progression.
Advanced Stage
Specialized Skill Development and Certification- (Semester 4)
As you advance into ''''Financial Derivatives'''' and ''''International Financial Management'''', consider pursuing certifications like NISM (National Institute of Securities Markets) modules related to equity derivatives, mutual funds, or investment advisory. These add significant weight to your resume and demonstrate specialized knowledge.
Tools & Resources
NISM Certifications, Online Courses (Coursera, edX for advanced finance), Bloomberg Terminal access (if available)
Career Connection
Industry-recognized certifications validate your expertise, making you a preferred candidate for niche roles in derivatives trading, risk management, and international finance.
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 4)
For your ''''Project and Viva Voce'''', choose a research topic aligned with your career aspirations in finance. Conduct thorough primary or secondary research, apply rigorous analytical methods, and write a well-structured report. This project serves as a capstone and demonstrates your research capabilities.
Tools & Resources
Research Databases (e.g., J-Gate, Shodhganga), Statistical Software (e.g., SPSS, R), Mentorship from Faculty
Career Connection
A robust research project showcases your analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, which are highly sought after by recruiters for research analyst or consulting positions.
Intensive Placement Preparation and Networking- (Semester 4)
Start preparing for placements early in Semester 4. Focus on resume building, mock interviews (technical and HR), and group discussion practice. Attend pre-placement talks. Leverage alumni networks and career fairs to connect with potential employers. Tailor your applications to specific finance roles.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell, Alumni Network on LinkedIn, Mock Interview Platforms
Career Connection
Strategic and early placement preparation maximizes your chances of securing desirable job offers in leading financial firms and corporates across India, setting a strong foundation for your career.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Candidates who have passed B.Com/BBA/BBM Degree of University of Kerala or any other equivalent degree recognised by the University of Kerala.
Duration: 4 semesters / 2 years
Credits: 80 Credits
Assessment: Internal: undefined, External: undefined
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 | Management Theory and Organizational Behaviour | Core | 4 | Management Concepts and Approaches, Classical and Neo-classical Theories, Organizational Structure and Design, Motivation Theories and Applications, Group Dynamics and Team Building, Leadership Styles and Theories |
| 1.2 | Managerial Economics | Core | 4 | Nature and Scope of Managerial Economics, Demand Analysis and Forecasting, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structure and Pricing Strategies, Profit Management under Uncertainty, Capital Budgeting and Risk Analysis |
| 1.3 | Business Environment and Policy | Core | 4 | Indian Business Environment Analysis, Economic Reforms and Liberalization, Industrial Policy and Competition Law, Monetary and Fiscal Policies Impact, International Business Environment Factors, Corporate Social Responsibility and Ethics |
| 1.4 | Quantitative Techniques for Business | Core | 4 | Linear Programming and Applications, Transportation and Assignment Problems, Decision Theory under Uncertainty, Game Theory and Business Strategies, Network Analysis (PERT/CPM), Inventory Control Models |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.1 | Accounting for Managerial Decisions | Core | 4 | Management Accounting Introduction, Financial Statement Analysis Techniques, Ratio Analysis for Performance Evaluation, Fund Flow Statement Preparation, Cash Flow Statement Analysis, Budgetary Control and Variance Analysis |
| 2.2 | Strategic Management | Core | 4 | Concept of Strategy and Strategic Management, Environmental Analysis and Scanning, Strategic Alternatives and Choice, Strategy Implementation and Control, Corporate Governance and Ethics, Mergers, Acquisitions and Restructuring |
| 2.3 | Research Methodology for Business | Core | 4 | Research Process and Formulation, Research Design Types, Methods of Data Collection, Sampling Techniques and Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Presentation |
| 2.4 | Marketing Management | Core | 4 | Marketing Concepts and Environment, Market Segmentation, Targeting, Positioning, Product and Pricing Decisions, Promotion and Distribution Decisions, Digital Marketing and E-commerce, Marketing Ethics and Social Responsibility |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.1 | Financial Management | Core | 4 | Financial Management Scope and Goals, Cost of Capital Estimation, Capital Structure Theories, Leverage Analysis, Working Capital Management, Dividend Policy Decisions |
| 3.2 | Financial Markets and Services | Elective | 4 | Indian Financial System Overview, Money Market Instruments, Capital Market and Stock Exchanges, SEBI and Regulatory Framework, Mutual Funds and Pension Funds, Investment Banking and Credit Rating |
| 3.3 | Security Analysis and Portfolio Management | Elective | 4 | Investment Environment and Process, Risk and Return Analysis, Fundamental Analysis of Securities, Technical Analysis, Portfolio Construction and Diversification, Portfolio Performance Evaluation |
| 3.4 | Entrepreneurship Development | Generic Elective | 4 | Concept of Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurial Process and Types, Business Plan Preparation, SME Sector in India, Sources of Finance for Startups, Government Support for Entrepreneurship |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.1 | Corporate Law and Governance | Core | 4 | Company Formation and Types, Share Capital and Debentures, Management and Administration of Companies, Meetings and Resolutions, Corporate Social Responsibility, Corporate Governance Principles and Practices |
| 4.2 | Financial Derivatives | Elective | 4 | Introduction to Derivatives Market, Futures Contracts and Pricing, Options Contracts and Strategies, Swaps and their Applications, Hedging Strategies using Derivatives, Arbitrage Opportunities in Derivatives |
| 4.3 | International Financial Management | Elective | 4 | Global Financial Environment, Exchange Rate Regimes and Determination, Foreign Exchange Risk Management, International Capital Budgeting, MNCs Working Capital Management, International Financing Decisions |
| 4.4 | Project and Viva Voce | Project | 4 | Problem Identification and Formulation, Literature Review, Research Design and Methodology, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing, Presentation and Defence |
