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MBA in Finance at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Finance at VELS Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS) Chennai?
This Finance program at Vels Institute of Science Technology and Advanced Studies focuses on equipping students with a robust understanding of financial markets, investment strategies, and corporate finance. In the dynamic Indian economy, sound financial management is crucial for businesses. This program emphasizes practical application and analytical skills, preparing graduates for key roles in financial institutions and corporate sectors across India.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for fresh graduates from commerce, management, or related fields seeking entry into the finance industry. It also suits working professionals aiming to upskill in areas like investment banking, portfolio management, or financial analysis. Individuals with a strong quantitative aptitude and an interest in financial markets will find this specialization particularly rewarding.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including financial analyst, portfolio manager, investment banker, and credit analyst. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 4-7 lakhs per annum, with experienced professionals earning significantly more. The curriculum aligns with the knowledge required for professional certifications like NISM and CFA, enhancing growth trajectories in Indian companies.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Develop Strong Analytical & Quantitative Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on mastering foundational subjects like Managerial Economics, Quantitative Techniques, and Accounting for Management. Regularly solve case studies and problems to build analytical rigor. Join a finance club or study group to discuss complex financial concepts and improve problem-solving abilities collaboratively.
Tools & Resources
Online platforms like Khan Academy for basic finance/economics, Excel for data analysis practice, Textbooks, peer study groups
Career Connection
Essential for roles like financial analyst, data analyst, and investment research, where strong numerical and analytical skills are paramount for making informed decisions.
Build Effective Communication & Presentation Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Advanced Business Communication and Aptitude Training sessions. Practice public speaking and structured presentations on business topics. Engage in mock interviews and group discussions to articulate ideas clearly and persuasively, crucial for client interactions and team collaboration.
Tools & Resources
Toastmasters International clubs (if available), Presentation software (PowerPoint/Google Slides), LinkedIn for professional networking, University career services workshops
Career Connection
Vital for securing placements, client relationship management, and leadership roles where conveying financial insights effectively is key.
Understand Business Fundamentals & Ethical Practices- (Semester 1-2)
Pay close attention to core subjects like Management Principles, Marketing Management, and Business Law and Ethics. Understand how different business functions interact and the ethical implications of financial decisions. Read business newspapers like The Economic Times and Business Standard daily to stay updated on market trends and corporate governance.
Tools & Resources
Business news apps, Financial dailies, Official company reports, Case studies on ethical dilemmas in finance
Career Connection
Forms a holistic business perspective, crucial for roles requiring strategic thinking and adherence to regulatory compliance in the Indian financial sector.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Finance Electives & Apply Concepts- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose four finance electives that align with your career interests (e.g., investment banking, wealth management). Dive deep into topics like Security Analysis, International Financial Management, and Derivatives. Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios through simulations and case competitions.
Tools & Resources
Financial modeling software (Excel, basic Python/R for financial data), NISM certification modules, Online courses on Coursera/edX related to finance specializations
Career Connection
Direct relevance to specialized finance roles, demonstrating expertise to potential employers and preparing for specific industry challenges.
Seek Industry Exposure through Internships- (Semester 3-4 (Summer after Semester 2))
Actively pursue summer internships or mini-projects with banks, investment firms, or corporate finance departments. Focus on gaining hands-on experience in financial analysis, market research, or risk assessment. Network with professionals during your internship to build valuable industry connections.
Tools & Resources
University career placement cell, LinkedIn, Internship portals (Internshala, Naukri), Industry events
Career Connection
Provides practical work experience, improves resume, and often leads to pre-placement offers or strong references, crucial for securing entry-level finance jobs.
Participate in Financial Competitions & Workshops- (Semester 3-4)
Engage in inter-college finance quizzes, stock market simulations, and business plan competitions. Attend workshops on advanced financial tools, such as Bloomberg Terminal or Tally, if available. These activities enhance practical skills and demonstrate initiative to potential employers.
Tools & Resources
Virtual trading platforms, Financial news platforms (Moneycontrol), Professional body workshops (e.g., ICAI, NISM events)
Career Connection
Builds a competitive edge, sharpens decision-making skills under pressure, and adds valuable accomplishments to your professional profile.
Advanced Stage
Undertake a Comprehensive Research Project- (Semester 4)
For the Project Work and Viva-Voce, select a challenging finance-related research topic. Conduct thorough primary and secondary research, apply analytical frameworks, and present robust findings. This demonstrates independent research capability and in-depth understanding of a specific financial domain.
Tools & Resources
Research databases (JSTOR, Google Scholar), Statistical software (SPSS, R), Academic journals, Faculty mentorship
Career Connection
Showcases analytical rigor and problem-solving, making you a strong candidate for research-intensive roles or further academic pursuits.
Network Strategically & Prepare for Placements- (Semester 4)
Attend industry seminars, alumni meets, and job fairs. Connect with professionals and alumni on LinkedIn. Prepare a tailored resume and cover letter highlighting finance skills and experiences. Practice behavioral and technical interview questions, especially focusing on finance concepts.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, University alumni network, Career services, Mock interview platforms, Company websites for research
Career Connection
Maximizes job search effectiveness, opens doors to hidden job markets, and helps secure desirable placements in top financial firms.
Continuous Learning & Industry Certification Pursuit- (Semester 4 and beyond)
Beyond the curriculum, commit to continuous learning. Consider pursuing certifications like NISM (for Indian markets), FRM (for risk management), or the initial levels of CFA. Stay updated with global financial news, economic policies, and regulatory changes in India.
Tools & Resources
Official NISM/CFA/FRM study materials, Financial newspapers, Reputable online financial news sources
Career Connection
Differentiates you in a competitive job market, demonstrates commitment to the finance profession, and accelerates career growth in specialized areas.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- A pass in any Degree (10+2+3 pattern) with 50% marks in aggregate or an examination accepted as equivalent thereto by the Academic Council.
Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)
Credits: 86 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAQ101 | Management Principles and Practices | Core | 4 | Introduction to Management, Planning and Decision Making, Organising and Staffing, Directing and Controlling, Managerial Roles and Skills |
| BAA102 | Accounting for Management | Core | 4 | Financial Accounting Fundamentals, Cost Accounting Concepts, Management Accounting Tools, Financial Statement Analysis, Budgeting and Control |
| BAM103 | Marketing Management | Core | 4 | Marketing Environment, Consumer Behavior, Market Segmentation and Targeting, Product and Pricing Strategies, Promotion and Distribution |
| BAHR104 | Human Resource Management | Core | 4 | HRM Functions, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Performance Management, Compensation and Benefits |
| BAF105 | Financial Management | Core | 4 | Financial System Overview, Time Value of Money, Investment Decisions (Capital Budgeting), Financing Decisions (Cost of Capital), Dividend Policy |
| BAMR106 | Business Research Methods | Core | 4 | Research Process and Design, Data Collection Methods, Sampling Techniques, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing |
| BAA107 | Advanced Business Communication | Soft Skills | 1 | Communication Barriers, Written Communication Skills, Oral Presentation Skills, Negotiation Skills, Interview Techniques |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAIT201 | Management Information Systems | Core | 4 | Information Systems Foundations, Database Management, Decision Support Systems, E-commerce and Digital Business, IT Security and Control |
| BAE202 | Managerial Economics | Core | 4 | Demand and Supply Analysis, Production and Cost Analysis, Market Structures and Pricing, Macroeconomic Environment, Business Cycles and Policies |
| BAOM203 | Operations Management | Core | 4 | Operations Strategy, Production Planning and Control, Inventory Management, Quality Management, Supply Chain Management |
| BAS204 | Business Law and Ethics | Core | 4 | Indian Contract Act, Companies Act, Consumer Protection Act, Business Ethics Principles, Corporate Governance |
| BAQT205 | Quantitative Techniques for Management | Core | 4 | Probability and Distributions, Correlation and Regression, Time Series Analysis, Linear Programming, Decision Theory |
| BAEN206 | Entrepreneurship Development | Core | 4 | Concept of Entrepreneurship, Business Plan Formulation, Sources of Finance, Small Business Management, Innovation and Creativity |
| BAAT207 | Aptitude Training | Soft Skills | 1 | Quantitative Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, Verbal Ability, Data Interpretation, Problem Solving Strategies |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAST301 | Strategic Management | Core | 4 | Strategic Management Process, Environmental Analysis, Strategy Formulation, Strategy Implementation, Strategic Control |
| BAGB302 | Global Business Management | Core | 4 | International Business Environment, Theories of International Trade, Foreign Exchange Markets, Global Marketing Strategies, International Human Resource Management |
| BAFE303 | Security Analysis and Portfolio Management | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Investment Environment, Security Markets, Fundamental Analysis, Technical Analysis, Portfolio Theory and Management |
| BAFE304 | International Financial Management | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Foreign Exchange Markets, Exchange Rate Determination, International Parity Conditions, Currency Risk Management, International Investment Decisions |
| BAFE305 | Merchant Banking and Financial Services | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Merchant Banking Functions, Issue Management, Underwriting Services, Leasing and Hire Purchase, Venture Capital and Factoring |
| BAFE306 | Wealth Management | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Personal Financial Planning, Investment Products, Retirement Planning, Estate Planning, Risk Management for Individuals |
| BAP307 | Summer Internship / Mini Project | Project | 2 | Project Planning, Data Collection and Analysis, Report Writing, Presentation Skills, Industry Exposure |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BAFE401 | Futures, Options and Derivatives | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Introduction to Derivatives, Forward and Futures Contracts, Options Contracts, Swaps, Hedging Strategies |
| BAFE402 | Strategic Cost Management | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Cost Management Techniques, Activity Based Costing, Life Cycle Costing, Target Costing, Lean Accounting |
| BAFE403 | Risk and Insurance Management | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Risk Management Process, Insurance Principles, Life Insurance Products, General Insurance Products, Risk Mitigation Strategies |
| BAFE404 | Indian Financial System | Elective (Finance) | 4 | Structure of Indian Financial System, Money Market Institutions, Capital Market Institutions, Financial Regulators (RBI, SEBI), Financial Reforms |
| BAP405 | Project Work and Viva-Voce | Project | 10 | Research Problem Identification, Methodology Design, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation, Viva-Voce Examination |
