| AQF Level |
Level 7 Bachelor Degree |
| CRICOS Code |
027342M |
| Overview and Aims of the Program |
Gain practical and job-ready financial skills with the Bachelor of Applied Finance degree. This course in finance will give you the specialist training to manage funds and investments in the complex world of markets, banks, laws, financial instruments and businesses.
Throughout the degree you will study units in economics, accounting, current financial theory, mathematical techniques such as probability or statistics, and analysis. This applied finance degree has a focus on applying these skills to real financial organisations, markets and instruments.
Key features:
• relaunched and renewed in 2014 with industry input
• apply current theory and analytical techniques to real finance industry situations
• learn from highly qualified lecturers who have a practical understanding of finance
• take your first step to a career in the finance industry
• meets ASIC training requirements for RG146 (Regulatory Guide 146 Licensing: Training of financial product advisers qualification) compliance for general knowledge skills, securities, derivatives, managed investments, deposit products and non-cash payment facilities and foreign exchange (subject to the completion of certain units). |
| Graduate Capabilities |
The Graduate Capabilities Framework articulates the fundamentals that underpin all of Macquarie’s academic programs. It expresses these as follows:
Cognitive capabilities
(K) discipline specific knowledge and skills
(T) critical, analytical and integrative thinking
(P) problem solving and research capability
(I) creative and innovative
Interpersonal or social capabilities
(C) effective communication
(E) engaged and ethical local and global citizens
(A) socially and environmentally active and responsible
Personal capabilities
(J) capable of professional and personal judgement and initiative
(L) commitment to continuous learning |
| Program Learning Outcomes |
By the end of this program it is anticipated you should be able to:
1. demonstrate knowledge of fundamental principles in contemporary applied finance
2. develop technical skills required to evaluate key theories, concepts and models in contemporary applied finance
3. critically analyse financial data and modelling
4. apply appropriate analytical techniques to decisions, issues and problems in finance
5. demonstrate communication skills relevant to an appropriate professional environment
6. demonstrate an awareness of the effects of current regulatory frameworks on market efficiencies and other innovations in finance
7. demonstrate an awareness of ethical issues in a global financial context
8. apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration to achieve diverse purposes in a range of contexts (E). |
| Learning and Teaching Methods |
Throughout the Bachelor of Applied Finance (BAppFin) program, students will participate in a range of traditional and innovative learning activities designed to develop the knowledge, understanding, skills and techniques required for successful participation in employment or further study. Learning activities are varied and include both formal and informal experiences.
All units in the program are supported by an online environment that provides access to resources such as lecture notes and recordings, readings, quizzes, discussion forums and assessment materials, and that facilitates communication between teaching staff and students.
The learning outcomes associated with individual units in the BAppFin have been aligned with program level learning outcomes and the Macquarie University graduate capabilities. Students are expected to actively engage in their learning and work with their lecturers, tutors and fellow students to achieve these learning outcomes.
Learning styles used in the BAppFin may include:
• Case studies, which provide students with an opportunity to apply their knowledge to real or simulated scenarios in individual or group situations.
• Simulations, modelled on real-life situations and providing learning experiences that promote integration of knowledge, skills and critical thinking.
• Project work, which may be independent or involve group learning. Projects assist students in developing more in-depth knowledge and skills in conducting research, communication, and in planning, organisation and time management.
• Readings taken from textbooks, journals, websites and other sources provide material to further develop concepts and knowledge referred to in individual units in the program.
• Reflective activities, such as journals, assist students in integrating the course content and in developing the ability to transfer knowledge and skills from the learning environment into the workplace.
• Self-study activities, such as questions with worked examples, (non assessed) online quizzes, and textbook questions and answers.
• Online discussion forums, in which students may be required to submit responses to a given question, and/or to participate in a set discussion topic.
Learning in the BAppFin may be facilitated through the following teaching methods:
• Lectures: lectures are presentations designed to communicate a body of knowledge to a group of students, often in a large lecture theatre, and provide insight into key concepts and understanding of the subject matter pertaining to a unit of study. Lectures in this program are typically delivered in the traditional face-to-face mode, although some are interactive and students may be required to participate in a learning activity during the lecture. Extensive use is also made of the Echo 360 lecture audio recording system. Lectures may also be video captured. This means that students can usually access lecture material, in some format, on an 'on demand' basis.
• Tutorials: tutorials are classes in which a tutor facilitates interactive learning with a small group of students. In first year, tutorials tend to focus on ensuring that fundamental concepts and skills are acquired. As students progress on to units at a higher level, the focus shifts towards a more critical engagement with the discipline. Tutorials provide students with the chance to ask questions, seek clarification, resolve problems, enhance their communication skills, and develop their ability to work in a collaborative manner with their peers.
• Computer lab workshops or Practicals: the environment in which our graduates will work is one requiring high level quantitative skills. These quantitative skills are developed, in part, in computer lab workshop sessions. These sessions allow students to acquire and practice quantitative skills that are highly valued in the workplace. In addition to formal workshop sessions under the direct instruction of a lecturer or tutor, students are able to access the labs to practice skills and to complete assessment tasks in their own time.
• PACE unit: PACE (Professional and Community Engagement) is Macquarie University’s way of connecting students with partner organisations to provide a mutually beneficial experience. The BAppFin includes a PACE unit in the final year, AFIN310 Issues in Applied Finance, and takes the form of sustained engagement with the industry partner throughout the semester. The partner presents a real world scenario to students, who go on to analyse the scenario, develop a feasible project brief, and apply their knowledge and skills to formulate a recommendation to the industry partner. This is done under the close supervision of academic staff and the partner.
• PAL sessions: the Faculty of Business and Economics also offers PAL (Peer Assisted Learning) workshops in a number of first and second year units. The free, weekly PAL workshops are led by trained students who have excelled in those particular units, and are open to all enrolled students in these units. The purpose of PAL is to promote improved learning and understanding of the unit's content in a group setting. PAL is for all levels of students studying the unit, not just the "I'm barely passing" students, and increases your likelihood of achieving higher grades.
PAL offers many benefits:
a. Improves your grades. Statistics show PAL can increase grades by up to 15%.
b. Helps you revise, stay on top of course content, and provides time to discuss those more difficult concepts.
c. Encourages group work and develops team skills.
d. Provides a safe environment where it's OK to ask those dumb questions, make mistakes and learn from them.
e. PAL is optional and for students who genuinely want to succeed.
f. Promotes independent study, autonomy, self-confidence and satisfaction in the unit.
g. Improves your communication and presentation skills.
h. Lecturer and tutor consultation. Academic staff are available for individual or small group consultations either in person or through a variety of online formats.
• Capstone unit: the inclusion of the Capstone unit AFIN310 Issues in Applied Finance in the BAppFin provides students with opportunities to integrate their knowledge and experiences from the whole program in preparation for the next stage of their careers. |
| Assessment |
Assessment tasks are designed to develop understanding and assess achievement of the program learning outcomes and will require students to integrate and exhibit skills and knowledge acquired. For each unit of study, students will complete between 3 and 4 assessment tasks. The unit guide will indicate the relationship between the assessment tasks and program learning outcomes.
Assessment tasks across the BAppFin may include the following:
• Written assessments in traditional academic format ranging from short essays to longer, self-directed research papers, literature reviews and annotated bibliographies.
• Case studies or reports, written documents outlining the results of a detailed analysis of a situation using empirical data and research. Case studies are used to assess critical thinking, analytical and research skill.
• Assignments, in a variety of formats such as the production of an Excel spreadsheet, the analysis of a mathematical problem or data set, or a brief written response to a topic question.
• Online quizzes designed to assess knowledge, skills or capabilities, and typically consisting of a series of questions requiring brief responses.
• Class participation, including engagement in tutorial discussions or online discussions.
• Written class tests, time limited assessments designed to assess a student’s knowledge or skills.
• Individual or group oral presentations which may incorporate presentation technologies or be accompanied by handouts.
• Final examination, an invigilated assessment conducted at the end of session and designed to assess a student’s body of knowledge and critical thinking skills. |
| Recognition of Prior Learning |
Macquarie University may recognise prior formal, informal and non-formal learning for the purpose of granting credit towards, or admission into, a program. The recognition of these forms of learning is enabled by the University’s Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Policy (see www.mq.edu.au/policy) and its associated Procedures and Guidelines. The RPL pages contain information on how to apply, links to registers, and the approval processes for recognising prior learning for entry or credit.
Domestic students
For undergraduate RPL information visit www.goto.mq.edu.au/nonschoolrpl
For domestic postgraduate RPL information visit www.goto.mq.edu.au/pgrpl
International students
For RPL information visit www.mq.edu.au/international/rpl |
| Support for Learning |
Macquarie University aspires to be an inclusive and supportive community of learners where all students are given the opportunity to meet their academic and personal goals. The University offers a comprehensive range of free and accessible student support services which include academic advice, counselling and psychological services, advocacy services and welfare advice, careers and employment, disability services and academic skills workshops amongst others. There is also a bulk billing medical service located on campus.
Further information can be found at www.students.mq.edu.au/support/
Campus Wellbeing contact details:
Phone: +61 2 9850 7497
Email: campuswellbeing@mq.edu.au
www.students.mq.edu.au/support/health_and_wellbeing/contact_us |
| Program Standards and Quality |
The program is subject to an ongoing comprehensive process of quality review in accordance with a pre-determined schedule that complies with the Higher Education Standards Framework. The review is overseen by Macquarie University's peak academic governance body, the Academic Senate and takes into account feedback received from students, staff and external stakeholders. |
| Graduate Destinations and Employability |
Career Opportunities:
• business journalist
• financial analyst for accounting and consultancy firms
• financial economist
• investment analyst
• management consultant
• market analyst
• planning/policy analyst
• public administrator
• researcher
• statistician
• stockbroker
• teacher.
Employers:
• accounting and consultancy firms (such as Accenture, Price Waterhouse)
• commercial banks (such as Commonwealth Bank, AMP)
• government (such as Treasury, Reserve Bank, Productivity Commission)
• financial institutions
• merchant banks. |
| Assessment Regulations |
This program is subject to Macquarie University regulations, including but not limited to those specified in the Assessment Policy, Academic Honesty Policy, the Final Examination Policy and relevant University Rules. For all approved University policies, procedures, guidelines and schedules visit www.mq.edu.au/policy. |
| Accreditation |
This is an Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) accredited qualification.
This degree, and associated double degrees, have been approved by ASIC (Australian Securities and Investments Commission - authorised assessors) as meeting ASIC training requirements in relation to RG 146 compliance for generic knowledge, skills, securities, derivatives, managed investments, deposit products and non-cash payment facilities, and foreign exchange, subject to the completion of certain units. |
