Overview
Corporate Finance is a 60-credit module which aims to provide knowledge and understanding of the two key focuses of corporate finance, that of corporate investment and the financing of such investment.
The module begins by focusing on the evaluation of corporate investment opportunities and the links to shareholder objectives. The syllabus introduces various techniques and models to cope with a range of complexities faced by corporate decision-makers, and contemplates investment appraisal and the raising of finance for such investment. The key features of the financial markets are presented and a specific focus is given to how corporations behave and interact within a capital market environment.
By studying this module students will learn how to critically assess various analytical techniques in relation to specific corporate finance applications, and understand the financial market environment in which companies operate.
Further learning outcomes include an understanding of the focus to the ways that financial markets function, the major participants involved and their role in the financial system, some of which will specifically draw on knowledge gained from the pre-requisite module ‘Quantative Methods for Finance and Investment’. Various aspects of the efficiency of financial markets and some of the implications are investigated and students will conduct critical analysis of the efficient markets hypothesis (EMH), the empirical evidence and consequent implications that arise for corporate decision-makers.
Students will be asked to consider and analyse the problems faced by corporations when operating within a stock market, and further develop analytical skills via the application of valuation models to a range of finance sources and the selection strategies for corporate financing. Students will assess the multiple forces influencing corporate capital structure and payout policy. A specific focus is given to options analysis with consideration of some risk mitigating financing strategies as well as the investment and financing elements.
Course details
Cost
The cost of each module depends on the study method you select:
Distance learning
£1520.00
Flexible learning
£1840.00
Approved Provider costs are arranged on an individual basis. Please contact Admissions, Academic Management and Student Services Office on +44 (0) 1227 829499 to discuss.
Next course start date
1 November 2012 (registration deadline 30 September 2012)
Course duration
48 weeks (600 study hours)
Credits
This option module is worth 60 credits
Studying for this module
The course of study lasts 48 weeks and the overall study time for the module is 600 hours (approximately 12 hours per week), including assessment preparation time. You will be guided through your studies by the learning materials and supported by your Work-Based Learning tutor.
Learning support
There are a number of study methods available, allowing you to select the approach that is best suited to your support needs. Choose from:
- Distance learning: a more flexible approach to studying, which allows you to fit your learning around your job and other commitments. You will be supported by a Associate Lecturer who can provide guidance on how to study and answer any questions you have about the course content.
- Approved provider (non-UK): the ifs School of Finance has an international network of approved academic centres that provide tuition and support to students. As a student at an approved centre you will have regular tutorials led by an ifs-approved tutor. You will benefit from access to the learning resources of the academic centre, as well as meeting regularly with your student colleagues.
- Flexible learning: allows you to fit your studies around your life but still benefit from face-to-face contact with your Associate Lecturer. A series of 1-day workshops, run by specialist tutors, are scheduled at regular intervals throughout the course of study. Workshops cover specific module topics and are an opportunity to ask questions and meet other students.
Learning resources
For each module you will receive a core text, written by industry experts and updated regularly to reflect the fast-changing nature of the financial services industry. ifs learning materials are developed specifically around each module syllabus and learning outcomes.
Through the ifs secure website you will have access to the following additional resources:
- a study guide that provides a week-by-week route through the syllabus, linking the textbook, additional readings, assignments and exam preparation, as well as suggesting further opportunities for research
- student induction materials that provide guidance on study skills and tips on preparing for assessment
- our e-library, ifs KnowledgeBank, which contains a wide range of current research and management data to help you with your studies. It gives you the opportunity to access a wealth of study material, which includes textbooks, financial glossaries and articles from leading journals. ifs KnowledgeBank is an important tool in enabling you to expand your knowledge and read around particular subject areas
- module discussion forums – you can use these to post questions to a web tutor, raise a query with the ifs or chat to other students
- electronic copies of learning materials, giving you greater flexibility to choose when and where you study
- specimen assessment material
Assessment
Comprises 4 assessment components: a summative assignment towards the end of each semester and a 3-hour written examination at the end of each semester.