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Foundation Degree in Banking Practice and Management (FdSc)

Overview

Please note that this qualification is being phased out and is only available to students currently registered.

The Foundation Degree in Banking Practice and Management (FdSc) (formerly the Foundation Degree in Financial Markets and Management) is a professional qualification for people working or aspiring to work in the financial services industry. It is a blend of academic and work-based learning within a single programme. The FdSc is delivered and assessed by the ifs School of Finance and validated and awarded by the University of Kent.

The FdSc comprises two study stages. At FHEQ Level 4 you will need to complete the Professional Certificate in Banking or an ifs Applied Diploma. Students who hold a relevant degree can enter directly at FHEQ Level 5 (please check the entry requirements below).

The FdSc covers an array of topics that includes:

  • the relationship between an organisation and its individual stakeholders
  • the different roles within the financial services industry
  • the needs of customers; and
  • how to measure performance effectively 

In addition, further modules will examine the principles of organisational management and the commercial environment in the financial services industry. The Work-Based Learning module then enables you to use the skills you have developed, and the final module allows you to select a subject that is specific to your needs.

Level

The Foundation Degree is assessed at Level 5 in the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications

Duration

Each module requires approximately 300 hours of study time over a 6-month period. Studying a module at a time, you can expect to complete your studies within two years.

Next start date

1 November 2011 (registration deadline 30 September 2011)

Cost

During your studies you are required to be a member of the ifs. The membership fee is currently £98 (£49 after 1 July). Click here to visit the membership benefits page. The cost of each module depends on the study method you select:

Distance learning   £735.00

Flexible learning     £895.00

Modules

To achieve the FdSc you will need to complete the 3 compulsory modules and 1 option module.  You are required to study the first two compulsory modules before starting to study your chosen optional module. 

Select the module for further details about the syllabus and learning support options.

Compulsory modules (30 credits)

  • Organisational Management in Financial Services
  • Financial Services: The Commercial Environment
  • Work-Based Learning*

Option modules (30 credits)

  • Corporate Financial Services
  • Finance of International Trade
  • Insurance
  • Quantitative Methods for Finance and Investment**
  • Retail Financial Services

* Work Based Learning must be taken after at least 1 compulsory module has been attempted.
** Quantitative Methods for Finance and Investment must be taken if you wish to take Corporate Finance 1 and 2 at FHEQ Level 6.

Studying

ifs learning materials are developed specifically around each module syllabus and learning outcomes.

You will receive both printed materials and access to online resources, giving you greater flexibilty to choose when and where you study. Course materials are written by industry experts and updated regularly to ensure that they reflect the fast-changing nature of the financial services industry.

You will also have access to:

  • 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

Further details of the learning resources provisions are given on each module page. 

Learning support

There are a number of study methods available, allowing you to select the approach that is best suited to your needs. Details of the methods available are given on each module page.

Assessment

The FdSc is delivered and assessed by the ifs School of Finance and validated and awarded by the University of Kent. Details of the assessment structure are provided for each module.

Register

Programme application form

New students to the ifs School of Finance should firstly complete the programme application form. Once approved onto the programme you will be sent an email confirmation and module registration form.

Module registration form - existing students only

Please complete the module registration form and return to the Admissions and Academic Management office.
Please call +44 (0)1227 829 499 or email enquiries@ifslearning.ac.uk if you have any other queries.

Further details

Download our Professional Higher Education Prospectus, alternatively please call 01227 829499 to request a copy

Essential information (regulations and policies)

2011 Examination timetable

2012 Examination timetable

Examination venues

Foundation Degree terms and conditions

Foundation Degree programme specification

Explanation of level descriptors

If you have any queries please contact Admissions, Academic Management and Student Services Office on +44 (0)1227 829499 or email enquiries@ifslearning.ac.uk.