Financial Management
Module Description
This module is an introduction to the concepts and theories of corporate finance which are the fulcrum to assist in the comprehension, evolvement, and resolution to financial manager’s issues.
The learner is introduced to the roles and responsibilities of the financial management function within an entity.
The topic of ‘investing decisions’ is also addressed, and this is introduced in two parts, namely, investment in working capital and the assessment of long-term investments.
The learner is also exposed to financing decisions and to the analysis of the different sources of business finance. Risk and risk management are also tacked in this module.
Entry Requirements
Candidates who apply for this course will possess:
• A related qualification at MQF Level 4
and/or
• Two ‘A’ Levels (MQF Level 4) or equivalent one of which should be related to Accounts, Business or Economics and a pass in English Language and Mathematics at MQF Level 3 (‘O’ Level or equivalent).
• Preference will be given to applicants having 1 year work experience related to the study programme.
In the case of students who do not possess all the formal required academic qualifications, then the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process could be applied such that if evidence of equivalent learning is found then the applicant could still be accepted in the course.
Such RPL process will subject applicants to an interview held with a board of experts within the field, chosen specifically by IDEA Academy, so as to verify their experiences and prior learning.
Students whose first language is not English and do not possess an ‘O’ level pass in English Language will be required to demonstrate English language capability at IELTS level 6.0 or equivalent.
Target Audience
- Individuals seeking to advance their academic and professional knowledge in Accounting.
- Individuals wanting to pursue a wide range of accounting, consulting, financial and managerial career paths.
- Individuals wanting to enhance their ability to interpret, assess and communicate financial related data.
Module / Unit Instructions
The proposed structure comprises a blended approach promoting the building of a community of practice via peer-to-peer learning. The structure uses primarily two dimensions of teaching-learning modes:
- Face to Face sessions
Face-to-face sessions include lectures, tutorials, discussions, presentations and workshop activities promoting peer-to-peer learning.
- Online Learning Activities
Online learning activities incorporate tutorials and asynchronous discussions. These may consist of active interaction, participation and contributions in fora discussions, sharing resources and self-reflection exercises. Learners also contribute to the building of the community of practice by providing feedback to their peers as critical friends, enhancing the learner’s critical engagement throughout the study period.
How you’ll be assessed
The course comprises:
- Evening classes for part-time courses.
- Classes held throughout the day for full-time courses.
- Guided learning, presentations, comprising synchronous online discussions, tutorials and/or videos.
- Self-study hours comprising research, reading and assignment work.
Assessment
Assessment is carried out via two mandatory components:
- Assessment 1
- Assessment 2
- Assessment 3
The programme includes different forms of assessment which allow for and promote students’ critical engagement. The assessment tasks may include an in-class assignment and/or a home-based written assignment using diverse assessment tools which may take the form of online and in-class discussions, examinations, case studies, reports, proposals, essays, and presentations, etc., as applicable to the diverse modules.
Module Intake Dates
October 2024
Learning Outcomes
Competences:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the responsibility and autonomy to:
- Demonstrate an advanced knowledge and comprehension of financial management.
- Conduct an investment appraisal.
- Analyse risks and returns.
- Illustrate CAPM.
- Critically appraise the capital structure.
- Critically examine mergers and acquisitions.
- Navigate risk management.
Knowledge:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have been exposed to the following:
- Demonstrate an advanced knowledge and comprehension of financial management.
- Conduct an investment appraisal.
- Analyse risks and returns.
- Apply CAPM.
- Critically appraise the capital structure.
- Critically examine mergers and acquisitions.
- Navigate risk management.
Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will have acquired the following skills:
- Address capital budgeting and investment decision issues.
- Critically appraise the relationship between risk and return.
- Apply appropriately the time value of money technique.
- Investigate how various financial markets function.
- Undertake capital budgeting decisions.
- Hedge risk through derivatives.
- Manage working capital and understand the opportunities of short-term financing.
- Critically discuss the purpose of mergers and takeovers.
- Question financial research papers.
- Employ statistical techniques.
- Select the best source of funding in a given context.
- Safeguard assets in the best way possible and ensure proper working capital management.
Module-Specific Communication Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to:
- Communicate ideas, problems, and solutions effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences verbally or in writing (PowerPoint presentations, reports, etc.).
- Participate in class/online discussions and in organised workshops.
- Present ideas, work, and findings to peers, lecturers, and specialist and non-specialist audiences.
- Contribute to team work as required.
Module-Specific Learner Skills:
At the end of the module/unit the learner will be able to:
- Critically appraise the different financing possibilities and relevant return including the dividend policy.
- Conclude on investment projects to be undertaken given the risk appetite of shareholders.
Module-Specific Digital Skills and Competences:
At the end of the module/unit, the learner will be able to:
- Navigate through the online learning platform to find assignments, discussion boards, literature, tutorials etc.