Best Universities for Finance in UK

Studying finance at universities in the UK not only guarantees a high-quality education but also opens doors to excellent global career opportunities. With London established as one of the world’s leading financial hubs, the UK offers access to top-ranked institutions, renowned faculty, and valuable industry networks.

Whether you’re interested in undergraduate programs, master’s degrees, or PhDs, the best universities for finance in the UK offer rigorous curricula, cutting-edge research, and direct industry connections. In this guide, we explore top Universities for finance in UK, along with their courses, and reasons to study here, helping you make an informed decision for your finance career.

Why Study Finance in the UK?

Studying finance at the best UK university will give you the skills you need for a successful career in a dynamic industry. The country’s universities emphasize practical training, global perspectives, and innovation, preparing graduates for roles in banking, investment, and fintech.

With increasing international enrollment, finance programs here blend academic excellence with real-world application. Here are key reasons to choose the UK for your finance studies.

• Employment Opportunities: The UK has various job opportunities for graduates after their studies in finance, accounting, and management. Leading recruiters like Robert Half, Michael Page, and Korn Ferry actively hire fresh talent, with many graduates securing positions in top firms shortly after completing their degrees.
• Industry-Specific Skills: UK universities help students develop industry-specific skills and a practical outlook, which gives them an edge in the market. This helps students grab higher positions in industries.
• International Recognition: Graduates from the UK can certainly pursue their career in Finance from any part of the world. This is due to the international recognition of courses of the university that are known for their high standards of teaching.
• World’s Major Financial Centre: The UK owns more than 35% of the global foreign exchange turnover. The financial service of the UK trade surplus was almost the same as the combined surpluses of the three leading countries, i.e. USA, Switzerland, and Luxembourg.

Also Read: How to Become a Chartered Accountant

Best Universities for Finance in the UK

Selecting from the best universities for finance in the UK means prioritizing institutions with strong subject-specific rankings, research output, and alumni success. These universities excel in QS World University Rankings by Subject for Accounting & Finance 2025, reflecting their global standing.

The table below highlights best universities for Finance in the UK based on the QS Accounting & Finance Ranking 2025 (Global).

University in UK	Location	QS Accounting & Finance Ranking 2025 (Global)
University of Oxford	Oxford, United Kingdom	4
University of Cambridge	Cambridge, UK	6
The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)	London, UK	8
London Business School	London, UK	18
Imperial College London	London, UK	21
The University of Manchester	Manchester, UK	23
The University of Warwick	Coventry, UK	44
UCL (University College London)	London, UK	46
The University of Edinburgh	Edinburgh, UK	49
University of Glasgow	Glasgow, UK	72
Durham University	Durham, UK	76
University of Birmingham	Birmingham, UK	79
King’s College London	London, UK	80
Lancaster University	Lancaster, UK	=90
University of Southampton	Southampton, UK	=97
City, University of London	London, UK	101–150
Oxford Brookes University	Oxford, UK	101–150
University of Bath	Bath, UK	101–150
University of Bristol	Bristol, UK	101–150
University of Leeds	Leeds, UK	101–150
University of Nottingham	Nottingham, UK	101–150
University of Reading	Reading, UK	101–150
Cardiff University	Cardiff, UK	151–200
University of Essex	Colchester, UK	151–200
Queen Mary University of London	London, UK	151–200
University of Sheffield	Sheffield, UK	151–200
University of Liverpool	Liverpool, UK	151–200
University of St Andrews	St Andrews, UK	151–200
Newcastle University	Newcastle, UK	201–250
Queen’s University Belfast	Belfast, UK	201–250

Now that you have an overview of the best universities for finance in the UK, let’s explore some of them in detail, along with their top finance courses.

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Located in London, LSE ranked among the top 10 universities for finance in the UK. The institution is regarded as one of the largest and most reputable finance groups in the world. It provides various UG and PG courses in Finance.

LSE has also established 2 leading research groups in Finance: The Financial Markets Group  (FMG), which is a leading research centre in Europe, and the Systemic Risk Centre that helps study the risks and financial crisis triggers. The following are the top Finance courses at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE).

• BSc Accounting and Finance 
• BSc Finance
• BSc Financial mathematics and statistics
• MSc Accounting and Finance
• MSc Risk and Finance

The University of Oxford, UK

An institution with an unparalleled reputation, the University of Oxford ranks among the top universities for its finance programs in the UK. Oxford provides world-class academics along with research in all areas of Finance at the Saïd Business School. The finance research department has particular expertise in asset pricing and corporate finance.

Oxford UK, has various options for degrees that provide training in the tools that are sought by financial organizations and employees. A few of the courses are mentioned below:

• BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance
• MSc Financial Economics
• MSc Law and Finance
• Doctor of Philosophy in Finance
• MSc Mathematical and Computational Finance

Check out How to get admission at Oxford University?

The University of Manchester

Next on the list of best universities for Finance in the UK, and a part of the prestigious Russel Group, it is known for its teaching excellence in the field of Finance and Accounting. The university’s Alliance Manchester Business School (Alliance MBS) delivers high-quality teaching associated with cutting-edge research.

For undergraduate finance courses, it offers BAEcon degrees that give students options to specialise in a combination of accounting, economics, and finance. The following are a few programs for Finance at the University of Manchester:

• BSc (Hons) Management (Accounting and Finance)
• BAEcon Finance
• BAEcon Economics and Finance
• MSc Finance
• MSc Quantitative Finance
• MSc Mathematical Finance

Imperial College London

Imperial College London ranks 21st among the best universities for Finance in the UK according to the QS ranking. The university has intellectually rigorous and quantitative programs that are provided at Imperial College and Imperial College Business School.

The research department for finance comprises competent members who not only publish in the UK’s top journals but also disseminate research to policy-makers to strengthen the financial system. Here are the courses offered by the college for finance: 

• Integrated Masters (MEng) in Computing (Management and Finance)
• BSc Mathematics with Statistics for Finance
• MSc Financial Technology
• MSc Finance
• MSc Finance & Accounting
• MSc Mathematics and Finance

The University of Edinburgh

Ranked 49th in the UK for finance according to QS ranking 2025, the University of Edinburgh offers Finance programs that are accredited by a range of globally renowned business education organisations. The university gives students experience and intellectual understanding of various financial concepts by providing hands-on training and interactive teaching methods.

The vibrant research department encompasses issues like asset pricing, behavioural finance, and other aspects affecting financial markets and the government. The following are a few courses in finance at the University of Edinburgh: 

• LLM International Banking Law and Finance
• MA (Hons) Accounting & Finance
• Financial Modelling and Optimization MSc
• Computational Mathematical Finance MSc
• Climate Change Finance and Investment MSc
• Finance, Technology and Policy MSc
• PhD Finance
• Financial Technology PhD

Also Read: CA after Graduation: How to Pursue CA after Graduation?

Top Finance Courses in the UK

The UK universities offer a diverse array of finance programs tailored to shape future industry leaders. From undergraduate degrees delving into core financial principles to cutting-edge postgraduate studies in fintech and quantitative analysis, these courses deliver the expertise needed to thrive in global markets.

Some of the best Finance degrees or courses offered in UK universities are as follows:

• BSc Accounting and Finance
• BSc Finance
• BSc Financial mathematics and statistics
• BSc (Hons) Management (Accounting and Finance)
• BAEcon Finance
• BAEcon Economics and Finance
• MSc Financial Technology
• MSc Finance
• MSc Finance & Accounting
• MSc Mathematics and Finance
• Finance, Technology and Policy MSc
• PhD Finance
• Financial Technology PhD

How to Apply for Finance Programs at UK Universities?

Applying to finance programs in the UK requires careful preparation to meet university standards. Most institutions demand strong academic backgrounds, English proficiency, and sometimes entrance exams. Start by researching specific requirements on official websites to ensure a smooth process.

To apply, use the UCAS platform for undergraduates or direct applications for postgraduates. Key steps include:

1. Register on UCAS and create your profile.
2. Select up to five programs across UK universities.
3. Provide personal details, academic history, and financial information.
4. Submit a compelling personal statement highlighting your interest in finance.
5. Include proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores).

Eligibility varies but often includes a minimum GPA, relevant subjects like math, and, for internationals, visa requirements.

The best universities for finance in the UK, such as LSE, Oxford, Manchester, and other top institutions, offer cutting-edge programs that blend academic rigor with practical skills, preparing students for success in global financial markets. From undergraduate degrees to specialized PhDs, these institutions cater to varied interests, including fintech, accounting, and quantitative finance. With the UK’s position as a financial hub, internationally recognized qualifications, and strong employment prospects, pursuing a finance degree here is a strategic step toward a rewarding career.

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This was all about the best universities for Finance in UK. The United Kingdom is certainly a place with a huge scope for aspiring students in this field. Planning to pursue finance in any one of these universities? You may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists to assist you with the application process so that you can realize your goals. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.