The financial services sector, like many other industries, has literally shrunk in terms of access within the global arena. E-Commerce rules, and the development in information technology is accelerating at an awe-inspiring rate. Realizing that the career development of graduates within the financial sector may depend on applied knowledge of this dynamic method of transacting business, the Institute of Financial Services, being one of the foremost professional financial sector bodies in the world, has introduced a Master's in E-Commerce (MA).
The MA has been developed by the Institute of Financial rcs data Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Chartered Institute of Bankers, in collaboration with Canterbury Business School, a Department of the University of Kent at Canterbury. The MA is a pioneering management qualification and will put students at the forefront of developing tomorrow's business models. The MA is a rigorous programme that not only explores the emerging theories surrounding e-enterprise management, but also illustrates these theories through case studies based on many technologically-advanced and innovative enterprises.
Delivery of the course will be primarily on-line, augmented by a number of face-to-face events. There will be opportunities for students to discuss and explore issues with fellow students via email chat rooms, and tutor support will be available over the phone. An induction weekend is required at the start of the course, plus workshops and a residential school. All students registering for the course will automatically be given a complimentary subscription to the Institute's E-Commerce and Technology Faculty during their period of study.
For those graduates considering a career in financial services, the reality of job opportunities is not very different to many other professions and industries, as technology, downsizing, mergers, takeovers and competition have all had a dramatic effect on staff numbers. It is important to understand that jobs are no longer for life, whatever career you choose! However, the major employers do realize the importance of 'graduateness' and what graduates can bring to an organization with regard to their learning experience, fresh ideas and initiatives. Indeed, at least one major financial services organization in the UK employs graduates regardless of degree discipline, as they feel the very fact that they are a graduate enables their personal development to progress in tandem with company goals.