Financial technology (FinTech)

What is Financial Technology?

A degree in Financial Technology (FinTech) combines the fields of Finance and Technology to explore tech-driven ways to improve the financial industry. You will learn to use technology, data analytics, software and other digital tools to improve services related to banking, paying bills or money transfers.

Financial Technology specialisations

FinTech already is a specialised field: Technology in the service of Finances. However, like everything Tech-related, it becomes more complex by the day. Specialising within this field means focusing on particular areas like:

• Blockchain technology;
• Data Analytics;
• Financial risk management;
• Digital banking;
• Machine learning and AI.

What will you learn during a Financial Technology programme

While studying for a Financial Technology (FinTech) degree, you will fully understand how finance and technology work together. During the programme, you'll learn a range of skills to excel in the industry. If you're wondering why Financial Technology is a good degree, here's what you'll gain:

• you'll be up to date with the latest changes in financial systems and digital tools;
• skills in programming and management;
• skills in analysing large sets of data with tools like Excel or Python;
• knowledge of relevant programming languages;
• understanding of cybersecurity threats.

Common courses include:

• What Is Algorithmic Trading, about automated trading set up with the help of algorithms and computers;
• Cybersecurity, which teaches you about privacy regulations, encryption techniques, and how to secure data storage;
• Financial Risk Management, where you learn how to protect the economic value of a company;
• Financial Modelling, which teaches you to build mathematical representations of financial situations;
• International Banking Law, particularly relevant in the globalised world of today.

You will also have the chance to apply your knowledge through real-world case studies and hands-on projects. Eventually, you will be able to solve financial problems with technological solutions.

Skills required to study Financial Technology

To excel at your Financial Technology degree, you must, first of all, love tech. You need to be good with programming languages, data analysis, and financial modelling, all of which are among the Financial Technology degree requirements. Additionally, strong problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and a head for business are useful for understanding financial challenges and coming up with effective tech-driven solutions.

What can you do with a Degree in Financial Technology?

The FinTech sector offers several rewarding career opportunities, such as:

• Financial data analyst;
• Blockchain developer;
• Digital product manager;
• Risk management specialist;
• Cybersecurity consultant.

These are just some of the jobs you can get with a Financial Technology degree which will allow you to make technological improvements in finance and have a significant impact in this industry.

Students with a high school diploma or its equivalent from outside Jordan can enroll in higher education institutions directly through websites of public and private universities or intermediate community colleges based on their averages. Universities implement the credit hours system, which allows students to choose courses according to their study plan.

Students wishing to enroll in a master's program must hold a bachelor's degree. Furthermore, students who wish to enroll in doctoral programs must hold a master's degree.

In addition, students wishing to enroll in postgraduate programs are required to provide a certificate confirming their English proficiency level in a TOEFL or IELTS exam. They could also demonstrate a certain proficiency level in French or German. Lastly, they could take an English language exam held by the higher education institution they apply in.

In the event that the student fails to prove the required level of English, German or French, or fails the English equivalency exam, they may study a qualifying program in English at the university where they undertake additional six credit hours; he/she must score a minimum grade that varies according to their specialization.

Students can apply for admission to a higher education institution in Jordan through the following:

1. Applying directly to the institution of higher education of their choice. Many higher education institutions in Jordan have online application services or through university service offices; while some institutions accept applications through mail. Each higher education institution determines its own enrollment requirements. Therefore, a prospective student should communicate with the institution they wish to apply to in order to know the specific admission requirements and procedures.
2. Applying directly through the free on-line application
3. Communicate with the Directorate of International Student Affairs at the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and apply to any higher education institution