Module Search

FINN2061: Programming for Finance

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Current modules are subject to change in light of the ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19.

Type	Tied
Level	2
Credits	20
Availability	Available in 2023/24
Module Cap	None.
Location	Durham
Department	Finance

Prerequisites

Quantitative Methods

Corequisites

None

Excluded Combinations of Modules

None

Aims

To introduce students to the basics of programming for finance and its applications in financial data analysis.
To enable students to use Excel, Python, or R to manipulate, analyse, and visualize financial data.
To provide an overview of financial calculations, modelling, and portfolio management using computational methods.
To introduce students to the use of APIs for data collection in finance.

Content

Introduction to programming concepts and tools for finance.
Data collection for finance: Scraping and cleaning data using Python or R; using APIs to access financial data.
Introduction to programming in Python and Excel: Syntax, data types, and control structures; working with financial time series data; statistical analysis and visualization of financial data.
Financial calculations in Excel: Time value of money, compound interest, financial ratios, and other financial formulas.
Financial modeling: Building and analyzing financial models using Excel and Python.
Portfolio management: Mean-variance optimization, risk and return analysis, and portfolio construction using computational methods.
Case studies and practical exercises using real-world financial data.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

Basic knowledge of programming for finance and its applications in financial data analysis.
Understanding of financial calculations and modeling techniques.
Overview of portfolio management and data collection in finance.

Subject-specific Skills:

Ability to use Excel, Python, or R to manipulate, analyze, and visualize financial data.
Ability to implement and evaluate basic financial models and portfolio management techniques using computational methods.
Ability to use APIs to access financial data for analysis.

Key Skills:

Written communication through assignments and reports.
Planning and organizing through project management and time management.
Problem solving through the application of analytical and computational skills to financial data.
Initiative through independent research and learning.
Numeracy through the analysis and interpretation of financial data.
Computer literacy through the use of programming languages and financial software.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

Lectures and workshops on programming concepts and tools for finance.
Hands-on workshops and practical exercises using Excel, Python, or R to manipulate, analyze, and visualize financial data.
A time constrained online test (Formative assignment).
Summative assignment is via an online test undertaken during term time and a written individual assignment. The summative assessment covers both the theoretical and practical aspects of the module.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity	Number	Frequency	Duration	Total	Monitored
Lectures	10	Fortnightly	1 hour	10
Workshops	10	Fortnightly across terms 1 and 2	2 hours	20	Yes
Preparation and Reading				170
Total				200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination		Component Weighting: 30%
Element	Length / Duration	Element Weighting	Resit Opportunity
Online Test	60 minutes	100	same

Component: Assignment		Component Weighting: 70%
Element	Length / Duration	Element Weighting	Resit Opportunity
Written individual assignment	3000 words max	100	same

Formative Assessment

A time constrained online test.

More information

If you have a question about Durham's modular degree programmes, please visit our FAQ webpages, Help page or our glossary of terms. If you have a question about modular programmes that is not covered by the FAQ, or a query about the on-line Undergraduate Module Handbook, please contact us.

Prospective Students: If you have a query about a specific module or degree programme, please Ask Us.

Current Students: Please contact your department.