C11376v1 Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance

Award(s): Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance (GradCertAppAIFin)
Commonwealth supported place?: No
Load credit points: 24
Course EFTSL: 0.5
Location: City campus

Notes

This course is not offered to international students.

Overview
Course aims
Career options
Course intended learning outcomes
Admission requirements
Assumed knowledge
Recognition of prior learning
Course duration and attendance
Course structure
Course completion requirements
Other information

Overview

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is driving digital transformation of almost all industry sectors. There is an increasing push for business and finance professionals to improve digital skills relating to AI and invest in transferable skills to meet the growing demand in the market for AI solutions to business problems. Companies and government departments are looking to increase AI expertise within their workforce, but the skills shortage has become a global challenge. The Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance provides a solid practical foundation of AI technologies and machine learning models to tackle real-world financial challenges, ranging from wealth management and algorithmic trading to sustainable finance initiatives.

In today's rapidly evolving and complex world of finance, AI has become essential for professionals seeking to gain a competitive edge by harnessing the power of data-driven insights and automation. Backed by a team of world-class academics renowned for their active engagement in cutting-edge AI research, students are exposed to the very forefront of AI technologies and their practical applications in the finance sector. This program not only provides a strong foundation but also ensures real-world relevance by featuring guest lecturers from the industry, illustrating the latest developments and applications of AI in finance. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and resources that facilitate hands-on learning, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the evolving demands of the finance industry. Whether you're an industry insider looking to upskill, an aspiring finance professional or a recent graduate, this program offers a unique learning experience that will empower you to excel in the AI-driven world of finance.

Course aims

The Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance has clear and focused aims, designed to empower students with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in the ever-evolving landscape of AI in finance:

Comprehensive Understanding: The primary goal of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the context of the finance industry. It delves into the fundamentals of AI, its historical development, and its transformative impact on finance.
Practical Skills: The course aims to equip students with practical skills that are directly applicable to real-world scenarios in finance. This includes proficiency in data analysis, machine learning, deep learning, and AI model deployment, enabling graduates to effectively address financial challenges with AI-driven solutions.
Informed Decision-Making: Graduates of this course will have the ability to make informed decisions regarding AI technologies in finance. They will understand how AI can be strategically deployed to optimise processes, enhance decision-making, and drive innovation in financial institutions.
Contributors to Transformation: This course aims to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in AI but also capable of actively contributing to the ongoing digital transformation of the finance industry. Graduates will be prepared to lead and implement AI initiatives that have a positive impact on financial institutions and the broader financial ecosystem.
Ethical Considerations: The course also emphasises the ethical dimensions of AI in finance, ensuring that graduates are equipped to navigate the ethical challenges and responsibilities associated with AI technologies in the financial sector.

By achieving these aims, this course empowers students to become adept AI practitioners, critical thinkers, and contributors to the advancement of AI in the finance industry.

Career options

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance possess a versatile skill set that opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. They are well-equipped to excel in various organisations and roles within the finance sector and beyond. Career options include positions in:

Banking Institutions: Graduates can pursue roles such as financial analysts, risk managers, or AI strategy consultants within banking institutions, where they apply AI to enhance decision-making, risk assessment, and customer experience.
Consulting Firms: Graduates can join consulting firms specialising in financial technology and AI, providing expert advice to financial clients on AI strategy, implementation, and optimisation.
Financial Technology (FinTech) Companies: Many FinTech firms seek professionals who can develop AI-driven solutions for payments, lending, robo-advising, and fraud detection.
Investment Firms: Graduates can work as quantitative analysts or portfolio managers, utilising AI to optimise investment strategies, identify market opportunities, and manage portfolios.
Regulatory Bodies: Regulatory agencies increasingly rely on AI for monitoring compliance and detecting financial misconduct, offering opportunities for graduates to contribute to regulatory oversight.
Startups: Graduates can join AI startups in the finance space, where innovation and entrepreneurship thrive. They may contribute to the development of disruptive AI technologies.
Wealth Management Companies: In the wealth management sector, graduates can leverage AI to provide tailored investment advice, wealth planning, and client services.
Insurance Companies: Graduates can play a pivotal role in AI-driven underwriting, claims processing, and risk assessment for insurance firms.
Government and Public Sector: Government agencies often require AI expertise for policy analysis, economic forecasting, and data-driven decision-making in areas related to finance and economics.
Academia and Research: For those inclined towards academia, graduates can pursue further studies or research positions, contributing to the advancement of AI in finance through academic institutions.
Entrepreneurship: Equipped with AI skills, some graduates may choose to start their own AI-focused businesses, offering AI solutions or consultancy services to various clients.

The career paths for graduates of this course are diverse and offer the flexibility to align with individual interests and goals, making it an ideal choice for anyone seeking a dynamic and rewarding career in the intersection of finance and AI.

Course intended learning outcomes

1.1	Implement critical, analytical, and innovative problem-solving skills to identify and propose effective solutions to contemporary finance issues using AI technologies
1.2	Evaluate and assess the suitability of AI techniques to address specific finance challenges, considering factors such as data availability, computational requirements, and ethical considerations
2.1	Communicate complex AI concepts and findings clearly and effectively to diverse stakeholders, adapting the communication style to suit the audience's level of technical understanding
2.2	Collaborate with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders from multidisciplinary backgrounds to develop and implement AI-based strategies, projects, and initiatives that achieve desired outcomes while considering business objectives, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards
3.1	Ensure ethical AI practices in finance that are inclusive, fair, and transparent
4.1	Integrate high-level technical skills in AI and machine learning with an understanding of finance principles, enabling the application of AI-based models, algorithms, and tools to address complex financial problems, optimise processes, and support decision-making in diverse finance domains
4.2	Critically reflect on the rights to consent, privacy, data sovereignty and self determination to work ethically with and for Indigenous Australians across finance professions

Admission requirements

Applicants must have completed a UTS recognised bachelor's degree, or an equivalent or higher qualification, or submitted other evidence of general and professional qualifications that demonstrates potential to pursue graduate studies.

Applicants who do not meet the minimum academic requirement may still be considered on the basis of a minimum of five years full time, or equivalent, relevant work experience in the finance field.

The relevant work experience must be demonstrated through a C.V. and a Statement of Service, confirming the dates of employment and the position held within the organisation.

The English proficiency requirement for local applicants with international qualifications is: Academic IELTS: 6.5 overall with a writing score of 6.0; or TOEFL: paper based: 550-583 overall with TWE of 4.5, internet based: 79-93 overall with a writing score of 21; or AE5: Pass; or PTE: 58-64 with a writing score of 50; or C1A/C2P: 176-184 with a writing score of 169.

Eligibility for admission does not guarantee offer of a place.

Assumed knowledge

There is no assumed knowledge for the Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence for Finance. A foundational understanding of finance concepts can enhance the learning experience in this course.

Recognition of prior learning

There is no recognition of prior learning available for this course.

Course duration and attendance

The course can be completed in a minimum of eight months study (i.e. 1 x 6 credit points subject per session over 4 x 7-week teaching sessions).

Course structure

The course comprises 24 credit points, made up of four compulsory subjects.

Course completion requirements

STM91889 Core subjects (GCAAF)		24cp
Total		24cp