In the era of digital transformation and technological innovation, India is emerging as a global Fintech powerhouse. It is amongst the fastest-growing Fintech markets in the world with the highest FinTech adoption rate of 87% 1. Powering this rise is a burgeoning population of digitally savvy consumers, a robust regulatory environment, and a thriving startup ecosystem. From digital payments and lending platforms to blockchain solutions and robo-advisors, Indian FinTech companies are revolutionising the way financial services are delivered and consumed.
To emphasise the role of fintech firms in India’s rise to dominance in this field, DPIIT has registered over 3000 fintech startups in India. Amidst this backdrop of rapid transformation led by fintech firms, there is a pressing need for skilled professionals who can harness technology’s potential to drive innovation and reshape the financial services industry.
IIT Kanpur’s e-Masters Degree in Financial Technology & Management
To bridge the gap between India’s rise as a fintech power and the need for professionals who can lead the revolution, IIT Kanpur offers e-Masters in Financial Technology & Management. This programme is a cutting-edge approach that integrates modern financial technology with conventional financial management principles.
This Fintech-focused master’s degree provides working professionals with a distinct opportunity to delve into the intersection of technology and finance, exploring the evolution and oversight of technology-powered financial products and services. Covering diverse subjects such as financial innovation, digital transformation, risk management, and data analytics, the degree programme offers a comprehensive understanding of the contemporary financial landscape. Through a blend of online coursework, real-world case studies, and practical projects, students acquire hands-on expertise in developing and overseeing technology-enabled financial solutions.
Administered by the Department of Management Sciences (DoMS), this degree programme delivers a thorough education in financial technology and management. With accolades such as being ranked 1st in Innovation, 4th in Engineering, and 5th overall by NIRF 2023, IIT Kanpur is perfectly suited to deliver this degree programme and prepare the graduates to succeed as well as have the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue leadership roles in the fast-paced, technology-driven industry.
What makes IIT Kanpur’s eMasters Degree so appealing?
Aptly designed for working professionals, there are many reasons why this programme is the right choice for the aspirants.
No GATE score required
Unlike traditional academic routes that may require a GATE score for admission, IIT Kanpur’s FinTech degree welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, including those without a GATE score.
Executive-friendly schedule
The degree programme offers flexibility, with a completion window spanning 1-3 years. This accommodates professionals’ varied needs and commitments, allowing them to effectively balance their studies with work and personal life.
Distinguished faculty of IIT Kanpur
At the core of the degree are the esteemed faculty members of IIT Kanpur, who are not only scholars in their respective fields but also industry practitioners with real-world experience. Their expertise spans a wide spectrum of topics, including financial analytics, blockchain technology, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and more. By learning directly from these thought leaders, participants gain invaluable insights into the latest trends, best practices, and emerging technologies shaping the future of FinTech.
Career advancement and networking
This degree programme also offers unparalleled networking opportunities, allowing students to connect with industry leaders, alumni, and fellow professionals. Through mentorship programmes, career support services, and access to incubation opportunities at IIT Kanpur’s Incubation Centre, students can use these connections to accelerate their career growth and explore new opportunities in the FinTech landscape.
IIT Kanpur alumni status and credit transfer
Participants can attain the esteemed status of an IIT Kanpur alumni, which grants access to a range of alumni privileges and networking opportunities within the global IIT community. They also enjoy the advantage of credit transfer, with a potential waiver of up to 60 credits applicable towards higher education pursuits such as MTech or PhD programmes at IIT Kanpur.
High-impact format
Participants benefit from weekend-only live interactive sessions and self-paced learning, fostering an immersive and effective learning environment. With insightful guest lectures and case study-based learning, they refine problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities. Moreover, hands-on project assignments allow them to apply theoretical concepts to practical situations, while regular assessments and online examinations ensure progress tracking. Additionally, campus visits provide a unique opportunity to experience IIT Kanpur’s vibrant academic atmosphere.
The industry-aligned curriculum of e-Masters degree in FinTech and Management
The e-Masters in FinTech and Management programme at IIT Kanpur offers a new-age curriculum that integrates finance, technology, and management. It provides students with the essential skills to lead digital transformations within the financial industry.
Modules include:
- Banks and Financial Institutions
- Capital Markets and Financial Products
- Financial Big Data Analytics
- Investment Banking
- AI, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning
- Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technologies
- IT Platforms, Cloud Computing, and IoT
- Cybersecurity
- Open Banking in a Mobile-First, Cloud-First World
- Extreme Automation & Programming
- 2 Projects
From foundational concepts in banking and capital markets to advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and cybersecurity, these new-age modules help learners gain a comprehensive understanding of the key drivers and challenges shaping the future of finance.
Project work: Additionally, students undertake two projects designed to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. These projects provide an opportunity for hands-on learning, allowing students to develop practical skills, problem-solving abilities, and industry-relevant experience.
What are the programme outcomes?
Upon completion of the programme, participants will be equipped to:
- Lead FinTech initiatives within their organisation or venture into entrepreneurship by launching a FinTech firm.
- Obtain a eMasters Degree from IIT Kanpur, a prestigious institution renowned for academic excellence.
- Join IIT Kanpur’s esteemed alumni network, connecting with industry leaders and fellow professionals.
- Benefit from the expertise of a distinguished research faculty, gaining insights from their cutting-edge research and industry experience.
- Receive mentorship and career support from the dedicated placement cell at IIT Kanpur, facilitating their transition into the professional world.
- Access incubation support for promising startup initiatives, leveraging the resources and expertise of IIT Kanpur to nurture their entrepreneurial endeavours.
- Forge meaningful connections with a diverse network of professionals, creating opportunities for collaboration, learning, and growth.
What are professionals joining this programme?
Syed, an Associate Manager and ERP Consultant at Accenture with 10 years of experience, sees the eMasters Degree programme as an opportunity to gain vital knowledge in FinTech and management. “eMasters will give me the much-needed knowledge of FinTech, data analytics, and strategic decision-making. This could help me work towards my aspirations of becoming a CFO for an FMCG Company.”
Manish, Associate Director of the Technology Business Incubator at a Private University, has 12 years of academic experience and believes that his interest in learning FinTech makes the eMasters programme particularly relevant to his career aspirations. “I have been associated with product development in Blockchain Technology for 4 years. I lead the Technology Business Incubator at a University, where we help students build business ideas using technology. As I was inclined to learn Fintech, I found eMasters relevant to my goals.”
Who can pursue this e-Masters degree in Financial Technology and Management from IIT Kanpur?
This degree programme caters to professionals looking to advance their careers in the financial services industry, technology startups, or consulting firms. Whether already established in finance, transitioning to startups, or entering consulting, this degree provides the expertise to drive innovation and make meaningful contributions within their respective fields.
Eligibility requirements:
Applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
Bachelor’s degree (3/4 years programme) in engineering, science, economics, Computer Applications or equivalent with at least 55% marks or 5.5/10 CPI
Or
Master’s degree in engineering, science, economics, commerce, management, computer applications with at least 55% marks or 5.5/10 CPI 2 years of work experience (an applicant need not be currently employed to be eligible).
The experience component can be waived for suitable candidates with significant domain expertise acquired in their UG/PG education
What are the other details of the programme?
Application Fee: Rs. 1500/-
Application Deadline for July 2024 batch is April 30th
EMI options: Available
The journey to becoming a leader in FinTech begins with education, and IIT Kanpur, with its e-Masters degree in Fintech and Management, offers a transformative path forward. By upskilling themselves through this comprehensive programme, professionals can equip themselves with the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to drive innovation, disrupt industries, and shape the future of finance. With accessibility, flexibility, and expertise at its core, this programme can be a gateway to endless possibilities in the world of financial technology. Click here and Embark on this journey today and chart a course towards a brighter, more innovative tomorrow.
Sources:
1. https://www.investindia.gov.in/sector/bfsi-fintech-financial-services
Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of TalentSprint by Times Internet’s Spotlight team.