Financial markets and institutions have become increasingly important in the global economy for two key reasons. First, their growing significance and the continuous diversification of their activities have a direct impact on economic growth and national income. Second, their critical role in ensuring economic and financial stability means that any fluctuations or disruptions in their operations or practices can have adverse effects on the national economy, as evidenced by the global financial crisis of 2008 and other periods of financial volatility.

Consequently, this has drawn the attention of governments worldwide, prompting discussions on the concepts, laws, procedures, and protocols governing these markets and institutions. This focus has extended to the academic sphere, which has begun offering specialized programs aimed at understanding and addressing issues related to the management, regulation, and oversight of financial market activities. These programs also explore financial, marketing, ethical, and investment aspects in accordance with relevant laws and regulations at the national, regional, and international.

The Bachelor’s program in Financial Institutions is a core specialization offered by the Faculty of Management and Business at AlZaytona University of Science and Technology. The program aims to develop a highly skilled cadre of graduates equipped with comprehensive financial expertise, capable of meeting the practical demands of the labor market. Graduates will be prepared to work effectively across central banks, commercial, Islamic, development, and specialized banks, insurance companies—including takaful (Islamic insurance)—leasing and mortgage institutions, pension and social security organizations, savings institutions and investment funds, financial brokerage firms, financial markets, and government regulatory bodies overseeing financial institutions and capital markets.

The program’s mission is to combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills to produce competent professionals who can contribute to the growth, efficiency, and innovation of the financial sector, both locally and regionally.

The program is designed to prepare highly qualified graduates for the financial and banking sector, as well as for roles in financial management, economic evaluation, investment, and financing across various economic institutions. Despite the growing number of graduates from traditional management programs, many lack the practical skills required to work effectively in specialized financial institutions, including banks, insurance companies, currency exchange firms, stock markets, brokerage companies, and other economic organizations requiring competent financial professionals.

This program offers a unique blend of courses carefully selected to meet the evolving needs of the local, regional, and global financial labor market. The curriculum integrates foundational theories, academic knowledge, and applied practical skills, ensuring that graduates are fully equipped to meet the demands of the financial and business sectors, as well as broader economic organizations.

To achieve the highest standards of excellence and alignment with international quality and accreditation benchmarks, the program recruits instructors from both academia and the financial industry. This approach ensures that students gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical, market-driven experience and skills essential for professional success.

Graduates of the Financial Markets and Institutions program will be able to:

1. Acquire comprehensive knowledge of financial markets, institutions, and instruments, gaining a solid foundation in both theory and practical applications.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in financial sector skills and techniques applicable across banking, insurance, stock markets, and other financial organizations.
3. Apply English-language communication effectively in academic, professional, and financial contexts.
4. Integrate academic learning with real-world financial practices through practical training and internships in relevant financial institutions.
5. Collaborate with peers and professionals, benefiting from instruction delivered by a distinguished mix of academic faculty and industry experts in finance and business.
6. Exhibit the ability to analyze, interpret, and solve financial problems while aligning decisions with market requirements.
7. Utilize modern laboratories, computer systems, and software tools to conduct financial analyses, simulations, and research.
8. Develop a high level of professional competence and ethical standards, preparing for successful employment in the financial sector.
9. Engage in lifelong learning to stay updated with evolving practices and innovations in financial markets and institutions.

Graduates of the Financial Markets and Institutions (FMI) program are highly qualified to pursue a wide range of career opportunities locally, regionally, and internationally. The program equips students not only for immediate employment but also to develop into distinguished financial experts and future leaders. Career opportunities for graduates include, but are not limited to:

• Commercial, investment, and central banking institutions.
• Stock exchanges and financial markets.
• Insurance companies.
• Brokerage and securities firms.
• Portfolio management and investment advisory services.
• Financial and technical analysis roles.
• Consulting firms and specialized advisory houses in finance, investment, and asset or company valuation.
• Financial management departments within various commercial, service, agricultural, industrial, and healthcare organizations.