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The Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), has introduced a pioneering Bachelor of Applied Computing in Finance (BACF) degree programme in response to the escalating demand for professionals equipped with financial domain knowledge and advanced technological skills. Aimed at meeting the evolving needs of financial institutions and fintech firms, the programme is a strategic move to support the Singapore government’s vision of a tech-enabled financial sector.
Jointly offered by the Nanyang Business School (NBS) and the School of Computer Science and Engineering (SCSE), the BACF programme is set to reshape the educational landscape by seamlessly integrating finance domain expertise with applied analytical and technological skills.
The collaboration between the two schools will foster the development of innovative courses like Blockchain in Finance, Machine Learning in Finance, and Product Management, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the dynamic intersection of finance and technology.
A distinctive feature of the programme is the year-long industry-based applied research project, co-designed and co-supervised by faculty members from both schools. Students will tackle real-world challenges posed by industry partners, developing financial applications that contribute to the ongoing digitalisation journey of the financial industry.
Scheduled to commence in the 2024 academic year, the BACF programme is designed as a four-year full-time initiative. Professor Ling San, NTU’s Deputy President and Provost, emphasised the programme’s interdisciplinary education approach, leveraging the strengths of two world-class schools to cultivate talents and leaders crucial for navigating the digitalisation era of the financial industry.
To enrich the learning experience, all BACF students will undergo a mandatory 20-week professional internship in relevant job roles. Besides, students can opt for broadening and deepening electives, extending their internship during the summer holidays to a total of 30 weeks. This emphasis on experiential learning aligns with Singapore’s broader push towards interdisciplinary education.
Sopnendu Mohanty, Chief FinTech Officer at MAS, applauds the programme for incorporating practical experience through internships, asserting that the curriculum is well-positioned to meet the needs of the FinTech ecosystem. In an industry shaped by ever-evolving technologies, talent development remains a pivotal force for pursuing growth and resiliency.
The BACF programme aligns with NTU’s 2025 strategic plan, emphasising the institution’s commitment to nurturing future-ready graduates and supporting the government’s vision of a tech-enabled financial sector. With its focus on integrated courses and industry relevance, the programme prepares students for diverse career options, including roles as data analysts, digital strategists, business analysts, and product managers in various financial settings.
The programme’s specialisations cater to specific industry demands, offering students the opportunity to delve deeper into Financial Analytics and WealthTech, Crypto Asset and Blockchain, or Digital Banking and Security.
It aligns academic training with the specific needs and trends of the industry, ensuring that graduates possess specialised skills and knowledge that are directly applicable and sought after in the rapidly evolving landscape of finance and technology.
This not only benefits the students in terms of career prospects but also addresses the industry’s demand for professionals with specialised expertise in these critical areas, fostering innovation and progress within the financial sector. The tailored approach ensures that graduates possess a robust foundation in their chosen specialisation while gaining a comprehensive education in finance and technology.
Candidates can apply through multiple routes, including GCE “A” levels, International Baccalaureate, or polytechnic paths. The BACF programme represents a forward-looking initiative, blending academic rigour with practical experience to produce a new generation of professionals adept at navigating the intricate intersection of finance and technology.
