Cryptocurrency has gone from the geeky back office to the financial mainstream. So what do business students need to know?
Just a few years ago, blockchain and cryptocurrencies were the domain, almost exclusively, of geeks sitting in back offices on the edge of global finance. Now, however, the fields are very much mainstream—and business schools say that more financiers than ever need to study a crypto curriculum.
Masters in finance programs are scrambling to roll out that syllabus, as job opportunities in the field grow at a rapid rate, placing a premium on those who can leverage financial technology to improve operational performance, or offer new products and services.
Last year, the number of job adverts on LinkedIn for blockchain jobs trebled, with the highest salaries above $250,000. Banks, money managers and all manner of companies are investing in the distributed ledger technology that powers cryptocurrencies.
“Having a strong engineering or computing background is a real advantage. However, feedback from our corporate sponsors and advisory council shows us that the industry also needs good project managers to oversee expansion in the fintech arena,” says economics professor James Sefton at Imperial College Business School in London. “These managers need to understand the technology but do not necessarily have to be A-grade coders.”
From blockchains to initial coin offerings (ICOs), finance students are interested applying crypto concepts to different finance roles. “We see a very strong interest in fintech, machine learning and blockchain,” says Jens Martin, director of the Master in International Finance at Amsterdam Business School in the Netherlands.
“This is why we feel that there is a strong need to offer new courses or a whole masters.” Amsterdam runs several crypto courses, including the Executive Master in Finance and Technology, which focuses on the application of fintech to finance.
The growing hype around cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin, whose price has swung wildly in recent months, has increased interest. Bitcoin’s price peaked at around $20,000 last Christmas but has tumbled to about $7,000 today. “The allure of quick profits has created immense interest,” says James at Imperial.
“However, it is the blockchain technology, and its most recent innovation that enables real-time transaction verification, that has created the most academic and commercial interest.” Exciting applications include online registries for shared goods and smart contracts, such as Uber taxi agreements without a centralized clearer.
Imperial offers a number of fintech-related electives on its finance masters courses. These include an elective in big data which looks at machine learning algorithms applied to finance, and an elective in algorithmic trading. “These electives are extremely popular,” James says.
James believes the crypto curriculum should be multidisciplinary: “At Imperial we have lecturers from the university computing department, as well as practitioners to augment the expertise in our finance department at the business school,” he says.
“We believe we can give students the strong theoretical background they need in computing, finance and mathematics and an understanding of where the industry is going, through engagement with current researchers in the field, outside speakers and lecturers,” he adds. “This will mean that our students will graduate with the skills to adapt to the demands of this dynamic and disruptive industry.”
Also important is getting the perspective of industry practitioners. Amsterdam Business School works with closely with the local startup scene, such as the Holland Fintech industry network. The school also has its own incubator, which houses several blockchain and fintech startups. “We work with the incubator in our Fintech Venture class to give students an insight on how to start a fintech business,” Jens confirms.
However, it is difficult is to find good lecturers in the cryptocurrency field, says Jens: “It is a rather new area, and not much research has been devoted to it yet, as not much data is available.”
Student Reviews
Amsterdam Business School - University of Amsterdam
Great education system but terrible administrative system.
I spent my last 3 years at UvA to study Business.
Overall, I loved it. I don't regret it at all.
- I loved most of the professors I met, and I liked their education system.
- Exams were fair and assignments were very helpful to develop my skills in the field (they were pretty tough tho)
- I am an Asian student but I never experienced any type of racism while studying at UvA and I felt welcomed all the time.
- Very international atmosphere and open-minded staff/students.
- Great facilities. I enjoyed studying at the different libraries, and very clean cafeteria and classrooms
- Perfect location, and beautiful sight.
Reputable institution
I was so delighted to join Amsterdam business school because The Amsterdam Business School is a highly reputable institution and offers excellent programs for students who want to pursue a career in business. The school has a diverse faculty who are committed to providing students with high-quality education and support to us in achieving our academic and professional goals.
Great education system but terrible administrative system.
I spent my last 3 years at UvA to study Business.
Overall, I loved it. I don't regret it at all.
- I loved most of the professors I met, and I liked their education system.
- Exams were fair and assignments were very helpful to develop my skills in the field (they were pretty tough tho)
- I am an Asian student but I never experienced any type of racism while studying at UvA and I felt welcomed all the time.
- Very international atmosphere and open-minded staff/students.
- Great facilities. I enjoyed studying at the different libraries, and very clean cafeteria and classrooms
- Perfect location, and beautiful sight.
Dedication and motivation all around
Amsterdam Business School work ethic and attitude towards learning are absolutely top-notch. The students there are so dedicated and motivated to excel in their studies. They have this incredible drive to succeed and are always pushing themselves to new heights. The professors also play a huge role in fostering this positive mindset. They are not only experts in their fields but also incredibly supportive and inspiring. It's like being part of a community that is constantly pushing each other to achieve greatness. You won't find a more dynamic and driven environment than at the Amsterdam Business School!
Unlocking your full potential
Amsterdam Business Schooland their professors are absolute legends in their fields. They bring real-world experience and expertise to the classroom, making every lecture engaging and practical. They truly care about their students' success and are always there to guide and inspire. And let me spill the tea about the campus! It's a hub of creativity and innovation. The modern facilities, collaborative spaces, and vibrant atmosphere create the perfect environment for personal and academic growth. Being a student at the Amsterdam Business School feels like being part of something bigger, where you're surrounded by motivated individuals who are ready to take on the world. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
Online Business School Made It Easy
My deepest appreciation goes to God Almighty for the privilege of completing this program. And I also want to appreciate Online Business School for every guide and help I receive, also with materials on platform. Even after completing my program, I still go over and over these materials, it has been a lot helpful to me.
Since I started my program in 2021 September, at first, I kept thinking of how I could handle an online program until I started, but I'm grateful I never gave up, because, I got so much support from the students support via email, they never kept my mail waiting, even whenever I needed clarification on my assignments, they never got tired of my mails, I kept mailing until I'm fully cleared and satisfied, I feel so excited about that as well and I don't want to take that for granted. Thank you so much for making this channel accessible for me to archive my desired goal. And here in 2024, I'm very happy for the decision I made in 2021.
I am very grateful and blessed.
Thank you
Mind blowing teaching techniques
Amsterdam business school is amazing. I realized I was going to be in for a treat as soon as I walked into the beautiful campus. Experts in their fields, the professors are committed to our achievement and have a strong love for teaching. They mentor, encourage, and push us to think creatively and beyond the box in addition to teaching. With real-world case studies, cutting-edge research, and practical projects that make learning engaging and addictive, the classes are the ideal balance of theory and practice. Our instructors use every resource available to us to get us ready for the future, from leadership and sustainability to entrepreneurship and creativity.
Diverse method of teaching
The Amsterdam Business School is revolutionising the field of education! Not only are the professors here authorities in their domains, but they are also rock stars of passion, innovation, and originality. They encourage you to think creatively, question the established quo, and venture into uncharted territory in addition to imparting theoretical knowledge. Furthermore, their methods of instruction are really astounding! I was thrown into engaging classes that promoted creative problem-solving and questioned traditional wisdom from the very beginning. Here, the lecturers combine theoretical understanding with real-world application.
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A Transformative Experience at ABS
I've had the pleasure of studying at Amsterdam Business School, and it's been a game-changer. The faculty's expertise, combined with interactive learning methods, provided invaluable insights. Networking opportunities, career services, and alumni connections opened doors to new possibilities.
A top business school
Amsterdam Business School offers an exceptional learning environment with a strong focus on international business. Its diverse faculty, innovative programs, and real-world connections provide students with practical skills and global perspectives. I love it!
Practical insight
Amsterdam Business School is more than just a business school; it's a launchpad for future leaders. With its outstanding professors, innovative teaching methods, and state-of-the-art learning environment,
ABS provides a truly transformative education experience. It's a place where students are not only educated but are also inspired to innovate, lead, and make a meaningful impact in the world. At ABS, you don't just learn about business; you live it.
Well established teachings
Studying at Amsterdam Business School has been one amazing experience. The international atmosphere is one of the best parts—you're constantly surrounded by students from all over the world, which makes class discussions diverse and dynamic. The courses are challenging but really relevant, with a focus on real-world business problems, case studies, and hands-on projects. The professors are top-notch and many have industry experience, which adds a practical edge to the academic material.
Exceeded my expectations
Amsterdam Business School has exceeded my expectations. The faculty comprises exceptional professors who deliver high-quality education. The student body's diligence and enthusiasm maintain a motivating environment. The campus's beauty and the location's uniqueness make for an unforgettable experience.
Transformative experience
Attending Amsterdam Business School has been a transformative experience, largely due to the exceptional diversity of individuals I've encountered. The university's unique location, coupled with its vibrant community, has made my time here truly unforgettable. I've discovered a sense of belonging among my peers, fostering a strong sense of family and camaraderie.
My time here so far
My time at Amsterdam Business School has been truly enriching, thanks to the exceptional professors and stunning campus. What stands out most to me, however, is the perfect blend of accessibility and beauty that this school embodies. From the picturesque landscapes to the state-of-the-art facilities, every aspect of the campus is both functional and visually striking.
An amazing school
This school's amazing campus and teachers make learning awesome. They bring real-world experience to class, teaching through interactive problem-solving that helps to provide better understanding of the course work, thereby setting us up for success.
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