Executive Diploma in Islamic Finance & Entrepreneurship | Al-Maktoum College
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Executive Diploma in Ethical Finance & Entrepreneurship

This fully online programme is accredited at SCQF Level 11, providing 120 credits designed to deliver advanced knowledge and practical expertise in ethical finance and entrepreneurship. As a Customised Award certified and quality assured by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA), it upholds the highest standards of academic excellence and professional credibility, offering flexibility for learners worldwide.
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  • Tuition fees: £5,800
  • Programme level: SCQF Level 11 with a total of 120 credits
  • Start date: January, September
  • Study mode: Online
  • Duration: 1 year

What will I study?

This programme offers a comprehensive exploration of ethical finance, incorporating principles of sustainability and socially responsible financial practices. You will learn to navigate entrepreneurial challenges and develop innovative solutions grounded in ethical business principles.

This 120-credit programme will be delivered online.

The Executive Diploma in Ethical Finance & Entrepreneurship is designed to instill the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to thrive in an entrepreneurial environment. This is achieved through a programme consisting of three complementary components:

Academic – The programme aims to provide clarity of thought in the evolving field of ethical finance. Academic lectures cover the latest thinking and frameworks in ethical finance, commercial law, management, and business ethics to help students chart their own paths. The blended learning environment combines face-to-face interactive teaching with incorporated video, text, and small group work to provide a rigorous yet flexible and practical experience.

Practical – This component of the programme is designed to help you apply academic knowledge in real-world scenarios. You will engage with industry practitioners and learn about emerging entrepreneurial challenges in ethical finance that they are facing or have faced, along with the solutions they have implemented. These interactions will expand your industry-specific knowledge and shape how you approach your own venture challenges.

Community – This component focuses on building a vibrant network, enabling you to discover new opportunities, raise your profile, and increase the visibility of your business while creating a human-centric impact. The aim is to foster a community of functional individuals who contribute to their own growth, their families, and the wider society. To support this, you will connect with alumni and industry experts in ethical finance.

The Executive Diploma in Ethical Finance & Entrepreneurship is part of a suite of professional qualifications in Moral Economy & Finance. You may also be interested in the Professional Diploma in Ethical Banking & Finance or the Diploma in Moral Economy & Sustainable Development.

There are routes available from this Diploma into MBA programmes. For more information on this and the University of Dundee’s Global MBA programme, please click here.

Progression Pathways:
Students who complete the Diploma will be eligible to gain either:

  • MSc Moral Economy and Sustainable Development from Abertay University
  • Advanced access to the Global MBA from the University of Dundee Business School

Route 1: MSc Moral Economy and Sustainable Development from Abertay University
You will need 120 credits to take the dissertation (MBA556), Econometrics Data Modelling (ANC703), and Corporate Governance and Management (AMC707).

Route 2: Global MBA from the University of Dundee Business School
You will complete two additional modules and a dissertation.

Download the programme Handbook

What will I learn

The core taught units provide an in-depth academic, practical skills and applications in Islamic finance. The optional units enable students to develop in-depth knowledge and understanding in a specific area of interest. You will also have an opportunity for an in-depth exploration of a specific issue relevant to Islamic finance in your project report where you need to demonstrate mastering of practical skills of Islamic finance and entrepreneurship.

Each unit draws on the practical experience of experts from the field to complement the theoretical components of the units offered. Guest lecturers share their experiences from the field to develop appreciation of Islamic finance and business in the real world.

Mentoring is an integral part of the programme. At the beginning of the programme, you will meet your mentor, who will provide one-to-one guidance for the duration of the programme.

Mentors are experienced academics and entrepreneurs with a wide range of expertise in many Islamic financial industries. Mentors are a point of consistency throughout the full duration of the programme.

The project report will be your most significant programme-specific endeavour to put your entrepreneurial knowledge into practice. This 6,000-7,000-word report requires a comprehensive analysis of a business opportunity; in most cases, this will be the your own venture.

Programme information

Entry requirements

  • An honours degree from a UK university, or equivalent
  • In addition, professional experience* may be also recognised for enrolment in the course

*Applicants who do not meet the formal entry requirements may be asked to attend an interview. 

This programme may be suitable for:

  • Those who are seeking to work and advance their professional careers in the Islamic economics, banking and finance industry

English Language requirements 

Teaching takes place solely in English and you must demonstrate that your English language proficiency is at a level that will allow you to follow your intended programme successfully.

If English is not your first language you must hold a qualification as evidence of your English language skills. Full details of the qualifications we accept, can be found here.

Student Visa requirements for study in the UK

The UK Government approves certain English language qualifications as being Secure English Language Tests (SELT). These meet the government’s requirements for visa applications.

Al-Maktoum College will accept the following:

  • IELTS for UKVI or IELTS Life Skills
  • LanguageCert – B2 or equivalent
  • Pearson – PTE Home or PTE Academic
  • PSI Skills for English – PSI Services

SELT’s can only be sat at approved test centres. A list of all the approved test centres is available on GOV.UK

The list of approved English language tests has been assessed as meeting Home Office requirements under the secure English language testing arrangements. Only those tests and test levels specified are approved. If you intend to use an English language test in your immigration or nationality application you must take one of the tests on the list.

You should make sure the test that you book is the one approved for the SELT.

 

Full entry requirement information can be found here.

The Executive Diploma in Islamic Finance & Entrepreneurship is beneficial for those who are seeking to work and advance their professional careers in the Islamic financial industry or they are looking to start their own business based on value principles of Islamic moral economy.

This programme provides a strong practical basis for Islamic economics, commercial law and Islamic financial instruments. Those completing the course will be able to seek employment opportunities in the finance and banking sectors including Islamic insurance, financial regulation, and the investment arena, as well as for becoming entrepreneurs.

Teaching

Each 20-credit unit compromises 200 hours of learning; this is made up of 40 hours of teaching and 160 hours of independent study.

Classes are made up of lectures, seminars and tutorials and you will have 2 hours of contact teaching per week.

You should apply directly using the College online application system and your application will usually be assessed within 3 working days. We my contact you to provide further information or to invite you to a short informal interview.

Please make sure you have the following information before starting your application:

  • Academic transcripts and qualification certificates
  • Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
  • Passport details
  • Referee details

We consider all aspects of the application: academic qualifications, personal statement and references.

All correspondence will be sent from admissions@almcollege.ac.uk after an application of study has been submitted and you should direct any questions there.

Compulsory unit information

Moral Economy and Finance (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and frameworks underpinning the moral economy and its application in contemporary finance. It critically examines the ethical dimensions of economic systems, focusing on the interplay between values, societal well-being, and financial practices. Students will gain a robust understanding of how moral considerations influence financial decision-making and sustainable development. By engaging with theoretical concepts and real-world examples, this unit equips learners with the analytical skills needed to navigate the complexities of ethical finance and contribute to innovative, value-driven economic solutions.

Research Skills and Project Report (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit equips students with the advanced research skills needed to critically investigate and address complex challenges in ethical finance and entrepreneurship. It provides a structured framework for understanding research methodologies, data analysis techniques, and academic writing. The unit culminates in a comprehensive project report, where students apply their knowledge to explore a specific issue or opportunity within ethical finance or entrepreneurship. Through this process, students demonstrate their ability to independently design, execute, and present a substantial piece of research that integrates theoretical insights with practical applications, showcasing their mastery of the subject matter.

Theoretical and Practical Entrepreneurship (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit provides a comprehensive understanding of the theories and practices that drive successful entrepreneurship. It explores foundational concepts, including entrepreneurial mindset, innovation, and value creation, while integrating these with practical tools and strategies for real-world application. Students will engage with case studies, interactive workshops, and industry insights to develop skills in opportunity recognition, business planning, and strategic decision-making. By blending theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning, this unit prepares students to navigate entrepreneurial challenges, create sustainable ventures, and drive positive change within their industries.

Optional unit information

Raising Finance: Ethical Financial Models and Institutions (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit explores the principles and practices involved in raising finance through ethical financial models and institutions. Students will examine the structures and mechanisms of ethical finance, including sustainable investment approaches, socially responsible lending, and alternative financial models. The unit highlights the role of ethical financial institutions in fostering inclusive growth and mitigating financial risks. By analyzing real-world case studies and applying theoretical frameworks, students will develop the skills needed to evaluate and implement ethical financial strategies that align with societal values and sustainable development goals.

Managing and Assessing Growth and Constraints in Small Businesses (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit provides a deep dive into the opportunities and challenges associated with managing and growing small businesses. Students will explore key aspects of business development, including strategic planning, resource allocation, and market positioning. The unit also examines common constraints such as financial limitations, operational inefficiencies, and external market pressures, equipping learners with tools to assess and address these barriers effectively. Through practical exercises and case studies, students will develop the analytical and decision-making skills required to foster sustainable growth and resilience in small businesses, aligning strategies with ethical and innovative practices.

Cross-Cultural Management (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit examines the complexities of managing in multicultural and diverse environments, focusing on the impact of cultural differences on organizational behavior, leadership, and communication. Students will explore key theories and frameworks for understanding cultural dimensions and their influence on business practices. Through case studies and practical exercises, learners will develop skills to navigate cultural challenges, foster inclusive workplace environments, and build effective cross-cultural teams. The unit emphasizes the importance of cultural intelligence in ethical decision-making and global business strategies, preparing students to lead and collaborate effectively in an interconnected world.

Sustainability and Ethics (SCQF Level 11, 20 Credits)

This unit delves into the principles of sustainability and ethical decision-making within the context of contemporary business and finance. Students will examine the interplay between environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations and their impact on long-term organizational success. The unit explores ethical frameworks, sustainability strategies, and the role of businesses in addressing global challenges such as climate change and social inequality. Through case studies and critical analysis, students will develop the skills needed to integrate sustainability and ethical practices into decision-making processes, fostering responsible leadership and driving positive change in their professional fields.

What our students say

There were a lot of positives to take from studying the course at this wonderful institution however my favourite thing was that it allowed me the opportunity to acquire critical knowledge and training in Islamic economics, banking and finance. Coming from a finance background, I opted for the Professional Diploma in Islamic Banking and Finance because I believed it would broaden my knowledge and understanding of finance and also give me an edge over core conventional finance professionals.

Emmanuel Islamic Banking & Finance
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