EFN555 Advanced Applications in Finance
To view more information for this unit, select Unit Outline from the list below. Please note the teaching period for which the Unit Outline is relevant.
| Unit code: | EFN555 |
|---|---|
| Prerequisite(s): | EFN412 and EFN415 |
| Equivalent(s): | EFX555 |
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Timetable | Details in HiQ, if available |
| Availabilities |
|
| Domestic tuition unit fee | $4,416 |
| International unit fee | $4,944 |
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2025, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | EFN555 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | EFN412 and EFN415 |
| Equivalent: | EFX555 |
| Coordinator: | En-Te Chen | e.chen@qut.edu.au |
Overview
As a capstone experience in Applied Finance, this unit focuses on the integration and synthesis of the knowledge, skills, and understanding students have gained across their Applied Finance program of study. The unit connects student learning via case studies where students focus on identifying practical solutions to real-world problems encountered in finance. The case studies help to consolidate student learning, extend their critical thinking through applications, and facilitate employment-focused teamwork to support their transition into work.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply integrated knowledge and skills to analyse complex, real-world financial issues, data, decisions and opportunities
- Make informed decisions and judgements in formulating responses to financial issues, including contemporary issues of ethics and social responsibility in the field of finance
- Exercise self-reflection, responsibility and accountability in relation to individual learning, professional practice, and working effectively in team contexts
- Use professional written and oral communication skills to discuss and critique complex financial concepts, issues and cases
Content
This unit has two broad themes. The first theme focuses on financial decision making within the firm and may include themes such as earnings forecasting, funding of new projects, acquisitions, capital structure, payout decisions, and agency problems. It emphasises how the role of a thoughtful and skilled financial decision-maker can improve firm value.
The second theme focuses on the problem solving and decision making of an investment manager and may explore issues such as market inefficiency, investment strategy, valuation, asset pricing and risk mitigation. It focuses on how an investment manager can add value.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
This is a highly interactive unit focusing on the application of finance theory to practice. Students will take a critical approach to analysing and responding to real-world finance problems and issues. The unit has a number of themed lectures and board meetings, focusing on key areas of corporate finance and investments. Using a case study approach, students will draw from texts, readings, online resources, and guided discussions in board meetings to explore these areas of applied finance while developing their own critical thinking skills. Students will be supported by working in teams and learning from their peers through collaboration.
Please be aware that because of the collaborative nature of team board meetings and weekly presentations, students are required to participate live, either on campus or online.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester, which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Students may be required to attend campus or an assessment centre for the purposes of assessment, regardless of the attendance mode for the unit.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 1
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a group report addressing a real-world corporate finance issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes an individual written reflection on the professional skills practised by students working in a team on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.2) and SE (5.1)
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 2
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a report addressing a real-world investment issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes a written reflection on student's own higher-order thinking skills and their potential application to professional practice.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) and SE (5.2)
Assessment: Oral Presentations
Each student will make oral presentations to the board during the semester.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): : PC (3.2)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
There is no prescribed text. All materials needed will be provided.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with lectures or tutorials in this unit.
You should, however, familiarise yourself with evacuation procedures operating in the buildings in which you attend classes and take the time to view the Emergency video.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.2): Professional Communication (Oral)
Relates to: ULO4, Oral Presentations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.2): Teamwork Knowledge and Skills
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 1
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2 - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
Relates to: ULO3 - Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Relates to: ULO3 - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2
Unit Outline: Semester 1 2025, Online
| Unit code: | EFN555 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | EFN412 and EFN415 |
| Equivalent: | EFX555 |
Overview
As a capstone experience in Applied Finance, this unit focuses on the integration and synthesis of the knowledge, skills, and understanding students have gained across their Applied Finance program of study. The unit connects student learning via case studies where students focus on identifying practical solutions to real-world problems encountered in finance. The case studies help to consolidate student learning, extend their critical thinking through applications, and facilitate employment-focused teamwork to support their transition into work.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply integrated knowledge and skills to analyse complex, real-world financial issues, data, decisions and opportunities
- Make informed decisions and judgements in formulating responses to financial issues, including contemporary issues of ethics and social responsibility in the field of finance
- Exercise self-reflection, responsibility and accountability in relation to individual learning, professional practice, and working effectively in team contexts
- Use professional written and oral communication skills to discuss and critique complex financial concepts, issues and cases
Content
This unit has two broad themes. The first theme focuses on financial decision making within the firm and may include themes such as earnings forecasting, funding of new projects, acquisitions, capital structure, payout decisions, and agency problems. It emphasises how the role of a thoughtful and skilled financial decision-maker can improve firm value.
The second theme focuses on the problem solving and decision making of an investment manager and may explore issues such as market inefficiency, investment strategy, valuation, asset pricing and risk mitigation. It focuses on how an investment manager can add value.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
This is a highly interactive unit focusing on the application of finance theory to practice. Students will take a critical approach to analysing and responding to real-world finance problems and issues. The unit has a number of themed lectures and board meetings, focusing on key areas of corporate finance and investments. Using a case study approach, students will draw from texts, readings, online resources, and guided discussions in board meetings to explore these areas of applied finance while developing their own critical thinking skills. Students will be supported by working in teams and learning from their peers through collaboration.
Please be aware that because of the collaborative nature of team board meetings and weekly presentations, students are required to participate live, either on campus or online.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester, which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Students may be required to attend campus or an assessment centre for the purposes of assessment, regardless of the attendance mode for the unit.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 1
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a group report addressing a real-world corporate finance issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes an individual written reflection on the professional skills practised by students working in a team on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.2) and SE (5.1)
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 2
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a report addressing a real-world investment issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes a written reflection on student's own higher-order thinking skills and their potential application to professional practice.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) and SE (5.2)
Assessment: Oral Presentations
Each student will make oral presentations to the board during the semester.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): : PC (3.2)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
There is no prescribed text. All materials needed will be provided.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with lectures or tutorials in this unit.
You should, however, familiarise yourself with evacuation procedures operating in the buildings in which you attend classes and take the time to view the Emergency video.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.2): Professional Communication (Oral)
Relates to: ULO4, Oral Presentations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.2): Teamwork Knowledge and Skills
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 1
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2 - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
Relates to: ULO3 - Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Relates to: ULO3 - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Gardens Point, Internal
| Unit code: | EFN555 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | EFN412 and EFN415 |
| Equivalent: | EFX555 |
| Coordinator: | En-Te Chen | e.chen@qut.edu.au |
Overview
As a capstone experience in Applied Finance, this unit focuses on the integration and synthesis of the knowledge, skills, and understanding students have gained across their Applied Finance program of study. The unit connects student learning via case studies where students focus on identifying practical solutions to real-world problems encountered in finance. The case studies help to consolidate student learning, extend their critical thinking through applications, and facilitate employment-focused teamwork to support their transition into work.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply integrated knowledge and skills to analyse complex, real-world financial issues, data, decisions and opportunities
- Make informed decisions and judgements in formulating responses to financial issues, including contemporary issues of ethics and social responsibility in the field of finance
- Exercise self-reflection, responsibility and accountability in relation to individual learning, professional practice, and working effectively in team contexts
- Use professional written and oral communication skills to discuss and critique complex financial concepts, issues and cases
Content
This unit has two broad themes. The first theme focuses on financial decision making within the firm and may include themes such as earnings forecasting, funding of new projects, acquisitions, capital structure, payout decisions, and agency problems. It emphasises how the role of a thoughtful and skilled financial decision-maker can improve firm value.
The second theme focuses on the problem solving and decision making of an investment manager and may explore issues such as market inefficiency, investment strategy, valuation, asset pricing and risk mitigation. It focuses on how an investment manager can add value.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
This is a highly interactive unit focusing on the application of finance theory to practice. Students will take a critical approach to analysing and responding to real-world finance problems and issues. The unit has a number of themed lectures and board meetings, focusing on key areas of corporate finance and investments. Using a case study approach, students will draw from texts, readings, online resources, and guided discussions in board meetings to explore these areas of applied finance while developing their own critical thinking skills. Students will be supported by working in teams and learning from their peers through collaboration.
Please be aware that because of the collaborative nature of team board meetings and weekly presentations, students are required to participate live, either on campus or online.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester, which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Students may be required to attend campus or an assessment centre for the purposes of assessment, regardless of the attendance mode for the unit.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 1
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a group report addressing a real-world corporate finance issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes an individual written reflection on the professional skills practised by students working in a team on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.2) and SE (5.1)
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 2
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a report addressing a real-world investment issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes a written reflection on student's own higher-order thinking skills and their potential application to professional practice.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) and SE (5.2)
Assessment: Oral Presentations
Each student will make oral presentations to the board during the semester.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): : PC (3.2)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
There is no prescribed text. All materials needed will be provided.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with lectures or tutorials in this unit.
You should, however, familiarise yourself with evacuation procedures operating in the buildings in which you attend classes and take the time to view the Emergency video.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.2): Professional Communication (Oral)
Relates to: ULO4, Oral Presentations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.2): Teamwork Knowledge and Skills
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 1
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2 - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
Relates to: ULO3 - Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Relates to: ULO3 - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2
Unit Outline: Semester 2 2025, Online
| Unit code: | EFN555 |
|---|---|
| Credit points: | 12 |
| Pre-requisite: | EFN412 and EFN415 |
| Equivalent: | EFX555 |
Overview
As a capstone experience in Applied Finance, this unit focuses on the integration and synthesis of the knowledge, skills, and understanding students have gained across their Applied Finance program of study. The unit connects student learning via case studies where students focus on identifying practical solutions to real-world problems encountered in finance. The case studies help to consolidate student learning, extend their critical thinking through applications, and facilitate employment-focused teamwork to support their transition into work.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit you will be able to:
- Apply integrated knowledge and skills to analyse complex, real-world financial issues, data, decisions and opportunities
- Make informed decisions and judgements in formulating responses to financial issues, including contemporary issues of ethics and social responsibility in the field of finance
- Exercise self-reflection, responsibility and accountability in relation to individual learning, professional practice, and working effectively in team contexts
- Use professional written and oral communication skills to discuss and critique complex financial concepts, issues and cases
Content
This unit has two broad themes. The first theme focuses on financial decision making within the firm and may include themes such as earnings forecasting, funding of new projects, acquisitions, capital structure, payout decisions, and agency problems. It emphasises how the role of a thoughtful and skilled financial decision-maker can improve firm value.
The second theme focuses on the problem solving and decision making of an investment manager and may explore issues such as market inefficiency, investment strategy, valuation, asset pricing and risk mitigation. It focuses on how an investment manager can add value.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
The content and assessment in this unit are aligned to a selection of the following set of QUT Business Capabilities, also known as Assurance of Learning Goals (AoLs). Developing these capabilities will assist you to meet the desired graduate outcomes set at QUT and equip you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen career.
Knowledge & Technical Skills (KS)
1.1 Demonstrate and apply integrated and advanced discipline and professional practice knowledge, including knowledge of relevant research principles and methods.
1.2 Apply technical, technological and technical research skills to organise and interpret discipline knowledge, including theory and practice, to investigate business issues.
Higher Order Thinking Skills (HO)
2.1 Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
2.2 Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Professional Communication (PC)
3.1 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
3.2 Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Teamwork & Self (TS)
4.1 Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
4.2 Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Social, Ethical & Global Understanding (SE)
5.1 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
5.2 Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Learning Approaches
This is a highly interactive unit focusing on the application of finance theory to practice. Students will take a critical approach to analysing and responding to real-world finance problems and issues. The unit has a number of themed lectures and board meetings, focusing on key areas of corporate finance and investments. Using a case study approach, students will draw from texts, readings, online resources, and guided discussions in board meetings to explore these areas of applied finance while developing their own critical thinking skills. Students will be supported by working in teams and learning from their peers through collaboration.
Please be aware that because of the collaborative nature of team board meetings and weekly presentations, students are required to participate live, either on campus or online.
Feedback on Learning and Assessment
Students will receive feedback in various forms throughout the semester, which may include:
- Informal: worked examples, such as verbal feedback in class, personal consultation
- Formal: in writing, such as checklists (e.g. criteria sheets), written commentary
- Direct: to individual students, either in written form or in consultation
- Indirect: to the whole class
Assessment
Overview
The assessment in this unit aims to support your achievement of the unit learning outcomes and course assurance of learning goals. The assessment has been designed in order to allow you to:
- receive feedback on your learning as you progress toward the development of knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes (formative assessment);
- demonstrate your learning in order to achieve a final grade (summative assessment).
Students may be required to attend campus or an assessment centre for the purposes of assessment, regardless of the attendance mode for the unit.
Unit Grading Scheme
7- point scale
Assessment Tasks
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 1
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a group report addressing a real-world corporate finance issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes an individual written reflection on the professional skills practised by students working in a team on this task.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.2) and SE (5.1)
Assessment: Case Study and Reflection 2
This assessment item comprises two tasks. 1) Students are required to work in a team to produce a report addressing a real-world investment issue. Students will apply their understanding of finance theory and practice to critically analyse the case and make recommendations to a client. 2) The assessment item also includes a written reflection on student's own higher-order thinking skills and their potential application to professional practice.
This assignment is eligible for the 48-hour late submission period and assignment extensions.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): HO (2.1, 2.2), PC (3.1), TS (4.1) and SE (5.2)
Assessment: Oral Presentations
Each student will make oral presentations to the board during the semester.
Formative or Summative: Formative and Summative
Business Capabilities (AoL goals): : PC (3.2)
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is a commitment to undertaking academic work and assessment in a manner that is ethical, fair, honest, respectful and accountable.
The Academic Integrity Policy sets out the range of conduct that can be a failure to maintain the standards of academic integrity. This includes, cheating in exams, plagiarism, self-plagiarism, collusion and contract cheating. It also includes providing fraudulent or altered documentation in support of an academic concession application, for example an assignment extension or a deferred exam.
You are encouraged to make use of QUT’s learning support services, resources and tools to assure the academic integrity of your assessment. This includes the use of text matching software that may be available to assist with self-assessing your academic integrity as part of the assessment submission process.
Breaching QUT’s Academic Integrity Policy or engaging in conduct that may defeat or compromise the purpose of assessment can lead to a finding of student misconduct (Code of Conduct – Student) and result in the imposition of penalties under the Management of Student Misconduct Policy, ranging from a grade reduction to exclusion from QUT.
Resources
There is no prescribed text. All materials needed will be provided.
Risk Assessment Statement
There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with lectures or tutorials in this unit.
You should, however, familiarise yourself with evacuation procedures operating in the buildings in which you attend classes and take the time to view the Emergency video.
Standards/Competencies
This unit is designed to support your development of the following standards\competencies.
QUT Business Capabilities (Postgraduate)
HO (2.1): Critical Analysis
Relates to: ULO1, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
HO (2.2): Independent Judgement and Decision-Making
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.1): Professional Communication (Written)
Relates to: ULO4, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
PC (3.2): Professional Communication (Oral)
Relates to: ULO4, Oral Presentations
SE (5.1): Ethical and Legal Understanding
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 1, Case Study and Reflection 2
SE (5.2): Global Social Responsibility
Relates to: ULO2, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.1): Self-Reflection and Accountability
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 2
TS (4.2): Teamwork Knowledge and Skills
Relates to: ULO3, Case Study and Reflection 1
Course Learning Outcomes
This unit is designed to support your development of the following course/study area learning outcomes.BS11 Master of Business
- Demonstrate and apply knowledge of socially responsible behaviour in analysing and addressing business issues and critically reflect on the responsibilities and impacts of organisations in national and international business contexts.
Relates to: ULO2 - Critically investigate real world business issues and problems drawing on analysis, evaluation and synthesis of discipline knowledge, including theory and practice.
Relates to: ULO1 - Exercise creativity and intellectual independence and make informed decisions and judgements in planning, designing, and executing strategic and research-based responses to address real world issues and problems.
Relates to: ULO1, ULO2 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in written forms and using media appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Use information literacy skills and communicate effectively and professionally in oral forms appropriate for diverse purposes, contexts and audiences.
Relates to: ULO4 - Exercise self-reflection and accountability in applying knowledge and skills for own learning and effective practice.
Relates to: ULO3 - Apply teamwork knowledge and skills for effective collaboration across a range of complex activities and contexts.
Relates to: ULO3 - Demonstrate and apply knowledge of ethical and legal principles and practices of business in critically analysing and effectively responding to complex business issues.
Relates to: ULO2