The new partnership between Macquarie Business School (MQBS) and Symbiosis International University, which is located in Pune, India, will allow students to earn two masters degrees in just two years – an MBA with a specialisation in Financial Services from Symbiosis International University and a Master of Banking and Finance with a specialisation in Financial Management from Macquarie University.

The innovative dual degree program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic Banking, Financial Services, and Insurance (BFSI) sector. The program has been carefully curated with a blend of rigorous theoretical insights and practical, real-world applications to ensure students are prepared to navigate the complexities of the banking and finance landscape.

“Our partnership with Symbiosis International University is a significant step forward in offering financial education at global standards,” said Professor Vito Mollica, Head of the Department of Applied Finance at Macquarie Business School.

“With our combined strengths, this specially curated dual degree program is all set to provide students with a deep understanding of the banking and finance sector. Through this program, we are giving the next generation of leaders the knowledge and confidence to excel in the rapidly changing financial world.”

Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, Pro Chancellor, Symbiosis International University, said, “This collaboration marks an important milestone in our mission of internationalising higher education through delivering world-class education and creating global prospects for our students.

“Through this collaboration, our students will have the unique opportunity to study a part of their Master program at Macquarie University in Australia, benefiting from its rich academic quality and state-of-the-art facilities. I am happy that we have found an academic partner who matches the academic rigour and industry-relevant education we provide our students at Symbiosis School of Banking and Finance (SSBF).”

Mode of study

• First year at Symbiosis International University in Pune, India: During their first year, students will build a strong foundation in management principles, with a particular emphasis on financial analysis, strategic decision-making, and business ethics. The curriculum is designed to develop a solid grasp of core financial concepts while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Through engaging in case studies, interactive workshops, and industry-led projects, students will lay the groundwork for advanced studies and gain the skills needed to navigate the global business environment.
• Second year at Macquarie University in Sydney, Australia: In the second year, students will dive into specialised areas such as financial modelling, econometrics, and global capital markets. Advanced topics like fintech innovations, environmental finance, and business valuation will be explored in depth. Here, students will benefit from exposure to cutting-edge research and industry practices, gaining a global perspective on banking and finance. The Sydney experience will also include opportunities for networking and real-world projects, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to excel in international financial markets.

Upon successful completion, graduates will be awarded dual degrees — an MBA and a Master of Banking and Finance enhancing their career prospects in the global arena.

Who is eligible for this program?

The program is open to individuals holding an undergraduate degree in any discipline, with eligibility criteria based on academic performance and English language proficiency. Interested applicants can visit https://ssbf.edu.in/macquarie-overview.php for application details and important dates. The first cohort will commence in June 2025.

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About Macquarie University

Founded in 1964, Macquarie University celebrates 60 years of strong tradition in pioneering thinking, ingenuity and exploration. We continue to break new ground as we work to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues to build a positive future for all. Ranked among the top 130 universities in the world (QS and Times Higher Ed Rankings 2024), the University produces highly sought-after graduates. In the QS World University Rankings by subject in 2024, the University was ranked among the Top 50 in the world for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Philosophy and Linguistics.

About Symbiosis International University

Symbiosis International University, established in 1971, is one of the most acclaimed private institutions located in Pune, Maharashtra, India. SIU is ranked globally in the 641-650 range (QS World University Rankings 2024) and tops the list of universities in India for employer reputation and is in 31st position globally. Among the Indian private universities ranked by QS, SIU stands at number two. The university has more than 41 academic institutions spread over various campuses in Pune, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Nagpur, Nashik, and Noida. SIU also inaugurated its first international campus in Dubai this year. The university offers a plethora of programs ranging from engineering to management to arts and sciences and more.

About Symbiosis School of Banking & Finance (SSBF)

Symbiosis School of Banking & Finance (SSBF) was established to address the growing demand for a trained workforce in the Banking and Financial Services Sector. Given that a strong and resilient banking system is critical for fuelling and sustaining growth, the importance of having industry-ready manpower cannot be over-emphasised. The MBA (Banking and Finance) offered by SSBF has been designed to provide the necessary education and skill set to equip students to innovate, manage, lead and take on the challenges of this increasingly complex and dynamic BFSI sector in the wake of constant functional and technological changes.