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A image to illustrate Research methods for finance module
This module provides you with the necessary background to understand and plan empirical research in finance. It discusses some basic methodological approaches to research and develops relevant data analytics skills, including linear regression analysis, in Microsoft Excel. Finally, this module introduces you to the free and powerful statistical and econometric software R, which has become very popular amongst finance professionals. Whilst this is more technical than our other finance modules, it is exciting because it brings you closer to academic research in finance.
This module is made up of the following six units:
Unit 1 provides a general introduction to social research. It deals with issues of research methodology, the differences between qualitative and quantitative research and the distinction between primary and secondary data sources. It also discusses possible ethical issues and challenges that a researcher may encounter in social research in general and financial research in particular.
Units 2, 3 and 4 develop relevant data analytics skills in Microsoft Excel by focusing on descriptive statistics and basic probability theory. This part of the module not only discusses the most common probability distributions and their applications in finance research but also shows you how to carry out hypothesis tests for single variables and draw conclusions for a variety of statistical problems.
Unit 5 introduces you to linear regression analysis in Microsoft Excel. Regression analysis is a powerful and arguably the most widely used statistical method in empirical finance research. One particular type of regression analysis, linear regression, aims to explain one variable as a linear combination of one or several other variables.
Finally, Unit 6 introduces you to the powerful statistical and econometric software R. More specifically, we show how R can be used to assemble and manage large datasets, produce descriptive statistics and graphs, perform regression analysis, and interpret regression results. While Unit 6 has a distinct practical and applied feel, it uses the combined knowledge of the preceding Units 1 to 5.

Given the technical nature of this module, you may find parts of it challenging. The study activities will help you to understand the concepts and apply them to real-life problems, so it is important to allow time to complete them.
By completing this module, you will be able to:
This module is essential if you are working or planning to work in the finance sector, especially in financial institutions. It will also be beneficial if you work, or intend to work, outside of the finance domain, such as conducting academic research in finance. This module will also be of interest if you wish to expand your knowledge and skills in order to increase future opportunities by acquiring key transferable skills.
Your tutor will help you with the study material, mark and comment on your assignments and provide advice and guidance. You'll be able to contact your tutor by email, phone or via your tutor group forum on the module website.
Course work includes:

You'll be provided with a printed textbook and have access to a module website, which includes:
You can only study this module as part of specific Open University qualifications.
B817 is a compulsory module in our:
Sometimes you cannot count a module towards a qualification if you have already counted another module with similar content. To verify any excluded combinations with this module, check with an adviser before registering.
Research methods in finance starts once a year – in November.
This page describes the module that will start in November 2026.
We expect it to start for the last time in November 2030.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the academic regulations, which are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
All entrants must hold a BA/BSc degree awarded by a recognised university or equivalent.
Various higher education and professional qualifications are considered equivalent to a degree. If you hold a qualification that you believe is an equivalent level to a UK degree you should contact us. The Open University Business School Masters Programme Committee is responsible for judging whether applicants' qualifications meet the requirements for admission.
You will also need an appropriate facility in English language, sufficient to be able to work effectively at postgraduate level; generally, this means capability equivalent to an International English Language Test System (IELTS) score of 6.5. To assess your English language skills in relation to your proposed studies, you can visit the IELTS website. If you think either of these possibilities may apply to you, please speak to an adviser.
It is strongly recommended that you are comfortable with the use of numerical methods and spreadsheets. If you're unsure about these skills, we suggest you familiarise yourself with illustrative numerical skills and methods prior to study. To help you decide whether you are ready, you may want to try this diagnostic quiz.
If you have any doubt about the suitability of the module, please speak to an adviser.
This module is delivered online, and time spent using a computer and the internet will therefore be extensive. Some interactive online material may not be available or fully accessible.
If you’re using printed materials as part of reasonable adjustments to support your studies, note that printed versions of online materials are unavailable for this module.
StartEndRegister byEngland fee
07 Nov 202630 Apr 202715 Oct 2026£2,075
If you study this module as part of an eligible qualification, you can apply for a postgraduate loan to support your study costs. To find out more, see Postgraduate loans in England.
Studying with The Open University can boost your employability. OU courses are recognised and respected by employers for their excellence and the commitment they take to complete. They also value the skills that students learn and can apply in the workplace.
Over 30,000 employers have used the OU to develop staff so far. If the module you’ve chosen is geared towards your job or developing your career, you could approach your employer to see if they will sponsor you by paying some or all of the fees.
You can pay part or all of your tuition fees upfront with a debit or credit card when you register for each module.
We accept American Express, Mastercard, Visa and Visa Electron.
Please note: your permanent address/domicile will affect your fee status and, therefore, the fees you are charged and any financial support available to you. The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. For further information about the University's fee policy, visit our Fee Rules.
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