The University of Waikato, an educational institution located in New Zealand, has launched the country’s first Bachelor of Banking, Finance & Technology (BBFinTech) programme in response to the call for more graduates equipped with the skills demanded by the fintech sector.
Waikato is New Zealand’s leading business school, ranked number one for business and economics and is also in the top one per cent of business schools globally with Triple Crown Accreditation. The BBFinTech degree is poised to bridge a skills chasm, empowering graduates to drive business innovation and evolution as catalysts.
It will arm students with expertise in financial markets, investment platforms, digital finance, banking operations, automated trading, blockchains and cryptocurrencies, as well as cybersecurity. They will also look at the growing popularity of impact investing, where people invest into a profitable business (such as forestry or solar power) that aims to achieve social or environmental goals, while still generating a financial return.
“The world of finance runs on digital technology,” said Matt Bolger, pro vice-chancellor for the Waikato Management School. “From investment platforms and digital currencies to the way we make payments, nothing happens without digital. Yet no undergraduate degree in New Zealand currently recognises the need for these dual competencies.
“The BBFinTech will fill this critical skills gap. Graduates will help businesses continue to innovate and evolve – whether they are a local Kiwi champion or a Silicon Valley startup. We can’t wait to welcome our first cohort of students next year.”
Future skills
Shane Marsh, founder of leading fintech firm Dosh and University of Waikato alumni, also commented: “We’re expecting this area to snowball. Our industry will require more people with these skills in the future, and we are thrilled to see the University of Waikato meeting this need with their new BBFinTech degree.
“There is a real need for people with fintech skills who can help shape the future of financial services. We need people who understand how open banking, digital currencies and emerging technology will define the future solutions we want in New Zealand and overseas.
“There is huge growth potential in this sector, so for students interested in tech who are interested in a career in an exciting sector, this is definitely a path to consider.”
