Applications for the MFSA’s Post-Graduate Diploma in Financial Regulation and Compliance are being received until 24 July. As we approach the closing date, NewsHub sat down with Aleksandra Dimitrova, Senior Academy Manager at the Financial Supervisors Academy to learn more about the benefits of this course and why NewsHub readers should apply today.

How did the collaboration on this diploma, between the MFSA and the University of Malta, come about?

The MFSA’s Strategic Statement issued in February 2023 highlighted the importance of collaborating with educational institutions, particularly to ensure the availability of skills and knowledge in areas like risk, ESG, and digital finance. Partnering with the University of Malta to create this Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Regulation and Compliance gave us a fantastic opportunity to develop a robust curriculum. By combining our expertise with that of university academics and top industry professionals, we have tailored the programme to meet the evolving needs of the financial sector.

How does this programme help professionals stay ahead of industry trends and regulatory changes?

The Postgraduate Diploma covers eight key subjects, including Sustainable Finance, Digital Finance, Compliance Management, and Risk Management. Each unit is designed to include real-life scenarios and case studies, taught by industry professionals and regulatory experts from the MFSA and beyond. This approach ensures that graduates not only understand the latest regulatory developments but also know how to apply practical solutions. Ultimately, this diploma aims to boost their career prospects and enhance the value of their work contribution for their employers.

How does the programme incorporate real-life case studies and industry experience?

We worked hard to bring on board over 50 guest lecturers who are currently active in the industry and the MFSA. These professionals collaborate with Unit Coordinators to ensure the learning experience is practical and engaging, featuring case studies, simulations, and interactive activities. Each lecture brings in a different expert, providing students with a wide range of perspectives and experiences, which helps them build practical skills and prepares them for the workplace.

What are some of the key benefits that applicants can expect when enrolling in this diploma?

One of the major benefits is the seamless transition to a master’s degree. After completing the diploma, graduates can move on to a Master of Science in Insurance and Risk Management under the Governance, Risk Management, and Compliance stream (GRC). They can submit a dissertation and be exempt from the theoretical units of the master’s, resulting in two Level 7 qualifications. I invite potential applicants to reach out to me directly for more details about this pathway.

Moreover, the diploma is designed for working professionals, with flexible part-time evening classes held twice a week. Students can join the classes either virtually or in-person, making it easier to balance their studies with a busy work schedule.

What’s in store for the Financial Supervisors Academy in the next year?

We are excited about the upcoming year at the Financial Supervisors Academy. Besides continuing to provide top in-house training and professional development opportunities for the MFSA team, we’re embarking on a new project in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Officer Supervision. This project involves creating an academic journal focused on Financial Regulation and Compliance, which is a first for the MFSA. We are partnering with international academics, lawyers, regulatory professionals, and policy advisors to develop this journal. The Journal of Financial Supervisors Academy will complement our postgraduate diploma, offering students the latest professional insights and research-based articles on current developments in regulation and compliance. Stay tuned for the launch of the JFSA!

Apply here for the Postgraduate Diploma on Financial Regulation and Compliance.

For more information on the diploma, send an email to: [email protected].