01/ Goals
The Specialized Master in Microfinance was launched in 2005 in response to a growing demand for training in development activities, particularly in microfinance. Currently, the Specialized Master in Microfinance is jointly organised by three European universities (Université libre de Bruxelles, Université de Mons and Université de Paris-Dauphine) and four non-governmental organizations ADA, BRS, CERISE and SOS Faim.
The purpose of the programme is to train microfinance professionals from both the North and the South and contribute to the strengthening of microfinance institutions worldwide in accordance with the highest international standards.
The EMP offers a multidisciplinary approach on development issues in the microfinance sector. The programme combines solid theoretical foundations, practical knowledge, and the possibility of an on-field internship. The EMP works in close connection with the Centre for European Research in Microfinance (CERMi), which offers optional seminars, conferences, and other research activities to the Specialized Master in Microfinance students (www.cermi.eu).
02/ Programme content
The programme lasts one year (60 ects).
It is spread over 3 periods:
- From mid-September to January: Introduction to financial management, microfinance from conception to management, banking and microfinance, contracting and microfinance products, financial inclusion, introduction to rural development,
- From February to April: Digital finance, financial planning and risk management, assessment of microfinance, commercialization of microfinance,
- From May to August: Students can complete a two-to-four-month field internship in a microfinance institution in a developing country. The Specialized Master in Microfinance does not provide any financial support for the expenses related to that internship. However, students have the possibility to look for grants and financial support from foundations, associations, etc.
Courses (all in English) are held 4-5 times a week in the evening hours (from 6 pm to 9 pm). Some courses may be organized on Saturdays from 9 am to 12 pm.
03/ Admission
Admission is delivered by the European Microfinance Programme Management Committee upon a commission evaluation of the candidates.
Applicants to the one-year programme must already hold a Master Degree - 300 ECTS - (or a degree considered as equivalent by the jury) in one of the following disciplines: development cooperation, economics, agronomy, management or finance.
Possibly, other qualifications may be accepted.
Applicants must have field experience in developing countries.
Mastering English is required.
Applicants will find the detailed application procedure on our website.
They must submit their application to both ARES and Specialized Master in Microfinance.
04/ Additionnal information
Number of scholarships available: 10
Length of the training: one academic year
Teaching language: English
05/ Universities
Universities:
- Université de Mons (UMONS) - Warocqué School of Business ans Economics
- Université libre de Bruxelles (ULB) - Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management (SBS-EM)
In Collaboration with :
- Université Paris-Dauphine (France)
- ADA, BRS, CERISE and SOS Faim
Programme directors:
- Prof. Marc Labie
- Prof. Ariane Szafarz and Prof. Marek Hudon
