AI, Fintech and Digital Banking
| Module title | AI, Fintech and Digital Banking |
|---|---|
| Module code | BEF2030DA |
| Academic year | 2025/6 |
| Credits | 30 |
| Module staff |
| Duration: Term | 1 | 2 | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration: Weeks | 12 |
| Number students taking module (anticipated) | 70 |
|---|
Module description
This module is designed to provide an overview on the concepts of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Financial Technology (FinTech) and outline some of its key areas of impact in corporate and banking world. You will explore the transformative role of artificial intelligence in banking, covering automation, risk assessment, fraud detection, customer service, and financial decision-making. Emphasis is placed on regulatory considerations, ethical implications, and practical applications in retail and commercial banking. It also explores the transformative impact of technology on banking services, focusing on digital platforms, payment systems, and fintech innovations. It examines how digital solutions enhance customer experiences, improve operational efficiency, and address emerging challenges in a rapidly evolving financial landscape.
Module aims - intentions of the module
The module aims to develop knowledge of digital, AI, and automated banking and the role of Fintech in modern banking institutions. It provides students with a critical understanding of how emerging technologies are reshaping traditional banking models and enabling new financial products and services. Students will have the ability to comprehend the strategic, ethical, and regulatory challenges faced by financial institutions as they adapt to a rapidly evolving digital landscape. The development of ‘RegTech’ is also introduced in this module, as financial market participants and regulators use technology to enhance regulatory compliance and streamline its component processes. Through a blend of theoretical study and real-world case analysis, students will develop the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and contribute to the future of digital finance.
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
ILO: Module-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 1. Explain the evolution of digital and artificial intelligence (AI) transformation in banking.
- 2. Evaluate key fintech innovations and tech solutions for existing bank functions, such as neobanks, open banking, and big data in banking.
- 3. Describe a range of digital systems, products and models that operate in banking market (including Blockchain, Cryptocurrency and NFTs).
- 4. Describe the different types of institutions (banks and non-banks) that digital and AI transformation has affected.
- 5. Assess the risks inherent in adopting and using new technologies (including machine learning and AI) in Banking services.
- 6. Analyse the ethical challenges associated with digital banking, including data privacy, cybersecurity, and data breaches.
- 7. Consider the impact of regulation and the regulatory structure around digital and AI technology in banking.
ILO: Discipline-specific skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 8. Explain the role and impact of emerging technologiesincluding AI, blockchain, and big datain transforming banking and financial services.
- 9. Assess the strategic and operational implications of digital transformation for banking institutions.
- 10. Evaluate the implications of FinTech in delivering financial solutions.
ILO: Personal and key skills
On successfully completing the module you will be able to...
- 11. Apply digital banking concepts to real-world case studies, demonstrating strategic thinking and digital awareness.
- 12. Keep up to date with sector relevant legal/regulatory changes
Syllabus plan
Indicative topics:
- Introduction and evolution of digital and financial technology in banking
- Tech solutions for existing bank functions
- Artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics in banking
- Commercial impact on banks of technology, and impact on customers
- Digital products, services and other technology-enabled systems in bank-customer interactions
- Regulatory initiatives (e.g., PSD2, Open Banking UK)
- Cybersecurity and Data Protection: key threats in digital finance
- Fintech risk and compliance issues
- Digital transformation strategies in incumbent banks
- Ethical use of AI and data in financial services
Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)
| Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities | Guided independent study | Placement / study abroad |
|---|---|---|
| 30 | 270 |
Details of learning activities and teaching methods
| Category | Hours of study time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Scheduled learning and teaching activities | 30 | Masterclasses (in-person and online) |
| Guided independent study | 270 | Research, reading contents on ELE, assessment preparation and web-based activities including external resources if applicable. |
Formative assessment
| Form of assessment | Size of the assessment (eg length / duration) | ILOs assessed | Feedback method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Applied exercises/online quizzes/case analysis | variable | 1-12 | Online feedback |
Summative assessment (% of credit)
| Coursework | Written exams | Practical exams |
|---|---|---|
| 80 | 20 | 0 |
Details of summative assessment
| Form of assessment | % of credit | Size of the assessment (eg length / duration) | ILOs assessed | Feedback method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly online quiz | 20 | Weekly online MCQ quiz for five weeks | 1-12 | Marks and correct answer explained. |
| Case Analysis/Coursework assignment | 80 | 3500-word report | 1-12 | Marks and individual feedback (written). |
Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)
| Original form of assessment | Form of re-assessment | ILOs re-assessed | Timescale for re-assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCQ exam | 20%, 50 questions | 1-12 | In line with university regulations |
| Case Analysis/Coursework assignment | 80%, 3500-word written assignment | 1-12 | In line with university regulations |
Re-assessment notes
Deferral – if you have been deferred for any assessment you will be expected to submit the relevant assessment. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of deferral will not be capped and will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment.
Referral – if you have failed the module overall (i.e. a final overall module mark of less than 40%) you will be expected to submit the relevant assessment. The mark given for a re-assessment taken as a result of referral will be capped at 40%
Indicative learning resources - Basic reading
Recommended text:
- Henderson, J. (2018). Retail and Digital Banking: Principles and Practice. Kogan Page Publishers.
- Buckley, Ross P. (2023). Fintech: Finance, Technology and Regulation. Cambridge eBooks.
- Turi, Abeba N. (2023). Financial Technologies and DeFi: A revisit to the Digital Finance Revolution. Springer
Supplementary text:
- Pedersen, N. (2020), Financial Technology: Case Studies in Fintech Innovation, Kogan Kage.
- Timothy, K. (2021). Disruptive Technology in Banking and Finance: An International Perspective on FinTech. Springer.
Other resources:
ELE – Web-based and electronic resources will be posted and made available throughout the module.
| Credit value | 30 |
|---|---|
| Module ECTS | 15 |
| Module pre-requisites | None |
| Module co-requisites | None |
| NQF level (module) | 5 |
| Available as distance learning? | Yes |
| Origin date | 13/05/2025 |
