MSc Finance and Real Estate

David Steyn (2019), Senior Commercial Director

I had always kept an eye on potential courses at the University of Aberdeen based on my family’s extensive experience and success in graduating from the University. Once the time in my life was right, and I saw a top level, unique course available, I immediately applied.

I am the third generation of my family to graduate from the University of Aberdeen, after my grandfather who did his PhD in the 1960s, and my father and his five siblings that attended during the 1980s. Now that I have graduated our family have their tenth University of Aberdeen degree.

I studied Finance and Real Estate, which is an innovative degree offering from the University of Aberdeen. Pioneering the connection between the worlds of finance and real estate, the course allowed me to utilise my industry experience, further my knowledge base, and build a global network.

The degree offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in the Real Estate Academy of China Asian Cities Tour [now the Asian Cities course] involving four weeks of practical, perspective changing experience. Potential employers are stunned with the volume of knowledge, the real world understanding, and the industry skills attendees of this trip come back with.

My master’s degree with the University of Aberdeen elevated my career from a promising industry newcomer, to a sharp and valued professional. I have been able to work across the globe, harnessing my skillset to deliver value in finance functions for real estate companies. More often than not you regret the goal you did not chase, the shot you did not take, and the degree you did not attempt. The University of Aberdeen is the perfect place to blend innovation with tradition, and to turn knowledge into industry prowess.