Master of Science in Trade Finance

By enrolling in the Master of Science in Trade Finance program, students graduate with two degrees : the ESCE Master of Science and the “Diplôme d’Études Avancées en Commerce International” (DEACI).

The DEACI is a state-recognized degree, endorsed by the French Ministry of Higher Education and Research, and corresponds to a Bac +5 (Level 7) qualification.

This degree is registered under RNCP No. 41190.

Master of Science in Trade Finance

In an unstable context worldwide affected by disruptions, economic crisis and political tensions, financial institutions as well as corporates regardless of their sizes, sectors or locations endeavour to better secure their transactions completed with their foreign partners.

Become an expert in trade finance and international risk management with this Master’s degree (RNCP Level 7, equivalent to a 5-year postgraduate qualification).
This program is 100% taught in English  and is designed for graduates with a  Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)  who have   strong English proficiency  and the motivation to thrive into an international business environment.

Combining   academic excellence with a hands-on approach, it prepares future professionals for   strategic roles in trade finance, compliance, and risk management.

Students gain expertise in securing cross-border transactions, structuring complex financing solutions, and leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, and digital tools to address the challenges of a rapidly evolving global trade ecosystem.

• Next start dates :  January or September 2026
• Available as a 2-year program or a 1-year accelerated track  (September intake only)

Program objectives :

Provide participants with the knowledge and professional skills necessary to develop a successful international Trade Finance strategy complying with the highest commercial standards and requirements of regulators, all over the world.

• Understand the organization, mechanisms and impacts of international trade policies and regulations, and the importance of Trade Finance (TF) instruments mitigating the risks arising from the global economy
• Detect opportunities, identify operational risks relating to cross border flows, including those related to money laundering and terrorism financing
• Manage the right strategy from a financial standpoint, in accordance with the best international practices and standards, particularly those promoted by ICC, the International Chamber of Commerce.
• Negotiate and manage all TF instruments, from letters of credit to international guarantees, structured loans to buyer’s credit, factoring, forfaiting and tailor-made solutions, at every step supporting international contracts.
• Assess the role of export credit agencies, supranational institutions and risk mitigants in structured and sustainable financing.
• Analyse the impacts of digital innovations (blockchain, AI, smart contracts and crypto) on TF efficiency, including money laundering, terrorism financing and sanctions breaches
• Master the principles of international regulatory frameworks (i.e. Basel IV, MLETR, etc.) and their impact on the TF ecosystem

Content and subjects taught

• International Trade : Opportunities and challenges in complex environments.
• Trade Finance : Definition, role, and key concepts
• Open account transactions vs Trade Finance instruments: Documentary Credits, Standby, International Guarantees, Taylor made / Structured trade finance solutions international engineering)
• Main trade related risks (Operational, Anti-Money Laundering & Sanctions, Terrorism financing, Bribery, Fraud, etc.)
• Compliance due diligences, TBML, Sanctions & Embargos, Terrorism Financing KYC concerns, how to detect true hits, OFAC, ACPR, FATF, etc. provisions.
• Digital Trade Finance: Acceleration through greater MLETR adoption, digital platforms, AI, blockchain
• Logistics essentials : Incoterms, customs regulations, and related practices.

Career opportunities

• Trade Finance Analyst / Officer / Manager
• Trade Finance Sales
• Trade Finance Expert (L/C, Guarantee, SBL/C specialist in Back Office or Front Office)
• Structured Trade Finance Officer  
• Export Sales Administration Officer / Manager
• Export Finance Officer / Manager
• Compliance Officer
• Trade Finance consultant
• Corporate Trade Finance Operations
• International Auditor Trade Finance Expert
• Etc.

A unique, immersive experience

Experience French excellence with :

• An industry under unprecedent transformation toward digital
• Workshops and visits to / from prestigious companies, including banks, carriers, lawyers, etc.
• Meetings with Trade Finance experts belonging to the whole ecosystem

To apply

To apply for the Master of Science in Trade Finance you need to follow 2 steps :

• STEP 1 : Apply via the national or international application form

• STEP 2 : Individual motivational interview in person or by distance learning with the program supervisor