Financial Mathematics BSc

Course overview

Mathematics is the key to robust financial management across a multitude of industries spanning both the public and private sector. Demand for employees with a sound financial perspective backed-up with mathematics skills comes from multiple sectors – from business and technology to financial services and IT – and the career options available are varied. Finance professionals often go on to become business leaders, thanks to the skills they develop in analysis, management, prioritisation, problem-solving and commercial awareness.

Studying a financial mathematics degree at Leeds will give you a firm foundation in the theory and applications of mathematics and business finance, as well as specific disciplines such as accounting and economics. Analytical and mathematical skills are highly valued by employers and this course provides an integrated approach which fully prepares you for a career in the finance industry.

You'll focus on mathematics, including modules in financial mathematics covering mathematical modelling of financial and insurance markets, as well as pure, applied and statistical mathematics modules. As you progress, you’ll have more flexibility and choice, allowing you to explore your particular areas of interest.

Here at Leeds, we understand the importance finance and mathematics have in everyday life, which is why we have one of the largest mathematics research departments in the UK and our courses are shaped by the latest thinking. This course is delivered jointly by the School of Mathematics and the Leeds University Business School, equipping you with the relevant knowledge, skills and experience you need to begin your career in finance.

Why study at Leeds:

• The programme covers many of the first-level exams for the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, enabling you to take steps towards qualifying as an actuary.
• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society MathSoc where you can meet more of your peers, enjoy social events and join the MathSoc football or netball team.
• Our Financial Mathematics BSc and Actuarial Mathematics BSc degrees share a common first year, allowing you to move from one programme to the other until the end of your first year.
• Broaden your experience and enhance your career prospects with our industrial placement opportunities or study abroad programmes.
• Access excellent facilities and computing equipment, complemented by social areas, communal problem-solving spaces and quiet study rooms.
• Academic staff provide you with regular feedback and advice throughout your degree, with small tutorial groups supporting the teaching in the first year.
• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of mathematical and financial areas.
• Our School’s globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in areas such as probability and financial mathematics, modern applied statistics and analysis.

Accreditation

Accreditation is the assurance that a university course meets the quality standards established by the profession for which it prepares its students.

The School of Mathematics at Leeds has a successful history of delivering courses accredited by the Royal Statistical Society (RSS) and the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries’ (IFoA). This means our mathematics courses have consistently met the quality standards set by the RSS and the IFoA.

As we are reviewing our curriculum, we are working with the accrediting bodies to retain our accreditation.

Course details

This course will provide you with an integrated programme of finance, economics and accounting combined with mathematics, specifically tailored to working within financial services. Each year, you’ll take 80 credits in mathematics, including financial mathematics modules, and 40 credits in modules taught by Leeds University Business School.

Each academic year, you'll take a total of 120 credits.

Course Structure

The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.

Most courses consist of compulsory and optional modules. There may be some optional modules omitted below. This is because they are currently being refreshed to make sure students have the best possible experience. Before you enter each year, full details of all modules for that year will be provided.

For more information and a list of typical modules available on this course, please read Financial Mathematics BSc in the course catalogue.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

Core Mathematics – 40 credits

You’ll learn the foundational concepts of function, number and proof, equipping you with the language and skills to tackle your mathematical studies. The module also consolidates basic calculus, extending it to more advanced topics, such as functions of several variables. This leads to methods for solving simple ordinary differential equations. Linear algebra provides a basis for wide areas of mathematics and this module provides the essential foundation.

Probability and Statistics – 20 credits

'Probability is basically common sense reduced to calculation; it makes us appreciate with exactitude what reasonable minds feel by a sort of instinct.' So said Laplace. In the modern scientific and technological world, it is even more important to understand probabilistic and statistical arguments. This module will introduce you to key ideas in both areas, with probability forming the theoretical basis for statistical tests and inference.

Computational Mathematics and Modelling – 20 credits

You'll be introduced to computational techniques, algorithms and numerical solutions, as well as the mathematics of discrete systems. You'll learn basic programming using the language Python and apply computational techniques to the solution of mathematical problems.

Introductory Financial Accounting – 10 credits

You’ll cover the basic concepts of financial accounting and interpretation of financial statements in a business context. You’ll also gain an insight into how financial information is used and reported in business, learning how to recognise and explain how financial transactions are recorded in the context of the current technical standards, language and practices of accounting.

Introductory Management Accounting – 10 credits

This module gives you a broad introduction to management accounting as a discipline and the commercial use of management accounting information. You’ll learn the fundamental concepts and techniques of management accounting and the role it plays in planning, decision making and control within organisations. You’ll also gain an understanding of how to apply these techniques to making a variety of business decisions and performance evaluation.

Economic Theory and Applications for Finance – 20 credits

You’ll assess the concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics and explore the application of these theories to issues and problems of consumption, production, exchange as well as output, employment, inflation and investment and finance.

Year 2

Compulsory modules

Statistical Methods – 20 credits

Statistical models are important in many applications. They contain two main elements: a set of parameters with information of scientific interest and an "error distribution" representing random variation. This module lays the foundations for the analysis of such models. We’ll use practical examples from a variety of statistical applications to illustrate the ideas.

Stochastic Processes – 10 credits

A stochastic process refers to any quantity which changes randomly in time. The capacity of a reservoir, an individual’s level of no claims discount and the size of a population are all examples from the real world. The linking model for all these examples is the Markov process. With appropriate modifications, the Markov process can be extended to model stochastic processes which change over continuous time, not just at regularly spaced time points. You’ll explore the key features of stochastic processes and develop your understanding in areas like state, space and time, the Poisson process and the Markov property.

Time Series – 10 credits

In time series, measurements are made at a succession of times, and it is the dependence between measurements taken at different times which is important. This module will concentrate on techniques for model identification, parameter estimation, diagnostic checking and forecasting within the autoregressive moving average family of models and their extensions.

Financial Mathematics – 20 credits

The module provides an introduction to diverse financial applications of mathematics. The different applications are considered within the three broad categories of risk management, insurance and financial liabilities and pricing of financial assets.

Corporate Financial Management – 20 credits

This is an intermediate level module and is intended to provide a critical appreciation of the fundamental theories and concepts in corporate finance as a pre-requisite for further study of the more specialist aspects of finance and the financial markets covered in the advanced finance modules in level 3. The module relates theory to current corporate business practice and requires you to be able to confidently use and interpret financial formulas and numerical data.

Optional modules

You’ll choose one of the following pathways:

• Economics
• Accounting

In both pathways, you’ll study 20 credits of the following optional modules in mathematics.

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options and some of these options may not be available, depending on other modules you have selected already.

Vector Calculus and Partial Differential Equations – 20 credits

Vector calculus is the extension of ordinary one-dimensional differential and integral calculus to higher dimensions, and provides the mathematical framework for the study of a wide variety of physical systems, such as fluid mechanics and electromagnetism.

These systems give rise to partial differential equations (PDEs), which can be solved and analysed. Students will learn to use, among others, techniques introduced in earlier modules as well as being introduced to Fourier methods for PDEs.

Further Linear Algebra and Discrete Mathematics – 20 credits

Explore the more abstract ideas of vector spaces and linear transformations, together with introducing the area of discrete mathematics.

Optimisation – 10 credits

Optimisation, “the quest for the best”, plays a major role in financial and economic theory, such as maximising a company's profits or minimising its production costs. This module develops the theory and practice of maximising or minimising a function of many variables, and thus lays a solid foundation for progression onto more advanced topics, such as dynamic optimisation, which are central to the understanding of realistic economic and financial scenarios.

Rings and Polynomials – 10 credits

Rings are one of the fundamental concepts of mathematics, and they play a key role in many areas, including algebraic geometry, number theory, Galois theory and representation theory. The aim of this module is to give an introduction to rings. The emphasis will be on interesting examples of rings and their properties.

Investigations in Mathematics – 10 credits

You’ll be introduced to ideas and methods of mathematical research. Examples and applications will be drawn from across the spectrum of pure mathematics, applied mathematics and statistics.

Economics pathway

You’ll need to study the following modules.

Intermediate Macroeconomics – 10 credits

The module will consider a number of macroeconomic problems and explain the approach that macroeconomists take to tackle them. You’ll critically discuss and evaluate a range of macroeconomic models and macroeconomic concepts that are used to understand macroeconomic problems.

Intermediate Microeconomics – 10 credits

Explore a number of microeconomic problems and the approach that microeconomists take when attempting to solve these problems. You’ll develop insight into how mathematical modelling is used to understand problems of consumer theory and producer theory. The aim of this module is to give you a grounding in the tools, techniques, and theory of microeconomics theory and the application of microeconomics.

Accounting pathway

You’ll need to study one of the following modules.

Financial Accounting and Reporting – 20 credits

Explore the theoretical underpinnings which drive the current regulations and corporate guidance for UK companies. In addition, you'll cover the practical aspects of financial accounting and reporting required of companies following the International Financial Reporting Standards in the UK. You’ll also cover the technical accounting for a wide range of issues and build on existing technical knowledge to a standard that allows you to apply and critically evaluate the rules and principles being applied under IFRS. By the end of this module, you should be able to analyse the key aspects in a set of financial statements and be able to critically assess the accounting methods adopted.

Intermediate Management Accounting – 20 credits

This module aims to provide you with a critical appreciation of the theoretical role and purposes of management accounting and the relationship between management accounting information and organisational decision-making.

Year 3

Compulsory modules

Project in Mathematics – 40 credits

This project is a chance for you to build invaluable research skills and develop and implement a personal training plan by conducting your own independent research project in a topic in mathematics. You’ll meet in groups to discuss the project topic, with each group member researching a specific aspect of the topic and producing an individual project report. You’ll then come together as a group to present your results, with each person contributing their own findings.

Stochastic Calculus and Derivative Pricing – 20 credits

Stochastic calculus is one of the main mathematical tools to model physical, biological and financial phenomena (among other things). This module provides a rigorous introduction to this topic. You’ll develop a solid mathematical background in stochastic calculus that will allow you to understand key results from modern mathematical finance. This knowledge will be used to derive expressions for prices of derivatives in financial markets under uncertainty.

Optional modules

Please note: The modules listed below are indicative of typical options and some of these options may not be available, depending on other modules you have selected already.

You can choose from the following optional modules, or you may wish to combine optional modules with discovery modules.

Discovery modules give you the chance to apply your academic toolkit in real-world scenarios whilst expanding out into different areas, broadening your knowledge and giving you that competitive edge in the jobs market.

Economics pathway

If you have chosen the economics pathway in Year 2, you’ll be required to select a branch to pursue from Economics-A, Economics-B or Economics-C.

Economics-A

Optional modules:

Actuarial Mathematics 1 – 20 credits

The module introduces the theory of interest rates and the time value of money in the context of financial transactions such as loans, mortgages, bonds and insurance. The module also introduces the basic theory of life insurance where policy payments are subject to mortality probabilities.

Statistical Modelling – 20 credits

The standard linear statistical model is powerful but has limitations. In this module, we study several extensions to the linear model which overcome some of these limitations. Generalised linear models allow for different error distributions; additive models allow for nonlinear relationships between predictors and the response variable; and survival models are needed to study data where the response variable is the time taken for an event to occur.

Methods of Applied Mathematics – 20 credits

This module develops techniques to solve ordinary and partial differential equations arising in mathematical physics. For the important case of second-order PDEs, we distinguish between elliptic equations (e.g., Laplace's equation), parabolic equations (e.g., heat equation) and hyperbolic equations (e.g., wave equation), and physically interpret the solutions. When there is not an exact solution in closed form, approximate solutions (so-called perturbation expansions) can be constructed if there is a small or large parameter.

Advanced Macroeconomics – 10 credits

Advance your knowledge and understanding of the core debates and consensus in macroeconomics.

International Business Finance – 10 credits

The module is designed to provide a conceptual framework within which the key financial and strategic decisions of a multinational company can be analysed. It also includes an essential introduction to the foreign exchange markets. On completion of this module, you’ll have acquired an appreciation of the functions of multinationals as well as the external environment in which they must operate.

Advanced Finance – 10 credits

Advance your understanding of financial and investment theory. You’ll learn the essential principles of advanced finance and investment as well as being able to critically evaluate topical developments in advanced finance using appropriate analytical tools and discuss some of the more challenging and contentious issues in the discipline.

Advanced Microeconomics – 10 credits

This module explores a range of topics in advanced microeconomics that are designed to be intellectually challenging at the theoretical level, whilst retaining a strong degree of relevance to economic policy in practice. A significant part of the theoretical material relates to welfare economics and the module explores how far these principles are actually useful for policy makers trying to make important policy decisions aimed at maximising social welfare (if this is even possible in practice), taking account of economic efficiency and distributive justice. Other topics in advanced microeconomics are also considered where they have a close link to practical application and government policy in particular (for example, the theory of auctions and prospect theory).

Behavioural Finance – 10 credits

Take an alternative view to the rational perspective of modern finance theory. Drawing on insights from psychology, this module explores the psychological biases in financial decision making and examines the impact of these biases on investor behaviour and asset pricing.

Professional Portfolio Management – 10 credits

Build on the financial theory you’ve learned throughout the course can be applied to portfolio management using Bloomberg Professional Service. You’ll work as part of a team to develop an investment strategy and manage a notional portfolio according to your investment strategy.

Economics-B

Economics of Business and Corporate Strategy – 20 credits

Economics is a powerful aid to critical thinking about strategic aspects of business. This module explores the economic foundations of ideas about strategy and of strategies that firms use in practice. It examines strategies that firms can use to improve performance within the organisation and then looks at strategies the firm can use to compete and be successful in the market. The ideas in the module are explored through economics research and real-world case studies and the aim throughout is to demonstrate the use economic theory in aiding practical business choices.

Optional modules:

Actuarial Mathematics 1 – 20 credits

The module introduces the theory of interest rates and the time value of money in the context of financial transactions such as loans, mortgages, bonds and insurance. The module also introduces the basic theory of life insurance where policy payments are subject to mortality probabilities.

Statistical Modelling – 20 credits

The standard linear statistical model is powerful but has limitations. In this module, we study several extensions to the linear model which overcome some of these limitations. Generalised linear models allow for different error distributions; additive models allow for nonlinear relationships between predictors and the response variable; and survival models are needed to study data where the response variable is the time taken for an event to occur.

Methods of Applied Mathematics – 20 credits

This module develops techniques to solve ordinary and partial differential equations arising in mathematical physics. For the important case of second-order PDEs, we distinguish between elliptic equations (e.g., Laplace's equation), parabolic equations (e.g., heat equation) and hyperbolic equations (e.g., wave equation), and physically interpret the solutions. When there is not an exact solution in closed form, approximate solutions (so-called perturbation expansions) can be constructed if there is a small or large parameter.

Advanced Macroeconomics – 10 credits

Advance your knowledge and understanding of the core debates and consensus in macroeconomics.

International Business Finance – 10 credits

The module is designed to provide a conceptual framework within which the key financial and strategic decisions of a multinational company can be analysed. It also includes an essential introduction to the foreign exchange markets. On completion of this module, you’ll have acquired an appreciation of the functions of multinationals as well as the external environment in which they must operate.

Advanced Finance – 10 credits

Advance your understanding of financial and investment theory. You’ll learn the essential principles of advanced finance and investment as well as being able to critically evaluate topical developments in advanced finance using appropriate analytical tools and discuss some of the more challenging and contentious issues in the discipline.

Advanced Microeconomics – 10 credits

This module explores a range of topics in advanced microeconomics that are designed to be intellectually challenging at the theoretical level, whilst retaining a strong degree of relevance to economic policy in practice. A significant part of the theoretical material relates to welfare economics and the module explores how far these principles are actually useful for policy makers trying to make important policy decisions aimed at maximising social welfare (if this is even possible in practice), taking account of economic efficiency and distributive justice. Other topics in advanced microeconomics are also considered where they have a close link to practical application and government policy in particular (for example, the theory of auctions and prospect theory).

Behavioural Finance – 10 credits

Take an alternative view to the rational perspective of modern finance theory. Drawing on insights from psychology, this module explores the psychological biases in financial decision making and examines the impact of these biases on investor behaviour and asset pricing.

Professional Portfolio Management – 10 credits

Build on the financial theory you’ve learned throughout the course can be applied to portfolio management using Bloomberg Professional Service. You’ll work as part of a team to develop an investment strategy and manage a notional portfolio according to your investment strategy.

Economics-C

You will study a discovery module and the following compulsory modules.

Multivariate Analysis and Classification – 20 credits

Multivariate datasets are common: it is typical that experimental units are measured for more than one variable at a time. This module extends univariate statistical techniques for continuous data to a multivariate setting and introduces methods designed specifically for multivariate data analysis (cluster analysis, principal component analysis, multidimensional scaling and factor analysis). A particular problem of classification arises when the multivariate observations need to be used to divide the data into groups or “classes”.

Advanced Macroeconomics – 10 credits

Advance your knowledge and understanding of the core debates and consensus in macroeconomics.

International Business Finance – 10 credits

The module is designed to provide a conceptual framework within which the key financial and strategic decisions of a multinational company can be analysed. It also includes an essential introduction to the foreign exchange markets. On completion of this module, you’ll have acquired an appreciation of the functions of multinationals as well as the external environment in which they must operate.

Advanced Finance – 10 credits

Advance your understanding of financial and investment theory. You’ll learn the essential principles of advanced finance and investment as well as being able to critically evaluate topical developments in advanced finance using appropriate analytical tools and discuss some of the more challenging and contentious issues in the discipline.

Accounting pathway

If you have chosen the accounting pathway in Year 2, you’ll be required to select a branch to pursue from Accounting-A, or Accounting-B.

Accounting-A

Optional modules:

You can choose from the following optional modules, or you may wish to combine optional modules with discovery modules.

Actuarial Mathematics 1 – 20 credits

The module introduces the theory of interest rates and the time value of money in the context of financial transactions such as loans, mortgages, bonds and insurance. The module also introduces the basic theory of life insurance where policy payments are subject to mortality probabilities.

Statistical Modelling – 20 credits

The standard linear statistical model is powerful but has limitations. In this module, we study several extensions to the linear model which overcome some of these limitations. Generalised linear models allow for different error distributions; additive models allow for nonlinear relationships between predictors and the response variable; and survival models are needed to study data where the response variable is the time taken for an event to occur.

Methods of Applied Mathematics – 20 credits

This module develops techniques to solve ordinary and partial differential equations arising in mathematical physics. For the important case of second-order PDEs, we distinguish between elliptic equations (e.g., Laplace's equation), parabolic equations (e.g., heat equation) and hyperbolic equations (e.g., wave equation), and physically interpret the solutions. When there is not an exact solution in closed form, approximate solutions (so-called perturbation expansions) can be constructed if there is a small or large parameter.

International Business Finance – 10 credits

The module is designed to provide a conceptual framework within which the key financial and strategic decisions of a multinational company can be analysed. It also includes an essential introduction to the foreign exchange markets. On completion of this module, you’ll have acquired an appreciation of the functions of multinationals as well as the external environment in which they must operate.

Advanced Finance – 10 credits

Advance your understanding of financial and investment theory. You’ll learn the essential principles of advanced finance and investment as well as being able to critically evaluate topical developments in advanced finance using appropriate analytical tools and discuss some of the more challenging and contentious issues in the discipline.

Behavioural Finance – 10 credits

Take an alternative view to the rational perspective of modern finance theory. Drawing on insights from psychology, this module explores the psychological biases in financial decision making and examines the impact of these biases on investor behaviour and asset pricing.

Professional Portfolio Management – 10 credits

Build on the financial theory you’ve learned throughout the course can be applied to portfolio management using Bloomberg Professional Service. You’ll work as part of a team to develop an investment strategy and manage a notional portfolio according to your investment strategy.

Accounting-B

Auditing and Assurance Services – 20 credits

Develop a critical appreciation of the fundamental theories, concepts and practices in auditing and assurance, as applied by professional bodies and auditing professionals. The module relates economic theories to current global auditing practice, outlines key ethical dimensions and describes in detail the principal steps involved in statutory audits, as well as in other key assurance services.

Optional modules:

You can choose from the following optional modules, or you may wish to combine optional modules with discovery modules.

Actuarial Mathematics 1 – 20 credits

The module introduces the theory of interest rates and the time value of money in the context of financial transactions such as loans, mortgages, bonds and insurance. The module also introduces the basic theory of life insurance where policy payments are subject to mortality probabilities.

Statistical Modelling – 20 credits

The standard linear statistical model is powerful but has limitations. In this module, we study several extensions to the linear model which overcome some of these limitations. Generalised linear models allow for different error distributions; additive models allow for nonlinear relationships between predictors and the response variable; and survival models are needed to study data where the response variable is the time taken for an event to occur.

Methods of Applied Mathematics – 20 credits

This module develops techniques to solve ordinary and partial differential equations arising in mathematical physics. For the important case of second-order PDEs, we distinguish between elliptic equations (e.g., Laplace's equation), parabolic equations (e.g., heat equation) and hyperbolic equations (e.g., wave equation), and physically interpret the solutions. When there is not an exact solution in closed form, approximate solutions (so-called perturbation expansions) can be constructed if there is a small or large parameter.

International Business Finance – 10 credits

The module is designed to provide a conceptual framework within which the key financial and strategic decisions of a multinational company can be analysed. It also includes an essential introduction to the foreign exchange markets. On completion of this module, you’ll have acquired an appreciation of the functions of multinationals as well as the external environment in which they must operate.

Advanced Finance – 10 credits

Advance your understanding of financial and investment theory. You’ll learn the essential principles of advanced finance and investment as well as being able to critically evaluate topical developments in advanced finance using appropriate analytical tools and discuss some of the more challenging and contentious issues in the discipline.

Behavioural Finance – 10 credits

Take an alternative view to the rational perspective of modern finance theory. Drawing on insights from psychology, this module explores the psychological biases in financial decision making and examines the impact of these biases on investor behaviour and asset pricing.

Professional Portfolio Management – 10 credits

Build on the financial theory you’ve learned throughout the course can be applied to portfolio management using Bloomberg Professional Service. You’ll work as part of a team to develop an investment strategy and manage a notional portfolio according to your investment strategy.

One-year optional work placement or study abroad

During your course, you’ll be given the opportunity to advance your skill set and experience further. You can apply to either undertake a one-year work placement or study abroad for a year, choosing from a selection of universities we’re in partnership with worldwide.

Learning and teaching

You'll be taught through lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical classes, alongside extensive tutorial support

We offer a variety of welcoming spaces to study and socialise with your course mates. There are social and group study areas, a library with a café and a seminar room as well as a Mathematics Active Learning Lab.

Summer internships

As a student in our Faculty, you’ll have the unique opportunity to do a paid summer internship. It’s your chance to get involved in the real-world research projects happening in and around the University – and advance your own professional skills in research and experimentation.

Want to find out more? Check out what our recent students got up to on their summer internships.

Taster lectures

Watch our taster lectures to get a flavour of what it’s like to study at Leeds:

• Playing with Infinity ∞ Two Famous Infinite Series
• What Does it Mean to be Round?
• Fractals – What, How, Why?

On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

You’re assessed by a range of methods, including formal exams and in-course assessment.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAA - AAB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics

AAA/A*AB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics

or

AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics plus Further Mathematics

or

AAB/A*BB including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in AS Further Mathematics.

Where an A-Level Science subject is taken, we require a pass in the practical science element, alongside the achievement of the A-Level at the stated grade.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and International Project Qualification (IPQ): We recognise the value of these qualifications and the effort and enthusiasm that applicants put into them, and where an applicant offers the EPQ, IPQ or ASCC we may make an offer of AAB/A*BB at A-level including A in Mathematics, plus A in EPQ/IPQ/Welsh Bacc ASCC.

GCSE: English Language grade 4 (C) or higher, or an equivalent English language qualification. We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English instead of GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

If you live in a neighbourhood where there is low participation in higher education, we may be able to give priority to your application.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer: ABB including A in Mathematics and pass Access to Leeds OR A in Mathematics, B in Further Mathematics and C in a 3rd subject and pass Access to Leeds.

Foundation years

If you do not have the formal qualifications for immediate entry to one of our degrees, you may be able to progress through a foundation year. A Foundation Year is the first year of an extended degree. We’ve designed these courses for applicants whose backgrounds mean they are less likely to attend university and who don’t meet the typical entry requirements for an undergraduate degree.

We offer a Studies in Science with Foundation Year BSc for students without science and mathematics qualifications.

You could also study our Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc which is for applicants whose background is less represented at university.

On successful completion of your foundation year, you will be able to progress onto your chosen course.

Alternative Entry Scheme for Mature Students

If you are a mature applicant (over 21) and you don’t have the required A Levels or GCSE English and maths qualifications, you can complete our Alternative Entry Scheme (subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the scheme). As part of this, you may be asked to take tests in English and maths and to write an essay.

Further information on the support available for mature students can be found at https://www.leeds.ac.uk/mature-students.

International

We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications. For more information, please contact the Admissions Team.

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in each section. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
The fee for UK undergraduate students is decided by the Government and may vary if policy changes. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation, and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 will be £9,535.

The tuition fee for the following programmes with an integrated foundation year is £5,760 for the foundation year, and £9,535 for subsequent years of study:
•    Business Studies with Foundation Year BSC
•    Arts and Humanities with Foundation Year BA
•    Interdisciplinary Studies with Preparation for Higher Education BA
•    Social Science (foundation year) BA
 

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2025/26 are available on individual course pages.
 

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

We may consider applications submitted after the deadline. Availability of courses in UCAS Extra will be detailed on UCAS at the appropriate stage in the cycle.

Admissions guidance

Read our admissions guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

What happens after you’ve applied

You can keep up to date with the progress of your application through UCAS.

UCAS will notify you when we make a decision on your application. If you receive an offer, you can inform us of your decision to accept or decline your place through UCAS.

How long will it take to receive a decision

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses. For applications submitted by the January UCAS deadline, UCAS asks universities to make decisions by mid-May at the latest.

Offer holder days

If you receive an offer from us, you’ll be invited to an offer holder event. This event is more in-depth than an open day. It gives you the chance to learn more about your course and get your questions answered by academic staff and students. Plus, you can explore our campus, facilities and accommodation.

International applicants

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students.

We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Read about visas, immigration and other information here.

If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2025

This course is taught by

School of Mathematics
Leeds University Business School

Contact us

School of Mathematics Undergraduate Admissions

Email: maths.admiss@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

Mathematical skills are highly valued in virtually all walks of life, which means that the employment opportunities for mathematics graduates are far-reaching, with the potential to take you all over the world.

Plus, University of Leeds students are among the top 5 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2024, High Fliers Research.

Qualifying with a degree in Financial Mathematics from Leeds will set you up with the core foundations needed to pursue a career in the finance industry or other parts of the private and public sector where analytical and mathematical skills are valued including:

• Banking and finance
• Asset management and investment
• Utilities
• Insurance
• Accountancy
• Consultancy

The numerical, analytical and problem-solving skills you'll develop, as well as your specialist subject knowledge and your ability to think logically, are highly valued by employers. This course also allows you to develop the transferable skills that employers seek.

Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our most recent graduates have obtained:

• Financial Analyst, American Express
• Auditor, Deloitte
• Motor Pricing Analyst, Direct Line Group
• Equity Trader, Direct Market Touch
• Financial Reporter, Elan Publishing
• Senior Risk Analyst, G E Money
• CFO & Controller, GE Capital Transportation Finance
• Associate Auditor, Grant Thornton
• Tax Specialist, HMRC
• Audit Assistant Manager (ACA), KPMG UK
• Assistant Financial Planner, London Wall Partners
• Financial Accountant, McDonalds Restaurants
• Banking Consultant, SunGard
• Group Risk and Internal Audit Manager, WM Morrison Supermarkets Plc

Careers support

At Leeds, we help you to prepare for your future from day one. We have a wide range of careers resources — including our award-winning Employability Team who are in contact with many employers around the country and advertise placements and jobs. They are also on hand to provide guidance and support, ensuring you are prepared to take your next steps after graduation and get you where you want to be.

• Employability events — we run a full range of events including careers fairs in specialist areas and across broader industries — all with employers who are actively recruiting for roles.
• MyCareer system — on your course and after you graduate, you’ll have access to a dedicated careers portal where you can book appointments with our team, get information on careers and see job vacancies and upcoming events.
• Qualified careers consultants — gain guidance, support and information to help you choose a career path. You’ll have access to 1-2-1 meetings and events to learn how to find employers to target, write your CV and cover letter, research before interviews and brush up on your interview skills.
• Opportunities at Leeds — there are plenty of exciting opportunities offered by our Leeds University Union, including volunteering and over 300 clubs and societies to get involved in.

Explore more about your employability opportunities at the University of Leeds.

You'll also have full access to the University’s Careers Centre, which is one of the largest in the country.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

Studying abroad is a unique opportunity to explore the world, whilst gaining invaluable skills and experience that could enhance your future employability and career prospects too.

From Europe to Asia, the USA to Australasia, we have many University partners worldwide you can apply to, spanning across some of the most popular destinations for students.

This programme offers you the option to spend time abroad as an extra academic year and will extend your studies by 12 months.

Once you’ve successfully completed your year abroad, you'll be awarded the ‘international’ variant in your degree title upon completion which demonstrates your added experience to future employers.

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

Work placements

A placement year is a great way to help you decide on a career path when you graduate. You’ll develop your skills and gain a real insight into working life in a particular company or sector. It will also help you to stand out in a competitive graduate jobs market and improve your chances of securing the career you want.

Benefits of a work placement year:

• 100+ organisations to choose from, both in the UK and overseas
• Build industry contacts within your chosen field
• Our close industry links mean you’ll be in direct contact with potential employers
• Advance your experience and skills by putting the course teachings into practice
• Gain invaluable insight into working as a professional in this industry
• Improve your employability

If you decide to undertake a placement year, this will extend your period of study by 12 months and, on successful completion, you'll be awarded the ‘industrial’ variant in your degree title to demonstrate your added experience to future employers.

With the help and support of our dedicated Employability Team, you can find the right placement to suit you and your future career goals.

Here are some examples of placements our students have recently completed:

• Actuarial Consulting – Pensions, Aon
• Supervisory Risk Specialist, Bank of England
• Audit Placement, PWC
• IBA Cashier, PIB Group
• Actuarial Analyst, Capita plc

Find out more about Industrial placements.