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.
• 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.
• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of mathematical and financial areas.
• Academic staff provide you with regular feedback and advice throughout your degree, with small tutorial groups supporting the teaching in the first year.
• Access excellent facilities and computing equipment, complemented by social areas, communal problem-solving spaces and quiet study rooms.
• Broaden your experience and enhance your career prospects with our industrial placement opportunities or study abroad programmes.
• 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.
• 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.

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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

We are currently reviewing our curriculum as part of a university-wide process. As a result, we are unable to publish module information for this course at this time. The information below provides an overview of what you’ll study and our approach to teaching and assessment. We will update this page as soon as the changes are confirmed. Read more in our terms and conditions.

This content was last updated on 3 April 2023.

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.

Year 1

In the first year of the course, you’ll study key topics in mathematics topics, statistics, finance, economics and accounting. You’ll gain a solid foundation on which you’ll build more specialist knowledge in subsequent years. Topics will include calculus, linear algebra, mathematical modelling, statistics and probability, accounting and economics.

Year 2

In the second year, you’ll study core modules in financial mathematics, statistics and business finance. You’ll be also able to choose some optional modules. Typical topics covered at this level include computational mathematics, macro and microeconomics and advanced accounting.

Year 3

In the final year, you’ll study specialist modules in financial modelling. You’ll also be able to choose from a broad range of optional modules, allowing you to explore topics that really interest you in areas like mathematics, statistics and economics.

You’ll also undertake a substantial project, which gives you the opportunity to investigate a topic at the cutting edge of mathematics and develop vital skills such as carrying out independent research. You’ll work collaboratively with your supervisors throughout the project, who’ll be experts in your research area.

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 outcomes

By the end of your degree, you’ll have a high level of understanding of the technical background required in the financial industry and related areas. You’ll have developed the following skills which are valued by a wide variety of employers:

• Solving complex problems.
• Using logical thinking in theoretical and practical contexts.
• An appreciation of economics and accountancy principles most relevant to financial practice.
• Modelling various phenomena in finance and economics.
• Interpreting numerical and empirical data.
• Using statistical models and data to estimate parameters for these models.
• Carrying out project work independently and reporting effectively the outcomes of your work in a variety of ways.
• Familiarity with commonly-used software in actuarial applications.

Learning and teaching

You’ll be taught through lectures, tutorials, workshops and practical classes. You’ll enjoy extensive tutorial support and have freedom in your workload and options.

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

Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for your programme and modules.

You can also benefit from support to develop your academic skills, within the curriculum and through online resources, workshops, one-to-one appointments and drop-in sessions.

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

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

Excludes A-Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.

GCSE: You must also have GCSE English at grade C (4) or above (or equivalent). We will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Other course specific tests:

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), International Project Qualification (IPQ) and Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (ASCC): 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 including a minimum of grade A in Mathematics, plus A in EPQ/IPQ/Welsh Bacc ASCC.

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 an alternative 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.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative 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.

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. We offer a Studies in Science with a Foundation Year BSc for students without a science background at A-level and an Interdisciplinary Science with Foundation Year BSc for applicants who meet specific widening participation criteria.

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 any one component, or IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any one component, depending on other qualifications present. 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 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will remain capped at £9,250 for 2023/24 and 2024/25. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 are available on individual course pages.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 will be available on individual course pages from September 2023.

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 about additional costs.

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.

Read our guidance about applying and writing your personal statement.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023

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 10 most targeted by top employers according to The Graduate Market 2023, 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. Our Leeds for Life initiative is designed to help you develop and demonstrate the skills and experience you need for when you graduate. We will help you to access opportunities across the University and record your key achievements so you are able to articulate them clearly and confidently.

You'll be supported throughout your studies by our dedicated Employability team, who will provide you with specialist support and advice to help you find relevant work experience, internships and industrial placements, as well as graduate positions. You’ll benefit from timetabled employability sessions, support during internships and placements, and presentations and workshops delivered by employers.

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.

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