Mathematics and Finance BSc (Hons) • City, University of London

This course is for 2021/22 entry. 2022/23 entry is also available.

Key information

This course is for students who want a solid grounding in Mathematics alongside expertise in finance and actuarial science. This in-demand combination of professional skills opens up a huge choice of future career options. In particular, our graduates go on to work for international names in business and finance.

Start date

September 2021

UCAS codes

GN13
GN14 with placement

Duration

3 years full-time
4 years with placement year

Institution

City, University of London

Location

Northampton Square

Entry requirements

Below is a list of countries with information on each about which qualifications we accept.

English language requirements

If your first language is not English, we will require evidence of English language proficiency. Minimum requirements are:

IELTS:

6.0 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.

GCSE: A minimum of grade 4 (C) in English.
PTE Academic: 59 overall with a minimum of 59 in each component.

Don’t meet the English language requirements? INTO City, University of London offers English language programmes to help prepare you for study at university. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for entry to degree courses.

Apply now

Open day

Course overview

This course is a hybrid of Mathematics and actuarial science, designed to help you develop knowledge of mathematical methods and how to apply them to real-world problems.

You will be trained in advanced mathematical techniques, economic theory – both micro and macro – and a wide range of finance topics.

Become a graduate in demand – our students are highly sought after in financial sector, particularly risk assessment, insurance and statistical finance
Master a wide range of mathematical topics and techniques, including computing and computational mathematics, statistics and probability – and how to apply them to real-world problems
Develop in-demand expertise in finance and actuarial science, such as financial and investment mathematics and financial reporting
Boost your employability with an optional paid one-year work placement – past students have secured placements at organisations such as Axa, Barclays, Bloomberg, Disney, GE Capital, IBM, J.P. Morgan, Microsoft and Toyota.

Learn from a multidisciplinary team combining expertise from our Department of Mathematics and Department of Economics, with finance modules taught principally by City’s experts at our Business School.

Accreditation

Good performance in certain modules can lead to exemption recommendations from professional examinations of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries.

Structure

Course content

This three-year course provides an advanced understanding of mathematics and its application to the world of finance.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Placement

Year 1

Develop a firm foundation in core mathematical skills including statistics, economics and financial mathematics.

Year 2

Master more advanced mathematical techniques and learn to apply these to real-life problem-solving. Choose an elective module to start tailoring your course to your career interests.

Linear Algebra (15 credits)

This module extends the algebraic notions defined during the first year and introduces the important concepts of vector spaces and linear maps. These are used to solve various problems involving matrices.
Real and Complex Analysis (30 credits)

This module will introduce some of the basic ideas that were used in the process of setting down the rigorous foundations of calculus, and indicate why care is needed, as well as introducing students to basic concepts of complex analysis.
Vector Calculus (15 credits)

This module will introduce a variety of techniques for solving multivariable problems and ordinary differential equations that will be used extensively in many of the later modules in the programme.
Fundamentals of Finance (15 credits)

The aim of this module is to provide you with a basic understanding of the various types of instrument used by companies to raise finance from both the company’s and investors’ perspectives. We will also see the role of regulation in the financial markets.
Financial Reporting (15 credits)

The aim of the course is to enable you to construct and interpret the published financial statements of companies and financial institutions.
Financial and Investment Mathematics B (15 credits)

This module will introduce you to further topics in the mathematical theory of finance and investment. It will give you a thorough understanding of compound interest theory, which is fundamental to understanding topics in actuarial science.
Professional Development and Employability (5 credits)

Supports your professional development by providing you with resources, familiarises you with the recruitment process and supports you when applying for jobs.
Sequences and Series (15 credits)

This module will introduce the basic theory of sequences and series of numbers and functions.
Applied Mathematics (15 credits)

Provides a comprehensive setting for understanding real-world phenomena through the use of mathematical methods. Emphasis will be placed on the role of differential equations, variational calculus and conservation laws in understanding the real world.
Numerical Mathematics (15 credits)

This module will show you how to construct numerical solutions to a range of mathematical problems. Many software packages use numerical methods to solve problems, and having an advanced knowledge of such methods enables you to assess the effectiveness of such software.
Applications of Probability and Statistics (15 credits)

This module provides fundamental tools in probability and statistics which are part of the basic knowledge required for mathematicians.

Year 3

Choose from a wide range of elective modules that draw on current research in mathematics and finance. Gain exposure to new areas of mathematics with applications in finance, biology and physics. Complete a group project and independent research on a topic of your choice.

Differential Equations (30 credits)

The aims of this module are to introduce and develop the classical theory of linear ordinary and partial differential equations, and to apply the theory to the heat equation and the Black-Scholes equation.
Group Project (15 credits)

This module aims to help students develop a variety of problem solving skills, such as individual motivation and initiative, the powers of critical analysis, creativity and innovation, which can be used to solve practical problems.
Advanced Complex Analysis (15 credits)

Introduces fundamental properties of functions of complex variables, Fourier and Laplace transforms, and several applications of conformal maps.
Game Theory (15 credits)

This module aims to introduce the key mathematical concepts involved in the areas of game theory and evolutionary game theory, familiarize students with basic game-theoretical ideas and their mathematical formulation, and enable students to analyse a variety of games applied to different situations.
Stochastic Models (15 credits)

This purpose of this module is to introduce you to a number of elementary stochastic models, along with techniques for fitting the models to data and simulating them on a computer.
Operational Research (15 credits)

This module incorporates mathematics and scientific method in an approach to solving business problems. It introduces you to powerful optimisation techniques and looks at how they can be used to identify and solve practical problems encountered by managers.
General Insurance (15 credits)

This module will introduce you to the area of general insurance and in particular the risks that face general insurance companies and how these are managed.
Corporate Finance (15 credits)

In this module, you will learn the key concepts that underpin modern corporate finance and their relevance to business capital structure and corporate governance.
Introduction to Financial Derivatives (15 credits)

This module presents an overview of the main characteristics of financial instruments and trading practice, with an emphasis on quantitative aspects of options, futures, and other derivatives.
Corporate Risk Management (15 credits)

The course aims to provide a sound understanding of the basic principles of risk management. The primary emphasis will be on measuring and managing different kinds of risks that modern enterprises face through their international operations.
Discrete Mathematics (15 credits)

This module will introduce a range of ideas in discrete mathematics, with equal emphasis on theory and applications.
Dynamical Systems (15 credits)

This module briefly revisits some of the standard phase portrait methods encountered in the Dynamical Systems course at part 2 and extends these ideas, discussing in some detail centres, via the use of Liapunov functions, limit cycles and global phase portraits. The ideas of bifurcation and chaos are introduced via discrete systems.
Introduction to the Mathematics of Fluids (15 credits)

This module will enable you to apply mathematical analysis to the understanding of one aspect of the real world. It will show how complex real world phenomena can be modelled mathematically, and discuss some of the problems that arise when trying to analyse these models.
Introduction to Mathematical Physics (15 credits)

Introduces students to classical mechanics, electromagnetism, relativity and quantum theory. Emphasis will be placed on how the mathematical background the students have already acquired can be applied in the context of physics.
Mathematical Processes for Finance (15 credits)

This module will introduce the mathematical theory of sequential processes and related areas. It will also consider relevant concepts for numerical approximations to solutions illustrated with examples from finance.
Groups and Symmetry (15 credits)

This module is an introduction to group theory, and the application of group actions to various problems in algebra and combinatorics.
Mathematical Biology (15 credits)

This module introduces simple examples drawn from real life problems which will illustrate how mathematics can help us to understand the patterns of life in Nature.

Placement

You may go on an approved placement between the second and third years, taking the module ‘Professional Placement’. Training is monitored through two formal visits by the Visiting Tutor, and written reports. Informal contact is maintained throughout the year as necessary. If you wish to take a professional placement then you will register for this at the beginning of year 2.

Download course specification:

BSc Mathematics and Finance

Teaching and assessment

The Mathematics and Finance BSc (Hons) at City is a multi-disciplined degree, in a supportive, energised department with experienced academic staff from the Department of Mathematics, the Department of Economics and City’s Business School.

Our teaching and learning methods are geared towards developing your knowledge and enthusiasm for mathematics and actuarial science. You will be supported and encouraged to develop your academic self-confidence and gradually take responsibility for your own learning.

Small weekly group tutorials in the first year help to ease your transition from secondary education to degree study. Your tutorials will provide intensive individual assistance for core module topics. In the final year, you will carry out a group research project, which you will be able to choose from a wide range of topics, according to your interests.

Private study

For around 30 hours per week, you will spend time on background reading, revising notes, working on tutorial problems, coursework and individual or group work on projects, including the major project in your final year.

Your personal tutor

Your personal tutor will provide small group tutorials throughout the first year, and will be available to help you throughout your time at City. Your tutor will also provide support for mathematics and other matters, and serve as a link with other resources within City and elsewhere.

Modern facilities

City offers you modern facilities, with all lectures and tutorials taught in a stimulating learning environment, supported through PC-based laboratory sessions.

Assessment methods

Assessment is based on examination and coursework. Marks are weighted in a 1:3:6 ratio for the three years of study to produce an overall aggregate.

Types of assessment

Set exercises or coursework, which you take home and complete with the aid of your notes.
Formal unseen written examinations every year.
Class or online tests.
Group assessments, such as written reports, also form the basis of assessment for some modules.

In the third year of your degree, a core module consists of a group project. The group is assessed by a group written report and an individual presentation on the project. Also, a small number of modules require students to give presentations.

Feedback on assessment

You will normally be provided with feedback within three weeks of the submission deadline or assessment date. This would normally include a provisional grade or mark. For end-of-module examinations or an equivalent significant task (e.g. an end of module project), feedback will normally be provided within four weeks.

The timescale for feedback on final-year projects or dissertations may be longer.

Percentage of the course assessed by coursework

The balance of assessment by examination, practical examination and assessment by coursework will to some extent depend on the optional modules you choose. The approximate percentage of the course assessment, based on 2018/19 entry is as follows:

Assessment

Year 1

Written examination: 82%

Coursework: 18%

Year 2

Written examination: 77%

Coursework: 23%

Year 3

Written examination: 70%

Coursework: 30%

Overall workload

Most contact hours will take the form of lectures, interactive sessions, practical workshops and small group classes, supported by a personal tutorial system. The number will decrease as you progress and you become more able to direct your own learning. Approximate study time based on 2019/20 entry is as follows:

Workload

Year 1

Scheduled learning: 25%

Independent learning: 75%

Year 2

Scheduled learning: 20%

Independent learning: 80%

Year 3

Scheduled learning: 19%

Independent learning: 81%

Fees and funding

Fees for year 2021/22

£9,250

Overseas/EU

£16,320

The fees indicated are for undergraduate entry in the 2021/ 22 academic year only. Fees for future years may be subject to an inflationary increase, which is normally 2%.

Funding options

Explore up-to-date information about funding options, available financial support and typical living costs.

Fee waivers are available for this course.
Means tested support is available for 2021/22 entry.

Future finance loans

Future Finance offers students loans of between £2,500 and £40,000 to help cover tuition fees and living expenses. All students and courses are considered. All loans are subject to credit checks and approval for further details please visit our finance pages.

Career

Our graduates are equipped with sought after skills that mean they are in high demand in the financial sector. Some of our recent graduates have gone on to roles at:

Canada Life
Hilltop
McKinsey
PWC
IBM
WPP
JLT Group.

This degree will prepare you for a range of postgraduate options, such as an MSc or a PhD in a mathematics or finance-related area.

Many of our graduates go onto specialist training, such as the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE), Chartered Financial Analyst or Chartered Accountant training.

How to apply

Applications for degree courses must be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).

Apply now

You can apply through your school or college using the Apply system, which enables you to submit your application directly to the UCAS website.

www.ucas.com

You can apply to up to five universities or institutions on the form. The UCAS code for City, University of London is C60.

Please take care to enter the correct course code when applying, particularly for subjects with a Foundation year or with BEng (Hons) and MEng (Hons) or BSc (Hons) and MSci (Hons) options.

UCAS has implemented an 'invisibility of choices' policy so that, on the initial application and while you are receiving decisions, each institution can see only their entry and not those of other institutions you have chosen. This ensures that your application for a course at City is considered solely on your academic and personal qualities.

You should submit your completed application form to UCAS with a £23 application fee. If you want to apply to City, University of London only, you can make a single choice application at a reduced rate of £12.

For general enquiries about the admissions process at City, please contact our Admissions Office:

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7040 8716.

Telephone lines are currently open between 10am - 3pm.

If your enquiry is about admission to a particular course, please use the contact details provided on the course page.

When to apply

Your application for entry in September 2021 should arrive at UCAS between September 2020 and 29^th January 2021. Applications that arrive after 29^th January 2021 will be considered only at City's discretion.

Contacting UCAS

Website: www.ucas.com

Address: Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), Rosehill, New Barn Lane, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 3LZ

Telephone:

from inside the UK 0871 468 0468
from outside the UK +44 (0)871 468 0468

For callers with hearing difficulties:

from inside the UK use the Text Relay service on 18001 0871 468 0468
from outside the UK dial +44 151 494 1260 (text phone) and then ask the operator to dial 0871 468 0468.

Facilities

School of Mathematics, Computer Science and Engineering tour

If you are interested in studying Maths, Computer Science or Engineering at City, University of London, see where our students study in this short video, including our labs, computing facilities and learning spaces. Ideally situated between Tech City, Clerkenwell and the City of London, our students benefit from our excellent links with industry. 4 minutes

Our students

Watch this short video to see a day in the life of a City BSc (Hons) Mathematics and Finance student, Charlie. 3 minutes

Academics

Professor Andreas Fring

Professor of Mathematical Physics

Department of Mathematics

Dr Lara Silvers

Associate Dean for Undergraduate Admissions, Development, and Satisfaction

Department of Mathematics

Key information

Entry requirements

UK

Other suitable qualifications

INTO City, University of London

Kaplan International College (KIC) London

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