Financial Mathematics

The Bachelor's degree in Financial Mathematics at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive blend of mathematical theories, statistical techniques, and financial principles essential for a successful career in the finance industry. Designed to provide a rigorous education, this programme prepares students to understand complex financial products, analyze risks, and develop quantitative models used by banks, investment firms, and financial institutions worldwide. The course curriculum covers core areas such as calculus, linear algebra, probability theory, and statistical analysis, alongside specialized modules in financial mathematics, derivatives, risk management, and financial markets. Students will gain practical experience through applied coursework, projects, and access to state-of-the-art financial software, enabling them to develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills. The programme also emphasizes the importance of understanding the legal and ethical considerations in finance, ensuring graduates are well-rounded professionals. With a focus on employability, the course includes opportunities for work placements, industry projects, and guest lectures from industry experts. The university's supportive learning environment and dedicated academic staff provide personalized guidance to help students succeed academically and professionally. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in quantitative analysis, financial modeling, investment banking, actuarial science, and risk management, or to continue their studies at postgraduate level. The programme is delivered over three years of full-time study, with options for part-time or blended learning modes, and adheres to the latest industry standards and academic accreditation. By choosing the University of Kent's Financial Mathematics programme, students will acquire the knowledge, skills, and confidence to thrive in the dynamic world of finance, contributing innovative solutions and making informed decisions in a global economic environment.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

Total Kent credits: 360

Total Kent credits: 360

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

• EC302 - Introduction to Economics
• MA306 - Statistics
• MA321 - Calculus and Mathematical Modelling
• MA322 - Proofs and Numbers
• MA323 - Matrices and Probability
• CB364 - Introduction to Business Modelling
• WSHOP097 - Mathematics Support Classes
• WSHOPMA1 - Core Stage 1 Tutorial Support

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

• AC508 - Principles of Finance
• AC300 - Financial Accounting I
• MA552 - Analysis
• MA553 - Linear Algebra
• CB668 - Linear Programming and its Application
• MA629 - Probability and Inference
• MA632 - Regression
• MA564 - Functions of Several Variables
• MA584 - Computational Mathematics
• MA588 - Mathematical Techniques and Differential Equations
• MA590 - Mathematical Modelling

Year in industry

• Students on this course can coose to spend a year working in industry between Stages 2 and 3. We can offer help and advice in finding a placement. This greatly enhances your CV and gives you the opportunity to put your academic skills into practice. It also gives you an idea of your career options. Recent placements have included IBM, management consultancies, government departments, actuarial firms and banks.

Stage 3

• Possible modules may include:
• AC520 - Management Accounting 1
• CB600 - Games and Networks
• MA549 - Discrete Mathematics
• MA591 - Nonlinear Systems and Mathematical Biology
• MA587 - Numerical Solution of Differential Equations
• MA567 - Topology
• MA568 - Orthogonal Polynomials and Special Functions
• MA572 - Complex Analysis
• MA574 - Polynomials in Several Variables
• MA576 - Groups and Representations
• MA577 - Elements of Abstract Analysis
• MA636 - Stochastic Processes
• MA639 - Time Series Modelling and Simulation
• MA771 - Applied Stochastic Modelling and Data Analysis
• MA772 - Analysis of Variance
• MA781 - Practical Multivariate Analysis
• CB547 - Strategic Management
• AC502 - Business Finance
• AC504 - Auditing
• AC506 - Financial Accounting II
• CB611 - Futures and Options Markets

Teaching & Assessment

Teaching is by a combination of lectures and seminars. Modules that involve programming or working with computer software packages usually include practical sessions.

Assessment is by a combination of coursework and examination. Both Stage 2 and 3 marks count towards your final degree result.

Programme aims

The programme aims to:

• equip students with the technical appreciation, skills and knowledge appropriate to a degree in mathematics
• develop students’ facilities of rigorous reasoning and precise expression
• develop students’ abilities to formulate and solve mathematical problems
• encourage an appreciation of recent developments in mathematics and of the links between the theory of mathematics and its practical application
• provide students with a logical, mathematical approach to solving problems
• provide students with an enhanced capacity for independent thought and work
• ensure students are competent in the use of information technology and are familiar with computers and the relevant software
• provide students with opportunities to study advanced topics in mathematics, engage in research at some level, and develop communication and personal skills
• to enable those students who are taking a year in industry to gain awareness of the application of technical concepts in the workplace
• develop an understanding of some of the contexts in which accounting operates
• Introduce aspects of the conceptual underpinning to accounting
• provide knowledge, understanding and skills, predominantly from a UK perspective, relevant to a career in accounting or a related area and professional training in accounting
• offer the opportunity for students to obtain a range of exemptions at the initial stages of professional examinations
• develop cognitive abilities and intellectual and transferable skills
• examine aspects of the roles and functioning of accounting from a range of social scientific perspectives.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

You gain knowledge and understanding of:

• the core principles of calculus, algebra, mathematical methods, discrete mathematics, analysis and linear algebra
• statistics in the areas of probability and inference
• information technology as relevant to mathematicians
• methods and techniques of mathematics
• the role of logical mathematical argument and deductive reasoning
• some of the contexts in which accounting operates
• aspects of the conceptual underpinning to accounting
• the main current technical language and practices of accounting in the UK
• some of the alternative technical languages and practices of accounting.

Intellectual skills

You develop your intellectual skills in the following areas:

• the ability to demonstrate a reasonable understanding of mathematics
• the calculation and manipulation of the material written within the programme
• the ability to apply a range of concepts and principles in various contexts
• the ability to use logical argument
• the ability to solve mathematical problems by various methods
• the relevant computer skills
• the ability to work independently.
• to critically evaluate arguments and evidence
• to analyse and draw reasoned conclusions concerning structured and unstructured problems
• to apply numeracy skills.

Subject-specific skills

You gain subject-skills in:

• the ability to demonstrate knowledge of key mathematical concepts and topics, both explicitly and by applying them to the solution of problems
• how to comprehend of problems, abstract the essentials of problems and formulate them mathematically and in symbolic form so as to facilitate their analysis and solution
• computational and more general IT facilities as an aid to mathematical processes
• the presentation of mathematical arguments and conclusions with clarity and accuracy
• record and summarise economic events
• how to prepare financial statements
• analysis of the operations of business
• financial analysis and the ability to prepare financial projections.

Transferable skills

You gain transferable skills in the following areas:

• problem-solving skills, relating to qualitative and quantitative information
• communication skills
• numeracy and computational skills
• information-retrieval skills, in relation to primary and secondary information sources, including through on-line computer searches
• information technology skills such as word-processing, spreadsheet use and internet communication
• time-management and organisational skills, as shown by the ability to plan and implement effective modes of working
• study skills needed for continuing professional development.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

Qualification, Typical offer/minimum requirement

A level

• ABB including Mathematics grade A (not Use of Mathematics)

Access to HE Diploma

• The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma)

• The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

International Baccalaureate

• 34 points overall or 16 points at HL including Mathematics 6 at HL

International students

English language entry requirements

• 6.5 IELTS (with a minimum of 6.0 in Reading and Writing and 5.5 in Speaking and Listening)

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2015 entry support package has not been finalised. However, our 2014 financial support package included a £6,500 cash bursary. Find out more on our funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created the Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages. Please note that details of the scholarship for 2015 entry have not yet been finalised and are subject to change.

The MSc in Financial Mathematics at the University of Kent is a rigorous postgraduate program designed to equip students with advanced mathematical and statistical skills necessary for a career in the finance industry. This course provides a comprehensive grounding in key areas such as stochastic processes, financial derivatives, risk management, and quantitative methods. Students will gain an understanding of the theoretical foundations that underpin modern financial practices, along with practical skills in data analysis, modeling, and computational techniques. The program is tailored for individuals aiming to work in investment banks, hedge funds, actuarial firms, or financial consultancies, offering a blend of academic rigor and applied learning. The curriculum includes modules on mathematical finance, financial modeling, probability theory, econometrics, and numerical methods, delivered by faculty with expertise in both academia and industry. Emphasis is placed on the development of problem-solving abilities and critical thinking in complex financial environments. In addition, students have opportunities to undertake project work, which involves real-world financial data analysis, enhancing their practical understanding and employability. The course typically spans one year full-time or two years part-time, with options for industry placements or internships that allow students to gain valuable practical experience. The University of Kent’s state-of-the-art facilities and strong links with financial institutions provide a conducive environment for learning and networking. Graduates from this program are well-positioned for careers in financial analysis, risk management, quantitative research, or further academic pursuits such as a PhD in a related field. The program is accredited and recognized for its high standards, ensuring that students receive a quality education aligned with current industry standards and academic research in financial mathematics.