Financial Mathematics BSc

2024-25 entry
School of Mathematics and Statistics
Management School

Get the numerical skills and specialist knowledge you need to work in finance. You’ll learn about the tools, principles and practices of the finance industry, as well as the fundamental mathematics behind banking, insurance and accountancy.

Key details

Explore this course:

    Course description

    Students working in a computer lab

    Spend an immersive three years learning the principles and practices of the finance industry, and the fundamental maths behind banking, insurance, accountancy and more.

    Jointly delivered by the University of Sheffield School of Mathematics and Statistics, the Department of Economics and the Management School, this financial mathematics degree teaches the numerical skills and specialist knowledge you need for your career in finance.

    Your first year is about giving you the best possible grounding with maths essentials and finance-specific topics, enabling you to make an informed choice between following an economics or finance pathway.

    In year two you unlock more advanced topics in economics or finance, such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and corporate finance.

    Some module options include more project work. This gives you the chance to put your mathematics skills into practice in different contexts and scenarios that you might encounter when you start work after graduation.

    By third year, you’ll have the skills, knowledge and experience to go in lots of different directions in finance and mathematics. We’ll give you lots of optional modules to choose from, so you can study the topics that are most useful to the career path you want to take, or that you enjoy the most.

    Why study this course?

    • Leading maths research - 96% of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent, according to the Research Excellence Framework 2021.
    • Real-world problem solving - research unanswered questions, from the most abstract research in areas like algebraic geometry and number theory, to the calculations behind animal movements and black holes.
    • Tailor your degree - you have the option to choose from an economics or management pathway, allowing you to focus on the areas you enjoy the most.
    • Welcoming community for everyone - we have an active student society (SUMS), regular maths challenges, and a dedicated LGBT+ student group for maths students.
    • Triple Crown Accredited Management School - The Management School is a leading business school with Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS), where many academics have former industrial experience which they bring to their teaching.
    Second-year Maths student Amelia takes us through a busy day of lectures before heading to Netball practice to unwind

    Modules

    A selection of modules are available each year - some examples are below. There may be changes before you start your course. From May of the year of entry, formal programme regulations will be available in our Programme Regulations Finder.

    Choose a year to see modules for a level of study:

    Title: Financial Mathematics BSc course structure
    UCAS code: GN13
    Years: 2023
    First year

    As well as maths modules, student choose either an economics pathway or a management pathway.

    Core modules:

    Mathematics Core

    Mathematics Core covers topics which continue school mathematics and which are used throughout the degree programmes: calculus and linear algebra, developing the framework for higher-dimensional generalisation.  This material is central to many topics in subsequent courses.  At the same time, small-group tutorials with the Personal Tutor aim to develop core skills, such as mathematical literacy and communication, some employability skills and problem-solving skills.

    40 credits
    Computing and Analysis

    This module collects together a number of the most useful topics for future modules in financial mathematics. The first semester will cover some computing, using Python to write simple programmes and LaTeX to write mathematical documents.  The second semester is given to analysis, a branch of pure mathematics with applications in financial mathematics.  The two semesters are independent of each other.

    20 credits
    Probability and Data Science

    Probability theory is branch of mathematics concerned with the study of chance phenomena. Data science involves the handling and analysis of data using a variety of tools: statistical inference, machine learning, and graphical methods. The first part of the module introduces probability theory, providing a foundation for further probability and statistics modules, and for the statistical inference methods taught here. Examples are presented from diverse areas, and case studies involving a variety of real data sets are discussed. Data science tools are implemented using the statistical computing language R.

    20 credits

    Economics pathway:

    Economic Analysis and Policy

    This is a compulsory module for all single and dual honours students in Economics. The module provides students with an introduction to microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis together with examples of their application in order to develop students' understanding of the roles of both in economic policy making.

    40 credits

    Management pathway:

    Introduction to Financial Accounting

    Financial Accounting is concerned with the ways in which the financial transactions of a business are recorded and summarised in financial statements. This module provides an introduction to the construction of financial statements and an understanding and evaluation of the principles and concepts on which they are underpinned. Once the principles have been established, the module further develops the practical understanding of the preparation of financial statements and focuses on the preparation, interpretation and limitations of company financial statements and the regulatory framework in which they are prepared.

    20 credits
    Foundations in Financial Management

    This module aims to create a foundation of knowledge in the subject area of financial management, creating the required framework of skill and knowledge for financial decision making and to provide a base of knowledge for the related modules in levels 2 and 3. This module will achieve this by introducing the essential principles, theories and calculations within financial management. It will also introduce the contemporary issues and developments in financial markets. The module design and content expects to at least cover the contents of foundation level financial management related module syllabus of professional accounting bodies.

    20 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    You'll learn through lectures, problems classes in small groups and research projects. Some modules also include programming classes.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    You will be assessed in a variety of ways, depending on the modules you take. This can include quizzes, examinations, presentations, participation in tutorials, projects, coursework and other written work.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    including A in Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB, including A in Maths + B in a relevant EPQ; ABB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34, with 6 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches)
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Maths units), and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB
    including A in Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB, including A in Maths + B in a relevant EPQ; ABB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    33, with 6 in Higher Level Maths (Analysis and Approaches)
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDD in Engineering with Distinctions in all Maths units
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AABBB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB, including A in Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (to include Maths units), and 15 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • We will give your application additional consideration if you have passed the Sixth Term Examination Paper (STEP), STEP 2 or STEP 3, at grade 3 or above. We do not consider STEP results in place of a third A Level

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Science and Engineering at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Strong mathematics skills open all kinds of doors for our graduates: from banking, insurance and pensions, to software development at tech companies and encryption services at security agencies. They also work for businesses with vast amounts of data to process and inform new products and services.

    Organisations that have hired Sheffield maths graduates include AstraZeneca, BAE Systems, Barclays, Bet365, Dell, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, GSK, HSBC, IBM, Lloyds, PwC, Unilever, the Civil Service and the NHS. Lots of our students also go on to do PhDs at world top 100 universities.

    Your career in mathematics and statistics

    Management School

    We have a dedicated employability team who offer careers support, and can help you to find jobs or placement opportunities, and develop essential skills through workshops with industry experts. You're supported throughout your course and after graduation.

    We work with businesses and organisations to ensure the content of our courses are up-to-date and relevant, and that the skills and experience you'll gain meet the demands of future employers

    Sheffield University Management School careers

    Sonia Nayyar in her graduation gown holding her degree certificate

    My degree has given me an excellent grounding in mathematical concepts I use every day

    Sonia Nayyar Mathematics BSc

    After graduating from Sheffield with a BSc in Mathematics, Sonia went on to work for a financial, actuarial and business consultancy, putting the analytic and logical thinking skills she learned during her degree to daily use.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Why study mathematics and statistics?

    When new students join the School of Mathematics and Statistics, we want them to feel part of a community. At the heart of this is the Sheffield University Mathematics Society, or SUMS, who organise activities throughout the academic year – from charity fundraisers to nights out. Our students also take part in pizza lectures, rocket engineering projects, international maths challenges, and an LGBT+ support group for maths students.

    Staff in the School of Mathematics and Statistics work on a wide range of topics, from the most abstract research in areas like algebraic geometry and number theory, to the calculations behind animal movements and black holes. They’ll guide you through the key concepts and techniques that every mathematician needs to understand and give you a huge range of optional modules to choose from.

    The department is based in the Hicks Building, which has classrooms, lecture theatres, computer rooms and social spaces for our students. It’s right next door to the Students' Union, and just down the road from the 24/7 library facilities at the Information Commons and the Diamond.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Management School

    We are a world leading management school with Triple Crown accreditation (AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS).

    These awards have been achieved through the outstanding quality of our programmes, research output, support for students and alumni, and links with industry. We have a world-class reputation for high quality teaching, ground-breaking research and cutting-edge thinking.

    You’ll be part of a dynamic and engaging management school that puts you and your future at the heart of everything it does. We balance a rigorous academic foundation with practical skills to ensure you are ready for the world of work.

    We want you to develop skills so you can apply course content in a company setting. Our close links with organisations keep us in tune with the changing demands of the workplace. We know what employers are looking for.

    You'll learn from experts - many of our academics are former industry professionals and they work closely with businesses. Because our academics are world-leading researchers, your education will draw on the most current management theories.

    We want you to engage with the academic content, be conscientious and take an independent approach to study.

    We'll help you to be informed, innovative and proactive and do everything we can to support and enhance your career, steering you in the right direction with all the knowledge and skills you require.

    You'll benefit from tailored on-site and online professional careers support, dedicated skills sessions and events with experts from world-leading organisations and professional bodies. These activities will help guide your personal and professional development to help you secure the right work experience for you.

    Management School students are based in our building on Conduit Road.

    Facilities

    The Management School building includes learning facilities such as lecture theatres, seminar rooms, trading and computer rooms, our academic and professional staff, the Courtyard Café, and our Employability hub and Student Experience Office. Teaching takes place at various venues across campus.

    Explore facilities in the Management School

    The Management School has invested in an impressive, fully-equipped financial trading room, built around Bloomberg and Refinitiv Eikon.

    These terminals are used by traders, banks and multinational companies to trade financial securities, gain market insights and undertake research. You will also have the opportunity to gain certification that demonstrates competence in these systems, which will add real value to your CV.

    Management School

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    96 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent

    Research Excellence Framework 2021

    Management School

    Triple Crown accredited

    AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS

    90% of management school undergraduates are in employment or further study 15 months after completing their course

    Graduate Outcomes 2020-21

    Student profiles

    Yi Gu

    Being part of Sheffield's vibrant Chinese community

    Yi Gu Financial Mathematics BSc

    Yi Gu enjoyed the facilities and sense of community in Sheffield, before going on to a masters degree at King's College London.

    Yichen Shi (Roy)

    "In my opinion, data science is the core of almost every industry"

    Yichen Shi (Roy) Financial Mathematics BSc

    Financial Mathematics appealed to Roy for its practical applications, and he's now pursuing a career that uses machine learning.

    Xiangyi Li putting her hood up, smiling

    "Sheffield is a truly culturally diverse university, with lots of events and activities specifically held for international students"

    Xiangyi Li Financial Mathematics BSc

    Xiangyi came from China to study on our Financial Mathematics course, and got lots of support from our staff to help her settle in and achieve her potential.

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Placements and study abroad

    Placement

    You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year. 

    A placement year will help you to:

    • gain an insight into possible careers
    • develop a range of transferable skills
    • build a professional network
    • get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
    • add valuable work experience to your CV
    • gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
    • apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

    Study abroad

    Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget. 

    You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually between the second and third year. We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. 

    Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    Get the numerical skills and specialist knowledge you need to work in finance. You’ll learn about the tools, principles and practices of the finance industry, as well as the fundamental mathematics behind banking, insurance and accountancy.