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Financial Mathematics (with Foundation Year) BSc (Hons)
- Level(s) of Study: Undergraduate
- UCAS Code(s): GN14
- Start Date(s): September 2023
- Duration: Four years full-time
- Study Mode(s): Full-time
- Campus: Clifton Campus
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Entry Requirements:
More information
Introduction:
Every journey starts with a single step and your foundation year is just the start. You’ll focus on mathematics while exploring science. This combination gets you off to a flying start as you move on to BSc (Hons) Financial Mathematics in your second year.
You’ll take part in a series of projects both individually and in a group – some set by industry and some based on real world-scenarios. This develops your problem-solving and creative thinking skills whilst providing a practical focus.
If you find financial mathematics isn’t for you, we can support you to move into one of our other mathematics courses at the end of your foundation year.
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Top 20 for student satisfaction in Mathematics (National Student Survey, 2022) -
We offer Mathematics Undergraduate Research Scholarships (MURS) - funding for a short research placement. It's an opportunity to further your research interests and contribute to the department. -
Join our Mathematics Society, and you’ll have the opportunity to take part in regular events hosted on campus by the local branch of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications.
What you’ll study
The financial services industry makes a significant contribution to the UK economy, and effective financial management is vital to the success of any business. That’s why skilled financial mathematicians are in such high demand. This course gives you a broad knowledge of financial mathematics in accountancy practice, the operations of financial markets, and the wider business environment, so that when you graduate you’ll have a solid but flexible knowledge base that will put you in a fantastic position to get the job that you want.
After your foundation year, you’ll explore a wide range of mathematical techniques and applications. Then, in your final year, you’ll get to choose a number of specialist modules depending on your own personal preferences and career aspirations.
An optional placement year is available, this will typically take place after Year Three, and you will return to campus for your final year in Year Five.
Introductory Mathematics
This module provides an introduction to important mathematical ideas, including Algebraic rearrangement, Trigonometry, Vectors, Descriptive Statistics, Integration and Differentiation. You’ll gain an understanding of ideas that form the basis of later, more specialised, developments and you’ll be able to solve simple but realistic mathematical problems.
Intermediate Mathematics
This module aims to provide the link between Introductory Mathematics and degree level Mathematics. You’ll cover more complex topics such as the chain rule and integration by parts, the generalisation of vectors to matrices, the approximation of numerical series, logic and probability, complex numbers and mathematical proof.
Foundation Science
In this module you’ll cover topics in Physics and Chemistry including exchange, transport and conservation of energy and inorganic, organic and physical chemistry. The aim of this module is to provide a sound scientific foundation for the study of engineering or mathematics at the undergraduate degree level.
Computational Mathematics
A hands-on introduction to ideas and skills which cross Mathematics, Physics and Computing. Using software such as Excel and Matlab, you’ll learn about mathematical ideas like matrices and the consideration of how physical systems can be represented mathematically.
Practical and Professional Skills
This module aims to provide a link between the theoretical modules in the course and their practical implementation. The professional skills aspect will help you with interpreting coursework requirements, exam and revision techniques, note-taking and referencing. The practical sessions will cover a variety of topics that require you to make use of the scientific principles and mathematical techniques that you’re learning in the other modules on the course.
Introduction to Abstract Algebra
Introduction to Numerical Methods
Introduction to Economics and Finance
Mathematical Methods
Data Analysis
Accounting and Finance for Managers
Discrete-Time Financial Mathematics
Mathematical Modelling and Quality Control for Business
Numerical Methods for Ordinary Differential Equations
Differential Equations and Transform Methods
Mathematical Enterprise
In this module you’ll work in small teams to develop a plan for a new business or enterprise, using your mathematical skills to showcase the viability of your venture. This module is run in conjunction with Nottingham's Creative Quarter and you’ll work with several local businesses to create business plans.
Probability and Statistical Inference
Refine your knowledge of statistical inference and statistical modelling and further develop essential computational and IT skills.
Project in Mathematics
The final year project gives you the opportunity to demonstrate and document your skills, knowledge and understanding of mathematics, and show your planning, organisation and problem-solving abilities.
Continuous-Time Financial Mathematics
Choose one module from:
Professional Mathematics Skills
Gain a broad view of the practical applications of Mathematics in the real world, especially in industrial contexts such as Finance, Physics and Engineering.
Communicating Science and Technology
This module will be of interest to you if you are considering a career in teaching and / or want to develop your portfolio of transferable skills.
Optional modules – choose one module from:
Linear Systems
Statistical Modelling
Optimisation
The optimisation is the art of optimal decision-making under constraints. This module introduces you to optimisation, focussing on the theoretical foundations of the subject, as well as the practical modelling aspects, and the algorithm analysis and design.
Computational Statistics and Data Analysis
Explore topics from computational statistics and statistical models relevant to modern applications, with an emphasis on developing a solid conceptual understanding of these methods through applications.
One module from:
Numerical Analysis and Dynamical Systems
Stochastic Processes
Quantum Computing and Cryptography
This module provides an introduction to the theory of cryptography and quantum computation. These topics will build on and extend your knowledge and understanding of key mathematical ideas that were introduced in the earlier years of the course.
And one module from:
Applied Statistics
Graph Theory and Combinatorics
This module provides an introduction to a selection of research-informed topics in pure mathematics and aims to extend and complement ideas introduced in years 1 and 2. It provides a blend of mathematical concepts and techniques that are widely applicable in areas such as data science, operational research, chemistry, engineering, computer science, information technology, statistics, sociology and genetics.
Investment and Portfolio Management
During this module you’ll put theory into practice by constructing and running a portfolio of equities. You’ll examine the relevance of modern finance theory and analyse how securities can be structured in portfolios and how portfolios can be managed.
How you’re taught
You’ll spend between 14 and 16 hours every week in lectures, seminars, practical sessions, and workshops. This includes up to four surgery sessions where you’ll meet your lecturer in small groups to discuss any problems or work through challenging topics. The rest of your time will be spent carrying out independent study, such as reading textbooks and lecture notes and working on exercises.
Contact hours
Year 1 - lectures/seminars/workshops (30%) and independent study (70%)
Year 2 - lectures/seminars/workshops (33%) and independent study (67%)
Year 3 - lectures/seminars/workshops (32%) and independent study (68%)
Year 4 - lectures/seminars/workshops (22%) and independent study (78%)
A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study
How you’re assessed
We want you to graduate with a range of transferable skills, so all of the mathematics modules have two or three assessment components that help you to demonstrate your knowledge in a variety of ways. As well as traditional exams and in-class tests, you’ll complete assignments and group projects, and give presentations. In your final year, you’ll also complete your dissertation with the support of your personal tutor.
- Year 1 - coursework (60%) and written (40%)
- Year 2 - coursework (47%) and written (53%)
- Year 3 - coursework (38%) and written (62%)
- Year 4 - coursework (42%) and written (58%)
- A placement year may be taken between year 3 and year 4 of study
Careers and employability
Your career development
Our recent graduates have secured roles at companies including:
- Bradford and Bingley
- Brackman Chopra LLP
- Home Retail Group
- NHS
- Camelot Group plc
- Pendragon PLC
- Nottingham Building Society
They have also started careers in:
- Industrial and commercial mathematics
- Statistical applications systems modelling
- Software engineering
- Telecommunications
- IT applications
- Teaching and research
They have gone into a wide variety of job roles including:
- Portfolio Officer
- Management Information Assistant
- Trainee Accountant
- Finance Officer
- Risk Analyst
- Procurement Analyser
- Accounts Executive
Many graduates choose to undertake further study on one of our Masters-level courses or MPhil and PhD research degrees.
Placements
NTU is one of the most employment-focused universities. Increasingly, employers want to recruit graduates who have real-world work experience. That’s why all of our courses, across every subject area, offer you a work experience opportunity. Our experts help build and support your future with a range of career programmes and events.
On this course, after your third year, you will have the opportunity to take a year's work placement (sandwich placement). This will give you the chance to gain vital experience and put your knowledge into practice. You're also twice as likely to secure a graduate job within six months if you take a work placement.
Our recent students have taken placements across a wide range of companies including Xerox, Peugeot Citroen and British Car Auctions. They secured varied roles such as Finance Industrial Placement Student, Fleet Tender Assistant and Data Scientists.
You'll be supported and assessed throughout your placement year and will write a reflective report and diary at the end of your placement. When you successfully complete your placement, you will be eligible to receive an additional award of a Diploma in Professional Practice.
Find out more about work placements.
What our students say
"The content we studied in my final year was absolutely vital in getting the job I have today. The course is very applicable when applying for positions outside of the university. If you're interested in mathematics I really can't recommend this course enough.
"In addition, I love Nottingham – it's a fantastic city and I didn't have any questions at all about staying here when I graduated. When looking for jobs my number one priority was staying in this city."
Duncan Bell, NTU Mathematics graduate
Credit Scoring and Strategy Analyst
NTU Enterprise
You'll also have the opportunity to turn your ideas into a viable business with help from NTU Enterprise, NTU's purpose-built Centre for Entrepreneurship and Enterprise, a support centre to help students create, develop and grow their own businesses.
Entry requirements
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English C/4
To find out what qualifications have tariff points, please use our tariff calculator.
Other qualifications and experience
We may also consider credits achieved at other universities and your work/life experience through an assessment of prior learning. This may be for year one entry, or beyond the beginning of a course where applicable, for example, into year 2. Our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy outlines the process and options available for this route.
Getting in touch
If you need more help or information, get in touch through our enquiry form
- 72 UCAS tariff points from three A-levels or equivalent
- GCSEs – Maths grade B/6 and English C/4
International qualifications
We accept qualifications from all over the world – check yours here:
Undergraduate preparation courses (Foundation)
If you don’t yet meet our entry requirements, we offer Foundation courses through our partner Nottingham Trent International College (NTIC), based on our City Campus:
English language entry requirements
You can meet our language requirements by successfully completing our pre-sessional English course for an agreed length of time, or by submitting the required grade in one of our accepted English language tests, such as IELTS:
Advanced standing (starting your undergraduate degree in year 2 or 3)
You may be able to start your undergraduate course in year 2 or 3 based on what you have studied before. This decision would be made in accordance with our Recognition of Prior Learning and Credit Transfer Policy.
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
Fees and funding
Preparing for the financial side of student life is important, but there’s no need to feel anxious and confused about it. We hope that our fees and funding pages will answer all your questions.
Getting in touch
For more advice and guidance, you can contact our Student Financial Support Service.
Tel: +44 (0)115 848 2494
Additional Costs
Your course fees cover the cost of studies and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core textbooks, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential textbooks, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs. Placement opportunities are available in the UK and overseas. Travel grants and Erasmus funding may be available to help fund international travel costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs of approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
Tuition fees
Tuition fees are payable for each year that you are at the University. The level of tuition fees for the second and subsequent years of your undergraduate course may increase in line with inflation and as specified by the UK government. See our fees.
Scholarships
We offer scholarships of up to 50% of your tuition fee. You can apply for your scholarship when you have an offer to study at NTU.
Living costs
Get advice on the cost of living as an international student in Nottingham and how to budget:
Paying fees
Find out about advanced payments, instalment plan options and how to make payments securely to the University:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
What do the course fees cover?
Your course fees cover the cost of studies and include loads of great benefits, such as the use of our library, support from our expert Employability team, and free use of the IT equipment across our campuses.
Library books
Most study modules will recommend one or more core textbooks, which most students choose to purchase. Book costs vary and further information is available in the University’s bookshop. Our libraries provide a good supply of essential textbooks, journals and materials (many of which you can access online) – meaning you may not need to purchase as many books as you might think! There may also be a supply of second-hand books available for purchase from previous year students.
Field trips
All essential field trip costs will be included in your course fees. There may be the opportunity to take part in optional field trips, which do incur additional costs.
Placements
If you're undertaking a placement year, you'll need to budget for accommodation and any travel costs you may incur whilst on placement. Many of our placement students do earn a salary whilst on placement which can help to cover these living costs. Placement opportunities are available in the UK and overseas. Travel grants and Erasmus funding may be available to help fund international travel costs.
Print and copy costs
The University allocates an annual printing and copying allowance of £20 depending on the course you are studying. Students will also be required to pay additional costs for printing, poster preparation and final dissertation copies in their final year - estimated costs of approximately £20 - £50. For more details about costs for additional print and copying required over and above the annual allowance please see the Printing, photocopying and scanning information on the Library website.
Other
Students will require a basic scientific calculator for use in examinations (e.g. Casio 83 or 85 series, approximately £15).
How to apply
Ready to join us? Then apply as soon as you can. Just click the Apply button at the top of the page and follow the instructions for applying. Make sure you check the entry requirements above carefully before you do.
Writing your application and personal statement
Be honest, thorough and persuasive in your application. Remember, we can only make a decision based on what you tell us. So include all of your qualifications and grades, including resits or predicted grades.
Your personal statement is a really important part of your application. It’s your chance to convince us why we should offer you a place! You’ve got 4,000 characters to impress us. Make sure you use them to show how your skills and qualities are relevant to the course(s) you’re applying for. For more hints and tips, take a look at our page on how to write a good personal statement.
Keeping up-to-date
After you’ve applied, we’ll be sending you important emails throughout the application process so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
You can get more information and advice about applying to NTU on our Your Application page. Good luck with your application!
You can apply for this course through UCAS. If you are not applying to any other UK universities, you can apply directly to us on our NTU applicant portal.
Application advice
Apply early so that you have enough time to prepare – processing times for Student visas can vary, for example. After you've applied, we'll be sending you important emails throughout the application process – so check your emails regularly, including your junk mail folder.
Writing your personal statement
Be honest, thorough, and persuasive – we can only make a decision about your application based on what you tell us:
Would you like some advice on your study plans?
Our international teams are highly experienced in answering queries from students all over the world. We also have members of staff based in Vietnam, China, India and Nigeria and work with a worldwide network of education counsellors.
- Complete this simple form to keep in touch with the International Office.
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