BSc in Financial Mathematics with a Professional Placement Year, Cardiff University

48 Months

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About this course

This is a four-year full-time degree focusing on financial mathematics, complemented by an employability-enhancing paid placement during the third year. The course offers a solid foundation in mathematics while developing skills crucial for careers in finance, banking, and insurance. Students will learn about modern financial markets, institutions, investments, and policies, and explore issues like complex systems, high-frequency trading, fund management, and analytics. The program is uniquely equipped with excellent facilities, including a new simulated Trading Room designed for financial mathematics. Accredited by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), this course aims to prepare students for the complex financial sector by blending theoretical knowledge with practical industry exposure.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program is ideal for students interested in a career in finance, banking, or insurance, as it combines rigorous mathematical training with real-world industry experience through a paid placement year. The strong links with industry and the opportunity to earn a professional qualification, such as the City and Guilds Senior Licentiateship Award (LCGI), make it highly valuable in a competitive job market. The course’s focus on contemporary financial topics and access to innovative facilities, like the simulated Trading Room, enhance employability and practical understanding, setting graduates up for success.

Specialisation

Alongside learning broad mathematical techniques, students will gain in-depth knowledge specific to financial mathematics. The curriculum emphasizes contemporary topics such as market design, trading, fund management, and analytics, tailoring the skills required for roles in finance and related sectors.

Course fees

Application fees

31.09L

1st year tuition fees

31.09L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants typically need A-levels with a minimum of AAB-BBB, including Mathematics, or equivalent international qualifications such as IB with a score of 34-31 overall and a 6 in HL Mathematics. GCSE English Language at grade C/4 is required, along with other essential qualifications. The course also accepts a mix of BTEC, T Levels, and other qualifications, subject to individual assessment. For international students, specific English proficiency tests like IELTS (minimum 6.5 overall) are accepted.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

PTE

TOEFL

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the Cardiff University admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates can pursue careers in finance, government, marketing, and beyond, benefiting from the industry experience gained during the placement year. The course prepares students for roles in financial markets, risk management, trading, and fund management, with opportunities to progress to postgraduate studies in related fields for wider career options.

FAQs

What is the structure of the course?

The course spans four years, with the first two years covering core mathematical modules, the third year dedicated to paid industry placement, and the final year offering a wide selection of optional modules allowing for specialisation or exploration in different areas of mathematics.

What kind of industry placements are available?

Placements can be undertaken with organisations in financial services, government, and industry, including well-known bodies such as HM Revenue & Customs, Lloyds Bank, and the Ministry of Defence. Support is provided for securing placements, and students work under the supervision of industry professionals.