BSc Hons Mathematics with Finance and Accounting with a Professional Placement

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

The Mathematics with Finance and Accounting with Professional Placement BSc (Hons) at Queen Mary University of London combines rigorous mathematical and statistical training with in-depth knowledge of finance and accounting, alongside a year of real-world work experience. It is designed for students who want strong analytical and numerical skills, combined with practical exposure to the financial industry.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1
The first year provides a foundation in mathematics, statistics, and business fundamentals. Students study Applied Calculus, Applied Probability & Statistics, Numbers, Sets and Functions, Vectors and Matrices, as well as Economics for Business Management and Introduction to Accounting and Finance, developing both mathematical grounding and an introduction to finance and economics.

Year 2
The second year deepens understanding in both mathematical and financial concepts. Core modules include Applied Linear Algebra, Probability and Statistics II, Financial and Management Accounting, Financial Markets and Securities, and Statistical Modelling I. Electives such as Actuarial Mathematics I, Complex Variables, Differential Equations, or Linear Programming and Games allow students to tailor their learning toward mathematics, finance, or computational work.

Year 3 (Professional Placement Year)
In the third year, students undertake a paid work placement in a finance, accounting, or business organisation. This placement provides hands-on experience, applying mathematical, statistical, and accounting skills in a real-world professional context. The university supports students with applications, interviews, and career guidance.

Year 4 (Final Academic Year)
The final year focuses on advanced modules integrating mathematics, statistics, and finance. Students take Advanced Financial and Management Accounting, Corporate Financial Management, Financial Mathematics I, Random Processes, and electives such as Financial Mathematics II, Time Series, Statistical Modelling II, Numerical Computing with C and C++, or a final-year project linking maths and finance. This allows specialisation in financial analysis, risk management, actuarial work, or quantitative finance.

Focus areas:
Mathematics and statistical theory, financial and management accounting, financial markets and securities, mathematical finance, statistical modelling, quantitative finance, corporate finance, financial analysis, applied mathematics for finance, data-driven financial computation.

Learning outcomes:
Graduates gain strong numerical and analytical skills, a sound understanding of mathematics, statistics, accounting, and finance, and practical workplace experience through the professional placement. They are equipped to enter finance, banking, accounting, data analysis, or actuarial roles with both theoretical understanding and real-world experience.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
The programme is jointly offered by the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Business & Management, combining strengths of both departments to meet standards in mathematical and financial education and professional readiness.

Reputation (employability & career prospects):
The combination of quantitative skills, financial knowledge, and industry placement makes graduates attractive to employers in banking, finance, accounting, consulting, risk management, and actuarial industries. Many alumni secure positions with major global banks, consulting firms, and financial institutions.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The four-year BSc (Hons) in Mathematics with Finance and Accounting with Professional Placement combines rigorous mathematical and statistical training with practical business knowledge in finance and accounting. Students gain both analytical foundations and real-world experience, preparing them for careers in finance, banking, accounting, and related industries.

Experiential Learning & Practical Exposure

Students benefit from a mix of academic learning and hands-on experience:

Joint teaching by the School of Mathematical Sciences and the School of Business and Management, covering both quantitative mathematics/statistics and core finance and accounting concepts.
Exposure to real-world financial and statistical problems through modules on accounting, financial markets, financial mathematics, statistical modelling, and financial management.
Use of computational and statistical tools for data analysis, reporting, and financial modelling.
A full-year professional placement in the financial industry, providing practical work experience and the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge.
Structured placement support, including mentorship, guidance on applications, and interview preparation.

Programme Structure & Core Learning

Years 1–2: Core mathematics and business modules, including applied calculus, probability and statistics, numbers, sets and functions, vectors and matrices, introductory accounting and finance, and economics for business.
Second year onward: Compulsory financial and accounting modules such as financial and management accounting, financial markets and securities, probability and statistics II, statistical modelling, and applied linear algebra.
Final years (after placement): Advanced topics including corporate financial management, financial mathematics, random processes, advanced accounting, and optional electives such as financial mathematics II, machine learning, numerical computing, time series, and statistical modelling II.

The placement year typically occurs in Year 3, with final-year study completed in Year 4.

Why This Degree Provides a Competitive Edge

Graduates gain a unique combination of mathematical, statistical, and business knowledge, making them highly employable in banking, consulting, finance, accounting, risk analysis, and related fields.
The professional placement provides real-world experience, workplace insight, and professional networking opportunities.
The curriculum balances rigorous mathematics with practical business skills, producing well-rounded, analytically strong finance professionals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Mathematics with Finance and Accounting with Professional Placement BSc (Hons) at Queen Mary University of London (QMUL) are prepared for roles such as financial analyst, accountant, risk analyst, management consultant, or business analyst. The professional placement provides practical experience, giving students a competitive edge in securing graduate positions and accelerating career progression in finance, accounting, and consulting sectors.

Why This Degree Opens Doors:

University‑supported employability services: The QMUL School of Mathematical Sciences provides careers support including professional placement guidance, CV and application coaching, interview preparation, and networking opportunities.
Strong employment record & starting salary: A high proportion of graduates secure employment or further study within six months of graduation, with typical starting salaries around £30,000–£32,000, reflecting the value of practical placement experience.
Access to industry-leading employers: Students benefit from connections with top firms such as Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, EY, HSBC, and J.P. Morgan, often gaining placement experience that leads to graduate roles.
Accredited, high‑quality academic training with long-term value: The programme combines rigorous mathematical training with finance and accounting principles, equipping students with analytical, problem-solving, and financial management skills that remain relevant across industries.
Professional placement experience: The integrated professional placement allows students to apply theory in real-world settings, gain workplace skills, and build a professional network prior to graduation.
Diverse graduate outcomes: Graduates are ready for roles in finance, accounting, business analytics, consulting, risk management, and management within national and international organisations.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, graduates may pursue Master’s programmes in finance, accounting, financial mathematics, business analytics, or management. They may also undertake professional qualifications such as ACA, ACCA, CFA, or CIMA, or continue to doctoral studies for advanced research opportunities in mathematics, finance, or accounting.