BSc Mathematics with Finance

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Exeter

Program Overview

BSc Mathematics with Finance at the University of Exeter is ideal for students who want to combine advanced mathematical skills with an understanding of financial markets, investment and financial decision-making. The programme brings together mathematics, finance and quantitative methods, helping students develop the analytical abilities needed for careers in banking, investment, financial analysis and related fields, with the option to complete a Year in Industry for valuable professional experience.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Your first year introduces the key principles of mathematics, finance and economics, creating a strong foundation for further study. You will explore modules such as Introduction to Finance, Economics I, Economics II, Mathematical Structures, and Mathematical Methods, developing an understanding of financial concepts, economic systems and essential mathematical techniques.

Year 2
In your second year, you will expand your knowledge of finance while developing more advanced mathematical and analytical skills. You will study modules such as Microeconomics II and Financial Markets and Decisions I, alongside mathematics topics including Differential Equations, Vector Calculus and Applications, Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, and Linear Algebra, strengthening your ability to solve complex quantitative problems.

Year 3
Your final year focuses on applying mathematical methods to advanced financial situations and investment-related challenges. You will study Financial Markets and Decisions 2 and have the opportunity to select specialist modules such as Mathematics Group Project and Commercial and Industrial Experience, allowing you to apply your knowledge to practical financial and business scenarios.

Year in Industry (Optional)
You can extend your degree to four years by choosing the Year in Industry option, where you complete a professional placement during your third year. This allows you to gain hands-on experience in a finance-related workplace, apply your mathematical and financial knowledge, develop professional skills and build industry connections before completing your final year.

Focus Areas

Financial Mathematics, Investment Analysis, Financial Markets, Quantitative Methods, Mathematical Modelling, Economics, Probability and Statistics, Data Analysis, Risk Analysis, Financial Decision-Making, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Structures, Portfolio Analysis, Computational Finance

Learning Outcomes

Develop advanced mathematical and financial knowledge, apply quantitative methods to financial problems, analyse financial markets and investment decisions, understand economic principles, use mathematical modelling techniques, interpret financial data, strengthen analytical and problem-solving skills, apply statistical methods, develop computational and research abilities, communicate complex financial and mathematical ideas effectively

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme provides a strong foundation for careers in finance, investment, banking, analytics and quantitative industries by combining mathematical expertise with financial understanding. It also supports progression towards the Chartered Mathematician designation awarded by the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA), when combined with appropriate professional training and experience.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The programme develops strong quantitative, analytical and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers in banking, investment, financial services, consulting and technology sectors.
Students benefit from Exeter’s research-led teaching approach, practical learning opportunities and industry-focused curriculum, helping them prepare for careers requiring advanced mathematical and financial expertise.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

BSc Mathematics with Finance at the University of Exeter helps students develop practical skills by applying mathematical techniques to real-world financial challenges. Through project work, quantitative analysis, report writing and the use of digital tools, students learn how to analyse financial information, solve complex problems and communicate their findings effectively. The programme also offers a Year in Industry option, giving students the opportunity to gain professional experience and apply their mathematical and financial knowledge in a workplace environment.

Students build practical knowledge through academic projects, digital tools, industry-focused learning and research activities:

Mathematics and finance project work: Students take part in project-based learning activities and report writing tasks throughout the programme, including opportunities such as the Mathematics Group Project and Commercial and Industrial Experience modules, where they apply their knowledge to practical problems.
Computer-based learning tools: Students use modern computer tools for data analysis, programming, symbolic algebra, mathematical calculations, professional presentations and other quantitative tasks that support financial and mathematical learning.
Quantitative and financial analysis: Through modules such as Introduction to Finance, Financial Markets and Decisions I, and Financial Markets and Decisions 2, students apply mathematical methods to understand financial markets, investment decisions and risk analysis.
Group projects and collaboration: Students develop teamwork and communication skills through collaborative activities, allowing them to work with others to solve problems and present complex mathematical and financial concepts clearly.
Year in Industry placement: Students can choose the four-year pathway with a third-year industrial placement, gaining hands-on experience in a professional environment related to mathematics, finance or business while building valuable career skills.
Research-led learning: Students learn from academics involved in mathematics and finance research and have opportunities to complete independent project work, exploring specialist topics with academic guidance.
Learning and study facilities: Students have access to the University of Exeter’s Streatham Campus facilities, including libraries, computing facilities, study spaces and academic support services that support their academic development.
Business and finance learning environment: The programme combines expertise from the Mathematics department and the University of Exeter Business School, allowing students to benefit from knowledge across mathematical sciences, finance and business disciplines.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc Mathematics with Finance at the University of Exeter are well-prepared for careers that combine strong quantitative skills with financial analysis and strategy. Typical roles include Financial Analyst, Risk Analyst, Investment Analyst, Data Analyst, and Actuarial Assistant, reflecting the demand for graduates with strong mathematical and financial expertise:
• The programme develops mathematical, statistical, and computational skills alongside applied finance knowledge, enabling graduates to model and solve complex financial problems.
• Optional placements and project modules provide practical experience, enhancing employability and readiness for the financial sector.

Progression & Future Opportunities:

University services that help you to employ: Exeter’s Careers service provides personalised career guidance, CV and application support, interview coaching, employer networking events, workshops, and careers fairs, helping students secure internships and graduate roles.
Employment stats and salary figures: Mathematics and finance graduates typically achieve strong outcomes, with most entering graduate-level roles within 15 months. Early-career salaries often range from £30,000–£35,000, reflecting high demand for quantitative finance skills.
University–industry partnerships: Professional placements, financial modelling projects, and industry-linked modules provide practical experience and networking opportunities with employers in banking, investment, risk management, and consultancy.
Long-term accreditation value: The degree equips graduates with recognised skills valued by employers worldwide, providing a strong foundation for professional qualifications and long-term career growth in finance and analytics.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates progress into careers in investment banking, risk management, financial consulting, data analysis, actuarial science, and related fields, or pursue postgraduate study in finance or mathematics-related disciplines.

Further Academic Progression:
• Students may continue to master’s programmes in Financial Mathematics, Quantitative Finance, Data Science, Risk Management, or Applied Mathematics, further specialising in their chosen area.
• The degree also supports progression toward professional qualifications (e.g., CFA, actuarial exams) or research-focused postgraduate study, offering versatile pathways into finance, consultancy, or academic research.