University of York

What you'll study

This joint degree builds a solid foundation in pure and applied mathematics alongside core topics in finance and econometrics. Early years focus on calculus, linear algebra, mathematical analysis, probability and statistics. From the second year you will encounter modules in financial mathematics, stochastic processes, time series and econometrics, portfolio theory, derivatives and risk management.

• Core mathematics modules: calculus, real analysis, linear algebra, differential equations and numerical methods.
• Probability and statistics: probability theory, statistical inference, regression and time-series analysis.
• Finance modules: corporate finance, investment theory, derivatives pricing, portfolio management and risk measurement.
• Computing and modelling: programming for mathematical modelling (commonly Python, R or MATLAB), Monte Carlo simulation and optimisation techniques.
• Final-year project or dissertation integrating mathematical theory with an applied finance problem; options to take specialised topics such as credit risk, financial econometrics or machine learning for finance.

Teaching typically combines lectures with smaller-group tutorials and computer lab sessions. Assessment is by a mixture of exams, coursework, programming assignments and a substantial project in the final year.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong numeracy. Typical offers ask for high-level achievement in Mathematics at A level (or equivalent). Further Mathematics is highly recommended where available. The programme is competitive and successful applicants usually have strong grades across relevant subjects.

• GCE A levels: a strong profile with Mathematics required; Further Mathematics is desirable.
• International Baccalaureate: a strong overall score with Higher Level Mathematics is expected.
• Other qualifications: relevant performance in other national or international qualifications will be considered; mature students and those with non-standard backgrounds should provide evidence of quantitative ability and motivation.
• Admissions process: applications are considered on academic achievement, predicted/achieved grades and the personal statement; some applicants may be invited for interview.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for quantitatively demanding roles in finance, risk management, asset management, trading, banking, insurance and consulting. The combination of mathematics and finance also opens routes into data science, machine learning, actuarial work (with appropriate further study or professional exams), and economic or financial research.

• Typical entry roles: analyst positions in investment banks, risk and credit analyst roles, quantitative analyst/“quant” positions, data scientist or modelling roles.
• Professional progression: many graduates take professional qualifications (CFA, actuarial exams, or specialist risk certifications) alongside on-the-job development; others continue to postgraduate study in mathematical finance, statistics or computational finance.
• Transferable skills: employers value the degree for problem-solving, programming, statistical modelling and the ability to communicate complex quantitative results clearly.

Why study at University of York

The University of York combines a strong mathematics department with access to interdisciplinary expertise in economics and business, giving this programme the academic breadth and applied focus students need for careers in finance. Teaching emphasises small-group support through tutorials and laboratory sessions, and students benefit from opportunities to take computing-focused modules and to undertake substantial independent projects.

• Research-led teaching: modules are informed by active research in applied mathematics, probability and financial modelling.
• Facilities and support: computing labs and statistical software are available, and students receive careers support to develop applications, interviews and professional skills relevant to finance employers.
• Placements and experience: while the course’s structure prioritises academic depth, students are encouraged to pursue internships, summer placements and extracurricular activities that enhance employability.