Mathematics and Computing for Finance MSc

The MSc Mathematics and Computing for Finance course has been designed to meet the growing demand for specially trained mathematicians to work in the world’s financial markets and insurance.

Despite the current volatile nature of the banking industry, many banks still have a pressing need for employees with advanced mathematical skills who can further their understanding of turbulence in financial markets.

On the Mathematics and Computing for Finance course, you will study different elements of both mathematics and computing in addition to developing your communication and presentational skills through a project you will undertake. As a student of the MSc in Mathematics and Computing for Finance programme you will be fully supported to ensure that your project is best suited to support your future career plans.

Key Feature of Mathematics and Computing for Finance

• 100% in graduate employment or further study six months after leaving University [HESA data 2014/15]
• 13th in the UK overall [Guardian University Guide 2017]
• Consistently high student satisfaction scores in the National Student Survey [94% in 2016]
• High employability - we are 14th in the UK for graduate prospects [Complete University Guide 2016] 
• We are rated as one of the TOP 25 Mathematics departments in the UK, and are within the top third in the world [QS World University Rankings 2015] 
• Year in Industry programmes available 
• Teaching and research centres on modern applicable mathematics
• Extensive selection of final year projects designed to develop excellent transferable skills
• £31m Computational Foundry for computer and mathematical sciences will provide the most up-to-date and high quality teaching facilities featuring world-leading experimental set-ups, devices and prototypes to accelerate innovation and ensure students will be ready for exciting and successful careers. (From September 2018)

Modules

Modules for the MSc in Mathematics and Computing for Finance may include:

• Programming in Java
• Numerics of ODEs and PDEs
• Differential Equations
• Stochastic Processes
• Financial Mathematics
• Black-Scholes Theory
• Fourier Analysis
• Itô Calculus and Stochastic Differential Equations

As a student on the MSc Mathematics and Computing for Finance you will study a range of modules covering various topics including:

• Stochastic Calculus based on Brownian Motion
• Levy processes and more general jump processes
• The advanced Black-Scholes theory
• Theory and numerics of parabolic differential equations
• Java programming
• Theory of algorithms
• Internet systems

Dissertation

On top of the modules you study in the Mathematics and Computing for Finance course, you will also complete a dissertation as part of your studies.

Facilities

The Aubrey Truman Reading Room, located in the centre of the Department of Mathematics, houses the departmental library and computers for student use. It is a popular venue for students to work independently on the regular example sheets set by their lecturers, and to discuss Mathematics together. 

Our main university library, Information Services and Systems (ISS), contains a notably extensive collection of Mathematics books.

Careers

The ability to think rationally and to process data clearly and accurately are highly valued by employers. Mathematics graduates earn on average 50% more than most other graduates. The most popular areas Mathematics graduates enter are the actuarial profession, the financial sector, IT, computer programming and systems administration, and opportunities within business and industry where employers need mathematicians for research and development, statistically analysis, marketing and sales.

Some of our students have been employed by AXA, BA, Deutsche Bank, Shell Research, Health Authorities and Local Government. Teaching is another area where maths graduates will find plenty of career opportunities.

Research

The results of the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014 show that our research environment (how the Department supports research staff and students) and the impact of our research (its value to society) were both judged to be 100% world leading or internationally excellent.

All academic staff in Mathematics are active researchers and the department has a thriving research culture.

Student profiles

"Further to my studies at Swansea University as a Master of Science graduate in Financial Mathematics, I am currently working at Deutsche Bank in London as part of the Structured Financial Services team providing client services for corporate lending and debt portfolios. The complex nature of the course has helped me become a logical decision maker and a highly skilled problem solver. These transferable skills are very useful in the world of Finance since the role is highly challenging working towards deadlines and structured transaction targets. My studies at Swansea University have also enriched me with leadership, motivational skills and have enhanced my communication skills. I work in a close team of 10 people within a large department which encourages a culture that strives towards learning and effective teamwork. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Swansea University and cherish the many fond memories. I am so pleased to be expanding my horizon within a major financial centre."

Rhian Ivey, BSc Mathematics, MSc Mathematics and Computing for Finance

Visit the Mathematics and Computing for Finance MSc page on the Swansea University website for more details!