Financial Mathematics

Take mathematical theory and apply it to real-world financial situations as you unlock some of the most in-demand careers.
Build a strong foundation in maths, finance, accounting and economics – plus the specialist tools used to model real financial markets. You’ll learn how maths powers real-world financial decisions. You’ll explore pure, applied, and statistical maths, and as you progress, tailor the course to your interests.
Mathematics is at the heart of smart financial management, and employers across every industry want people who can analyse data, solve problems and keep organisations running. This course gives you those in‑demand skills, backed by one of the UK’s biggest maths research departments and teaching shaped by the latest industry thinking.
A financial mathematics degree opens doors to roles in financial services, data analysis, accounting and even leadership positions – thanks to the analytical, commercial and problem‑solving skills they develop here.
Plus, the programme is delivered jointly by the School of Mathematics and the Leeds University Business School, bringing cutting-edge thinking and experience to the course.

Student profile: Poppy Starling

“I was fortunate enough to get a place on the Bank of England placement scheme, where I was placed in the Financial Risk Management division, within the Traded Markets team. The placement itself was an incredibly insightful experience, where I gained a wide range of knowledge and skills that have become invaluable to me.”
Poppy Starling, Financial Mathematics BSc

Why study at Leeds:

• Our School’s globally-renowned research feeds into the course, shaping your learning with the latest thinking in areas like probability and financial mathematics, modern applied statistics and analysis.

• Learn from expert academics and researchers who specialise in a variety of mathematical and financial areas.

• The programme covers many of the first-level exams for the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries, meaning you're simultaneously studying for your degree and working towards a professional qualification.

• Take on an industrial placement or a study abroad programme and stand out from the crowd.

• Make the most of your time at Leeds by joining our student society MathSoc, where you can meet more of your peers, enjoy social events and join the MathSoc football or netball team.

• Our Financial Mathematics BSc and Actuarial Mathematics BSc degrees share a common first year, allowing you to move from one programme to the other until the end of your first year.

• Access excellent facilities and computing equipment, complemented by social areas, communal problem-solving spaces and quiet study rooms.

Rankings and awards
Top 100 in the world, QS World University Rankings 2026

Where this degree could take you
Here’s an insight into the job roles some of our financial mathematics graduates have obtained:

• Financial Analyst, American Express

• Auditor, Deloitte

• Motor Pricing Analyst, Direct Line Group

• Equity Trader, Direct Market Touch

• Financial Reporter, Elan Publishing

• Senior Risk Analyst, G E Money

• CFO & Controller, GE Capital Transportation Finance

• Associate Auditor, Grant Thornton

• Tax Specialist, HMRC

• Audit Assistant Manager (ACA), KPMG UK

• Assistant Financial Planner, London Wall Partners

• Financial Accountant, McDonalds Restaurants

• Banking Consultant, SunGard

• Group Risk and Internal Audit Manager, WM Morrison Supermarkets Plc

Profile quote:
“Since my graduation in 2019, I joined Ernst & Young (EY) Mauritius as part of the rather newly formed quants team. I was approached by the team because of the skills I had acquired at the University of Leeds as part of my undergraduate course.”
Hanna Soodeen, Financial Mathematics BSc

Career Support
Top 10 most targeted for 10+ years by the UK's leading employers, The Graduate Market 2026, High Fliers Research