BSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Curricular information is subject to change.
Open AllIf you have a strong interest in Mathematics, enjoy problem solving and are interested in how Mathematics is used in business and finance, this degree in Financial Mathematics will give you an understanding of the mathematical theories that underpin financial models, as well as computational expertise in the algorithms that price financial products. One example of a financial model included in the course is the Black-Scholes option pricing model, dating from 1973, which is one of the earliest equations developed and used to price options. Implementations of these models, including computer programming, form a key part of the course.
Financial Mathematics is one of the degree subjects available through the Mathematics stream in the common entry Science course.
Students study similar modules for all degree subjects in the Mathematics stream in first year and will study modules for a minimum of two degree subjects in second year. At the end of second year, students choose their degree major. This is a sample set of modules that a Financial Mathematics student could study each year in UCD.
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
Timetables & Assessment
Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.
Students may apply to study abroad for a trimester in third year in partner institutions internationally.
Graduates with training in Financial Mathematics work in fields as diverse as:
Graduates can also pursue a range of MSc or PhD programmes such as the MSc in Actuarial Science, MSc in Quantitative Finance, MSc in Statistics or an MSc in Data Analytics.
“When I came to the UCD Open Day and saw the beautiful science building and how friendly everyone was, my mind was made up right away. When I learned about Financial Mathematics, it sounded like the perfect way to continue to study mathematics while also combining it with my interest in financial markets. I was also lucky enough to get to go abroad for my third year to UC Berkeley in California which was an amazing experience. Studying at a different institution gave me another perspective and I think it’s really helped me in my final year. I also completed an internship in the summer between third and fourth year at Credit Suisse and was able to earn credits as part of the professional placement module. After graduating, I went back to work at the same firm full time.”
Joseph Mulligan, Graduate
Dr Adamaria Perrotta
UCD School of Mathematics & Statistics
Belfield, Dublin 4.
Email: askscience@ucd.ie