Finance and Mathematics

Finance and Mathematics is a degree built on the recognition that modern financial markets, investment strategies and risk management all depend fundamentally on quantitative reasoning. The most sophisticated participants in financial markets, from hedge funds to central banks, use mathematical models to price assets, hedge risk, forecast market movements and design financial products. A degree that develops both mathematical depth and financial understanding is consequently one of the most sought-after combinations in financial services.

At the University of Stirling, the four-year full-time programme develops your mathematical skills in areas including calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistics and numerical methods, alongside a rigorous training in financial theory: corporate finance, investment and portfolio management, financial markets, derivatives and the macroeconomics of the financial system. The degree includes a year abroad, which gives you the opportunity to study in a different national context and to develop the international perspective that is increasingly relevant in global financial markets.

Scotland is a significant centre for financial services, with a large concentration of asset management, banking and insurance employers, particularly in Edinburgh. Stirling's location between Glasgow and Edinburgh gives good access to these employers, and the university's finance programmes reflect the strong demand for quantitative skills in the sector.

Graduates of finance and mathematics degrees work in investment banking, asset management, risk management, insurance, financial consulting, algorithmic trading and central banking. The quantitative skills developed on the degree also open doors in the technology sector and in data-intensive roles across the economy. Professional qualifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst designation are a natural complement to the degree.

Postgraduate study in financial mathematics, quantitative finance or economics is a common route for those who want to pursue research or highly specialist technical roles.