MSc Mathematical Finance / Entry requirements

Formal entry requirements are listed here but since applicants come from many different backgrounds, it will be useful to consider yourself whether you feel as if you have the right background for the course. Some general expectations are listed below, with references to existing courses on that material in Manchester. It should hopefully give you a feel for the course and what is expected of the incoming student. We would only consider a few of these courses as absolutely essential, but some additional background is desirable and will certainly assist you greatly for course preparation. If in doubt then please contact us.

• The normal entry requirements are a good upper second or first class honours degree from a UK university, or the equivalent from an overseas university, in Mathematics, or in a subject with significant mathematical content.
• You are expected to have done well in the above courses and your university should have a high national standing.
• A good background in Probability Theory is essential; for example two courses in Probability, Probability 1 and Probability 2.
• Knowledge of Statistics is highly desirable, for example Introduction to Statistics. More advanced courses in Probability are highly desirable, for example Foundations of Modern Probability.
• Knowledge of measure-theoretical Probability and/or measure theory is desirable as well. An introduction to Markov processes is desirable but not essential, for example Random models or Markov processes, but not essential.
• Knowledge of real analysis is essential and of complex analysis is desirable, for example Real and Complex Analysis.
• Knowledge of basic calculus, for example Calculus and Vectors A, and ordinary differential equations is essential, Calculus and Applications A.
• Knowledge of partial differential equations is highly desirable, for example Partial Differential Equations and Vector Calculus A.
• Knowledge of solving partial differential equations numerically is desirable but not essential.
• Although there is no formal requirement for previous programming experience, a familiarity with writing computer programs (for example, in Python, MATLAB, C/C++ or Java) is desirable.

All applicants will need to demonstrate competency in English language. Applicants who do not already possess an acceptable English Language qualification will need to take a recognised test and attain the required English Language score:

• IELTS:  at least 6.5 overall with 6.5 in writing and no other sub-test less than 6.0.
• TOFEL iBT:  at least 90 overall with 22 or above in writing and no other sub-test less than 20. We do not accept 'MyBestScore'.
• Pearson PTE: 70 overall with 70 in writing and no sub-test below 65.

Further information on language requirements can be found on our website .

Pre-sessional English

We will consider applicants who do not meet these scores but you may be required to complete a pre-sessional English language course at the University of Manchester prior to the start of the course.

To be considered for a pre-sessional English language course for this programme we require the following minimum IELTS (Academic) scores:

• 6 Week Pre-Sessional Course:  Minimum 6.0 overall with 6.0 in three sub-tests including writing and at least 5.5 in the remaining sub-test.

If you have not yet completed your current academic study and are interested in studying a pre-sessional course, you must hold an IELTS for UKVI (Academic) test certificate.

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.