Why we are Unique
- We started our MSc course in 1997
which makes it the longest running MSc in Financial Mathematics in the
UK.
- This is a joint degree between
Edinburgh University's School of Mathematics and Heriot-Watt
University's Department of Actuarial Mathematics and Statistics and
builds on the strengths of two institutions.
- In addition, there are
contributions from Heriot-Watt's School of Management and Languages -
this blend of expertise provides graduates with the mathematical and
practical background to move directly into interesting and rewarding
positions in the finance industry.
- All of the course lecturers are
experts in their fields - many have work experience in
the financial services industry or as consultants; all financial
mathematics subjects are taught by specialists with active research
interests in finance. The research in our School has been independently
assessed as
being at a level of international excellence.
- Our MSc students are part of the
new Maxwell Institute for Mathematical Sciences, a joint research
institute of Heriot-Watt University and Edinburgh University.
The course covers a unique
combination of subjects:
- Our philosophy is to give you the mathematical
sophistication to understand the assumptions underlying financial
models and where they break down and to follow the research literature
in the field.
- You will also have subjects such as Financial
Markets and Derivative Markets that introduce you to the practice
of financial markets and of financial institutions.
- Subjects in computational finance leave you
equipped with numerical techniques that are essential for a
career dealing with complex derivatives.
- The course offers an outstanding variety in
optional subjects. It is one of the first courses in the UK to offer
specialized modules in Financial Risk Management and in Credit Risk
Management, an area in which quantitative skills are of growing
importance as is highlighted by the ongoing financial crisis.
The course is in a wonderful city:
- All classes are held in Edinburgh, Scotland's
capital city, which is a great place to live with its historical
tradition and an unmatched selection of cultural activities.
Edinburgh's New Town and Old Town are both World Heritage sites. See
our Edinburgh page for more information.
