Financial mathematicians apply mathematical models and numerical tools to practical everyday applications, such as financial markets. They gather statistical data on the financial decisions that people make, which helps business and government make better informed decisions, especially in uncertain economic climates.

This course will provide you with a range of analytical and mathematical skills, with particular relevance to statistical modelling and operations research in finance.

You will gain a strong grounding in corporate finance, financial institutions, financial markets and various branches of the financial services industry – which will enhance your employment prospects in the technological, industrial and commercial sectors. You can select from units in accounting, economics and business.

In your final year you’ll undertake a project where you’ll put your skills into practice. Examples of previous projects include investigating the relationships between foreign exchange rates and Australian currency volatility; the effectiveness of using stochastic differential equations to model stock price; and statistical analysis of a portfolio strategy based on fluctuating prices.

This major sits within the Bachelor of Science (Science) degree. It can also be studied as part of the Bachelor of Advanced Science course.

See our handbook for more course information.

Why study

This course teaches advanced mathematics and statistics and their real-world applications in the financial context. The knowledge and skills you'll gain are relevant for careers in technological, industrial and commercial sectors.

How this course will make you industry ready

Curtin has strong links with industry and the business world. As a result, the units in this course are designed to develop the practical skills needed to address real-world problems.

A work experience program runs from second year onwards, exposing students to real applications of their mathematical studies, and introducing them to potential employers.

Professional recognition

Graduates of this course may be eligible for membership to the Statistical Society of Australia (SSAI), Australian Society for Operations Research and Australian Mathematical Society (Aust MS).

Careers

• Commercial banker
• Finance/funds manager
• Financial analyst
• Financial planner
• Stockbroker
• Superannuation manager

Industries

• Banking and finance
• Econometrics
• Education
• Government
• Insurance
• Investment banking
• Risk management