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Financial Computing

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Ready to apply? You can apply for this course online now using the UCAS website. The deadline for UK students to apply for this course is 29 January 2025.

The deadline for international students is 30 June 2025.

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Use these details to apply for this course through UCAS:

  • University name: University of Liverpool
  • Course: Financial Computing GN34
  • Location: Main site
  • Start date: 22 September 2025

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Bachelor of Science

Bachelor of Science (BSc) is a bachelor’s degree awarded for an undergraduate programme in the sciences.

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Course overview

Financial computing is at the very heart of the world’s global financial centres, from Wall Street to Chicago, London and Tokyo. This dynamic programme will develop your knowledge and skills in all aspects of financial services.

Introduction

Study Financial Computing at Liverpool and learn to understand the underlying technology that powers modern financial markets and the financial theory that steers them.

Bringing together finance, economics and computing, this programme will develop your understanding of financial services by developing your knowledge and practical skills of algorithms; financial accounting; designing, implementing and evaluating software systems to analyse stock portfolios and operating financial markets.

Taught in conjunction with the Management School, your studies will be guided by experts in both computer science and financial services. After covering core  elements in your first year, we subsequently give you the flexibility to tailor and focus your learning to your own interests or you can choose to maintain a balanced mixture of modules throughout your degree.

What you'll learn

  • Financial accounting to correctly prepare statements and transactions
  • Management accounting to aid planning and decision making
  • Database development
  • Frame real world problems in an economic model
  • Object-orientated programming
  • Analytical techniques for problem solving
  • Digital ethics and legal aspects of computing
  • Technologies for E-commerce

Teaching Excellence Framework 2023

We’re proud to announce we’ve been awarded a Gold rating for educational excellence.

Course content

Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.

Year one

Year one of the programme has been designed as an even split between topics relating to computing and topics related to accounting, economics, finance and management.

In year one you will learn the fundamentals of computing, accounting, economics, finance and management. This initial broad scope will instil confidence to apply practical techniques such as making and recording financial transactions; expand on theories such as software design methodology; management decision making and microeconomics. You will also gain an all round understanding of what is expected from a computing professional in the current digital environment.

Compulsory modules

Analytic Techniques for Computer Science (COMP116)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

Many areas of Computer Science rely on formal analytic techniques and this module presents a basic grounding in a number of these topics focusing on their role and application to computational issues. Among the topics reviewed are Linear Algebra (with particular attention to Matrix Theory); Statistical aspects; Introductory calculus including the concepts of limits, continuity, basic differentiation and integration formulae; properties of Complex Numbers. If time allows a very brief overview of the principles of Information Theory will be included. The overriding aim of this module is to present the methods discussed in the context of practical Computer Science, and as such the emphasis will be on instilling confidence in applying techniques and not on providing rigorous supporting justifications of their validity.

Designing Systems for the Digital Society (COMP107)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module will provide students with an all rounded appraisal of what is expected from a computing professional in the current digital society. Students will be introduced to social, legal and ethical aspects on computing and will develop employability skills. As a way to blend both theory and practice, students will be equipped with concepts and techniques for designing digital systems tailored to the needs of the user.​

INTRODUCTION TO FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING (ACFI101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

ACFI101 aims to develop a sound understanding of the fundamental principles and techniques of financial accounting. The context and purpose of financial statements is introduced, after which students are introduced to the techniques of recording financial transactions, adjusting financial records and preparing basic financial statements. Successful students will possess a sound base of knowledge for progression towards studying financial reporting in greater depth in the second and final years: the preparation of complex financial statements in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), both for single entities and groups of companies, and for entities undertaking a wide range of accounting transactions. This module is delivered by means of lectures and tutorials, supported by online self-study question material.

INTRODUCTION TO MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING (ACFI102)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The aim of this module is to introduce students to the nature and purpose of management accounting and to establish a solid foundation in its fundamental techniques. The module will explore and apply a range of basic techniques to produce information that aids management decision making. The techniques covered include cost volume profit analysis, budgeting and investment appraisal. Throughout the module the techniques studied will be applied to contemporary issues in the commercial world.

INTRODUCTION TO FINANCE (ACFI103)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module introduces students to fundamental concepts in finance. The course aims to provide a firm foundation for the students to build on later on in the second and third years of their programmes, by covering basic logical and rational analytical tools that underpin financial decisions. The course covers topics such as the structure of firms and time value of money. Building on these notions, we then discuss the valuation of simple securities such as bonds and equities. The course also introduces students to project appraisal techniques.

Object-Oriented Programming (COMP122)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The intention of COMP122 is to introduce students to the concepts and methodology of object-oriented programming using the Java programming language. Topics covered include hierarchical structures, polymorphism, collections and iterators, exception handling, and graphical user interface design. Basic concepts of software design methodology, testing, and version control are also included in the module. It is normally expected that students have prior programming experience.

PRINCIPLES OF MICROECONOMICS (ECON121)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module acquaints the student with a foundation in neo-classical microeconomics. The module equips students with the knowledge and mathematical tools to approach fundamental problems in microeconomic analysis. Students are introduced to the importance of theoretical models and their role. The module is supported by a customized textbook. Students who engage fully with this course will receive a solid foundation in microeconomics, which forms the foundation of all future courses in microeconomics and related subjects.

Optional modules

Introduction To Programming (COMP101)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

The module provides an introduction to procedural programming using current language platforms. The module incorporates program design, problem solving, the importance of maintainable, robust software and testing as well as introducing procedural language main programming constructs. Students gain practical experience with program design, programming and testing during weekly laboratory sessions.

Programming Language Paradigms (COMP105)

Credits: 15 / Semester: semester 1

This module is for students that already have some programming skills. Students will learn about the two main programming paradigms: imperative programming and functional programming. Since most introductory programming courses teach imperative programming, this module will focus on the functional paradigm. Students will learn how to program in Haskell, a popular functional programming language. They will learn how to formulate programs in a functional way, and the common techniques and idioms that are used to solve problems in functional programming.

Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.

Our curriculum

The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:

  • Digital fluency
  • Confidence
  • Global citizenship

Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:

  • Research-connected teaching
  • Active learning
  • Authentic assessment

All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.

Course options

Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.

Global Opportunities

University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.

What's available on this course?

Year in China

Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.

  • Learn Chinese
  • Study in a bustling world heritage city
  • Improve employment prospects
  • Study Chinese culture
  • 30 minutes from Shanghai
  • Learn new skills

Read more about Year at XJTLU, China

Year in industry

Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.

  • Develop key employability skills that graduate employers are looking for
  • Experience and understand workplace culture and disciple
  • Understand the relationship between academic theory and real world application
  • Begin your professional network
  • Gain industry insight and insight into potential career options.

If you'd like to undertake a year in industry, you can transfer to Financial Computing with a Year in Industry BSc (Hons) during your studies, subject to meeting the academic requirements of your course.

View Financial Computing with a Year in Industry BSc (Hons)

To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.

Language study

Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:

  • A dedicated languages degree
  • A language as a joint or major/ minor degree
  • Language modules (selected degrees)
  • Language classes alongside your studies

Read more about studying a language

Study as part of XJTLU 2+2

Students studying Information Management and Information Systems BSc at XJTLU can study this course at the University of Liverpool. Read more about Financial Computing BSc (Hons) as part of the 2+2 programme.

The natural next step for ambitious XJTLU students who want to build a brilliant career.

  • Spend two years at the University of Liverpool campus
  • Improve your prospects of progressing to postgraduate study at a top 100 university
  • Receive two degrees: one from XJTLU, one from the University of Liverpool
  • Get support with visas, accommodation and your career.

Read more about the 2+2 programme.

Your experience

Computer science is housed in a grade II listed building which has been extensively refurbished for 21st century needs and challenges and provides state-of-the art equipment and high-speed communication links. The Management School is home to a state-of-the-art Bloomberg Suite resembling a professional trading floor.

Virtual tour

Supporting your learning

From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:

An exciting place to study Computer Science

  • You will be taught by some of the best researchers in the field. In the most recent Research Excellence Framework, the research output of our department was ranked 5th in the UK. This research expertise shows through in our teaching
  • We teach in state-of-the-art PC and Mac laboratories running a variety of different operating systems, as well as iOS and Android tablets to encourage creativity and innovation within a stimulating environment in which to work and study
  • Our programmes are continually updated to reflect new technologies and trends.

What students say...

The University has also provided me with the best opportunities to meet amazing people in my field through networking events.

, BSc (Hons) Computer Science with Software Development with a Year in Industry 2020

Careers and employability

Liverpool’s computer science graduates go onto well-paid graduate jobs and careers such as computer programmer, software developer, systems analyst, software engineer, technical consultant, and web designer.

Computer science graduates will enter a high-in-demand pool in the field with possible roles in:

  • Computer programmers, web developers or software engineers
  • Data scientists
  • Artificial intelligence researchers
  • Systems analysts
  • Technical consultants.

Recent employers include:

  • BAE Systems
  • BT
  • Guardian Media Group
  • Royal Bank of Scotland
  • Siemens
  • Unilever.

87% of computer science students find their main activity after graduation meaningful.

Graduate Outcomes, 2018-19.

Meet our alumni

Hear what graduates say about their career progression and life after university.

Fees and funding

Your tuition fee covers almost everything, but you may have additional study costs to consider, such as books, specialist equipment or field trips.

Tuition fees

UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year £9,250
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £1,385
International fees
Full-time place, per year £28,000
Year in industry fee £1,850
Year abroad fee £14,000
Fees shown are for the academic year 2024/25. Please note that the Year Abroad fee also applies to the Year in China.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support. Learn more about paying for your studies.

Additional costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.

Additional study costs

We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.

Find out more about additional study costs.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.

We've set the country or region your qualifications are from as United Kingdom. Change it here


The Liverpool Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a UK student joining an undergraduate degree and have a household income below £35,000, you could be eligible for a Liverpool Bursary worth up to £2,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Asylum Seekers Scholarship

  • Home students

Apply for an Asylum Seekers Scholarship and you could have your tuition fees paid in full and receive help with study costs. You’ll need to have applied for asylum in the UK, or be the dependant of an asylum seeker, and be joining an eligible undergraduate degree.

Care Leavers’ Opportunity Bursary

  • Home students

If you’ve spent 13 or more weeks in Local Authority care since age 14, you could be eligible for a bursary of £3,000 per year of study. You’ll need to be a UK student joining an eligible undergraduate degree and be aged 28 or above on 1 September in the year you start.

Cowrie Foundation Scholarship

  • Home students

Are you a UK student with a Black African or Caribbean heritage and a household income of £25,000 or less? You could be eligible to apply for a Cowrie Foundation Scholarship worth up to £8,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Estranged Students Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a UK student identified as estranged by Student Finance England (or the equivalent UK funding body), you could be eligible for a bursary of £1,000 for each year of undergraduate study.

Genesys Life Sciences Scholarship

  • Home students

Joining a School of Biosciences degree in a non-clinical subject and have a household income of less than £25,000? If you’re a UK student, you could apply to receive £4,500 per year for three years of your undergraduate course.

Graduate Association Hong Kong & Tung Undergraduate Scholarships

  • International students
  • Hong Kong

If you’re an undergraduate student from Hong Kong who can demonstrate academic excellence, you may be eligible to apply for a scholarship worth £10,000 in partnership with the Tung Foundation.

Nolan Scholarships

  • Home students

Do you live in the Liverpool City Region with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a Nolan Scholarship worth £5,000 per year for three years of undergraduate study.

ROLABOTIC Scholarship

  • Home students

Are you a UK student with a household income of £25,000 or less? Did neither of your parents attend University? You could be eligible to apply for a ROLABOTIC Scholarship worth £4,500 for each year of your undergraduate degree.

Sport Liverpool Performance Programme

  • Home and international students

Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.

Technetix Broadhurst Engineering Scholarship

  • Home students

Joining a degree in the School of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Computer Science? If you’re a UK student with household income below £25,000, you could be eligible to apply for £5,000 a year for three years of study. Two awards will be available per academic year.

Undergraduate Global Advancement Scholarship

  • International students

If you’re a high-achieving international student starting an undergraduate degree with us from September 2024, you could be eligible to receive a fee discount of up to £5,000. You’ll need to achieve grades equivalent to AAA in A levels and be joining a non-clinical degree.

University of Liverpool International College Excellence Scholarship

  • International students

Completed a Foundation Certificate at University of Liverpool International College (UoLIC)? We’re offering a £5,000 fee discount off the first year of undergraduate study to some of the highest achieving students joining one of our non-clinical degrees from UoLIC.

University of Liverpool International College First Class Scholarship

  • International students

We’re offering a £1,000 fee discount for years 2 and 3 of undergraduate study to eligible students progressing from University of Liverpool International College. You’ll need to be studying a non-clinical subject and get an average of 70% or above in year 1 of your degree.

University of Liverpool International College Impact Progression Scholarships

  • International students

If you’re a University of Liverpool International College student awarded a Kaplan Impact Scholarship, we’ll also consider you for an Impact Progression Scholarship. If selected, you’ll receive a £3,000 fee discount off the first year of your undergraduate degree.

Young Adult Carer’s (YAC) Bursary

  • Home students

If you’re a young adult and a registered carer in the UK, you might be eligible for a £1,000 bursary for each year of study. You’ll need to be aged 18-25 on 1 September in the year you start your undergraduate degree.

Entry requirements

The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.

AAA incl. A-level Maths or Computer Science. BTEC D*D*D* plus A-level Maths or Computer Science. If A-level Maths isn’t taken, require GCSE Maths Grade A (7) or above.

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Your qualification Requirements

About our typical entry requirements

A levels

AAA including Maths or Computer Science

Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is AAB with A in the EPQ.

You may automatically qualify for reduced entry requirements through our contextual offers scheme.

If you don't meet the entry requirements, you may be able to complete a foundation year which would allow you to progress to this course.

Available foundation years:

T levels

T levels are not currently accepted.

GCSE 4/C in English and 4/C in Mathematics
Subject requirements

For applicants from England: For science A levels that include the separately graded practical endorsement, a "Pass" is required.
Applicants with the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) are eligible for a reduction in grade requirements. For this course, the offer is AAB with an A in the EPQ.

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

Acceptable at grade Distinction* (any subject) alongside AA at A level. A Levels must include Mathematics or Computer Science.

BTEC Level 3 Diploma

Acceptable at grade Distinction* Distinction (any subject) alongside A at A level (Mathematics or Computer Science).

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma

D*D*D* plus A level Maths or Computer Science. If A level Maths isn’t taken, require GCSE Maths Grade A (7) or above.

International Baccalaureate

36 overall including 5 in Higher Level Mathematics or Computer Science.

Irish Leaving Certificate Irish Leaving Certificate: H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H2 including H1 in Higher Maths. We also require a minimum of H6 in Higher English or O3 in Ordinary English
Scottish Higher/Advanced Higher

Acceptable on the same basis as A levels

Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Acceptable at grade A alongside AA at A level including Maths or Computer Science.
Cambridge Pre-U Diploma Principal subjects acceptable in lieu of A levels. D3 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade A M2 in Cambridge Pre U Principal Subject is accepted as equivalent to A-Level grade B Global Perspectives and Short Courses are not accepted.
Access Considered if taking a relevant subject. 45 Level 3 credits at Distinction, including 15 Level 3 credits in Mathematical or Computer Science subjects is required. GCSE English and Mathematics grade C/grade 4 or above also required.
International qualifications

Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course.

English language requirements

You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.

We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.

International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.

English language qualification Requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5
TOEFL iBT 78 overall, with minimum scores of listening 17, writing 17, reading 17 and speaking 19
Duolingo English Test 105 overall, with no component below 95
Pearson PTE Academic 59 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic 65 overall, with no skill below 60
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking and listening. Speaking and listening must be separately endorsed on the certificate.
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0990 Grade 4 overall, with Merit in speaking and listening
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0510/0511 0510: Grade C overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0511: Grade C overall.
Cambridge IGCSE Second Language English 0993/0991 0993: Grade 5 overall, with a minimum of grade 2 in speaking. Speaking must be separately endorsed on the certificate. 0991: Grade 5 overall.
International Baccalaureate Standard Level grade 5 or Higher Level grade 4 in English B, English Language and Literature, or English Language
Cambridge ESOL Level 2/3 Advanced 169 overall, with no paper below 162

PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH

Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?

The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.

Find out the length of Pre-Sessional English course you may require for this degree.

Pre-sessional English

If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-Sessional English course you require.

Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.

Your most recent IELTS score Pre-Sessional English course length On campus or online
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.5 6 weeks On campus
5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 10 weeks On campus and online options available
5.0 overall, with no component below 5.0 12 weeks On campus and online options available
5.0 overall, with no component below 4.5 20 weeks On campus
4.5 overall, with no component below 4.5 30 weeks On campus
4.0 overall, with no component below 4.0 40 weeks On campus

If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-Sessional English course length you require.

Please see our guide to Pre-Sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.0, with no component below 5.5, for further details.

Contextual offers: reduced grade requirements

Based on your personal circumstances, you may automatically qualify for up to a two-grade reduction in the entry requirements needed for this course. When you apply, we consider a range of factors – such as where you live – to assess if you’re eligible for a grade reduction. You don’t have to make an application for a grade reduction – we’ll do all the work.

Find out more about how we make reduced grade offers.

About our entry requirements

Our entry requirements may change from time to time both according to national application trends and the availability of places at Liverpool for particular courses. We review our requirements before the start of the new UCAS cycle each year and publish any changes on our website so that applicants are aware of our typical entry requirements before they submit their application.

Recent changes to government policy which determine the number of students individual institutions may admit under the student number control also have a bearing on our entry requirements and acceptance levels, as this policy may result in us having fewer places than in previous years.

We believe in treating applicants as individuals, and in making offers that are appropriate to their personal circumstances and background. For this reason, we consider a range of factors in addition to predicted grades, widening participation factors amongst other evidence provided. Therefore the offer any individual applicant receives may differ slightly from the typical offer quoted in the prospectus and on the website.

Alternative entry requirements

Changes to Financial Computing BSc (Hons)

See what updates we've made to this course since it was published. We document changes to information such as course content, entry requirements and how you'll be taught.

7 June 2022: New course pages

New course pages launched.

6 December 2022: Module changes

Compulsory module list updated

 

Year 3 compulsory modules

Removed –

COMP396: Honours Year Automated Trading Project

COMP315: Technologies for E-Commerce