This MSc in Finance is a quantitatively oriented, practice-focused master's taught in English at Ulm University. The curriculum lets you tailor your studies by choosing one of three specialisations—Actuarial Science, Financial Economics, or Financial Mathematics—so you can build expertise that matches your interests and career goals in insurance, banking, risk management or quantitative finance.
Key facts & requirements (confirm exact details on the programme webpage)
For up-to-date admission criteria, application deadlines and document requirements, consult Ulm University’s official programme page or contact the admissions office directly.
This two‑year programme runs over four semesters: three semesters of taught modules followed by a fourth semester dedicated to the Master’s thesis. After completing the first semester, you choose one of three specialisations—Actuarial Science, Financial Economics or Financial Mathematics—which shapes the rest of your course selections and the emphasis of compulsory content.
Teaching is organised into four main types of courses. Core courses introduce the fundamental concepts of finance (and may be required depending on your chosen specialisation), helping students who arrive without a finance background to catch up. Practical courses give hands‑on experience applying modern financial techniques, while seminars focus on research, paper writing and oral presentation skills to prepare you for the thesis. A wide range of elective modules lets you deepen methodological knowledge or study specific topics; most electives are offered within your chosen specialisation. In addition, language and soft‑skill classes—commonly German language courses for international students—are available across all levels, from absolute beginner upwards.
Overall learning outcomes: a robust foundation in finance, practical competence with modern tools and methods, research and presentation capabilities, specialist knowledge in one chosen area, and readiness to complete an independent Master’s thesis and pursue careers or further research in finance‑related fields.
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree (or an equivalent qualification) from a recognised university in mathematics or another quantitatively and mathematically oriented subject. Typical eligible backgrounds include physics, engineering and computer science. An economics degree can be acceptable only if it includes a substantial number of mathematics and statistics courses. Business, commerce or accounting degrees are usually not sufficient because they generally do not provide the depth of mathematical and statistical training required for this MSc.
The programme’s courses in financial mathematics and core mathematics are taught at the level of mathematics degree programmes, so successful applicants should have both the relevant coursework and a genuine interest in mathematics. If you are unsure whether your qualification meets the entry standard, you are encouraged to email a transcript of records for a preliminary assessment.
Winter Semester (International)
15 March 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 March 2026
Graduates acquire strong quantitative and modelling skills that are directly applicable in insurance (actuarial roles), risk management, quantitative trading, asset management, fintech and financial consulting. The Actuarial Science specialisation, in particular, opens pathways to actuarial certification and careers in the insurance sector.
The programme also readies students for research or doctoral study in finance, economics or applied mathematics. Practical coursework and seminars develop communication and project skills demanded by employers, while optional internships and exchange semesters support international work experience and professional networking.
HWR Berlin (Berlin School of Economics and Law) — Berlin
Dortmund University of Applied Sciences and Arts — Dortmund
Furtwangen University — Villingen-Schwenningen
Harz University of Applied Sciences — Wernigerode