Mathematical Finance at Notre Dame

The University of Notre Dame offers a robust and highly-regarded program in Mathematical Finance. Situated within the Department of Applied and Computational Mathematics and Statistics (ACMS), the program focuses on providing students with a strong foundation in both the mathematical and statistical techniques essential for success in the financial industry.

The program is primarily offered at the master’s level (MS in Finance), and attracts individuals with strong quantitative backgrounds, often holding undergraduate degrees in mathematics, statistics, physics, engineering, or economics with substantial quantitative coursework. The curriculum is carefully designed to balance theoretical knowledge with practical applications, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in quantitative finance.

A key strength of the Notre Dame program is its interdisciplinary nature. Students benefit from instruction from faculty members with expertise in mathematics, statistics, and finance. Core courses cover stochastic calculus, financial econometrics, derivative pricing, portfolio theory, and risk management. Elective options allow students to specialize in areas such as algorithmic trading, credit risk, or fixed income modeling.

The program emphasizes computational skills, recognizing the importance of programming and data analysis in modern finance. Students gain experience with industry-standard software and programming languages, including Python, R, and potentially C++. They learn to develop and implement quantitative models, analyze large datasets, and solve complex financial problems using computational tools.

Practical experience is an integral part of the Notre Dame Mathematical Finance program. Many students participate in internships at leading financial institutions, providing valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. The program also incorporates case studies and simulations to help students apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Furthermore, the program benefits from strong connections to the financial industry, with guest speakers and workshops led by practitioners who share their insights and expertise.

The Notre Dame Mathematical Finance program boasts a strong placement record, with graduates securing positions in investment banks, hedge funds, asset management firms, and regulatory agencies. Alumni work in roles such as quantitative analysts (quants), portfolio managers, risk managers, and traders. The program’s reputation and the strong network of Notre Dame alumni contribute to the success of its graduates.

In addition to the formal curriculum, the ACMS department fosters a vibrant academic community. Students have opportunities to participate in research projects, attend seminars and conferences, and interact with faculty members outside of the classroom. This supportive environment encourages intellectual growth and helps students develop the critical thinking skills necessary for lifelong learning and success in the rapidly evolving field of mathematical finance.