Skills in developing mathematical models gained through rigorous training in an undergraduate Physics programme could be useful in modelling other systems e.g. financial markets. This is one of the reasons why many, with basic training in theoretical and computational Physics, for instance, are able to work as Quantitative Research scientists and develop trading algorithms eventually. The BxMx Programme offering BS in Physics + MS in Quantitative Finance allows undergraduates interested in pursuing Physics this transition seamlessly and earn the two degrees in five years instead of six.
The BxMx Programme is aimed at creating flexible employment opportunities for students at the graduate level of education through an interdisciplinary approach that helps students develop a diverse skill set that combines mathematical modelling, data analysis, and critical thinking. Physics offers valuable tools for understanding complex systems, which can be applied to financial and economic models. It also provides a strong foundation in mathematical modelling, which can be extended to develop sophisticated models for financial markets, and a deeper understanding of the underlying principles of financial models, risk management, and derivative pricing. They can contribute to research areas such as market microstructure, econophysics, behavioural economics, and quantitative risk analysis. Graduates with expertise in physics, quantitative finance, and quantitative economics can explore various career paths in quantitative trading, risk analysis, financial engineering, economic consulting, data analysis, and research.
Programme Outcomes
| Offered by | School of Arts and Sciences and Amrut Mody School of Management |
| Programme | The BxMx Programme (Dual Degree) |
| Degree | Bachelor of Science in Physics and Master of Science in Quantitative Finance |
| Minimum Programme Credits | 180* |
| Minimum Major Credits | |
All students entering the undergraduate programme complete our common core, The Foundation Programme, in the first year. The Foundation Programme is designed around four Studios, each of three credits. They are:
Democracy and Justice
Environment and Climate Change
Neighbourhoods
Water
The studios deliver interdisciplinary learning around six domains:
Data Science, Communication, Behaviour, Constitution & Civilisation, Materials, and Biology & Life.
| Humanities & Languages GER |
| Social Sciences GER |
| Biological & Life Sciences GER |
| Mathematical & Physical Sciences GER |
| Performance & Visual Arts GER |
| GER Elective 1: Effective Reading and Comprehension Skills |
| GER Elective 2: Advanced Writing |
| GER Elective 3: Introduction to Numerical Analysis |
| GER Elective 4: Any course at the university outside the major |
| GER Elective 5: Any course at the university outside the major |
| Major Requirements | Credits |
|---|---|
| Major Core | 45 |
| Classical Mechanics | 3 |
| Intermediate Classical Mechanics | 3 |
| Laboratory Physics - Mechanics | 3 |
| Laboratory Physics - Electromagnetism | 3 |
| Electromagnetic Theory | 3 |
| Oscillations, Waves and Optics | 3 |
| Quantum Mechanics I | 3 |
| Solid State Physics | 3 |
| Thermodynamics | 3 |
| Electrical Circuits and Electronics | 3 |
| Atomic and Nuclear Physics | 3 |
| Multivariable Calculus | 3 |
| Applied Linear Algebra | 3 |
| Differential Equations | 3 |
| Laboratory Physics - Optics | 1.5 |
| Laboratory Physics - Electronics | 1.5 |
| Major Electives | 3 |
Free Electives provide flexibility to students to customise their education at the University.
All students will complete 30 hours of engagement with society to develop a sense of engagement, concern, build problem solving skills, and understand the role of an engaged member of a society. This will be done through a mandatory course, Engagement with Society, that would be a graduation requirement. This course can be taken anytime during the stay at the University but it is advised that the student engage with the courses during the first two years at the University. The 30 hours of volunteer work may be completed during one semester or during the Winter or Summer Break.
| Credits | |
|---|---|
| Foundation Module | Required |
| Modelling for Managerial Decisions | |
| Programming using R and Python | |
| Programme Core | 25.5 |
| Microeconomics I | 3 |
| Microeconomics II | 3 |
| Macroeconomics I | 3 |
| Macroeconomics II | 3 |
| Foundation of Finance and Financial Markets | 3 |
| Econometrics | 3 |
| Security Analysis and Portfolio Management | 3 |
| Corporate Finance | 1.5 |
| Applications of Machine Learning | 3 |
| Disciplinary Core | 22.5 |
| Financial Derivatives | 3 |
| Risk Management | 3 |
| Mergers, Acquisitions & Private Equity | 3 |
| Financial Time Series Analysis | 3 |
| Fixed Income Securities and its Derivatives | 3 |
| Asset Pricing | 3 |
| Research in Quantitative Finance | 3 |
| Technical Analysis | 1.5 |
| Disciplinary Electives | 15 |
| Summer Internship | 3 |
| Thesis/Capstone | 6 |
*The curriculum structure and number of credits are under review and are likely to increase.
Duration: Five years
Eligibility Criteria
Exit Option: If a student decides to exit the Programme with a Bachelor’s degree, they must fulfil the requirements of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Physics.