Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Investment Science and Finance Analytics
Department Department of Applied Mathematics
Entrance Year Sept 2025
Programme Code 63428-SYF
Mode of Study Full-time
Normal Duration
2 years
Programme Intake 13 senior year places (Subject to approval)
Fund Type Government-Funded
Credits Required for Graduation
Normally 70 credits, depending on the student's qualifications (plus 2 training credits).
Programme Leader(s)
Programme Leader
Dr Sze Nung-sing, Raymond
BSc, MPhil, PhD
Deputy Programme Leaders
Prof. He Daihai
PhD
Assistant Programme Leader
Mr Leung Man Kin, Adam
BSc, MPhil
Remarks
For more programme information, please visit www.polyu.edu.hk/ama/study/ug/senior-year/isfa/.
The exact study duration and number of credits to be transferred will depend on the entry qualifications of individual AD/HD admittees.
To recognise outstanding non-JUPAS admittees, the Department offers a one-off entry scholarship for non-JUPAS applicants. Please find the details here, which is subject to change and will be announced on this website in due course.
Aims and Characteristics
Aims
To produce graduates with strong mathematical and statistical skills and a thorough understanding of their applications in the world of modern investment and finance analytics. The programme develops students’ abilities in quantitative analysis, data analytics, critical thinking and communication skills, which will enable them to develop an outlook and a methodology that are valuable in pursuing careers in business and financial-related fields.
Characteristics
This programme focuses on the study of modern data analytics needed in the finance industry. Its curriculum covers areas such as big data analytics, business intelligence and customer relationship management, machine learning, algorithmic trading and artificial intelligence, which will strengthen students’ data interpretation and analytical skills and support them to develop careers in the evolving investment and finance industries.
Admission
An appropriate Associate Degree or a Higher Diploma in Mathematics, Statistics, Engineering, Science or Business or similar qualifications from a recognised institution.
Online applications can be made via our eAdmission
Applicants will be invited to have face-to-face / online interviews, which will be conducted in English.
Curriculum
Students entering the 4-year programme through senior year places are considered for credit transfers based on their academic performance in AD/HD programmes. Depending on the number of credits transferred, students will follow a reduced curriculum of 60 to 75 credits.
Students will study advanced subjects in investment science, finance analytics and computer science, including Elective Subjects.In the final year of study, students complete a Capstone Project in which they tackle a problem or research topic in investment science/applied mathematics/statistics, consolidating discipline-specific knowledge, concepts and generic skills developed through different stages of the programme.
Recognition and Career Prospect
Graduates with the major in BSc (Hons) in Investment Science and Finance Analytics (ISFA) are expected to receive partial exemption from the professional assessment of:
- Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute*
- Hong Kong Statistical Society
- Royal Statistical Society of UK
* Graduates with economic/finance or relevant degree qualification could apply for license by passing Licensing Examination for Securities and Futures Intermediaries Paper 1 only and would be exempted from Papers 7 & 8. Student should submit his application to HKSI. Exemption will be considered for candidates who achieve satisfactory results in specified papers. For details, please visit www.hksi.org/hksi/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=71&Itemid=98&lang=en
The ISFA programme is affiliated with the CFA Institute University Affiliation Program. This affiliation demonstrated that the ISFA curriculum is closely tied to professional practice and is well-suited to preparing students to sit for the CFA examinations. The curriculum has been acknowledged as covering at least 70% of the CFA Program Level I Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) topics. Through participation in the affiliation program, CFA student scholarship is available to ISFA students.
Infusing the computer science elements into the curriculum, this programme provides mathematical and statistical training, with a special emphasis on applications in investment and finance analytics. The education supports students to pursue various careers in the financial sector such as investment banking, fund management, risk management and financial product development and pricing.
In the past decade, the Department has groomed thousands of graduates and most of them have found employment in prestigious and renowned corporations throughout the Asia Pacific area.
Beyond the Classroom
Alumni Message
The Investment Science programme helped me develop analytics and problem solving skill which has laid a strong foundation for my career development.
Elvis Wong
During my study at AMA, I not only benefited from attending lectures and receiving guidance from esteemed professors but was also encouraged to delve deeper into various domains, which has equipped me with skills and knowledge in the areas of Mathematics, Finance, and Computing, and strengthened my professionalism in the financial industry.
Kelvin Ng
This programme integrated both mathematical and financial knowledge. I’m well prepared to establish insight through analyzing data and pursue career in the banking industry.
Jenna Ho
The ISFA programme has equipped me with a solid foundation in finance and mathematics, and instilled in me a data-driven mindset, enabling me to analyze financial trends and make informed decisions. The knowledge has been instrumental in my career in the banking industry.
Eurus Lam
Edward Yeung
The IS programme is a perfect blend of statistics, programming, finance and definitely helpful for my future study and career. The courses prepared me for pursuing further study in Data Science. Our department would also offer us research opportunities and keep us posted for any update on the career market.
Zhang Xingyue
Wang Kexin
The ISFA programme offers a diverse range of courses in Finance and Computer Science, as well as internship and research opportunities which have helped me establish a solid foundation of knowledge and skills in these areas. The professors are not only experts in their respective fields but also passionate about teaching. This creates a collaborative and supportive learning environment.
Kwok Ngok Sang
Enquiry
AMA General Office
- TU732
- +852 2766 6946
- isfa.info@polyu.edu.hk
