Study-Unit Description

Study-Unit Description


CODE SCI3000

 
TITLE Dissertation

 
UM LEVEL 03 - Years 2, 3, 4 in Modular Undergraduate Course

 
MQF LEVEL 6

 
ECTS CREDITS 10

 
DEPARTMENT Faculty of Science

 
DESCRIPTION Students write a dissertation on a topic chosen from a range of themes offered by staff members of the Mathematics Department, the Statistics and Operations Research Department, and the Department of Insurance and Risk Management, in line with the research areas and expertise of the of the academic members of staff, especially in financial mathematics, statistics, insurance, and actuarial science.

Study-unit Aims:

This study-unit is designed for students of the B.Sc. F.M.A.R.M. degree, offering an in-depth exploration of advanced topics in financial mathematics, statistics, insurance, and risk management. Students will delve deep into theoretical concepts and practical applications, with a focus on conducting independent research that integrates key elements of these disciplines. The project facilitates the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, allowing students to demonstrate the practical implications of their research within the financial and insurance sectors. It is meant to showcase their ability to conduct independent research, critically analyze complex issues within financial mathematics, statistics, actuarial and risk management, and communicate their findings effectively. It also enhances written and oral communication skills, guiding students in effectively articulating their research findings, methodologies, and conclusions in the form of a comprehensive dissertation.

Learning Outcomes:

1. Knowledge & Understanding
By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:

- formulate a focused and relevant research question within the domains of financial mathematics, statistics, insurance, or risk management;
- become knowledgeable in a specific area of expertise within the mathematical, statistical, financial and insurance sectors;
- apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, possibly including real-world data analysis;
- apply mathematical and statistical concepts to solve complex problems within financial mathematics, insurance, and risk management.

2. Skills
By the end of the study-unit the student will be able to:

- critically analyse existing models, methodologies, and industry practices to develop a nuanced understanding of strengths and limitations;
- communicate effectively, showcasing research findings, methodologies, and conclusions in a comprehensive and coherent manner;
- conduct independent research, including literature review, data collection, and analysis, leading to the production of a substantial long essay;
- prepare for future endeavors in research and professional applications within financial mathematics, statistics, insurance, and risk management.

 
STUDY-UNIT TYPE Dissertation

 
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
Assessment Component/s Sept. Asst Session Weighting
Dissertation 100%

 
LECTURER/S

 

 
The University makes every effort to ensure that the published Courses Plans, Programmes of Study and Study-Unit information are complete and up-to-date at the time of publication. The University reserves the right to make changes in case errors are detected after publication.
The availability of optional units may be subject to timetabling constraints.
Units not attracting a sufficient number of registrations may be withdrawn without notice.
It should be noted that all the information in the description above applies to study-units available during the academic year 2024/5. It may be subject to change in subsequent years.

https://www.um.edu.mt/course/studyunit