What are the best QF masters for positions in the US ?

Hello guys !

I'm a bachelor student (originally econ major) trying to pivot to a master in quantitative finance ! I would like to go for a Quantitative analyst position in HF in the US, and eventually (if necessary) going for a PhD in the US before that.

In your opinion, what would be the best degrees for such paths, both in Europe and the US (and specifically Europe because it us usually more affordable).

Thanks a lot guys !

 

Hello there! It's great to see you're aiming high and planning your educational path towards a career in high finance. Based on the most helpful WSO content, if you're looking at Europe for a Master's in Quantitative Finance (QF) with the goal of landing a position in the US, here are some top-notch programs that have been highlighted:

  • France:

    • ENSAE: Master in Mathematics and Economics
    • Paris Dauphine: Master in Financial Engineering
    • Ecole Polytechnique: Various programs including MSc Quantitative Finance
    • ESSEC/EDHEC: Master in Financial Engineering
    • HEC: Master in Finance
  • Switzerland:

    • ETH Zurich: MSc Quantitative Finance
    • EPFL: MSc Financial Engineering
    • HSG St Gallen: MSc Finance and MSc Quantitative Economics
  • Italy:

    • Bocconi: MSc Finance with a Quantitative Finance path
    • Politecnico of Milano: MSc Mathematical Engineering with a Quantitative Finance path
    • University of Bologna: MSc in Quantitative Finance
  • Germany:

    • TUM: MSc Mathematical Finance
  • Netherlands:

    • University of Amsterdam: MSc Quantitative Finance
    • RSM: MSc Econometrics and Finance
  • Austria:

    • WU: MSc Quantitative Finance

These programs are well-regarded and could provide a strong foundation for a Quantitative Analyst role in a hedge fund. Additionally, they may also set a solid groundwork if you decide to pursue a PhD later on.

Remember, while the program's reputation is important, you should also consider the curriculum, faculty, location, and alumni network when making your decision. These factors can significantly impact your education and career opportunities, especially when transitioning to the competitive US job market.

Now, tell me more about your interests and goals, and I can help tailor the advice even further!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/complete-european-master-guide-for-stquant-position?customgpt=1, Complete European master guide for S&T/Quant position, Best internships for Quant Trading?, Finance PhD vs. Applied Math MSc, Most sought-after skills for Quantitative research position

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
euro-asian Monkey

How hard is it to enter as an international ? And does it usually opens directly to HF positions or you usually have to carry on with a PhD ?

Thanks a lot in any case for your contribution !

A sizeable portion of the student body is international so that shouldn't be a barrier, and common career outcomes include some quant research / trading role at a bank or MM

 

Sed voluptas iste at quo. Totam saepe et corrupti rerum harum ut. Et porro eaque minima nemo. Dignissimos tenetur culpa nulla quia libero.

Earum qui et incidunt a qui natus. Dolorem rem adipisci ipsam laudantium aut quia. Blanditiis quam error commodi et ut quo voluptas rerum.

Et quos ab iste. Commodi ipsam consectetur sit enim est dolores.

Career Advancement Opportunities

April 2024 Hedge Fund

  • Point72 98.9%
  • D.E. Shaw 97.9%
  • Citadel Investment Group 96.8%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.8%
  • AQR Capital Management 94.7%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

April 2024 Hedge Fund

  • Magnetar Capital 98.9%
  • D.E. Shaw 97.8%
  • Blackstone Group 96.8%
  • Two Sigma Investments 95.7%
  • Citadel Investment Group 94.6%

Professional Growth Opportunities

April 2024 Hedge Fund

  • AQR Capital Management 99.0%
  • Point72 97.9%
  • D.E. Shaw 96.9%
  • Magnetar Capital 95.8%
  • Citadel Investment Group 94.8%

Total Avg Compensation

April 2024 Hedge Fund

  • Portfolio Manager (9) $1,648
  • Vice President (23) $474
  • Director/MD (12) $423
  • NA (6) $322
  • 3rd+ Year Associate (24) $287
  • Manager (4) $282
  • Engineer/Quant (71) $274
  • 2nd Year Associate (30) $251
  • 1st Year Associate (73) $190
  • Analysts (225) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (22) $131
  • Junior Trader (5) $102
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (250) $85
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”