Joint Maths and Economics - Sufficient Mathematics for Quant Roles and/or Mathematics based masters?

Following on from my previous post (regarding a split uni course decision) I have decided to investigate each course a bit further. I had a couple questions regarding a joint Maths and Economics degree (In the UK, at LSE if that matters).

1) Looking at the modules, there are a lot of traditional 'quant' modules. Lots of free options too, where I can pick relevant modules that are missing from the set course. However, there are still many modules that look good that cannot be taken. For example, in Year 2, I have to pick between econometrics 2 (time series analysis) and differential equations. Both are super interesting, but I will have to pick it up as a free module choices, meaning I cannot take options such as Stochastic Processes. Aside from programming (which I am confident in picking up in my free time), there are a few key modules that it seems I simply cannot pick. How stringent is the recruitment process in the quant trader/researcher sphere? Will I be significantly decreasing my chances in the industry by picking such a degree?

2) Kind of similar to 1). Does a joint degree teach enough mathematics to warrant a place on a mathematical based masters? If the answer to 1) is "Very likely to hinder your chances", then it makes sense to try get further education, whether that be through a MFE, Mathematical Finance or Advanced Stats masters/PHD. However, this is only plausible if, of course, a joint degree is acceptable as a pre-requisite course. I have had a look at a lot of masters, and it is unclear to me the exact requirements. It normally states 'a highly quantitative subject' (particularly the Mathematical Finance courses), but does not go any further.

Any advice is much appreciated.

Thank you.

 
Most Helpful

Stop stressing about this, and focus on achieving the required grades to secure your place at LSE. I know people at LSE with Econ working at P72/Optiver/IMC. 

If you don't pass their first round screening(test), the course or institution you are affiliated with is insignificant. You know what you want, chat with people in the industry, understand the processes by speaking to HR at career fairs and smash them with consistent practice.

 Go into your first year with an open mind, and double down on Quant and IB(S&T), you want to make sure your CV is as competitive as possible and perhaps you have a safety net if your Quant app did not go as planned(The competition is mind-bending).

Finally, no university course will teach you interview-like questions for these firms, go to Reddit, buy the Bible required, and consolidate it with Harvard Stat 110, meanwhile don't forget to keep brushing up your mental maths speed.

Good luck!

Muzo
 

Ullam architecto consequatur odio. Modi sed unde cupiditate exercitationem quis tenetur beatae. Accusantium a quia earum dolorum tempore repellat. Aut sed omnis sunt omnis.

Career Advancement Opportunities

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Jefferies & Company 02 99.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 19 98.8%
  • Harris Williams & Co. (++) 98.3%
  • Lazard Freres 02 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 03 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Harris Williams & Co. 18 99.4%
  • JPMorgan Chase 10 98.8%
  • Lazard Freres 05 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.7%
  • William Blair 03 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Lazard Freres 01 99.4%
  • Jefferies & Company 02 98.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 17 98.3%
  • Moelis & Company 07 97.7%
  • JPMorgan Chase 05 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

March 2024 Investment Banking

  • Director/MD (5) $648
  • Vice President (19) $385
  • Associates (85) $262
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (13) $181
  • Intern/Summer Associate (33) $170
  • 2nd Year Analyst (65) $168
  • 1st Year Analyst (198) $159
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (144) $101
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

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
5
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
6
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
98.9
7
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
8
kanon's picture
kanon
98.9
9
pudding's picture
pudding
98.8
10
bolo up's picture
bolo up
98.8
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...”