Major Specialization?

Hello, I'm currently majoring in Economics and have the opportunity to take a specialization in Quantitative Analysis. From what I've seen it's mainly econometrics and calculus-based econ classes.

What kind of job would that be relevant to? I'm interested in credit analyst, equity research, and investment analyst roles if that helps.

Thanks!

10 Comments
 
Best Response

Quantitative analysis classes would definitely help you. Even better if you can squeeze in a finance-related focus, and even some accounting classes. This is because all three roles you are interested in will require a strong understanding of financial statements. My friend is a credit analyst at UBS, and his first interview had a take-home of analyzing financial statements. I think Q&A will help more for the equity research and investment analyst positions.

 

Honestly, for the three roles you're looking into I would look at taking the specialization at a minimum. If possible, and not sure about the degree options you have, consider a Math Minor or Statistics Minor. Those are going to teach you a bit more abstract, but powerful mathematical concepts. You might not ever use it, but having the tool-kit and "ability" will more than pay for the time invested.

Always view everything as an investment. The time trade off between the specialization or a minor, might be a bit more, but overall you're opening up more routes (even graduate schools if you plan to ever go back).

"It is better to have a friendship based on business, than a business based on friendship." - Rockefeller. "Live fast, die hard. Leave a good looking body." - Navy SEAL
 

No it wouldn't necessarily unless all your internships have been O&G which then it could require more explanation, but if your goal isn't to get into O&G then I would ignore that specialization and focus on an accounting specialization/minor or maybe something quantitative.

"It is better to have a friendship based on business, than a business based on friendship." - Rockefeller. "Live fast, die hard. Leave a good looking body." - Navy SEAL
 

@FUMoney: My school does, actually. It's just that the Econ major requirements aren't rigorous enough for someone not afraid of calculus, and I want to differentiate myself from the less smart athlete fratboys (we have no Business major, ergo they're all in Econ). I suppose that wouldn't matter to a recruiter who knows nothing about my school, though.

Would you recommend I major in Econ instead, and just go above and beyond by taking the useful courses described above?

 

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