Seeking Guidance on Combining CFA and Computer Science for a Finance Career

Hi everyone,

I'm an Indonesian graduate with a bachelor's degree in Global Financial Management from a non-target school in Taiwan. I've completed CFA Level 1. Initially, I wanted to pursue a career in investment banking or wealth management, but I realized these roles don't suit me because I'm not a people's person and I don't enjoy selling products. I prefer roles where I can focus on numbers and data without much client interaction.

I'm now considering a master's degree in computer science in China and aiming to complete my CFA exams. I have a few questions and would appreciate any advice:

  1. What career paths could I pursue with a master's degree in computer science and a CFA Level III?
  2. Can you recommend finance careers that involve minimal interaction with people and don't require selling products? Ideally, roles where a CFA and a master's in computer science are valuable.
  3. I'm interested in quant finance. How can I break into this field with my current background and future study plans?
  4. Is it possible to get into a computer science grad program with a finance background (other than learning basic programming skills)? Are there any prerequisites or certifications that would strengthen my application?
  5. I have one year until grad school in China. What entry-level job or internship would you recommend to support my plan (or any suggested plan)?

Thanks so much for your help!

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