Is Erasmus Rotterdam University (EUR) Econometrics and Operations Reserach a good choice for me?

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to apply to Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) for my undergraduate studies and need some advice on choosing between Econometrics and Operations Research (EOR) and International Bachelor Economics and Business Economics (IBEB). My career interests are in investment banking, risk management, and potentially a quant role (though I’m not entirely sure about the quant path).

I’m leaning toward EOR because of its quantitative focus and the flexibility it offers for different career paths. However, I’m also considering IBEB, as it seems more aligned with traditional economics and business roles.

Could anyone share their thoughts on which program would be a better fit for my goals? Specifically:

  1. How well does EOR prepare students for investment banking or risk management roles compared to IBEB?
  2. If I’m unsure about pursuing a quant role, is EOR still a good choice, or would IBEB be more suitable?
  3. Are there any alumni or current students of these programs who can share their experiences, especially regarding career outcomes in finance?

Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated!

11 Comments
 

First EUR is a solid uni for economics. I would vote for EOR as it will prepare you well for a quantitative role and is highly regarded in finance/economics role. It will open you the doors for a master in econometrics or finance at any top university worldwide considering your (high) grades. IBEB is also good but EOR is really the top if you ask me!

 

I’m currently thinking of doing a master’s to break into london IB. Which of these is the best? Should i delay a year to get into F&I at RSM or is the brand name sufficient?


1. MSc BA – Accounting & Financial Management (Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University)

2. MSc Finance (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam – FT#56)

3. MSc Finance (Tilburg University – FT #47)

 

Recent IBEB grad. EOR is the most difficult one. What ends up happening is that a sizeable portion of those who start in EOR "drop down" to IBEB if they find it too difficult. They need to put in some extra work to make up some classes but nothing crazy compared to the work amount/difficulty they had at EOR.
Since EOR is a double bachelor's, you need to write two theses, and it's a year longer than IBEB. For quant roles though, it is definitely more targeted than IBEB, as you get a lot more math-focused subjects, as well as + hard skills in terms of coding.

In short, EOR opens more doors and is better regarded, especially for quant, but is much harder than IBEB. If you are a top IBEB student, IB offers shouldn't be a problem. 

 

I want to attend Econometrics and Operations Research programme, not the bsc^2 one (Econometrics and Economics double bsc), if its a misunderstanding. I believe it is 3 year programme.

 

Sorry, didn't get that at first. I think the BSc2 is the most common, and am unsure about specific prospects for the other programme. Either way, I am certain that it still preps you quite well for quant roles. But again, if you are a top IBEB student and have a quant focus in the electives you pick, it should not be a big problem.

 

I’m currently thinking of doing a master’s to break into london IB. Which of these is the best? Should i delay a year to get into F&I at RSM or is the brand name sufficient?


1. MSc BA – Accounting & Financial Management (Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University)

2. MSc Finance (Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam – FT#56)

3. MSc Finance (Tilburg University – FT #47)

 
Most Helpful

Hey, if you are considering a career in those fields, here is some advice from my experience. I would suggest avoiding the single bachelor option if you can. It is pretty intense since the course load is heavy, especially in the second year, and it can get overwhelming quickly. Most people studying econometrics go for the double bachelor since it spreads out the tougher courses over a longer period. In fact, only about 20 people in our generation chose the single bachelor route. (80 do double and 60-70 dropped out or switched to ibeb)

The good news is you have your entire first year to decide which one to do (ibeor or bsc2) to take, so there is no need to rush into anything. You might start with the single bachelor to become eligible for spring opportunities already in first. 

Also, if you find courses like intro to analysis or matrix algebra too difficult at first, you can always switch to ibeb until block 3. Just know that a genuine love for math is really key for this degree.

 

Hey,
Thanks for your advice! I was primarily considering the single bachelor’s option because it could save me a year before starting my master’s and help with budgeting. Is it really that much more intense compared to the double bachelor’s?

 

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