Undergrad math courses for Masters program

HI,

I am currently an undergrad student studying economics and financial management. I am hopefully going to apply for a masters in either financial economics or quant. finance. And from what I've heard both of them require advanced math courses, so I have decided to take the following math electives, and am wondering if they will give me any leverage when applying for grad school(Excluding the econ/finance courses that are a part of my program): 1. Calculus I 2. Calculus II 3. Linear Algebra 4. Differential equations I 5. Multivariate calculus 6. Intro to programming (Python) 7. Deciding between probability theory and Real analysis

Thanks.

8 Comments
 

Topology is harder than probability, hands down. Take probability over analysis, although if you have the time you should take analysis too, just because it's an awesome class.

In terms of how "advanced" these courses are (re: grad school), that's questionable. I'd say Calculus (single/multivar) + linear algebra (and maybe diffEQ) are pretty much expected. I might also have a skewed perspective from my undergrad experience, though.

Currently: future neurologist, current psychotherapist Previously: investor relations (top consulting firm), M&A consulting (Big 4), M&A banking (MM)
 

for the majority of quant fin programs, multivariable, linear algebra, and probability are prereqs. you must take these courses for admission

 

As a couple people have already said, calculus (both single and multi) and linear algebra are required, generally speaking. You should also have a solid grounding in probability theory. And I've also seen differential equations highly recommended.

As for analysis, I'd say it shows mathematical aptitude and will develop your problem solving skills. So it can be impressive (as long as you do well). But unless it's a PhD program it's not really expected nor particularly important, IMO.

 

Quas odio voluptate iste impedit dolorem dolores. Culpa minus eveniet quasi rerum velit assumenda. Numquam non quia tenetur assumenda aut.

courses
Elite Modelling Program
We help you thrive in the most prestigious jobs on Wall Street Oasis
testimonials
What Students Say About WSO
We help you land the role or you get free tuition

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.3%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.5%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.4%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.3%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.5%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 98.4%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan No 97.3%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (50) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (25) $178
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (84) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (75) $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

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...”