Accounting vs. Math another dilemma at Baruch
I've recently been debating about switching my degree from Accounting to Math, so I have a few questions if you guys don't mind answering.
The two areas I've been interested in are Trading and Asset Management(both in equities.) I should say that I am MUCH more interested in being a trader (recently realized this was an option.)
Now, my school (CUNY Baruch) offers an MFE program which I've heard is pretty decent. So, if I go the math route, that's probably where I will end up.
But from what I understand, MFE programs are REALLY difficult to get accepted into.
Obviously, accounting is the safe choice, but I'm wondering if there are enough opportunities in finance with a math degree from a school which is not regarded in that area to make it worth taking the risk of pursuing that degree.
In case the MFE doesn't work out, and I won't be able to become a trader, what other areas would I be able to work in for a couple of years(in finance,) before continuing toward an mba in finance from a target(hopefully) and going the asset management track?
Going for accounting (not for 150 credits - I've decided on that) would take me the same time to complete - 2 years. After which, I would enter big 4 for 2 years, and then move on to mba for finance, then apply for asset management.
I guess what I'm really asking is: Math or Accounting? Now, no one can really answer this question for me - I know that. But at the age of 23 I am at the point where I need to start either major next semester, so I need help in making the decision.
Frankly, I'm not interested in either of the majors. But I'm fairly sure that I can apply myself and do well in whichever one I choose. It is a huge consideration that the amount of time put in to studying math will be greater than for accounting. And the potential for a lower gpa as well. But I figure a math bachelor's will really prepare me for an MFE, so it would be worth it if the opportunities were great enough in case I didn't make it into the program.
If I major in math, I will minor in cs. If in accounting, then I will minor in finance.
So what do you guys think?
sorry about posting another long one.
but I'm really pressed here.
Another concern is that I probably won't be able to get internships (in finance) if my major is math.
But accounting will DEFINITELY get me those in Baruch.
whats up...
You want someone to decide what major you should choose based on the likelihood that you will be able to progress in the future? But more importantly, you have no passion for either field?
Well, the amount of time necessary for CS and mathematics automatically rules it out. If you don't have even an inkling of passion for programming you will not make it. Likewise the courses in mathematics even in undergrad get brutal and make accounting look fairly calm.
good points.
but I have to say that although they are not interesting for me to pursue career wise, that doesn't mean they aren't interesting to study.
keep em coming, I really need opinions here.
I dont think MFE at Baruch would be that hard to get in.
You would be completely wrong. It is one of the premier mfe programs and acceptance rates last year were around 6-7%.
Its definitely not a "premier" program. Its Baruch. Are you kidding me? The best in nyc are columbia and nyu mfe programs.
Umm no it is a premier program sorry buddy. Learn to accept being wrong, I would take Baruch over Columbia any day if I were applying to MFE programs and it would still be up for debate at best.
We have now left your little world of IB hierarchy. In these programs it's what students have accomplished and how they have impressed employers. The program at UChicago even is considered second rate most times for these very reasons and Baruch MFE grads are getting the same, if not better placements than Columbia. The fact that Columbia has two programs that fall under the MFE banner, has more seats per lecture and not nearly the dedication of the Baruch program for placements makes it worse in my opinion but the tools like you will still go because you can now write Columbia on your resume.
I stand corrected. Didn't realize they actually have a legitimate school in Baruch.
http://www.quantnet.com/mfe-programs-rankings/
You also should take internet rankings at face value. One more depth level of analysis would have informed you that the man running that site is a Baruch grad. But yes it is a good MFE program.
Baruch MFE definitely competes on the same level of NYU and Columbia. It's saving grace was how cheap it was compared to the other programs and its excellent ties to industry since its actually connected to a business school (unlike NYU and Columbia's programs whose career services started from scratch- no help from their business schools). Now that its admissions stats have become so brutually competitive its easily the peer of the other two (in fact a lot of people familiar with these programs say its better - equivalent in education, better in career prospects and of course cheaper).
the MFE program is great. The undergrad program is a piece of shit bureaucratic nightmare.
When you start working none of this matters. Do something you love and can look back and happy about this part of you life.
Accounting is a massive waste of time. Nothing like what you'll actually need to know.
that's definitely a major consideration.
Unfortunately, I have recently found out that it would take me 3 years to get a math degree.
Accounting would take me 1.5.
Here is an example of the stupidity that is public school:
If I am a business major, I can have my language requirements (2 courses = 2 semesters) waived by having passed a high school regents exam.
If I am an arts major (math,) I cannot. This is even more frustrating when you can speak 2 additional languages...
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