Best Degree for trading
Between these, which undergrad degree is seen in the best light for trading.
Imperial: Math with Stats
LSE: Financial Math and Stats or Maths and Economics
UCL: Math and Economics
From reading, it appears trading is less like IB where uni name is all you need. It also seems like the emphasis on maths is alot higher despite most the calculations being mental arithmetic so not sure which of these is better. I'm aware theres more to skills than just a degree, but you can always work on skills unlike choosing a degree.
And, I get imperial is most target for quant trading but would any of the others rule out that career path?
When it comes to trading, especially quant trading, the degree you choose can play a significant role in shaping your career path. Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's how these degrees stack up:
Imperial: Math with Stats
LSE: Financial Math and Stats or Maths and Economics
UCL: Math and Economics
Key Takeaways:
Additional Advice:
In short, none of these degrees will "rule out" a trading career, but Imperial's Math with Stats gives you the best edge for quant trading.
Sources: Best internships for Quant Trading?, How to be a Millionaire Trader, Deciding on quantitive majors/career path?
So, 2 big reasons why math is emphasized. 1, most of the trading nowadays is done through models. Having some mathematical understanding means you understand generally when the output of a model is fishy. It also gives you the basic ability to make basic models(or more realistically make crappy ones and have the strats fix them). Other reason is just that math and STEM generally is harder, and as a result you often build up better problem solving skills. Those skills come in handy when you're trying to work on really tricky problems in trading. Mathematical intuition is something that can be taught, but only through doing a lot of math.
So I’m guessing one of the Math/Stats combos instead of a Math/Econ joint?
Math stats is what I did, but math econ is also decent. Both will serve you well. The problem is that degree names don't always stack up. I would look at what the programs actually teach you past the names. Time series, regression analysis, some ML, predictive modeling, causal inference, game theory, and econometrics are all classes I would suggest taking.
LSE!
Fair enough!
I do hear some people say the more stem the better and thus places like imperial is better. Do you thinks it’s true, insignificant/marginal or false? And if you’re at lse, do you think the econ name helps in stuff like trading or is financial math and stats more attractive in the field?
Imperial easily, they're on a tear this year esp the societies
Why? Ive (naturally) heard both answers of LSE/Imperial but is the reason purely mathematical content? Because I've looked into contents/notes at both universities and the main difference I see is Imperial's applied maths is more on the mechanical side whilst LSE is of course econ/finance focused?
In terms of content, I can't answer.
In terms of volume of people who end up in quant / trading markets, Imperial has got a lot more people and way more firms recruit from Imperial.
LSE to me is more of an M&A culture-specific university which isn't to say that they don't get trading offers but just that I see it less.
I got to LSE in department of maths - pick Imperial!
Only downside is the social scene (less girls).
May I ask why’s specifically? I prefer imperial anyways but what makes you say it as if lse is significantly behind (as you an lse student)
Aspernatur et sint praesentium aut et enim cumque nobis. Perferendis qui nobis quo.
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