AI or QF path for an aspiring algo trader
Dear all,
In a word, I've been admitted to two different MSc programs, one is in artificial intelligence and the other is in quantitative finance, and I kindly ask for your opinions on which of them could provide more chances to land a job in a hedge fund or a “prop shop”, developing algorithmic trading strategies
The programs are Bocconi’s MAFINRISK (Master of Quantitative Finance and Risk Management) and University of Amsterdam's MSc Artificial Intelligence.
The second program interests me since
1) It seems that more and more quant funds start to use AI and machine learning technologies,
2) Amsterdam offers a specialization and research opportunities in ML and AI, plus the uni has relatively high ranks
3) This option offers good differentiation and it seems that job market is growing for AI and ML grads.
Since the competition with UK/US graduates seems fierce, I am not sure that Bocconi's 10-months degree will lead somewhere. I also read a lot about the overabundance of QF and MFE graduates.
As for my background:
-BS Theoretical Physics and Applied Maths (Russian uni);
-MS Financial Management (same uni);
-Internship at an investment company sales team here in Russia;
-2 years of entrepreneurial experience not related to financial industry (+programming experience).
I kindly ask for your advice on which program/path is more suitable and realistic in my case.
Will AI and ML degree be useful for quant trading or research career in Europe?
Or should I choose Bocconi's MAFINRISK, start with a risk internship in Italy, gain experience and then try to find a place in a quant fund?
Thank you for your patience and kind advice!