Is a dual degree in finance and business right for you?

AI, data analytics, and machine learning are transforming finance and creating big opportunities for those eager to make their mark. 

Today's employers aren't just looking for number-crunchers. They want professionals who can combine technical know-how with sharp business instincts. That's where dual degrees in Quantitative Finance and an business come in. 

In just over two years, you can earn two powerful, career-boosting degrees—often with a STEM designation that adds even more value, especially for international students. 

This could be your smartest choice if you're ambitious and ready to lead in a data-driven financial world. 

Benefits of the MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degree

The financial world demands more than technical expertise or business savvy alone. That's why pairing a Master's in Quantitative Finance with an MBA is a powerful and strategic move. You gain the best of both: deep knowledge in data, modeling, and analytics, paired with the leadership, strategy, and communication skills to turn those insights into real impact. 

You're not just looking for a credential—you're aiming to stand out. You want to lead teams, shape investment strategies, and turn complex data into decisive action. This dual-degree path equips you to do exactly that. 

By combining the rigor of quantitative finance with the versatility of an MBA, you'll build a solid foundation in business management along with specialized expertise in financial modeling, risk analysis, and data-driven decision making. It's a blend designed to help you navigate and excel in today's complex markets. 

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles in areas such as quantitative analysis, financial engineering, investment banking, and risk management, where technical expertise and strategic vision are equally valuable.  

STEM-designated program benefits

When you enroll in MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degree programs, you earn two powerful degrees simultaneously—blending deep financial expertise with broad business leadership.  

And here's a big plus for international students: the MS in Quantitative Finance often comes with a STEM designation. For international students studying on an F-1 visa, completing a STEM-designated program offers valuable benefits, including up to three years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation. This extended OPT period provides additional time to gain hands-on experience, build professional networks, and improve the chances of securing long-term employment in the U.S.  

One degree or two: It depends on where you want to lead

There are many ways to move forward in finance, but the right path depends on where you see yourself next. Are you aiming to deepen your technical skills in financial analysis, or blend that expertise with broader business acumen to step into leadership? 

MS in Quantitative Finance 

If you're driven by data and want to master the technical side of finance, the MS in Quantitative Finance helps you build the specialized skills the industry demands. 

You'll dive into financial modeling, coding, statistics, and data-driven decision-making, preparing for roles like asset manager, data analyst, financial consultant, or investment trader. These finance positions are sought-after, well-paid, and offer opportunities for career advancement. Plus, it's often a STEM-designated program, which is a significant advantage for international students looking to gain work experience in the U.S. after graduation. 

MBA with a finance concentration 

The MBA alone might be the right move if you're more focused on leadership, strategy, or managing teams. It gives you a broad foundation in business—from marketing and operations to global strategy—while helping you grow as a confident, well-rounded leader. Concentrations in Corporate Finance, Investments, or even Fintech can offer focused learning. An MBA with a finance concentration can prepare you for roles such as Investment Banking Analyst, Senior Finance Manager, Senior Finance Analyst, Management Consultant, Market Insights Analyst, or positions in leadership development programs that include finance-focused rotations. 

MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degrees 

If you want the best of both worlds, the MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA might be your ideal path. You'll earn two degrees at once—gaining the same technical depth in finance, plus a broader foundation in business leadership, marketing, global strategy, and organizational behavior. An MBA with an Analytics concentration will further strengthen your skills in artificial intelligence applications, machine learning, and data mining. 

Some business schools include structured work experiences like corporate residencies for MBA students. These full-time opportunities allow you to apply what you've learned in a real-world setting while building professional skills and expanding your networks. These residencies can lead to future job opportunities. 

Graduates of dual degrees are well-positioned for senior roles such as chief investment officer, head of quantitative research, portfolio manager, or financial consultant. These positions are highly sought-after, well-paid positions with great career advancement opportunities. It's a powerful way to stand out—especially if you aim for leadership in today's data-driven financial world. 

The Northeastern University advantage: D'Amore-McKim's MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degrees 

If you're aiming high in finance, Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degree offers you more than a credential—it gives you a competitive edge. 

You'll study in Boston, a vibrant hub for finance, tech, and innovation, surrounded by global firms, industry leaders, and fast-growing startups. Thanks to the acclaimed faculty at the D'Amore-McKim School of Business, you'll graduate with two advanced degrees in less time than it would take to earn them separately, so you can get out into the field faster, ready to make an immediate impact. 

Go beyond theory with D'Amore-McKim's corporate residency 

With D'Amore-McKim's signature corporate residency, you can choose a three-, six-, or twelve-month professional experience. The extended duration lets you take on meaningful projects, build stronger relationships, and develop skills that set you apart. Many students, especially international students, opt for the six-month residency to gain in-depth experience and make an impact. 

This isn't a typical internship. You'll have our dedicated Graduate Career Center team actively supporting you, helping you along your journey. During your residency, you'll apply what you've learned in the classroom to real business challenges, build a network of professional contacts, and develop relationships that can lead to strong references. 

By the time you graduate, you won't just have two advanced degrees—you'll have meaningful, resumé-building experience and connections that help you step confidently into a full-time role. 

The MS in Quantitative Finance program is intriguing because of its experiential learning opportunities. I knew that exposure to advanced finance subjects would prepare me for my future career in finance.

Saneel Jhaveri, MS in Quantitative Finance'22

Customize your path to match your ambitions 

Want to tailor your education to fit where you want to go? You can. Choose from a CFA-aligned curriculum, explore electives that match your interests, or add an Analytics concentration to sharpen your skills in AI, machine learning, and data mining—preparing you for the future of finance. 

Build connections that last 

Throughout your journey, you'll engage with industry leaders, alumni, and corporate partners through career fairs, employer breakfasts, and industry panels. These experiences, supported by the Graduate Career Center, help you grow a professional network and gain insights that set you apart in a competitive field. 

Your next step toward leadership in finance 

This isn't just about earning two degrees—it's about positioning yourself for leadership roles in quantitative analysis, investment banking, financial engineering, and risk management. It's a powerful combination built for where finance is headed next—and for the career you want to build. 

My goal for the next five years is to become a financial manager, risk manager, or fund manager. I'm taking courses in financial modeling and learning programming tools like Python, MATLAB, and R, which are all in high demand in the job market.

Fidan Afandiyeva, MS in Quantitative Finance'24

Whether you're looking to sharpen your technical skills or gain the leadership experience to take your career further, the MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degrees can help you achieve both. 

Take the next step  

If you're ready to combine cutting-edge quantitative skills with the strategic mindset of a business leader, there's no better time to start. Join an upcoming information session to discover more about the MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA dual degree programs at D'Amore-McKim. Your future starts here.