What can you do with a graduate degree in quantitative finance?

If you're wondering what you can do with a degree in quantitative finance, the answer lies in the high-demand roles driving today's data-centric financial industry. With advanced training in mathematics, statistics, programming, and financial theory, this degree prepares you to solve complex problems and make informed, data-driven decisions. Whether you're building predictive models, managing financial risk, or optimizing investment strategies, a graduate degree in quantitative finance equips you with the tools to succeed. The guide below breaks down what the field entails, the types of programs available, and the career opportunities you can pursue after graduation. 

What is quantitative finance?  

Quantitative finance applies mathematical models, statistical techniques, and computational methods to analyze financial markets and manage risk. It is used to develop pricing models, optimize investment strategies, and assess financial products. This field combines finance, mathematics, and programming to support data-driven decision-making in areas like trading, risk management, and financial engineering. 

What is a quantitative finance degree?  

A quantitative finance degree blends finance theory with advanced mathematical and technical skills, preparing you to tackle complex financial challenges and make data-driven decisions. This interdisciplinary approach combines expertise in finance, computer science, mathematics, statistics, and econometrics, providing the analytical tools needed to excel in today's data-driven financial landscape. 

Take programs like the MS in Quantitative Finance at Northeastern University's D'Amore-McKim School of Business, for instance. It's designed to give you a solid foundation in financial theory and show you how to apply it in the real world. You'll tackle real challenges through hands-on class projects, and there's even an option to do a graduate co-op or or get involved in community initiatives that make a difference. On top of that, many of the courses are aligned with the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exams, so you can work toward licensure while earning your degree.

Ideal candidates for a quantitative finance degree in these programs often have backgrounds in finance, accounting, computer science, mathematics, or physics, and are motivated to develop the technical and analytical skills that modern finance careers require. 

Quantitative finance graduate programs

Quantitative finance graduate programs offer specialized training in financial theory, advanced mathematics, and technical skills, preparing you for complex roles in today's financial markets. The MS in Quantitative Finance is a popular option, providing a deep understanding of quantitative methods combined with practical applications.  

For those seeking broader business leadership skills alongside technical knowledge, dual-degree programs—such as MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA—are ideal if you want to develop business savvy, financial acumen, and a deep understanding of the technology that drives today's finance industry. Dual degrees merge core requirements allowing you to finish your programs in less time than it would take to earn the two degrees separately. 

Many quantitative finance programs, including D'Amore-McKim's MS in Quantitative Finance, carry significant advantages. This designation reflects a focus on in-demand technical skills and can enhance career opportunities by making graduates more competitive for roles requiring advanced analytical expertise. If you're an international student, the program's STEM designation also provides the potential to extend your time in the U.S. through Optional Practical Training (OPT), allowing for additional work experience in the American job market. 

If you're choosing between the MS in Quantitative Finance or the dual-degree MS in Quantitative Finance/MBA, consider whether you want to focus deeply on analytics or expand into broader business leadership.  

Career options in quantitative finance   

A graduate degree in quantitative finance opens the door to a variety of high-demand careers that blend financial expertise with advanced analytical skills. You'll be prepared for roles such as: 

1. Assistant Trader: Assistant Traders execute trades and analyze market trends under senior guidance. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median annual wage for Assistant Traders was $78,140 in May 2024. Employment in this field is projected to grow 3% from 2024 to 2034, about as fast as the average for all occupations. 

2. Business Analyst: Business Analysts analyze operations and financial data to drive business improvements. According to BLS, the median annual wage for Management Analysts, in a similar role, was $101,190 in May 2024, with employment projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.

3. Financial Analyst: Financial Analysts prepare reports and provide insights for strategic decision-making. According to BLS, the median annual wage for Financial and Investment Analysts was $101,350 in May 2024. Employment in this occupation is projected to grow 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.

4. Fixed Income Quantitative Analyst: Fixed Income Quantitative Analysts use mathematical models and data analytics to evaluate fixed income securities, such as bonds and interest rate derivatives. Fixed Income Quant Analysts fall within the broader category of financial risk management. According to BLS, the median annual wage for Fixed Income Quant Analysts was $118,950 in May 2024.  

5. Product Operations Analyst: Product Operations Analysts manage the financial product lifecycle and ensure compliance. According to BLS, the median annual wage for Product Operations Analysts was $91,290 in 2024. Employment for Product Operations Analysts is projected to grow 21% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations.  

Gain career-ready skills before you graduate   

Job opportunities in quantitative finance don't wait until after graduation. From the moment you become a student at D'Amore-McKim, you can start building your professional network and exploring potential career paths. Graduate programs like the MS in Quantitative Finance provide technical training and experiential learning opportunities that allow you to gain real-world experience and connect with professionals in the field. 

As managing director of D'Amore-McKim's student-run mutual fund, Isha strengthened her investment management skills by managing trade sizes, assessing financial metrics, and adjusting strategies to market conditions. The experience she gained through the 360 Huntington Fund gave her hands-on exposure to real-world investing. Ayush built technical expertise during his co-op at ING's Market Risk Commodities Division, where he used VBA coding to prepare risk reports, analyzed excess risk from new commodities positions, and took on additional responsibilities to advance his career. Kavan took advantage of his access to the highly selective Bloomberg Market Concepts program and earned his certifications, which offers him practical experience and a leg up in today's competitive job market.

Overall, a graduate degree in quantitative finance equips professionals with the skills necessary to excel in various high-paying roles within the evolving financial industry. 

Serving as managing director of the student-led mutual fund

“My experience at the 360 Huntington Fund shaped my career aspirations. The Fund's focus on investing in US public equities and managing portfolio holdings inspired me to pursue a role in investment management that combines my research background with practical investment skills.”

Securing his dream job backed by practical experience

“I always had a dream to work on Wall Street. During my time as a financial analyst, I realized that I would need more knowledge and to educate myself further to build a successful finance career in the United States.”

Certifications stand out in a competitive finance job market

“When hiring companies see I have a Bloomberg Market Concept certification, they know I've done my homework and have the skills. This certification is an important asset for any company when hiring a team member, and it put me in a favorable position during my hiring process.” – Kavan Pandit, MS in Quantitative Finance'22

Advance your career in quantitative finance  

A graduate degree in quantitative finance can open doors to diverse, high-paying careers at the intersection of finance, data, and technology. This degree provides advanced analytical tools, leadership training, and industry connections, leading to roles like financial analyst, investment manager, or risk consultant. 

At D'Amore-McKim, the Graduate Career Center provides career planning tools, job search resources, and personalized guidance to support your goals during and after your studies. With a 56,000-strong alumni network and connections to top employers, you'll gain access to job opportunities, on-demand career resources, and valuable industry insights. 

To explore how a Master's in Quantitative Finance can accelerate your career, join us for an upcoming information session. You'll learn about program options, graduate co-op experiences, and how our STEM-designated degree can give you a competitive edge.   

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