Does it make sense...

[mannya]

All,

This is my first time posting on the forum. I feel that I have a huge decision to make and I think I need some help from those in the field.

After researching potential MBA's and working for several years in corporate finance, I have realized that I want to enter the quantitative finance area. I find my self wanting to know where all the numbers I analyze on day to day basis come from, I would also like to work closer with the financial markets than I currently do. I have a degree in Finance, I know its not enough math to even apply to any MFE. I have spoken with several representatives from different schools (anyone that would take my call) and they have all given me the same advice, just take Calc 1-3 and 3 other advanced math courses at a local college and apply.

I'm sure they know what they are talking about but when I go through these threads and read the course descriptions of the classes they have asked me to take, I have the feeling I will not be fully prepared to succeed in an MFE program.

To make a long story longer I decided to look in to undergrad Math programs and obtain a second Bachelors Degree in Applied Math, I've currently applied to some and have been accepted for the upcoming Summer Term.

It would take me about 2 1/2 to 3 years to complete the UG plus the extra year or two for the MFE essentially Ill be competing for jobs with people that are about 7 or 8 years younger than I am when I am completely done, I figure Ill be about 32.

Does it make sense to take this route or should I just take those minimal math classes and go from there?

Thank you all in advance for your help and guidance.

Manny

 

[GoIllini]

So the question is, do you like where your career has taken you so far?

If the answer is yes, you don't need a financial mathematics degree. If you have the technical skills, there is often a natural progression into quantitative work, and you can get those technical skills as a part-time non-degree student at NYU through their SCPS program if you're in New York. Every major state school will also have the courses you need to take to have a good grasp of financial mathematics.

Keep your day job if you like it and pursue financial engineering at your own pace. Many people doing MFEs are kicking themselves that they didn't do a finance major in their undergrad right now and probably would prefer a job like yours' to their current work in math, engineering, programming, or research.

 

[mannya]

I dont mind my job but I'd rather get in to something more quantative unfortunately I feel like Im an accountant rather than someone who studied finane and economics.

Although, my job is secure in these tough times I don't see to much room for growth in the future and I dont feel I can apply a lot of the knowledge I have learned in my role to many other companies.

Would it be pointless at this stage to try to compete for quant jobs in about 4 years with someone that is fresh out of undergrad and grad?