Better value getting MS in Applied Math or Operations Research over MFE?

[firstQuadrant]

Hello all,

I'm a senior undergraduate in the University of Massachusetts system majoring in Math w/ computer science concentration and Business Administration concentrating in finance. My question is, since I already have fundamental background knowledge in finance would it make more sense for me to get a Master's in Applied Math over a Master's in Financial Engineering or Financial Math? My thought process is that I would be able to acquire more tools or analysis skills(I would deliberately choose similar subject matter sans basic finance stuff). Or is it more important to have the mathematical content tailored to the practice, assuming the programs are equivalent in stature?

 

[jarryds]

Hello all,

I'm a senior undergraduate in the University of Massachusetts system majoring in Math w/ computer science concentration and Business Administration concentrating in finance. My question is, since I already have fundamental background knowledge in finance would it make more sense for me to get a Master's in Applied Math over a Master's in Financial Engineering or Financial Math? My thought process is that I would be able to acquire more tools or analysis skills(I would deliberately choose similar subject matter sans basic finance stuff). Or is it more important to have the mathematical content tailored to the practice, assuming the programs are equivalent in stature?

The jury is still out on whether MFE degrees are more bs than not, only time will tell.

Also, what kind of applied math? Applied math with a concentration on finance? That is just fin math. In general, it is smart to cater your degree to the career path you want.

The easiest way to solve this is start looking at programs. Find the coursework that you like best.

Edit: Wait doesn't your title ask about OR? OR is a great path to quant finance.

 

[siddh]

OR is a great path to quant finance.

Fortunately or unfortunately, I don't find enough support within this website to suggest OR to be an equally competitive if not more cheaper version of the FE program.

I noticed most of the courses are quite similar in both. I was lurking around this forum and someone said "OR is like a Mile Wide and not a Mile Deep" course compared to FE.