Feedback on math/programming coursework for MFE applications

[pezpher]

Hi everyone,
I’m planning to apply to top MFE programs, but my undergrad was in Economics and didn’t include much math. To strengthen my profile, I’m planning to take the following math courses through UCLA Extension:
Calc I, II, III
Linear Algebra
Stats 100A (Probability Theory)
Differential Equations
On the programming side, I’m signed up for the Baruch/QuantNet C++ Certificate, since I know that’s highly valued (especially at Baruch).
Here are my questions:
I was also considering a sequence of Python courses at UCLA Extension (Exploratory Stats, Data Analysis, Numerical Computing, ML). But QuantNet also offers a Python certificate program, which I’ve heard is well-regarded. Do you think the QuantNet Python course is sufficient for admissions purposes, or would it be worth doing the UCLA Python sequence as well?
Do admissions committees care that I’m taking these math courses at UCLA Extension specifically, or would it be just as good (and cheaper) to take them at a community college?
Thanks in advance for any advice — I’m trying to balance my limited time and budget between math requirements and programming prep.

 

[Andy Nguyen]

You are not alone in this journey. Many people with similar background and are doing the same kind of prep. It will take serious time and financial commitment but it's the only way to stay competitive in this field. Keep in mind, getting into a top tier MFE program is just the first step in a long journey.
For the programming courses, I highly recommend the QuantNet C++ and Python course. In fact, UCLA MFE program (among others) sends their admits to take the QuantNet C++ course. Once you complete the QuantNet Python, you can have a better idea of what area or technique you want to further develop.
Here is an example of someone with an economics bachelor degree.

Baruch MFE Thread 'Feedback on plan for building profile for Baruch MFE Fall 2026?'

9/2/24

Hi everyone,

I posted here around a month ago, and have since put together a plan for the next year in order to bolster my application, as well as fill most of the quantitative holes from my undergrad degree. Any feedback/suggestions would be much appreciated!

A little background:
I graduated in 2021 with a BBA in Economics/Finance from Baruch College. My GPA was not good (~3.00), but I’ve since gained 3.5 years of experience in industry. My career so far has been in data engineering, software project management, and data science. I consider myself very proficient in Python, SQL...

• grxthy
• Replies: 28
• Forum: United States

• 

 

[pezpher]

You are not alone in this journey. Many people with similar background and are doing the same kind of prep. It will take serious time and financial commitment but it's the only way to stay competitive in this field. Keep in mind, getting into a top tier MFE program is just the first step in a long journey.
For the programming courses, I highly recommend the QuantNet C++ and Python course. In fact, UCLA MFE program (among others) sends their admits to take the QuantNet C++ course. Once you complete the QuantNet Python, you can have a better idea of what area or technique you want to further develop.
Here is an example of someone with an economics bachelor degree.

Baruch MFE Thread 'Feedback on plan for building profile for Baruch MFE Fall 2026?'

9/2/24

Hi everyone,

I posted here around a month ago, and have since put together a plan for the next year in order to bolster my application, as well as fill most of the quantitative holes from my undergrad degree. Any feedback/suggestions would be much appreciated!

A little background:
I graduated in 2021 with a BBA in Economics/Finance from Baruch College. My GPA was not good (~3.00), but I’ve since gained 3.5 years of experience in industry. My career so far has been in data engineering, software project management, and data science. I consider myself very proficient in Python, SQL...

• grxthy
• Replies: 28
• Forum: United States

• 

Andy, thank you for your reply. Your insight is valuable. Would you suggest swapping any of my math courses out or adding others on top?

 

[Daniel Duffy]

This uniqie ODE/PDE course for finance is on the UCB recommended list.

Online Courses

www.datasim.nl

Online Courses

www.datasim.nl

BTW I am the orignator of both Quantnet C++ courses.