Columbia msfe(Econ) vs CMU MSCF

desmondlau

I'm an economics major from China, with half a year of working experience as an option market maker. I want the program to open more opportunities for me in US as a traditional trader/quant trader/buyside researcher. Could anyone give some advice regarding the choice? I don't know much about the prospects of these 2 programs especially CBS MSFE.

I think CBS got prestige (?maybe), but in terms of employment stats CMU is pretty dominant. It would be great if you could suggest which one is stronger to place me to some specific roles, say, BB S&T roles.

Thanks. BTW CMU NY campus

Loa

Hi there,

I don't really know much about the latter program, but for CBS MSFE, it is intended to prepare you for PhD-like studies: quite a number of its courses are for PhD candidates in CBS. Plus, MSFE cannot access CBS MBA resourses/career services. But in CBS, you can always reach out and find good opportunities to network.

So follow your heart I would say. And definitely compare their placement/internship reports to make your decision.

Best,
Blair

烟雨荷

Congratulations! I do not know much about CBS MSFE either, but I have to remind you that CMU MSCF in NY campus is much like an online program (perhaps you already know it).  If you care, you might also consider this factor when making your own decision. Good luck!

desmondlau

Thanks for the info!
The ddl for CBS MSFE has passed. So I chose to go for CMU already~

Loa

Great you made the decision!