News

Read up on the latest in the data science industry and what’s happening at WQU.

Why Electrical Engineers, Applied Physicists and Computer Scientists make great Financial Engineers

Image

Prospective students from a number of disciplines outside of Finance and Economics are often surprised to learn that their academic and professional experience makes them strong candidates for a career in Financial Engineering, and a great fit for our program. But what is financial engineering? And what skills are required?

Financial Engineering is, in fact, a highly interdisciplinary field. Applied mathematics, programming, and financial theory are among the skills most critical to success in Financial Engineering. That makes it a field of study particularly well suited to individuals who have earned degrees in applied mathematics, applied physics, computer science, and electrical engineering. These students often have the most success mastering the skills we teach and building a successful career in Financial Engineering, a field that is growing rapidly across the globe. 

Why do candidates with these backgrounds have such high success in financial engineering? Because they have experience with

data analysis

differential equations and linear algebra

computer programming languages like Python, C++, and Java.

discrete optimization and mathematical modeling

statistical programming languages like Maple, Matlab, R, or SPSS

The interdisciplinary nature of Financial Engineering also means there are many options when it comes to career opportunities. Traditionally, financial engineers have gone on to pursue careers in quantitative research and development, trading, or portfolio management. With each passing year, however, we see more and more businesses relying on quantitative analysts to support financial modeling and decision making. Those interested in moving into the public sector can pursue opportunities in research and policy development with governments and think tanks. 

If you already possess some of these skills, studying Financial Engineering could be the right career for you. Learn more about WorldQuant University’s online and 100% tuition-free MSc in Financial Engineering or get started on your application today.

Image

Continue Reading

Back To News

Image
Israel Odeajo
Read

CAN Fellowship Takes WQU Student to the Frontlines of Climate-Health Research

Blog
03 July 2025

The power of transferable skills becomes evident when learners apply their …

Read Full Post
Image
Abhishek Kumar Rao
Read

How Abhishek Kumar Rao Landed His Dream Role in Quantitative Risk

Blog
18 June 2025

Abhishek Kumar Rao’s professional journey is a compelling example of how …

Read Full Post
Image
Solomon Caulker
Read

Applied Learning, Global Reach: Solomon Caulker's Academic Path

30 May 2025

Five years after graduating from WorldQuant University's MSc in Financial …

Read Full Post