Quantitative Studies for Finance

College graduates who have some background in mathematics and statistics and want graduate school preparation in the mathematics and statistics of finance and financial engineering can follow a structured curriculum developed with the Departments of Mathematics and Statistics.

Students who complete the curriculum with a grade of B- or better in all courses will receive a Quantitative Studies for Finance certificate.

Curriculum

The Quantitative Studies for Finance certificate program includes:

Calculus Courses

  • MATH V1102 or S1102. Calculus II . 3 pts.
  • MATH V1201 or S1201. Calculus III. 3 pts.

Also recommended but not required:

  • MATH V1202. Calculus IV. 3 pts.

Advanced Mathematics Courses

  • MATH V2010 or S2010. Linear Algebra. 3 pts.
  • MATH E1210 or V3027 or S3027. Ordinary Differential Equations. 3 pts.
  • MATH V3028 or S3028. Partial Differential Equations. 3 pts.
  • MATH V2500. Analysis and Optimization. 3 pts.
  • Or *MATH W4061 or S4061. Introduction to Modern Analysis I. 3 pts.

Also recommended but not required:

  • MATH W4062 or S4062. Introduction to Modern Analysis II. 3 pts.

Statistics Courses

One of the following sequences:

  • STAT W4150. Introduction to Probability and Statistics. 3 pts.

    OR
  • STAT W4105. Probability. 3 pts. and STAT W4107. Statistical Inference. 3 pts.

    OR
  • STAT W4109. Probability and Statistical Inference. 3 pts.

Also recommended but not required:

  • MATH W4062 or S4062. Introduction to Modern Analysis II. 3 pts.

Computer Science Courses

One of the following:

  • COMS W1003 or S1003. Introduction to Programming in C. 3 pts.
  • COMS W1004. Introduction to Computer Programming in Java. 3 pts.
  • COMS W1009. Honors Introduction to Computer Science. 3 pts.
  • COMS W3101. Programming Languages. 3 pts.

Any demonstrated proficiency in C, C++, or Java

Advising

Each student's individual curriculum is tailored to his or her background and professional interest in consultation with the faculty adviser. Students in the program are also advised by the Office of Student Life and Alumni Relations. The structured support system offers guidance on course options, professional and graduate school preparation, and career advising.

Admissions
203 Lewisohn Hall
212-854-9666

Academic Adviser to Enrolled Students
Karl Rutter
510H Lewisohn Hall
212-854-9666
kr2456@columbia.edu

Faculty Adviser to Enrolled Students
Mikhail Smirnov
Department of Mathematics
425 Mathematics
212-854-4303
smirnov@math.columbia.edu

Application Information

To apply, follow the Summer Sessions application instructions for your admissions category. The Quantitative Studies for Finance program also accepts students in the fall and spring through the Postbaccalaureate Studies program.