MSE, Applied Quantitatve Finance (AQF)

[LikeABoss]

Hey, I got AQF at MSE. How is the course and what are the future prospects? Can somebody help me out here?

[Anjali]

Hello !
Before I answer your question , I would like to ask you a few questions.
1. What made you take up this course ?
2. Do you have an inclination towards finance , risk analysis and specially applied finance ?
3. Where do you want to see yourself after 2 years ? In research ( academic field ) , job or somewhere you have a mind for both ?
Just patiently and honestly answer these questions .

[ViV]

I wish I cud like your comment Anjali..

[Anjali]

I didn't get you ViV ?
Does that mean my comment is not applicable here ?

[LikeABoss]

Hey Anjali,
1. I took up this course because it was the next best alternative after Financial Economics, which i couldn't get as the seats had already been taken by higher scorers.
2. Yes, I have an interest in finance , risk analysis and specially applied finance.
3. I want to go for Predictive Analytics and Modelling, job or research post completion of the degree.

[Anjali]

One last question , what all options do you have at present ?

[LikeABoss]

No other option.
All I can do now is to prepare for MBA if I drop.

[ViV]

Not at all...
it is awesome... the questions u just mentioned will definitely help ppl in deciding the course..

[Anjali]

After going through your answers , all I can conclude is , that irrespective of whether you have an alternative or not , you have a taste for this subject , which means that taking up this course will not be a compromise . If you will go through your answers , you will yourself realise that you are very much compatible with this course.

 MSE is a known name , so that will embellish your resume . But more than that , this course will brush up your skills and prepare you for corporate. And , in corporate , you can always make a choice between research and computational field. Moreover , MSE offers a good platform for finance aspirants. Infact some of the companies ask , specifically students from finance and AQF ,  to sit for the placements ( rest are not allowed ) . An insider source told me that the highest package offered was around Rs 10.5 Lakhs .

I believe you should take up this course. Do not drop . And as far as MBA is concerned , you can do that at any point of time in your life. Infact if you work post two years , that will not only refine your knowledge , but will also add experience to your resume. And trust me , MBA institutes are crazy for work experience. They , most of the time , prefer experienced people over freshers.

Before you take any final decision , just go through the course structure once again , and then , patiently , decide that whether it goes with your choice or not. If its a yes , then , GO , pack your bags !! Good Luck !!  

[Anjali]

Thanks @Viv

[LikeABoss]

Yes, exactly. About MBA, I feel the same. And I have gone through the course structure several times. I think it suits me.
Just that a lot of people talk about AQF as if it were an inferior course.

[Anjali]

Going by that , people from acturial or environment , should give up studies completely
See AQF is ranked below general or financial , because its a demand side issue. Ranks are dictated by preferences , but that does not put you in a disadvantaged position , if you take up AQF.
I know it's not easy to go against the wind , but at the end of the day , you have to live with yourself. If you will not support your ambition , then why would others ? Have faith in yourself . Do not go by the herd's mentality .Travel the unbeaten path , and carve a niche for yourself