After first C++ certificate, Python or Advanced C++?

[Chacinluis]

Hello,

I am planning to apply for MFEs this fall.
If I had to choose one, which will be more beneficial for my application: Python or the Advanced C++ certificate?
I haven't learned Python yet, so I feel like it will be really useful to have some exposure to it. Especially, because machine learning is having an ever growing influence in quant finance. I have also found myself struggling with option trading competitions, b/c on many occasions they require Python, and I am a complete novice at it.

On the other hand as a current Baruch undergrad, I have noticed that Dan Stefanica - the Baruch MFE director - recommends all of their MFE candidates to take the Advanced C++ certificate before starting the program.

Any suggestions will be welcomed.
Thanks.

 

[APalley]

Hello,

I am planning to apply for MFEs this fall.
If I had to choose one, which will be more beneficial for my application: Python or the Advanced C++ certificate?
I haven't learned Python yet, so I feel like it will be really useful to have some exposure to it. Especially, because machine learning is having an ever growing influence in quant finance. I have also found myself struggling with option trading competitions, b/c on many occasions they require Python, and I am a complete novice at it.

On the other hand as a current Baruch undergrad, I have noticed that Dan Stefanica - the Baruch MFE director - recommends all of their MFE candidates to take the Advanced C++ certificate before starting the program.

Any suggestions will be welcomed.
Thanks.

I can see merits to both approaches -- you may find the following threads useful in helping you decide:

See Recommendation on QN courses

Recommendation on QN courses

Guys, I am a senior who is applying to Graduate programs in Financial Engineering and Data Science. I have a solid coding experience in undergraduate school, I learned Java, SQL and R. I never took any class in Python or C++ and those two seems to be super important for my intended graduate...

quantnet.com

FAQ: Python Online Course

Who is this course for? This course is for anyone, with or without previous programming experience, who wants to learn Python. There are three categories of students who can benefit from this course: The aspiring quant or data scientist who needs to become proficient in Python for school or to...

quantnet.com

 

[Daniel Duffy]

If I were in such a position in my career. I would do both C++ and Python are a good combination.
It is an investment in your future career. If you make the time and have a few quid to spare it is what I would do.