general question

[joseclar]

I am just begining to explore different graduate school options. It seems that there are a lot of financial math fields that are very similar. I am sure this question would require a very long answer, but what are the basic differences between, financial engineering , quantitative finance, industrial engineering, operations research? Are the basically all the same? Do certain ones restrict what type of work you can do? Is any considered the most difficult? Do they all involve the same level of mathematics? Thanks very much.

 

[martin weiss]

I think that the level of mathematics used/taught in the different programs depends on the school. If you want to work with numbers study Applied Math, Based on your experience and skill you can apply your knowledge to different entry level tracks in finance. Getting your first job is key. In the large picture Financial Engineers have higher paying jobs, but most financial engineers had work experience in finance before they began their MFE program. If you have an undergrad degree in a quantitative field and you want to get into the engineering side of the business, find a job as an analyst, gain experience and then study Financial Engineering. An MFE graduate without experience is not going to get the best offers.