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How Do I Become a Financial Engineer?

Jessica F. Black
Jessica F. Black

You may need to complete several degree programs to become a financial engineer, as most companies may require that you have at least a bachelor's degree in finance. Typically, suitable candidates will need to have excellent grades in mathematics and finance related coursework. Some corporations prefer that you have a master's degree, and you may want to continue your education in order to increase employment options. Experience can also be extremely important to become a financial engineer, and you should seek internships or entry-level employment during your undergraduate studies.

To ensure you are on the right educational path to become a financial engineer, meet with your college adviser, who may be able to help you choose courses that will best prepare you to become a financial engineer. Some of these classes may include introductory financial engineering, corporate finance, and microeconomics analysis. Introductory courses will prepare you for field-related coursework including forecasting and risk analysis, elements of stochastic processes, and management of financial risk. During your advanced coursework, you will want to begin looking for an internship with a financial firm.

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Internships will provide you with an opportunity to observe the industry and work closely with senior financial engineers. Hands-on involvement is usually required during internships and this will allow you to apply your knowledge to a work environment. Future employers may be interested in your internship experiences and you will typically need to have previous experience to become a financial engineer. Entry-level positions in a financial engineering area will also help you enter this profession and you should begin composing a resume of all related experience.

After graduation and completion of internships, you may want to begin looking for a university that offers a master's degree in financial engineering. This advanced degree will focus primarily on your intended area of expertise and may help you to become a financial engineer. Larger corporations may be seeking candidates who have extended experience and an enhanced knowledge of the field, which a master's degree usually provides.

In addition to an education, you will need to remain up-to-date on financial information in your field. Communication skills will also be required to enter this profession because you will need to consult with clients and other professionals on a regular basis. The Internet, local newspapers, and financial firms are excellent resources for seeking employment in this profession.

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