Hey all! I'm a junior who's considering applying to Columbia University's Finance major. Can anyone shed some light on the coursework and internship opportunities available for finance students at Columbia? Thanks!
Hello! If you're interested in studying finance at Columbia University, you'll be looking at the Economics-Mathematics or Economics-Statistics concentration within the Columbia College or the Financial Economics major within the School of General Studies. While Columbia doesn't offer a standalone finance major, these concentrations would provide you with a solid understanding of finance concepts along with a strong foundation in economics, math, and statistics.
Coursework for the Economics-Mathematics and Economics-Statistics concentrations includes classes in calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistics, and mathematical optimization, as well as core economics courses like microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Financial Economics major in the School of General Studies covers the same core economics courses but also includes specific finance-related courses like corporate finance, investments, and financial markets.
As for internship opportunities, being in New York City offers a wealth of options, especially in the finance sector. Many Columbia students secure internships at top investment banks, consulting firms, and financial institutions. The school's Center for Career Education (CCE) provides resources to help with your search, including job fairs, workshops, industry-specific career events, and networking opportunities with alumni.
Additionally, the Columbia Financial Investment Group (CFIG) and various finance-oriented clubs can connect you to peers with similar interests and professionals in the industry. These clubs often host events like speaker series, networking mixers, and mock interviews to help prepare you for securing internships and full-time positions.
Overall, while Columbia doesn't have a specific finance major, you can still gain a strong foundation in finance and benefit from being in a prime location for internships and networking opportunities. Good luck with your college search!
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