Last visit was: 19 Nov 2025, 10:34 It is currently 19 Nov 2025, 10:34
Home
GMAT
Messages
Tests
Schools
Events
Rewards
Chat
My Profile
Close
GMAT Club Daily Prep
Thank you for using the timer - this advanced tool can estimate your performance and suggest more practice questions. We have subscribed you to Daily Prep Questions via email.

Customized
for You

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History

Track
Your Progress

every week, we’ll send you an estimated GMAT score based on your performance

Practice
Pays

we will pick new questions that match your level based on your Timer History
Not interested in getting valuable practice questions and articles delivered to your email? No problem, unsubscribe here.
Go to My Error Log Learn more
Close
Request Expert Reply
Confirm Cancel
avatar
FinaPhd1981
avatar
Joined: 14 Oct 2009
Last visit: 13 May 2010
Posts: 4
Own Kudos:
1
 [1]
Posts: 4
Kudos: 1
 [1]
Math Courses for Finance Phd 16 Oct 2009, 21:16
Kudos
Add Kudos
1
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
So of all the research into finance phd programs I've done I somehow missed the fact that I would need certain math courses to be accepted such as Calculus I, II and Linear Algebra. I figured I had an undergrad finance degree and MBA so I was good as far as prereq's were concerned. Ugh, I come this far and have done everything to prepare and now realize there's no chance because I'm missing a vital element. :( Without these courses, do I stand any chance of getting into a finance phd program or am I just screwed?
avatar
FinaPhd1981
avatar
Joined: 14 Oct 2009
Last visit: 13 May 2010
Posts: 4
Own Kudos:
1
Posts: 4
Kudos: 1
Math Courses for Finance Phd 18 Oct 2009, 20:49
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
I've decided to wait and apply for Fall 2011. :( What Math courses do I need between now and next fall to apply for Fall 2011? Which courses can I take together in a semester? For example, I know I can't take Calc. I and II together in one semester. Also, I was told by one program that I do not need a formal Linear Algebra course, that I could pick up all I need over a month or so of self study.
avatar
cabro57
avatar
Joined: 25 Apr 2005
Last visit: 14 Jun 2016
Posts: 195
Own Kudos:
52
Given Kudos: 2
Posts: 195
Kudos: 52
Math Courses for Finance Phd 22 Oct 2009, 12:27
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
FinaPhd1981
I've decided to wait and apply for Fall 2011. :( What Math courses do I need between now and next fall to apply for Fall 2011? Which courses can I take together in a semester? For example, I know I can't take Calc. I and II together in one semester. Also, I was told by one program that I do not need a formal Linear Algebra course, that I could pick up all I need over a month or so of self study.
Show more

Some people will tell you that you can pick up anything in a month or so of self study -- I think those are blanket generalizations, and that for many people, taking a class from a good professor will beat self-study anytime.

AFAIK, formal requirements vary a lot from one school to the other, but the fact remains that having received an A in a tough math course is the best evidence you can have to show that you have the required skills. In fact, I'd advise you to take whatever courses you can take (not too many so that you can't perform well in every one of them), if only to signal to whoever will be reading your application that you're prepared to tackle this stuff. Believe me, you'll need calculus and linear algebra in a Finance PhD program.
avatar
air1980
avatar
Joined: 01 Dec 2005
Last visit: 01 May 2011
Posts: 41
Own Kudos:
5
Posts: 41
Kudos: 5
Math Courses for Finance Phd 22 Oct 2009, 18:54
Kudos
Add Kudos
Bookmarks
Bookmark this Post
Realistically you will need Calc1-3 plus linear algebra and a calculus based "stats" course, often called mathematical statistics or something of that nature. Real analysis and would also be quite helpful.
Moderator:
said.tojiboev
PhD Forum Moderator
65 posts