About U-M Quant
What Makes the U-M Quant Program Different?
The Master of Science in Quantitative Finance and Risk Management is an interdisciplinary graduate program jointly overseen by the University of Michigan’s Department of Mathematics and Department of Statistics, each of which is among the top-ranked programs in its field.
The program focuses intensely on advanced mathematical and statistical methods. Graduates have sophisticated quantitative skills that enable them to apply their knowledge to the solution of real world financial problems as quantitative analysts, financial engineers, risk managers, traders, developers, and other roles in the financial industry.
As evidence of our commitment to excellence, we proudly hold affiliation with the International Association of Quantitative Finance (IAQF) since 2018. Moreover, our consistent inclusion on the Fancy Quant Honorable Mentions (most recently in 2026), along with the prestigious Gold Badge of Approval from Fancy Quant, highlights the distinguished status of our program in the field.
“The Quant program has been an important part of my academic development. What I valued most was the program’s rigorous training, which allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the growing role of quantitative finance in financial markets. The coursework helped me connect theoretical concepts with real-world financial problems and strengthened my interest in machine learning for finance. This experience ultimately encouraged me to pursue a PhD. I also greatly appreciated the support and guidance from the faculty, who encouraged me to think independently.”
– Zhaofeng Zhang, M.S. ’26, Ph.D. Student at The University of Edinburgh
Advanced Coursework
Our curriculum provides students with a robust foundation in mathematical and statistical methods. This is achieved through completion of four intensive core course sequences led by esteemed faculty from our Mathematics and Statistics departments. Elective courses in economics, finance, engineering, mathematics, and statistics enable students to customize their education to align with their career goals and interests, fostering collaboration with peers across the university. Typically completed between three to four semesters, students earn a minimum total of 36 credits.
Preparation for a PhD Program
Due to the rigorous and highly theoretical nature of our curriculum, our students are well-prepared to pursue doctoral programs at prestigious institutions worldwide. Currently, 16% of our graduates have enrolled in PhD programs at esteemed universities such as University of Oxford, Carnegie Mellon University, Boston University, and the University of Sydney.
Comprehensive Career Resources
The U-M Quant program is designed to produce superior mathematicians to work in the financial industry. In addition to completing our demanding coursework, Quant students are expected to gain hands-on industry experience by completing a summer internship between the second and third semesters. Students have access to a wealth of career preparation resources by the University of Michigan Career Center and the Quant Career Services Manager, including individual consultations, workshops on resume preparation, employer information sessions, career fairs, and on-campus interviewing.
An Elite Community at a Global University
Quant students are members of a close-knit cohort of 30 students while still reaping the benefits of attending one of the largest, most prestigious and iconic public research universities in the country. Our inclusive, talented, and collaborative student community provides Quant students with a supportive and stimulating environment while they are here and translates into lifelong alumni connections after graduation. The University of Michigan alumni network spans the globe and offers students a wealth of benefits and opportunities during their enrollment and beyond.