M.S. in Quantitative Finance & Risk Analytics (STEM-Designated)

Build the quantitative, analytical, and modeling expertise driving today’s financial decisions.

Top-Ranked. High-Impact. Career-Ready.

Prepare for advanced, data-driven roles in finance with the #6 Financial Engineering Program in the U.S., focused on quantitative analysis, risk modeling, and financial technology.

Designed for students with strong quantitative backgrounds, this two-semester program blends rigorous technical training with real-world financial applications. You’ll build advanced analytical, programming, and modeling skills used by today’s financial institutions, fintech firms, and global markets.

Why Choose a Quantitative Finance Master’s Program at Lally?

Gain high-demand skills at the intersection of finance, technology, and data analytics. Our quantitative finance graduate program empowers you to:

  • Develop financial models and conduct empirical research.
  • Analyze market risks using computational finance tools.
  • Learn directly from top industry practitioners and advisors.
  • Participate in internships and co-curricular activities that prepare you for real-world challenges.

This financial engineering master's program is ideal for students with strong quantitative backgrounds who want to work in high-impact roles across global markets.

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What You’ll Learn

Graduates of the Quantitative Finance and Risk Analytics MS program will:

  • Master financial modeling, valuation, and forecasting.
  • Build expertise in quantitative risk analysis and statistical techniques.
  • Use modern computational tools for financial data analysis.
  • Understand financial institutions, markets, and regulatory environments.
  • Design investment strategies and optimize risk-return decisions.

Explore Quantitative Finance Courses

Career Paths in Financial Engineering and Risk Analytics

Quantitative finance salaries can start as high as $175,000 for associate positions, making it one of the most lucrative career paths. Many Lally graduates work at leading firms in finance, investment management, insurance, and tech-driven financial services.

Our finance and risk analytics master's degree opens doors to roles such as:

  • Financial Analyst
  • Quantitative Risk Analyst
  • Investment Banking Consultant
  • Private Equity Analyst
  • Credit Risk Specialist
  • Finance Portfolio Manager
  • Financial Controller

Where Do Quantitative Finance & Risk Analytics Graduates Work?

Our alumni are shaping the future of finance at top companies such as Bank of America, Merrill Lynch, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, IBM, Citibank, Boeing, GEICO, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions About the M.S. in Quantitative Finance and Risk Analytics

Yes. This program is officially STEM-designated, enabling international students to apply for a 24-month OPT extension following graduation. This is especially valuable for those seeking long-term roles in the U.S. financial sector or fintech industry.

Graduates are prepared for roles such as:

  • Quantitative Analyst
  • Financial Risk Manager
  • Investment Strategist
  • Data Analyst in Banking or Insurance
  • Fintech Product Manager
  • Portfolio Risk Analyst

Many Lally graduates work at leading firms in finance, investment management, insurance, and tech-driven financial services.

The top-ranked M.S. in Quantitative Finance and Risk Analytics from Lally emphasizes technical, data-driven approaches to financial decision-making. You’ll gain hands-on experience with financial modeling, Python, R, MATLAB, and risk simulation tools, preparing you for high-level quantitative roles. The program also benefits from RPI’s strong focus on technology and interdisciplinary collaboration.

While a background in finance, economics, mathematics, engineering, or computer science is preferred, students from other disciplines are welcome. Applicants should be comfortable with quantitative coursework and show strong analytical reasoning. Coding experience is helpful but not required.

The M.S. in Quantitative Finance can typically be completed in two semesters (Fall, Spring) or over a more flexible schedule, depending on student needs.

Yes. Students engage in project-based coursework, simulations, and case studies involving real financial market data, risk scenarios, and portfolio analysis. Lally also provides access to Bloomberg terminals and financial software platforms.

Students gain practical experience with:

  • Python, R, and MATLAB for financial analytics
  • Excel for advanced modeling and scenario analysis
  • Financial databases and APIs (e.g., Bloomberg, FactSet)
  • Risk simulation and valuation tools

An MBA in finance is broader in scope, covering management, strategy, and leadership alongside financial content. The M.S. in Quantitative Finance is more technical and analytics-heavy, focused specifically on preparing students for quant or risk analytics roles in modern finance.

Learn More and Apply

Take the next step in your finance career with a STEM-designated master’s in quantitative finance. Whether your goal is Wall Street, FinTech, or energy markets, RPI’s Lally School provides the skills, support, and network to succeed.

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