Human Development Degree

In the fast-evolving world of business, quantitative analysis techniques are used for decision making and enhancing productivity in organizations. As business competition grows, the need for effectiveness, reliance, and quality control is more than ever. Apart from strong management, resources, labor, and finance, it is crucially important that firms use quantitative techniques to understand business processes, identify problems, and provide suitable solutions.

Quantitative analysis can be described as a branch of mathematics that uses various statistical, arithmetic, and geometric practices to extract and analyze data.

The demand for quantitative analysts has increased in many industries ranging from insurance to banking and from manufacturing to services. Firms are on the pursuit of finding qualified analysts with relevant skills and qualifications.
Quantitative analysis can be pursed as an academic field at undergraduate, graduate, and PhD level. You can also consider enrolling in training programs and courses. There is also a possibility to pursue a quantitative analysis course online.

Many colleges are offering quantitative analysis as a major in undergraduate business programs. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree with major in quantitative analysis aims at equipping students with in-depth knowledge of business management and an understanding of data analysis.  It typically takes four years to complete the program during which students will attend classroom lectures and practical learning sessions. The curriculum will vary from college to college, but will generally include courses such as the following:

• Principles of management
• Information technology
• Quantitative modeling
• Mathematics
• Market research
• Risk management
• Management consulting

This is a graduate level degree that usually takes two years to complete. A limited number of accredited universities are offering MA in quantitative analysis. The program is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of tools and techniques used for business-related quantitative research.  Students will learn how to apply research techniques and methods.
In the initial phase of the program, students will cover fundamental subjects highlighting the integration of research in areas such as economics, political science, statistics, etc. Further in the program, advanced areas are covered that help students gain hands-on experience. The curriculum may vary a little but colleges and universities generally cover areas such as the following:

• Techniques of quantitative analysis
• Social research
• Design
• Data workshop
• Data science
• Economics
• Data analysis

An MBA is an advanced business qualification sought by many.  The MBA quantitative analysis program covers all main aspects of business management and administration. Alongside gaining in-depth understanding of business functions, students can also choose an area for specialization. In the last phase of the program, students will be required to cover a range of subjects/courses related to quantitative analysis. These courses will enable students to build analytical skills and learn how to use quantitative analysis techniques. Here are some of the commonly covered courses in quantitative analysis MBA:

• Business research
• Strategic management
• Applied statistics for managers
• Quantitative analysis for decision-making
• Operations management

PhD in Quantitative Analysis
Graduate students who wish to acquire expertise in the field of quantitative analysis and land research-oriented jobs in the industry are recommended to earn a PhD in this field. The program can be completed in 4-8 years.
The program gives students the opportunity to learn about advanced areas of applied statistics, research and mathematical programming. Students will cover a range of subjects that highlight various aspects of quantitative analysis and its application in the business world. The program is typically divided into the following:

• Coursework

Students must complete a series of business core and methodology courses such as information systems, organizational theory, qualitative analysis, and quantitative research methods, etc. The curriculum may vary a little from college to college. Developing a sound basis of theoretical knowledge is important before moving onto the practice-based component of the program.

• Qualifying Examination

In this exam, students must demonstrate their understanding of research and analysis; identify the purpose of their research. The exam is conducted by assigned faculty members and can be written or oral.

• Independent Research

The research area in quantitative analysis degree enables students to practically apply theories to a chosen subject area. Students can devise and implement research that will form the basis of a dissertation.

• Dissertation

The dissertation is the final stage of the program. Students must develop a written dissertation that meets all standards set by the dissertation committee. The dissertation should reflect the research, findings, and conclusion.

• Resolve business problems and analyze issues in the corporate field
• Develop strong business and communication skills
• Apply statistical and mathematical quantitative methods
• Understand how technology impacts the use of statistical research methods
• Understand the limitations and implications of quantitative analysis
• Gain an in-depth understanding of quantitative analysis and its integration with other fields such as finance and management

• Communication skills
• Numeracy skills
• Analysis skills
• Problem-solving skills
• Decision-making skills
• Assessment skills
• Business writing skills
• Report writing skills

The admission requirements of a degree in quantitative analysis will vary from university to university, and will also depend upon the level of degree you are aiming for. For enrollment in an undergrad program, a high school diploma will be required.
Master’s degree admission criteria:

• Submit the official transcript of a bachelor degree
• Meet a minimum CGPA requirement
• Provide letters of recommendation

PhD degree admission criteria:

• Submit the official transcript of a master’s degree
• Submit letters of recommendation
• Other requirements may include passing an entry test (varies from college to college)

With a degree in quantitative analysis, you can look forward to a range of careers in private and public institutions. Here are some job positions that fall in this category:

• Quantitative Investment Manager – You will work with portfolio managers and develop various strategies for investments and business plans.
• Risk Manager – As a risk manager, you will identify and analyze risks in workplaces. Your job will mainly revolve around reducing risks by analyzing risk models, investment risks, financial risks, etc.
• Algorithm Trading Quantitative Analysts – Your job will be to basically analyze trading data and help improve organizational performance. You may be required to conduct researches, understand market and trading scenarios, and use algorithmic trading software.

The income level is likely to vary from place to place and will depend upon factors such as level of degree, location, employer, etc. Risk management specialists made a median annual income of $62,510 in 2013, according to data provided by O*NET OnLine. The field is diverse and growing, and is opening up many challenging career opportunities.