Hey everyone! I need some guidance on picking my major. I’m torn between studying Finance or Economics, and I’m planning to add a Computer Science minor to either choice.
I want to develop skills in programming languages like Python and SQL, plus get really good with Excel for data work. My career interests are pretty broad - I’m thinking about roles in financial technology, economic research, business consulting, or maybe even government policy work later on.
I’m also keeping grad school as a possibility down the road, so I want to make sure my undergrad choice doesn’t limit me.
Can anyone share thoughts on:
- Which major gives you more career paths to choose from
- How much does adding the CS minor really help with job prospects
- What’s the best combo if you want to mix business knowledge with technical skills
I’m also looking at schools outside the US (thinking Europe or Southeast Asia) if anyone has recommendations for good programs that won’t break the bank.
Thanks for any advice you can share!
Go with Economics over Finance - it’s way more versatile, especially since you’re interested in both policy work and research. Finance gives you specialized knowledge for financial services, but Economics builds broader analytical skills you can use anywhere. Plus the math-heavy coursework pairs perfectly with programming and your CS minor.
The CS minor is huge - it separates you from regular business grads and makes you a hybrid professional. In today’s world, that technical edge gets you into algorithmic trading, quant analysis, and fintech roles. Python and SQL skills alone will open tons of data science doors at financial firms.
For international options, check out University of Amsterdam or NUS Singapore. Both have solid Economics programs with great industry ties, cost way less than US schools, and teach in English. You’ll also get exposed to different economic systems and regulations, which is perfect for your policy interests.
both are solid choices, but i’d go with economics. my finance major roommate struggled finding work outside banking, while my econ degree opened doors everywhere - consulting, government, tech startups. definitely add the cs minor though. employers love that combo right now. also check out poland or czech republic - their programs are getting really good for international students and way more affordable.
Honestly? Everyone pushes economics, but finance isn’t as limiting as people think. Sure, econ sounds more “intellectual,” but finance teaches you how money actually works - pretty useful stuff. The CS minor is overhyped too. Yeah, it helps, but half these “coding will save you” posts come from people who took one Python class. If you’re dead set on policy work, go econ. For international schools, check out Eastern Europe - way cheaper with solid programs that nobody talks about.
From my time in tech-finance, both majors work great, but Economics gives you more options down the road. Econ builds stronger analytical skills that work everywhere - policy, consulting, fintech, you name it. The quantitative stuff meshes well with programming too. Finance is more narrow, focused on financial services, but just as solid if that’s your target. Definitely get the CS minor - I’ve watched it set candidates apart, especially for algorithmic trading, risk modeling, or financial data work. Most employers expect basic coding skills now, even in traditional finance. For international programs, check out the Netherlands or Singapore. They’ve got solid English programs that won’t break the bank like US schools.