2 answers
Logan
Student
Dalton, Massachusetts
1
Question
Updated
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What science class would be the best in I want to go into finance?
I want to go into finance and I don't know what science class I should take for my senior year.
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2 answers
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
62
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
Hi Logan,
If you want the most practical option, AP Statistics is honestly the best choice if your school counts it as a science or lets it replace one. Stats shows up everywhere in finance, from data analysis to risk and forecasting, and colleges love seeing it. If stats isn’t an option, physics is another strong pick. It’s very math and logic based, and it shows you can handle problem solving and quantitative thinking, which finance programs care about a lot.
If you’re deciding between bio, chem, or physics and you’re not super into science, I’d usually recommend physics over the others for finance. Biology and chemistry are more memorization heavy, while physics is more about applying formulas and reasoning, which lines up better with finance and economics. That said, the best class is still the one where you can do well. A strong grade in a slightly less “impressive” class is better than struggling in something you hate.
Bottom line: stats if possible, physics if not, and otherwise choose the science where you’ll learn something and keep your GPA strong. Finance cares way more about math, stats, and analytical thinking than about which specific science you took.
If you want the most practical option, AP Statistics is honestly the best choice if your school counts it as a science or lets it replace one. Stats shows up everywhere in finance, from data analysis to risk and forecasting, and colleges love seeing it. If stats isn’t an option, physics is another strong pick. It’s very math and logic based, and it shows you can handle problem solving and quantitative thinking, which finance programs care about a lot.
If you’re deciding between bio, chem, or physics and you’re not super into science, I’d usually recommend physics over the others for finance. Biology and chemistry are more memorization heavy, while physics is more about applying formulas and reasoning, which lines up better with finance and economics. That said, the best class is still the one where you can do well. A strong grade in a slightly less “impressive” class is better than struggling in something you hate.
Bottom line: stats if possible, physics if not, and otherwise choose the science where you’ll learn something and keep your GPA strong. Finance cares way more about math, stats, and analytical thinking than about which specific science you took.
Tian Drechsel
Finance and Strategy
6
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Tian’s Answer
Hi Logan,
I would agree that Statistics or something in Data/Computer Science would be very relevant and useful.
As someone who works in Finance, a good understanding of data and the ability to identify trends and discern good data from bad are becoming increasingly important.
Computer science is also a very practical option. Being a master coder may not be the goal, but understanding how systems and automation work is a great skill. Basic Excel logic can be a great advantage in itself.
I would agree that Statistics or something in Data/Computer Science would be very relevant and useful.
As someone who works in Finance, a good understanding of data and the ability to identify trends and discern good data from bad are becoming increasingly important.
Computer science is also a very practical option. Being a master coder may not be the goal, but understanding how systems and automation work is a great skill. Basic Excel logic can be a great advantage in itself.