About Quantitative Analysis
The curriculum for the qualitative analysis concentration emphasizes the skills needed to analyze market data in fast-paced industries such as manufacturing, financial services, and advertising, and provides the technical training required to engage in consulting. Quantitative analysis is used by attorneys, accountants, engineers, health service administrators, urban planners and government agencies. The concentration provides skills for forecasting, data analysis and quantitative economics, and offers a solid foundation for graduate study in economics and business.
Career Pathways
Business analysts focus on identifying business needs, requirements, and solutions, often bridging the gap between the IT and business sides of an organization. They effectively communicate their findings and strategic recommendations to management, supporting informed decision-making through detailed visuals and robust financial models.
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Key Recruiting Programs & Timelines
Recruiting happens on a rolling basis for most business analytics programs, starting in August. There a number of notable Business Analyst programs for early grads, like Deloitte’s Business Technology Program.
Data analysts play a crucial role in shaping business strategy by collecting, cleaning, and analyzing data to uncover actionable insights. Their expertise in data visualization and presentation helps stakeholders make informed decisions, driving the business forward with clarity and precision.
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Key Recruiting Programs & Timelines
Recruiting happens on a rolling basis for most business analytics programs, starting in August. There a number of notable Data Analytics programs, including Bank of America: Sophomore Technology Analyst Program and NVIDIA Ignite Internship.
Financial analysts utilize quantitative data to forecast market trends and assess investment opportunities. They apply statistical tools and models to guide strategic financial decisions, helping organizations optimize profitability and mitigate risks.
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Consultants work across various industries to assess business practices and identify areas for improvement, crafting strategies to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. A background in analysis enables them to forecast trends and outcomes, ensuring that their recommendations are deeply informed and highly actionable.
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Key Recruiting Programs & Timelines
Recruiting happens on a rolling basis for most business analytics programs, starting in Winter for the next Summer Internship cycle (18 months before internship start date) and August for full-time positions the following summer (nine months before start date). There are a number of Consulting programs for internships and early career opportunities, including:
- PWC Women’s Consulting Experience, Start
- Deloitte Discovery
- EY Launch
- KPMG Embark, Rise
- Accenture SLP
Actuaries specialize in managing risk and uncertainty, using mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to study uncertain future events, especially those that are insurable. They apply their analytical skills to help financial institutions, businesses, and clients develop policies that minimize the cost of that risk, ensuring economic stability and growth.
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Product managers oversee the development and lifecycle of a product, guiding cross-functional teams to ensure that business goals align with customer needs and market demand. They strategize product roadmaps, coordinate development stages, and analyze market data to optimize product performance and success.
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Graduate Outcomes
Top Jobs
- Associate Consultant
- Associate Data Analyst
- Business Analyst
- Risk Consulting Associate
- Model Success Analyst
- Associate Functional Consultant
- Data Analytics Intern
- Business Insurance Underwriting Professional Development Program
- Alternative Investment Fund
- Risk and Financial Advisory Analyst
- Financial Advisor
- IT Consultant
- Data Analyst
- Associate Microsoft Dynamics 365 Consultant
Salary Report
- $90,000 - Median Based Salary
- $5,875 - Median Signing Bonus
*7 respondents from 2022-23 Graduate Status Report
Top Companies
- RSM
- Palo Alto Networks
- ADP
- Genesis Financial Solutions
- Amazon
- FICO
- Ficelity Investments
Quanitative Analysis Alumni Mentors
Rose Hoang: Data Engineer @ Google
Rose works for Google as a Data Engineer/Analyst specializing in risk and access management. She mainly supports clients in various sectors, helping them solve their challenging data management and security concerns. Outside of her main work, she enjoys spending her time sewing, bouldering, and discovering new culinary experiences.
Peter Zwart: Senior Analyst @ BetMGM
Peter’s career in data spans across healthcare with CipherHealth and entertainment with the Walt Disney Company and BetMGM. During his time as a student at Cal Poly, he enhanced his knowledge in organizational behavior and negotiation while concentrating in Management & Human Resources. He further expanded his technical skills by completing the Master’s in Business Analytics program. Outside of work, Peter enjoys a wide variety of interests including sports, sneakers, books, and games of all kinds.
Matthew: Senior Business Systems Analyst @ Unity
Matthew is an IT and Financial Systems professional with 5 years of experience, primarily focused on Workday Financials in the tech and media space. His expertise lies in implementing and enhancing ERP systems, supporting accounting, finance, and procurement reporting & processes. Outside of work, Matthew enjoys gaming, playing and listening to music, playing and watching sports, and traveling to new places.
Connect with Alumni
To gain mentorship from these alumni or other industry professionals, apply to the Alumni Mentoring Program or reach out on Cal Poly Career Connections. Mentors exist in various pathways in Information Systems and provide career-related support to launch your career.