Should I pick Computing, or Finance without programming knowledge?

2

Many people said you can still get into financial field without a finance degree.
It seems computing provides a wider range of options for me.
but the biggest problem is I dont know any coding or programming, can I get into computing/data science in uni?
I got decent math skills and does it helps?

Reply 1

MindMax2000

22

Original post

by sad-consciousnes

Many people said you can still get into financial field without a finance degree.
It seems computing provides a wider range of options for me.
but the biggest problem is I dont know any coding or programming, can I get into computing/data science in uni?
I got decent math skills and does it helps?

The entry requirements for computer science degrees are A Level Maths + 2 other A Levels, all at the right grades.
For some universities, they accept Computer Science or Physics A Level in place of Maths, but Maths is the most common requirement. In some universities, you don't need specific subjects so long you meet the grade requirements.

Although I haven't done a computer science degree, what most people say about it is it's very numerate hence the requirement for maths and quantitative subjects.
In terms of programming, it's something you can pick up on the side (I personally use online courses and YouTube videos such as Harvard's CS50 course - roughly 30 hours if you work hard on it) to sharpen my proficiency. The degree itself should teach you everything from the ground up (with extra hoops to jump through), so you shouldn't be thrown in the deep, deep end.

Requirements for data science degrees would be similar to that of computer science.

What I should point out is that you don't need degrees in computer science or data science in order to get into either fields. Some professionals in the field say computer science degrees still have their use in terms of employment, but I keep seeing alternatives to get into the field.
What the main concern of employers in data science and tech is is that you are skilful and proficient enough to do the job. They normally give you coding tests during the interview stage to see how good you are. Irrespective of what qualifications you have and how many of them you have (even if you have none), if you are good enough in the interview you are usually good enough to get the job.

For finance, you should get the appropriate qualification for the specific role that you want to apply for. Getting a qualification in stockbrokering for example won't allow you to become an insurance salesperson or a financial advisor.

If you want, you can do a master's in finance with an undergrad in CS, and vice versa. You can't however do a master's in advanced CS with an undergrad in finance though.

Reply 2

McGinger

20

Original post

by sad-consciousnes

Many people said you can still get into financial field without a finance degree.
It seems computing provides a wider range of options for me.
but the biggest problem is I dont know any coding or programming, can I get into computing/data science in uni?
I got decent math skills and does it helps?

It usually surprises people that you dont need an A level in Comp Sci to do this as a degree - you do need Maths.
So no, it wont matter that you have no previous experience but you do need to have a convincing case for 'why CS' for your Personal Statement.

If you are undecided between two different degree subjects, go to some Uni Open Days and sign up for the course presentation chats in both subjects. Compare and contrast, and then make a decision about what sounds more interesting.

And btw, there are also joint subject degrees etc :
Finance and Technology (FinTech) BSc : University of Sussex
Financial Computing BSc (Hons) - 2025/26 entry - Courses - University of Liverpool
Aberystwyth University - Accounting and Finance and Computing NG34 BSc
Etc etc

Should I pick Computing, or Finance without programming knowledge?

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