Hi all, I work as a quant analyst in the public sector in Canada, basically doing data analysis with R, SQL, SAS, but I'd like to switch to a more software focused role. I am a BSc. Econ grad with 4.0 GPA, and have passed the CFA level I & II exams, so I'm thinking that perhaps a software dev role in a pension fund, big bank, or fintech co. would be a good fit.<p>I've been accepted to a 20 month CS second degree program at the University of British Columbia. Keep in mind, the tuition is much cheaper than US tuition, being $5,506.80 per year for CS. However, I think it would cost me around $48,000 for the degree, including living costs & fees, and I'd have to move.<p>I'm in my late twenties and would like to make this transition quickly. I could go on unpaid leave to complete it, however, the opportunity cost of lost salary would be large. I don't know whether I should self study, contribute to OSS if I can and build a portfolio, or get the credential. My thoughts have been consumed by this decision for weeks and my opinion seems to change daily - help me make up my damn mind!
If you want to look at it clinically, what are the full costs of relocation, education and two years without pay coupled with when do you plan to retire? You have that age minus about 30 to make up the difference. If you believe your new education can get you a 8% lift in compensation then you are likely going to come out ahead (financially).<p>Now throw into the mix, whatever your estimated change in satisfaction is, discounted by the risk of being unemployed during a major downturn.<p>If it were me, I think the reward does not match the situational risk, but I have kids. If I was keen on the training, then taking courses part-time might be a viable alternative.<p>If you can program in R you might also ask yourself if you are already qualified for the job you seek. In fact, what you are looking for might be considered a step down.<p>In the end, only you can say if it is worth it.