CQF Institute launches Quant Foundations as demand grows for technical and AI skills in finance

Key highlights:

• Addressing the skills gap: The launch follows CQF Institute research that found that 88% of quant finance professionals believe there is a quant skills gap, with the majority concerned that new graduates do not currently have the AI and machine learning skills to succeed in the field.

  New program: CQF Institute has launched Quant Foundations, a self-paced, e-learning program designed to help finance professionals build the technical skills increasingly required across modern finance.

• Comprehensive curriculum: The program covers finance fundamentals, Python programming, mathematics, data science, machine learning and AI foundations.

• AI coaching: AI coaches provide on-demand guidance and study support.

The CQF Institute, part of Fitch Learning, has launched Quant Foundations, a new self-paced, e-learning program designed to help professionals develop the foundational skills used across modern quantitative finance.

As data, automation, AI and machine learning reshape financial services, demand for quantitative capabilities is growing. However, there are concerns about how prepared the industry is for this shift. CQF Institute research found that 88% of quantitative finance professionals believe the industry faces a quant skills gap, while less than 9% believe that new graduates possess the AI and machine learning expertise needed to succeed in the field today. 

Quant Foundations responds to this changing landscape by making the core disciplines of quantitative finance more accessible. Designed for finance professionals seeking to strengthen their quantitative capabilities, as well as those considering a career in the field, the program provides a practical entry point and a foundation for more advanced study. 

Practical entry route and executive perspective on technical training

Andreas Karaiskos, CEO of Fitch Learning, said:

"One of the clearest messages we hear from both employers and practitioners is that demand for technical skills continues to grow, yet many professionals are unsure how to begin developing them. Quant Foundations provides an accessible, structured route into the core disciplines of quantitative finance. By combining expert-led digital learning with on-demand AI coaching, it is designed to help learners build the knowledge and confidence to engage more effectively with the future of finance."

Fully online and self-paced, Quant Foundations brings together four areas: Finance Fundamentals; Python Programming for Quantitative Finance; Mathematics for Quantitative Finance; and Data Science, Machine Learning and AI Foundations. The program can be completed in around eight weeks. By the end of the program, learners will be better equipped to understand financial markets and quantitative models, work with Python and financial data, and engage with machine learning and AI concepts increasingly used across financial services.

Designed by industry experts, Quant Foundations also features AI coaching, powered by Founderz. Learners are supported throughout the program by dedicated AI coaches designed to provide on-demand support for each of the four units, answer questions, explain concepts, reinforce learning, and help learners progress through the program at their own pace.

On successful completion, learners receive a digital credential from the CQF Institute recognizing the knowledge developed through the program. Quant Foundations can also serve as a stepping stone to more advanced quantitative study, including the CQF Institute’s globally recognized Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF).

About CQF Institute

The CQF Institute, part of Fitch Learning, is a global membership organization in quantitative finance. As the awarding body for the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF) and Quant Foundations, the CQF Institute provides learning opportunities and career support to quant finance professionals worldwide. With over 40,000 members, it delivers world-class conferences, talks, society meetings, and provides access to exclusive resources, including Wilmott Magazine, research, videos, podcasts, and a dedicated job board. The CQF Institute is the hub for advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and building connections in the quantitative finance community.

About Fitch Learning

Fitch Learning, part of Fitch Group, is a trusted global provider of financial education. Built on deep expertise in credit and strengthened by broad experience across financial services, Fitch Learning delivers impactful learning solutions through client-focused programs, courses and professional qualifications. Harnessing digital innovation and AI-driven learning tools, Fitch Learning empowers organizations worldwide to build future-ready teams. Fitch Learning owns the Canadian Securities Institute, CQF Institute, and the Global Institute of Credit Professionals, dedicated to supporting finance professionals throughout their career journeys.