Looking for help in choosing London Master’s degree
Hi,
I am planning on doing a Master’s degree in London starting in September 2026. I am looking for a Master’s that would in the long-term set me up for a career in public market investing, but in the short-term open me up to a wide range of opportunities. I haven’t done GMAT so my options are limited. The universities I am considering are Imperial, Warwick, UCL & Bayes. I have previously completed an undergraduate degree in Finance.
Order of choice:
- Imperial: Not sure whether to do MSc Finance, MSc Investment and Wealth Management, or MSc Economics and Strategy for Business. I am swaying towards MSc Finance although I have already completed a Finance degree.
- Warwick: MSc Economics and Finance.
- UCL: MSc Finance
- Bayes: I’m favouring MSc Finance (Investment Management) over MSc Finance (Corporate Finance) as I’d prefer ER over IB, but I am open to MSc Finance (Corporate Finance) if it would open more opportunities.
FYI: I am sitting CFA Level I in August, and have completed ER internships at BB, and a quant trading firm.
Any advice regarding University ranking, and course choice is very much appreciated.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown to help you decide:
University Rankings and Reputation:
Imperial College London: Among the universities listed, Imperial has the strongest global reputation, particularly for finance-related programs. Its MSc Finance is highly regarded and offers excellent placement opportunities in both public market investing and broader finance roles. The MSc Investment and Wealth Management is more niche, focusing on asset management and private wealth, while the MSc Economics and Strategy for Business leans more towards corporate strategy and consulting. Given your background in finance and interest in public market investing, the MSc Finance would likely be the best fit.
Warwick Business School: Warwick's MSc Economics and Finance is a solid program, but it is slightly more academic and theoretical compared to Imperial. While Warwick has a strong reputation in the UK, it may not carry the same weight internationally as Imperial.
UCL: UCL's MSc Finance is a newer program compared to Imperial and Warwick. While UCL is a prestigious university overall, its finance program is still building its reputation. It could be a good option if you prefer staying in London and want a strong academic brand.
Bayes Business School (formerly Cass): Bayes is well-known for its finance programs and strong industry connections, particularly in London. The MSc Finance (Investment Management) aligns well with your interest in equity research (ER) and public market investing. However, the MSc Finance (Corporate Finance) could open more doors in investment banking (IB) and other corporate finance roles, which might provide broader opportunities in the short term.
Course Selection:
Additional Considerations:
Recommendation:
If you're still unsure, consider reaching out to alumni from these programs to gain insights into their experiences and career outcomes.
Sources: European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, Which masters to choose?
This is a no brainer: Imperial. Either the MSc finance or MSc finance and accounting
Thanks for the insight. Since I’ve already studied Finance for undergrad do you think it’s a bad idea to study MSc Finance? Which of the two would you favour?
I'd say pure MSc Finance, just because the F&A is easier to get into and less "prestigious"
However, I've heard the pure msc finance is quite quant heavy, so make sure you are half decent at maths.
Anecdotally, I've heard that the F&A has previously placed better since the curriculum is more relevant for IB/M&A. The msc finance would open doors to trading/markets roles given its quant focus
If you wait to get CFA level 1 first you can apply to LBS MFA as well.
imo don't go to Imperial
especially if business school degrees, they're not as good as they say they are
LBS (ik you haven't done GMAT) or UCL is more likely to give you better odds
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