Imperial efds vs Cambridge econ for hf

Fortunate enough to receive an offer for Imperial Economics, finance and data science, as well as Econ at Cambridge.

The former is a relatively new programme so doesn’t have a huge alumni network or much info on placements, but is much more stem focused as the name suggests, so I imagine recruits better for quant type roles.

Cambridge has the name brand factor, cheaper CoL, and cool student life imo, but the course seems more dated (British economic history?).

Any opinions on which I should firm/ insure?

24 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown to help you decide:

  1. Imperial Economics, Finance, and Data Science (EFDS):

    • Pros:
      • The program is STEM-focused, which aligns well with the technical and quantitative skills sought after in hedge fund (HF) and quant roles.
      • Imperial's growing reputation in finance and data science makes it a strong contender for technical finance positions.
      • Opportunities to develop programming and data analysis skills (e.g., Python, VBA) are highly valued in the quant finance space.
    • Cons:
      • Being a newer program, it lacks a well-established alumni network and proven placement track record, which could be a disadvantage for networking and recruiting.
  2. Cambridge Economics:

    • Pros:
      • Cambridge's global prestige and strong alumni network are unmatched, especially in traditional finance roles.
      • The brand name carries significant weight in hedge fund recruiting, particularly for non-quantitative roles.
      • Lower cost of living and a vibrant student life add to the overall experience.
    • Cons:
      • The course content may feel less modern or technical (e.g., British economic history), which might not align as well with the skillset required for quant-heavy roles.

Key Considerations for Hedge Fund Careers: - If you're targeting quantitative hedge fund roles, Imperial EFDS might be the better fit due to its STEM and data science focus. - For traditional hedge fund roles or broader finance opportunities, Cambridge's brand and alumni network could give you a significant edge.

Recommendation: - If you're leaning towards a quant-focused career, firm Imperial EFDS and insure Cambridge. - If you're unsure or prefer a broader finance career path, firm Cambridge and insure Imperial.

Ultimately, your decision should align with your career goals and the type of hedge fund roles you're aiming for. Both are excellent options, so you can't go wrong!

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/admitted-to-imperial-college-business-school-msc-finance-and-lse-msc-finance-for-2019?customgpt=1, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT, HEC Paris / Cambridge / Imperial, Dartmouth vs Stern, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 

Doubling this: DO NOT

let me try again

DO NOT come to Imperial for the EFDS programme. 

 

cam econ it’s not even close lol

it’s like choosing to play at real madrid or man united

 
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Analyst 2 in IB-M&A

Imperial EFDS is a very new program (2nd cohort) so for sure all the Cambridge bros will argue for their Uni. But key point is that EFDS has a 4% admission rate vs. 14% for Cambridge Econ. Think long-term in the end, everything is based on selectivity

One of the dumbest takes on this forum 

 

Yeah I’m not sure choosing a course based on its offer rate is sensible. Particularly given the applicant pools are likely v different (lots of international students throwing in weak applications for efds because it’s imperial)

 

It doesnt matter... There are maybe 15 good seats each year in london at the top hedge funds across all the asset classes. The final decision isnt going to be 'ahhh he went to imperial to do EFDS not cambridge econ so we arnt going to give him the offer'. Some exeter grad landed a seat under chris foster on the european gas team at citadel (the most succesful pod ever most likely). Go somewhere that you will enjoy the course and allow you to do things that will make you standout 

 

Its really just how good the PM is that you will work under. The better the PM the better your life is going to be at these funds. Easiest way to do this in the UK is to check on company house and see if the PM is a partner. If they are a partner then you have an exceptional seat

 

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