Imperial MSc Finance Rep?
My end goal is to ultimately break into IBD FT (I have quite a bit of experience in IBD already at a BB and MM firm) and was wondering if anyone could tell me more about their reputation across banks in London?
Imperial College Business School's MSc Finance program has a solid reputation in London, particularly for its rigorous curriculum and strong placement in investment banking roles. Based on previous WSO threads, here are some key points about its reputation:
Placement in London IB: Imperial MSc Finance graduates have successfully placed at top-tier banks such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Deutsche Bank, and Barclays, among others. The program is recognized for producing candidates with strong quantitative and analytical skills.
Challenging Curriculum: The MSc Finance at Imperial is considered one of the hardest finance master's programs in the UK. Many students in the program come from strong academic backgrounds in economics and mathematics, which aligns well with the technical demands of investment banking.
Practical Focus: The course is less theoretical compared to programs like LSE's MSc Finance. It offers practical modules and opportunities to develop skills in areas like VBA and Python, which are highly valued in banking roles.
Brand Perception: While Imperial is highly regarded, it is often seen as slightly below LSE, LBS, and Oxbridge in terms of brand strength for finance roles. However, its reputation is still strong enough to secure interviews and offers, especially when combined with prior IBD experience like yours.
Networking Opportunities: Imperial provides access to a robust alumni network and career services that can help you connect with professionals in the industry.
Given your prior experience in IBD at both BB and MM firms, the Imperial MSc Finance could be a strong choice to solidify your technical skills and expand your network, making you a competitive candidate for full-time roles in London.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/admitted-to-imperial-college-business-school-msc-finance-and-lse-msc-finance-for-2019?customgpt=1, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, 2018 UK Target Uni - MSc - for FO jobs: put your POV, Profile Evaluation: MSc in Finance at LBS, LSE, Imperial, Said or MIT, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs LSE MSc Accounting and Finance
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If you’ve already got BB and MM IBD experience, you’re in a strong spot. In London, rep varies a bit by group, but overall the scene values pedigree + performance. People care more about deal experience and how well you can talk through it than just firm name. If you're targeting top FT IBD roles, just be ready to walk through your deals in depth and have a clear story. Also, some boutiques and elite independents are really stepping up their game here lately, worth keeping on your radar.
I went there a few years ago - everyone who ultimately wanted to get into IBD (not just said they did) got in. Probably did better with EBs than BBs, but that's a general trend ATM. EBs prefer people who can hit the desk running, and as you'd expect masters students fit the bill there. Aside from that, it's a great year and I'd thoroughly recommend.
Was it mainly summers, off-cycles or FT?
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