MIF and Msc Opinions
Hello everyone,
I have recently received several Master’s offers and would greatly appreciate your insights regarding their positioning and ability to facilitate entry into the European job market.
The programs are the following:
- MSc Finance & Accounting – Imperial College (1 year)
- Master in Finance – ESSEC (1 year)
- MSc Finance – Bocconi University (2 years)
For context, I completed a top 3 BBA in France, and my goal is to pursue a career in Investment Banking or Private Equity in Europe. I am therefore trying to assess which program would best position me for these career paths.
Thank you very much in advance for your valuable feedback.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your options:
MSc Finance & Accounting – Imperial College (1 year):
Imperial College is a strong brand in the UK and Europe, particularly for finance. Its one-year program is intensive and well-suited for those looking to enter Investment Banking (IB) or Private Equity (PE) quickly. The program benefits from its London location, providing excellent networking opportunities and proximity to major financial institutions. However, being a one-year program, it may offer fewer opportunities for internships compared to two-year programs.
Master in Finance – ESSEC (1 year):
ESSEC is highly regarded in Europe, especially in France, and has a strong alumni network in IB and PE. The program's flexibility and focus on practical experience (e.g., internships) can be advantageous. If you plan to work in France or French-speaking regions, ESSEC's reputation and connections could be a significant asset. However, its one-year duration might limit the time available for internships or additional networking.
MSc Finance – Bocconi University (2 years):
Bocconi is a top-tier institution in Europe, particularly well-known for finance. Its two-year program provides ample time for internships, networking, and skill development, which can be a major advantage for breaking into IB or PE. Bocconi also has a strong placement record across Europe, including in London. If you're open to spending more time in school to maximize your career prospects, this program could be the best fit.
Recommendation:
Ultimately, your decision should align with your career goals, preferred location, and the time you're willing to invest in your education.
Sources: European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/investment-banking-in-the-uk-an-overview?customgpt=1
What does the rest of your profile look like? For me Bocconi would be the top choice here since Imperial isn’t really a target even more if its their A&F program
Professionally, I have 2 relevant internships. 1 in a french bank in structured products and currently in a BB in mid-cap M&A. I have also various associative experiences. 2 on social topics and 1 linked to finance and consulting. I speak French and English perfectly, also my Spanish is not so bad. I have basics in German and Cantonese. I also have multiple certifications from University of Illinois, Bocconi, University of Michigan, ... What do you think of ESSEC as well ?
As you're French and completed a French Bachelor (useless degree), you'll need to wash your diploma. Unless you're a female, go for Bocconi. If you're a female, essec can also works.
Kinda direct haha, this degree still permitted me to obtain an internship in M&A at a BB so not so useless to me. I am a male. What do you think of Imperial then ?
I'd say that imperial has the advantage to be in London, so maybe easier to attend networking events etc.
Other that that, Bocconi and ESSEC are more recognised at Master level but if you already have an M&A internship at a BB (congrats btw) then your profile is already solid enough to get screened for Summer Internships/OC.
I'd still take Bocconi > ESSEC > Impérial as they'll probably give you more flexibility (ie, the possibility to apply to summer internships two years in a row)
Tu peux pas convertir ce stage ?
Essec is a non target for London. They take quite mixed profiles, and career services are mid. The only ones worth doing in France for London IB are hec or escp at the moment.
Among your choices though I'd go with imperial or bocconi since you already have decent internships. Leaning towards imperial since you'd be in London
Agree but don't know if the finance and accounting master at imperial places as well as the MiF
Students from the master told me it is pretty much the same coursework, with only 1 or 2 courses changing from very mathematical/quantitative to accounting.
Would go Bocconi. Two year program allows for two shots at summer internships, and lots of alumni in London. Most banks have networking events, but be mindful that career services are more focused on placing Italian students than internationals.
Milan is also a great city for students imo.
That's what I thought as well. And what do you think of ESSEC and Imperial ? Which one would you choose between these two ?
Imperial.
Bocconi since it's their target program. I'd go with imperial 2nd and essec as worst choice
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