MS in Finance, is it Worth it?

Question

Hey Everyone,
What are the opinions/public perceptions on getting an MS in Finance? How is it looked at by MBA programs (I hear it can seen as a "GPA reset button" if an undergrad GPA wasn't so hot)?

Kassad · Accepted Answer

I think that you should evaluate your employment situation prior to making any commitment to a MSF. I don't want this to discourage you too much, but there are a few things you should consider...

If you want to do corporate finance (or any sort of private, non-consumer finance), you face a pretty big problem in that none of your experience in retail banking will help you get there. You lack a finance degree, as well, which would be fine except that you have a sub-par GPA.

Oxidize · Answer

http://poetsandquants.com/2012/03/27/gpas-gmats-what-you-need-to-get-in…

Your GPA is solid for all top 20 programs and you'd be within the GMAT range for most of them as well. If you can bring it to 700 or so you could prolly aim for M7.

CX1988 · Answer

OxidizeYou're a much, much better MBA candidate than MSF candidate imo. Just do the finance track and take a bunch of finance electives. Two year MBA would also give you a chance at interning after the first year. And most of the applicants will be closer to your age. And you would slide in at the associate (or comparable) level post MBA. And you're an officer in the military which is a huge plus that would essentially be a waste if you went for a pre-professional degree. What is your GPA range/GMAT/projected GMAT if you don't mind me asking?

Thanks for the input.

CX1988 · Answer

BepBep12CF1988BepBep12Why not an MBA?

An MBA would keep me out of the workforce for an extra year and I already have a general administration degree.

Right but with your work experience and age an MSF while technically the degree 'for you' might be an issue when it comes time to recruit. Secondly, you don't have a business background so you'll have to hit the ground running. Third, what's more important a degree your short term desires to get working ASAP or longer term career goals. I just think an MSF given some of the details your giving isn't going to land you where you want.

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MS in Finance, is it Worth it?

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MS in Finance, is it Worth it?

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