Oxford MFE worth it?
Got into the programme and already have a summer secured , is this cost (~£70k) all in worth it or not?
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Career Resources
Based on the most helpful WSO content, the Oxford MFE (Master in Financial Economics) is a strong program with solid career prospects, especially for roles in finance. However, whether it's worth the £70k cost depends on your specific situation:
Career Goals: If you're targeting roles in investment banking, private equity, or other high-paying finance sectors, the Oxford MFE can provide a strong brand name and network to help you break in. However, if you already have a summer secured and a clear path to your desired role, the incremental value of the degree might be less significant.
Opportunity Cost: The program is academically rigorous and theoretical, which could be a great fit if you're looking to deepen your understanding of finance. However, the opportunity cost of not working for a year (and the associated earnings) should be factored into your decision.
Cost vs. Return: The £70k all-in cost is substantial. If you can comfortably afford it or secure scholarships, it might be worth it for the long-term career benefits. However, if you're already on a strong trajectory with your summer secured, you might want to weigh whether the degree will significantly enhance your career prospects.
Alternatives: If you're considering other programs or paths, such as gaining work experience and pursuing an MBA later, that could also be a viable option. MBAs often provide broader career flexibility and higher earning potential for experienced professionals.
Ultimately, the Oxford MFE is a prestigious program, but its value depends on how much it aligns with your career goals and whether the cost is justifiable given your current position.
Sources: MSF Class of 2018, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, MSc Finance Profile Evaluation (LSE Finance, LBS Financial Analysis, Oxford Financial Economics), Q&A - top 10 MBA vs MSF vs MMS
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How much is £70k worth to you? If you come from money, sure its not a bad thing to have and gives some insulation if you don't convert. If £70k is a lot of money to you, then no. Look at the threads here of students complaining about how their expensive UK MSc hasn't resulted in recruitment success because the market is bad.
answered this in another tread for someone asking about MFE so here is what i said over there:
"Oxford place better than LBS in the recent couple of years (especially this year) with multiple GS in London and Europe, multiple JPM (London and Europe), BX, Ares, Jane Street, Moe, multiple UBS, Multiple Barc, multiple MS (London and Europe), Houlihan RX and more in MM (TD, DC, Nomura, etc.)
I do have to caveat that workload is intense and it is basically irrelevant to your future work. Everyone in this world seems to understand that the master is for kids to find a job except the program manager believes this is for pre-PhD. People are very stressed about recruiting in the first term and stressed about exams in the second term so that’s that."
and for your context, i would say 30-40% of the offers here are return offers
Thanks, I think I’ll enjoy the more academic nature of the programme vs say LBS
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