Hi monkeys,
Would love to know how the Cambridge MPhil in Economic and Social History is viewed for IB/PE recruitment in LDN assuming a very strong background (EB IB internship, MF REPE internship, target undergrad uni).
Thanks!
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Based on the most helpful WSO content, the Cambridge MPhil in Economic and Social History isn't typically the most direct route into investment banking or private equity, especially in London. However, with a strong background like the one you've mentioned, including an EB IB internship, MF REPE internship, and a degree from a target undergrad university, you could still be an attractive candidate for IB/PE firms.
Here's why your background could compensate for the less traditional path:
Elite Internships: Having internships at an elite boutique investment bank and a mega-fund in real estate private equity demonstrates practical experience and a strong understanding of the financial sector.
Target University: Graduating from a target university provides a strong academic foundation and access to a valuable alumni network, which is crucial for recruitment in high finance.
Cambridge Brand: The Cambridge name carries weight and can open doors. Its reputation for academic excellence is recognized globally and can add prestige to your profile.
Transferable Skills: Economic and Social History can provide you with a unique perspective and analytical skills that are valuable in finance, such as understanding economic trends and the socio-economic factors that influence markets.
To maximize your chances, you should:
Network: Leverage your internships and university alumni to build relationships in the industry.
Articulate Your Story: Be prepared to explain how your academic background and internships have prepared you for a career in IB/PE.
Stay Informed: Keep up with current events in finance to demonstrate your passion and understanding of the industry.
Remember, while your path isn't the most conventional for IB/PE recruitment, your strong background and the prestige of Cambridge can still make you a compelling candidate.
Sources: HEC Paris / Cambridge / Imperial, 3.9 GPA from an Ivy League school in a useless major. What are my options?, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, LBS MFA vs Cambridge MPhil REF
What are the practical-differences between an Mphil & an M.A?
No idea lol but seen people with the MPhil in RE Finance do quite well with REPE recruiting
Yh they surprisingly do well for IB as well (REIB mostly though)
In theory, the MPhil is more research-focused, like a PhD, while an MA is more coursework-focused like a BA. In practice, schools run their programs however they want and call it whatever they want. Plenty of MPhils are not so research-oriented and plenty of MAs are very research-oriented. If the MPhil has a particularly good reputation, it’s probably because it’s positioned itself as something more like a PhD with heavy research or just has a great brand.
Correct me if I'm wrong but isn't MA strictly an undergrad degree at Oxbridge? Unless you did an integrated masters, you pay to get the BA upgraded to an MA Oxon or MA Cantab. True post-grad masters programs at Oxbridge almost always award MPhil (or MLitt/MSt etc.)
Sounds prestigious
Did you end up applying to the course?
For general info since ppl seem not to have come across it, in the UK an MPhil is equivalent to the first 1-2 years of Phd, and (for those heading into academia) is followed by a DPhil (which tends as a result to be shorter than an American PhD). Though in cases like the Cam RE MPhil for example there's a pretty clear idea that this is not ac meant for ppl targeting a long term future in academia
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