Am I shooting myself in the foot with an MsF?
I graduated from a non-target in spring 2025 with a bio degree and am looking to pivot into finance. Had been talking to alum for the past year about getting a job in ER/IB but, understandably so, wasn't able to even get an interview anywhere. I decided to pursue a Masters in Finance because many people told me it would be a good idea with my story but I have been reading so many mixed reviews about it recently with some saying that it's great and others not so much. I graduated with a 3.9 GPA and my prospective GRE score is Q:169, V:154 (taking the actual test next week). Some of the programs I am looking at are Sloan MsF, Booth MsF, Kellogg MiM and Fuqua MMS. Just wanted to hear your honest thoughts
The programs you listed are good programs. You're not guaranteed a job, but I think they will give you a good chance.
Based on the most helpful WSO content, pursuing a Master's in Finance (MsF) can be a solid move for someone in your position, but its value depends on your goals, the program you choose, and how you leverage it. Here's a breakdown:
Why an MsF Could Work for You:
Things to Consider:
Your Profile:
Final Thoughts:
An MsF from a top program like Sloan, Booth, or Kellogg can be a game-changer for someone with your background. However, make sure to: - Network Aggressively: Start reaching out to alumni and professionals in your target field even before starting the program. - Target Internships: Use the program to secure internships in IB/ER to build relevant experience. - Evaluate ROI: Consider the cost of the program versus the potential salary and career opportunities it will unlock.
If you're committed to pivoting into finance, an MsF from a top-tier school is a strong move. Just be prepared to hustle and make the most of the resources the program offers.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/real-estate/is-georgetown-masters-in-real-estate-for-me?customgpt=1, Non-Target Undergrad to Non-Target Grad to Asset Management, Undergrads: Non-finance, non-target, not a problem. 5 Steps to get you started., The Myth of the "Target School", Latino woman not groomed for the finance “world” thoughts pls?
Hello a bit of an exercise in identifying what you are looking to do and where you are looking to work. Generally speaking a MsF could be a great degree and well received in most of the country. If looking to work in IB at a top bank in NY challenge is not with the degree itself but how these firms recruit as most analysts are hired out of undergrad post a summer internship and most associates out of an MBA program - with the majority of both analysts and associates fell core schools. Most don’t hire MsFs and are either blocked from resume drops or eliminated if they can get a resume in. If an MsF is advertising that they place into a particular bank would check that to see where their alum actually end up. ER while competitive is a little less strident vs what I have seen on IB side. Would ask around to see how efffecrive placement is and that you are getting the bang for your buck. I used to get very frustrated speaking with students at some Ivy MsFs as it was clear schools bamboozled them and took them for $50-$60k with promises of placing at a bank for these students to learn that most alum weren’t in font office seats. Just do your research (at the school vs here) and decide from there. Good luck.
Thanks so much!!! This is extremely helpful advice. Had a quick follow up from this-- I know that right after summer, many banks open a few spots to hire people full-time since some of the intern class does not get a return offer. Would you say that it would be worth it for me to try to insert myself into that process? Or would it be more applicable for me to target middle-market banks and then try to lateral my way into something more aligned with my goals?
I 100% agree that most people who do an MsF end up in mid or back office roles, but I am prepared to work my butt off to land that target job offer!
In a similar spot. NW Kellogg & Duke Fuqua seem especially good for you to combo with your bio background. While the programs you listed might place into the jobs you're looking for, most people don't for whatever reason, so career support, network and options might not actually be as good as MSF from slightly lower-ranked schools whose MS alumni actually go to ER or IB. MSF is already an uncommon degree so you want to make sure the school cares about your goals. Really dig into where alumni end up, offices in the area, & ask questions to make sure your goals are feasible.
Let me know where you end up! We might be at the same place. I'm applying for fall 2026 start.
Thanks for the advice! My actual GRE scores were very close to the predictive (Q: 170, V: 157). I ended up applying to Vandy Msf, Booth MiF and Fuqua MMS:FOB. I have emailed a few alum to try to hear their experience with career support since that is my main focus. Will keep you updated on how the process for all three go! Best of luck to you on your applications!
Ut adipisci voluptatem culpa repudiandae possimus tempore. Minima repellendus velit vitae quaerat occaecati id placeat. Velit blanditiis et est minima aut magni.
Molestiae cum est ut earum occaecati. Iure pariatur et et assumenda saepe quam. Quibusdam suscipit dolorem sequi cupiditate. Veniam ab adipisci sunt dolor sed.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...