Best Mid-tier MSc Finance programmes in the UK
Hi,
I recently graduated from a BA Economics course at a semi-target university in the UK, and because I didn't manage to secure a grad job I have been applying for masters courses to begin this September. I am trying to aim for a career in investment banking/corporate finance, and I have an internship at a large asset manager and a boutique investment bank.
The main courses I have been applying to, largely because of the more reasonable cost, include MSc Corporate Finance at Bayes Business School, MSc Corporate Finance at King's College London, MSc Finance at Warwick, MSc Finance at St Andrews and MSc Finance at Durham. From the FT rankings, I gather that Warwick and Bayes should be decent, but from looking at LinkedIn that doesn't seem to necessarily be the case.
I was wondering how these courses compare in terms of competitiveness (from what I understand, none are targets, and I'm not sure any are even semi-targets from a postgrad perspective which has made me quite worried) and whether I may just be cooked.
Many thanks!
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of the mid-tier MSc Finance programs you mentioned:
Warwick MSc Finance: Warwick is often considered one of the stronger options among mid-tier programs. While it may not be a full target school, it has a solid reputation, particularly in the UK. Graduates have been known to secure roles in investment banking and corporate finance, though networking and leveraging the alumni base will be crucial.
Bayes Business School (formerly Cass) MSc Corporate Finance: Bayes has a good reputation for finance-related programs, especially in London. Its location provides proximity to the City, which can be advantageous for networking and internships. However, it is not considered a full target school, so you'll need to be proactive in your job search.
King's College London MSc Corporate Finance: While King's is a respected university overall, its finance programs are not as well-regarded as Warwick or Bayes for breaking into investment banking. It may be a bit more challenging to secure top-tier finance roles from here.
St Andrews MSc Finance: St Andrews has a strong academic reputation, but it is not typically associated with finance or investment banking. Its location in Scotland may also make networking for London-based roles more difficult.
Durham MSc Finance: Similar to St Andrews, Durham has a strong academic reputation but is not a target for finance roles. It may be more challenging to break into investment banking from here compared to Warwick or Bayes.
Key Takeaways:
If you're worried about being "cooked," remember that your internships at a large asset manager and boutique investment bank are valuable assets. Use these experiences to strengthen your applications and networking efforts.
Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, University Of St. Andrews experience? Opinions?, 2018 UK Target Uni - MSc - for FO jobs: put your POV, Investment Banking in the UK - An Overview, Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance
Truth is even the best programs are a crap shoot in this economic enviroment. Warwick and Bayes as you mention. KCL usually is not in the discussion.
I would give a shot at Imperial (maybe for MSc A&F)
If OP's issue is cost, Imperial is a no-go.
Have you considered the big4 route into IB?
You say its a cost-thing? Why dont consider european alternatives?
Maybe try:
SSE - Masters in Accounting, Valuation & Financial Management
SSE - Masters in Finance
HSG - Master in Banking and Finance
HSG - Master in Accounting & Corporate Finance
These are just some absolute price-performance options in my book.
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