Better Undergrad school for finance: Northeastern or Fordham?

Based on the most helpful WSO content, Northeastern appears to have a stronger edge over Fordham for breaking into high finance, particularly if you're aiming for investment banking or similar roles. Here's why:

1. Co-op Program at Northeastern: Northeastern's co-op system is a standout feature. It allows students to gain 4-6 months of real-world experience at top firms like Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs, and others. This hands-on exposure not only builds your resume but also increases your chances of being recruited post-graduation.

2. Placement and Alumni Success: Northeastern has been noted for its increasing selectivity and prestige, with an acceptance rate of just 6% in recent cycles. Students from Northeastern have successfully landed roles at top-tier firms, including VC and IB positions, as highlighted in WSO threads.

3. Fordham's Limitations: While Fordham's Gabelli School of Business has a strong alumni network and proximity to NYC, it doesn't have the same level of placement success in high finance as Northeastern. WSO discussions often highlight that Fordham alumni presence on Wall Street is relatively limited compared to other schools.

4. Networking and Location: Both schools are in the Northeast, but Northeastern's co-op program and growing reputation seem to provide a more structured pathway into high finance roles.

If your goal is to maximize the probability of landing a job in high finance post-graduation, Northeastern's co-op system and increasing prestige make it the better choice, assuming you maintain high grades and actively network.

Sources: Northeastern vs BU vs Fordham vs IU, Undergrad at Fordham Gabelli Lincoln Center with $160k debt. Is it worth it?, Fordham 3+2 with Columbia or Georgetown and 300k Debt, Rutgers Business School vs Gabelli School of Business (Undergrad), Cornell CAS (Econ) Vs Fordham GBHP vs NYU Stern For Breaking Into IB