Bristol Management vs Durham Finance for IB recruiting

I'm currently finalising my University application, I'm torn between these two courses as my last choice. I know both schools are semi-targets and the courses aren't the strongest for IB, but I still wanted to get an opinion on which of these Is better for recruiting as from my observation Durham seems slightly stronger. Entry requirements for Finance BSc are also lower (AAB) compared to Bristol Management (AAA). I'm not too concerned about Uni culture but I'd probably be more inclined to go to Bristol if the difference between both courses is negligible in terms of recruiting.

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Based on the most helpful WSO content, Durham is indeed considered a semi-target in the UK, similar to Bristol, Bath, Warwick, and others. While both universities are reputable, Durham tends to have a slight edge in terms of recognition for finance and investment banking recruiting. Here are some points to consider:

  • Durham's Reputation: Durham University is often recognized for its strong finance-related programs. It has a good reputation in the finance industry, which can be beneficial for investment banking recruiting.

  • Course Relevance: A degree in Finance from Durham may be more directly relevant to investment banking than a Management degree from Bristol. The specialized knowledge and skills gained from a finance degree could give you an edge in technical aspects of the recruiting process.

  • Entry Requirements: The lower entry requirements for Durham's Finance BSc could be an advantage, allowing you to potentially achieve higher grades, which is important for IB recruiting.

  • Recruiting: While both universities are semi-targets, the slight edge that Durham has could translate into better recruitment opportunities. However, it's also important to excel academically and get involved in relevant extracurricular activities to make the most of these opportunities.

  • Networking and Extracurriculars: Regardless of your choice, networking and participating in finance societies or clubs can significantly improve your chances of landing a job in investment banking.

  • Cultural Fit: Although you mentioned that university culture is not a major concern, it's worth considering how comfortable you feel at each university, as this can impact your overall performance and networking opportunities.

In conclusion, if the difference in recruiting between both courses is negligible to you and you have a preference for Bristol, it could be a good fit, especially if you're proactive in networking and gaining relevant experience. However, if your primary focus is on optimizing your chances for investment banking recruiting, Durham's Finance BSc might have a slight advantage. Remember, your personal performance and efforts in networking will play a significant role in securing opportunities in investment banking.

Sources: ESADE vs Durham vs Cass, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/investment-banking-in-the-uk-an-overview?customgpt=1, Investment Banking University Recruiting Report – 7 Key Takeaways, Investment Banking University Recruiting Report – 7 Key Takeaways, MSc Finance University of Bath vs University of Edinburgh

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