Choosing right degree/uni - IE or edinburgh?

Hello, I am here to ask whether I should do a bba at IE or study econ and philosophy/PPE at uni of edinburgh if I want a future related to finance. IE has amazing employment rates, as it's 17th in the world for it, but im scared the degree might be too easy and boring, also considering its reputation as a party school. On the other hand edinburgh has a stronger UK reputation for a future in London and the degree is more intellectually stimulating but maybe not as good as bba for finance. Any opinions to share?

9 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to consider:

  1. IE Business School (BBA):

    • IE is globally recognized for its strong employment rates and ranks highly for business-related programs. Its BBA program is tailored for careers in finance, offering a practical and business-focused curriculum.
    • However, concerns about its reputation as a "party school" and the potential lack of intellectual challenge might be valid depending on your personal preferences and learning style.
    • If your goal is to secure a finance role in Europe or globally, IE's strong placement record and network could be advantageous.
  2. University of Edinburgh (Econ and Philosophy/PPE):

    • Edinburgh has a solid reputation in the UK, particularly for academic rigor and intellectual stimulation. A degree in Economics and Philosophy or PPE would provide a broader, more analytical foundation, which can be valuable for finance roles requiring critical thinking.
    • For a future in London finance, Edinburgh's reputation as a respected UK institution could work in your favor, though it may not have the same direct finance focus or global business network as IE.

Key Considerations:

  • Career Goals: If you're aiming for a technical or business-oriented finance role, IE's BBA might align better. For roles requiring analytical depth or policy-related finance, Edinburgh's programs could be more suitable.
  • Networking and Placement: IE offers strong global placement opportunities, while Edinburgh provides a solid UK network, particularly for London-based finance roles.
  • Personal Fit: Consider whether you value a more structured, business-focused education (IE) or an intellectually diverse and stimulating environment (Edinburgh).

Ultimately, your decision should align with your career aspirations, preferred learning style, and the type of network you want to build.

Sources: Physics undergrad admitted to top b-school, Choose Between Two Offers (BB/MBB) - Looking for Advice, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs. ESCP MiM vs. IE MIF, Why do so many jump to PE?

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.
 
Most Helpful

Edinburgh econ and philosophy. 

Much more interesting profile than those who do BBA/management

Opens you to academia and public sector as well.

Afterwards if you want you can do a MiM/MiF at LBS/HEC/ESCP/BOCCONI etc or economics at lse/Oxbridge... 

 

IE bba is insanely expensive for the outcomes. 120k + having to pay for masters is just not worth it. 

Edinburgh is a better name but would be a similar price if you're international. For a low semi target i don't think it's worth it either. 

Do you have other options? 

 

Kings would be better than all. Costly but much better outcomes. With IE you're still paying 100k, for worse outcomes so for me personally its a no go. 

Oxbridge/LSE >> Warwick > Kings >> Edinburgh >>> IE 

 

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