Double Masters in Europe. Thoughts?
I finished my first MSc in January last year and ever since I had 2 internships (1.5yr in total) in project finance & infra PE in London. Things have dried out since. I’m interviewing with a German infra PE fund and a small ECM desk but no full time prospects around. The reason my latest internship in London didn’t convert was due to the sponsorship costs.
I have a chance to join a French uni for a MiM programme. It’s a 1 year programme designed to spread across 2 on purpose so students can qualify for summer internships. It’s a relatively low cost programme as my tuition is covered with a scholarship, so it also feels like a waste not to go. This school brand is superior to my previous school, both in the eurozone and London. However, if I decide to go there I’ll most likely focus on Paris recruitment (language isn’t an issue for me + 2yr work permit).
I’m curious if double masters are seen as red flags by recruiters, though. It definitely fits the assessment that I’m doing it out of desperation. Plus, I’d be really old coming out of that programme (28 yo) while competing with people 5-6 years younger than me. Though it’s a high rep school and low cost programme with plenty of opportunities, I’m concerned I may be stuck in the same position even afterwards given how “it looks” on my CV.
Thoughts?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some key considerations for your situation:
Double Masters Perception: While a double master's degree can raise eyebrows, it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. Recruiters may view it as a sign of desperation if it doesn’t align with a clear, strategic career narrative. To mitigate this, you’ll need to craft a compelling story about why this second degree is a deliberate step to enhance your career prospects, not a fallback.
Age Factor: At 28, you’ll be older than many of your peers in the program, which could be a disadvantage when competing for entry-level roles. However, your prior experience in project finance and infra PE can help differentiate you if you position it as a strength.
School Reputation: The fact that this French university has a stronger brand than your previous school is a significant advantage, especially in the Eurozone and London. A better brand can open doors to more prestigious firms and opportunities, particularly in Paris, where you plan to focus your recruitment efforts.
Cost and Opportunity: Since the program is low-cost (thanks to your scholarship) and designed to facilitate internships, it offers a practical way to gain additional experience and network in a new market. The two-year work permit in France is another plus, giving you more time to secure a full-time role.
Recruitment Strategy: If you decide to pursue this program, focus on leveraging the school’s alumni network, career services, and internship opportunities to build relationships with recruiters and firms in Paris. Networking will be critical to overcoming any potential stigma around the double master’s.
Alternative Paths: Before committing, consider whether there are other ways to achieve your goals. For example, could you continue networking in London or explore roles in corporate finance, which often have lower barriers to entry and can serve as a stepping stone to PE or IB?
Ultimately, the decision hinges on how well you can justify the second master’s as a strategic move and how effectively you can leverage the opportunities it provides. If you’re confident in your ability to tell that story and maximize the program’s resources, it could be a worthwhile investment.
Sources: Q&A: PE Senior Associate from Post-MBA Banking Role, On the off chance Investment Banking doesn't work out for me, Accounting major, can't seem to break into IB, Career Fairs Do's and Don’ts, Buyside recruiting is really demoralizing as a non-target
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