HEC vs ESSEC vs ESCP vs HSG : Need Help for advice

Hi all,

I am a student at the University of St. Gallen, graduating this year, and I am currently trying to decide on a master's program. I'll list the programs I have been accepted and explain why I'm uncertain. My goal is to finish the master and potentially work in Investment Banking (preferably in the DACH region, ideally in Switzerland). I have completed two summer internships: one in the debt division at a bank and another as an analyst at an investment fund. I speak four languages, so working in different areas in Europe wouldn't be a problem.

Here are the programs I'm considering:

HEC: Master in Accounting and Finance

    It is not the Master in Finance or Master in Management (which are the top-tier programs).
    I am aware of the strong branding of HEC, but I am uncertain because this is not their top-tier program.

ESSEC: Master in Finance

    Good position in rankings and it's the top tier program.
    I am unsure if having a top tier program at ESSEC is better than not having a top tier program but having the HEC branding.

ESCP: Master in Management

    Very good ranking + student visa in the UK.
    It's a program in management instead of finance.

HSG: Master in Accounting and Finance

    It is not the Master in Banking and Finance (which is top tier), but it is well-regarded in the DACH region.

I really need your help to make the best decision based on my background and career ambitions. Therefore, I would greatly appreciate your advice and rankings among these universities.

Thank you very much!

4 Comments
 

Hey go to HEC. No one will give a fuck about the program but look only at the brand name 5 years down the line and its is way better than ESSEC/HSG/ESCP. Good luck and congrats for getting into HEC!!

 

Thank you for your responses. My biggest concern is not so much where I'll be in 5 years, but rather how to break into Investment Banking right after finishing my master. What makes me most uncertain is which program will give me the best chances of getting more interviews and, ultimately, helping me break into IB. Do you think that the reasoning you outlined applies also directly after the master?

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