LSE AF vs Imperial IWM for non-finance background

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's a breakdown of your situation:

1. Relative Exit Opportunities

• LSE MSc Accounting & Finance (AF): LSE has a stronger reputation in London, particularly for front-office roles in Investment Banking (IB), Asset Management (AM), and Equity Research (ER). The program's broader focus on accounting and finance provides flexibility for both buy-side and sell-side roles.
• Imperial MSc Investment & Wealth Management (IWM): While Imperial is highly regarded, the IWM program is often perceived as more tailored to wealth management and buy-side roles. This could limit its appeal for sell-side opportunities like IB or ER.

2. Brand Signalling in Front-Office Recruiting

• LSE's brand carries significant weight in London and globally, especially for front-office roles. Recruiters often associate LSE with rigorous academics and a strong alumni network in finance.
• Imperial, while respected, may not have the same level of recognition or alumni penetration in front-office roles compared to LSE.

3. Placement into BB/EB Without Prior Internships

• LSE AF likely offers better placement into bulge bracket (BB) and elite boutique (EB) firms due to its reputation and alumni network. The program's optionality and broader curriculum can help bridge gaps for candidates without prior internships.
• Imperial IWM might face challenges in this regard, as its focus on wealth management could be less aligned with the skill sets sought by BB/EB recruiters.

4. Curriculum Rigour and Technical Preparation vs. Alumni Network

• Curriculum Rigour: Both programs are rigorous, but LSE AF's curriculum may provide a more comprehensive foundation in technical finance, which is critical for IB and ER roles.
• Alumni Network: LSE has a larger and more established alumni network in high finance, which can be a significant advantage during recruiting.

5. Program Perception and Optionality

• Your concern about Imperial IWM being perceived as more buy-side/wealth-oriented is valid. LSE AF offers broader optionality, making it a better fit for your goals in IB, AM, ER, and potentially PE in the long term.

Recommendation:

Given your non-finance background and limited prior exposure, LSE MSc Accounting & Finance is likely the stronger choice. Its brand, alumni network, and broader curriculum will better position you for competitive front-office roles in high finance. While Imperial IWM is a solid program, its focus may not align as well with your objectives.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/uk-master-in-finance-advice?customgpt=1, LBS vs UCL vs Imperial for IB, Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs LSE MSc Accounting and Finance, 2018 UK Target Uni - MSc - for FO jobs: put your POV, https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/admitted-to-imperial-college-business-school-msc-finance-and-lse-msc-finance-for-2019?customgpt=1