No Work Experience, is MS Finance or MBA better for IB?
I am trying to pivot into investment banking at a reputable firm with a doctorate degree from non-target school, have 0 days of full time work experience since I’ve been in school for forever, considering enrolling in a T15 MBA program
Will I struggle to recruit for associate roles from a T15 MBA w/0 work experience?
On the other hand, will it be easier to recruit into IB associate roles from a top MS Finance program and 0 work experience?
Based on the most helpful WSO content, it seems that both paths have their own challenges and benefits.
For the MBA route, it's important to note that while MBA programs are a common path into investment banking, they typically require some level of work experience. This is because the associate role in investment banking often involves managing analysts and handling a higher level of responsibility, which is why work experience is usually preferred. However, having a strong academic background, good internships, and strong connections can potentially offset the lack of full-time work experience.
On the other hand, a top MS Finance program could provide you with the technical skills needed for an analyst role in investment banking. This could be a good stepping stone into the industry, especially if you lack prior finance experience. However, it's worth noting that even with a top MS Finance degree, you might still start at the analyst level rather than the associate level due to the lack of work experience.
In both cases, it's crucial to leverage your school's alumni network, career services, and any other resources available to you. Participating in investment banking or financial modeling competitions could also boost your profile.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all answer here. It's about finding the path that aligns best with your career goals and personal circumstances. Good luck!
Sources: Investment Banking Associate without Work Experience, Entering from non finance background with an MBA, Questions about VP/D/MD levels at investment banks
Refrigerator repair would be a more worthwhile pursuit
HVAC is bank, maybe in another life.
What have you been studying? Why spend even more time in school?
Associate roles are probably overly ambitious. MSF programs are for analyst roles.
Medicine, trying to pivot. Would an MD + MBA from a T15 supplement for summer associate internship recruiting?
Or would an MSF + MD help me with associate internship recruiting as well/better? or should I be aiming for an analyst internship to begin with
Throw the MSF out. Any thoughts on ER? It would probably be easier to break in
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