MSc in Accounting and Finance @ LSE vs MSc in Accounting, Financial Management and Control @ Bocconi University

Hi everyone,

As you can tell by the title I am in serious doubt as to which course I should go for. I am currently a third-year Bocconi undergrad in International Economics & Management, and I am holding an offer from both courses. 

The LSE degree is 1-year, with 6 courses. The Bocconi degree is 2 years, with many more courses, and I believe it offers a much more complete preparation than the former. However, LSE is LSE and given that I would prefer to work abroad (UK/US as I have a US citizenship and UK settled status), especially at the beginning of my career, its name carries much more weight (I believe? Maybe some feedback on this?). 

My main issue is that I can't seem to understand how valid LSE's A&F course is, as I struggle to find many alumni from the course. Any opinions, insights, recommendations, questions are welcome and deeply appreciated. 

Thanks!

Which one?

LSE MSc in Accounting & Finance
76% (13 votes)
Bocconi MSc in Accouting, Financial Management & Control
24% (4 votes)
Total votes: 17
3 Comments
 

Based on previous WSO threads and the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights and recommendations for your decision between the MSc in Accounting and Finance at LSE and the MSc in Accounting, Financial Management and Control at Bocconi University:

LSE MSc in Accounting and Finance:

  • Reputation: LSE has a slightly stronger reputation, especially in London, which can be beneficial for your career aspirations in the UK and US.
  • Duration: The program is 1 year, which means you can enter the job market sooner.
  • Course Structure: It consists of 6 courses, which might be less comprehensive compared to Bocconi's program but allows for a quicker transition to professional life.
  • Alumni Network: While you mentioned difficulty in finding alumni, LSE generally has a strong global network, which can be advantageous for international opportunities.

Bocconi MSc in Accounting, Financial Management and Control:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The 2-year program offers a more extensive and complete preparation with a broader range of courses.
  • Reputation in Europe: Bocconi is highly regarded in Europe, particularly in Italy, and has a strong placement record in European financial hubs.
  • Cost and Time: The longer duration means more time and potentially higher costs, but it also provides a deeper academic experience.

Considerations:

  • Career Goals: If your primary goal is to work in the UK or US, LSE's stronger international reputation might be more beneficial.
  • Program Depth: If you value a more comprehensive academic experience, Bocconi's program might be more suitable.
  • Network and Opportunities: Consider the strength of the alumni network and career services at both institutions.

Recommendations:

  • Research Alumni: Try to connect with alumni from both programs through LinkedIn or university career services to get firsthand insights.
  • Evaluate Long-term Goals: Think about where you see yourself in the long term and which program aligns better with those goals.
  • Consider Financial and Time Investment: Weigh the cost and time investment of a 2-year program versus a 1-year program.

Ultimately, both programs have their strengths, and your decision should align with your career aspirations and personal preferences.

Sources: Imperial MSc Finance and Accounting vs LSE MSc Accounting and Finance, European Masters Rankings, Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance, LSE Msc admission, BOCCONI AFC Vs Msc Finance

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

Bocconi AFC (much unlike BIEM) is second rate, even to the Italians. You'd just make your life hard trying to get back to the UK with said program and 0 shots at USA, they will think you are talking about a type of pasta. 

 
Most Helpful

Dolores sed velit voluptatibus voluptatum. Quae alias non architecto hic enim iure quaerat. Blanditiis a blanditiis illum veritatis.

Atque sequi recusandae ipsa. Praesentium voluptatem eveniet illum repellat debitis maxime. Illum quasi aliquid maxime autem est omnis. A nam id distinctio.

Labore et velit eligendi necessitatibus quia inventore nihil odio. Sunt voluptatem ab dolore velit architecto. Explicabo dicta maxime dolorem doloremque maiores. Ut qui vitae quo corporis quia quos dolore.

Career Advancement Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

June 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (68) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”