MSF at BC full price or MSQF at Northeastern with 40% scholarship?

When deciding between Boston College's Master of Finance and Northeastern University's Master of Science in Quantitative Finance with a 40% scholarship, several factors come into play. Here's a breakdown to help you weigh your options:

1. Cost and Return on Investment: The 40% scholarship at Northeastern significantly reduces your financial burden and could offer a better return on investment in the short term. Consider the total cost of each program and potential student loan interest if applicable.

2. Curriculum and Specialization: Northeastern's Quantitative Finance program is more specialized, focusing on quantitative analysis, which is highly valued in certain finance sectors like hedge funds, asset management, and risk management. If your interest lies in these areas, Northeastern might provide a more targeted skill set.

3. Alumni Network and Job Placement: Boston College has a strong alumni network, which can be crucial for job placements and career advancement. Investigate the strength of each school's alumni network in your desired field and geographic location. Reach out to current students or alumni for insights.

4. Location and Opportunities: Both schools are in Boston, but consider the specific opportunities each location offers, such as internships, co-op programs, and networking events. Northeastern is well-known for its co-op program, which could provide valuable real-world experience before graduation.

5. STEM Designation: The STEM designation of BC's program may offer additional benefits, especially for international students, including a longer OPT period. If this is relevant to you, it's an important factor to consider.

6. Long-term Career Goals: Reflect on where you see yourself in the future. A more quantitative role might benefit from Northeastern's program, while a broader finance role might find BC's alumni network and brand recognition advantageous.

In summary, if cost and a quantitative focus are your primary concerns, Northeastern's MSQF with a scholarship seems compelling. However, if the alumni network and a broader finance education align more closely with your career goals, BC's MSF might be worth the investment. Consider reaching out to professionals in your desired field to get their perspective on the value of each program.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/school/dilemma-quantitative-finance-vs-finance?customgpt=1, Undergrad School OPTIONS (please help), Northeastern vs BU vs Fordham vs IU, Finance PhD vs. Applied Math MSc, Profile Evaluation - MSc Finance