Ohio State MSF vs Villanova MSF

I have made both Ohio State's and Villanova's MSF Programs. I am really torn between the two and would like to hear some opinions on what others think of both programs. I'm from NYC so my preference would be to live and work in NYC. I know Villanova places well in NYC so it would seem that would make it an easy choice for me. However, Ohio State offered me a large scholarship, significantly lowering what I would pay in tuition compared to Villanova. I have yet to hear back from Nova in regards to merit based scholarships, but I expect to soon. If I went to Ohio State, would I have trouble networking and finding a job in NYC? Which program has the better curriculum? Better reputation?

I really appreciate any responses in helping me make this tough decision. Thanks.

32 Comments
 

Just call them and let them know you have a competitive from OSU. They will most likely match it.

If you want NYC, Nova is the better option. OSU is a good program though.

Note - I am a long removed nova alumni. I frankly don’t care what program you choose though.

 

What's the difference in costs, specifically? That's relevant here.

“Elections are a futures market for stolen property”
 

That's not a material difference between the two. I would choose Nova in this situation, since you have an east coast preference. Just be sure you understand what you're getting into. You'll likely end up in Bval.

“Elections are a futures market for stolen property”
 

I'd really appreciate it, thanks. Could you maybe give what you think the pros and cons of the program are. Also, what is own job placement and your fellow classmates placements (if you know them) looking like?

 

I would be wary of this information. Placements like that are usually highlighted on program's marketing materials but none really appear on Villanova's. The placements in this program are historically opaque. It's really too early to tell how the class of 2018 will do and I'm skeptical of anyone that talks about "FO AM."

“Elections are a futures market for stolen property”
 
Best Response

So you are calling this dude a liar?

I have a spread sheet with all the placements going back to the inception of the program that I created when I was a grad student and gave to the admissions office that I think they still maintain. The program consistently had 70-80% employment rates at graduation and every year about 30-40% went into some form of FO finance role.

Over the years things would shift, and you'd have a class that wanted more F500 vs banking, and some years where all the kids really were gunning for banking, but in general, the MSF program placed into MM IBD and ER, with a growing number going into real estate, insurance or credit.

The school is right outside Philly, an hour and a half from NYC. Has MM IBD OCR and would definitely be called a semi-target. It has been around for over 10 years so they now have MSF alumni to help with recruiting, in addition to normal alumni and the firms that come on campus for OCR. Not sure why you are skeptical about their placements or a students ability to get placed.

 

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