Which one is better: Sciences Po or Dauphine?

Hi,

Which masters is better to get into investment banking M&A?

- Sciences Po Paris' master in Finance and Strategy with Finance major (3 years, including one gap year 2 times 6 months internship and end of studies 6 month internship)

- Or Dauphine Master in Investment Banking and Markets with Corporate finance major M2 268 (only 1 year in apprentissage/4 days at an IB, 1 at school)

Ps: I already have 5 years of undergrad including 2 internships, including one in IB at a bank like BNP/SG/CA

Pros and cons:
- ScPo is my home school, so I already have network there, know which student assos to get in etc
- ScPo is sometimes too politics focused and less finance, a bit bullshit
- Dauphine maybe less prestigious than ScPo (?) but more in finance maybe
- Dauphine program is much shorter (1 year vs 3 years)

What do you think?

Thanks!

2 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some insights to help you decide between Sciences Po Paris and Dauphine for a master's program aimed at getting into investment banking M&A:

Sciences Po Paris - Master in Finance and Strategy

Pros: - Network: You already have an established network at Sciences Po, which can be a significant advantage. - Internships: The program includes multiple internships (two 6-month internships and one 6-month end-of-studies internship), providing extensive practical experience. - Prestige: Sciences Po has a strong brand name, especially in France, and is known for its prestigious partnerships with top business schools.

Cons: - Duration: The program is longer (3 years), which might delay your entry into the workforce. - Focus: Sciences Po is sometimes perceived as being more politics-focused, which might not align perfectly with a finance-centric career.

Dauphine - Master in Investment Banking and Markets

Pros: - Finance Focus: The program is more finance-oriented, which might be more relevant for a career in investment banking. - Duration: The program is shorter (1 year), allowing you to enter the job market sooner. - Apprenticeship: The structure includes an apprenticeship (4 days at an IB, 1 day at school), providing hands-on experience while studying.

Cons: - Prestige: Dauphine might be considered less prestigious compared to Sciences Po. - Network: You might not have the same level of network and familiarity as you do at Sciences Po.

Conclusion

  • If you value a strong network and extensive internship experience: Sciences Po might be the better choice, especially since you already have connections there.
  • If you prefer a shorter, more finance-focused program: Dauphine could be more suitable, allowing you to gain relevant experience and enter the job market faster.

Given your background with 5 years of undergrad and internships, including one in IB, both programs could be beneficial. However, your decision might hinge on whether you prioritize the network and prestige of Sciences Po or the finance focus and shorter duration of Dauphine.

Sources: Undergrad - Sciences Po Paris, European Master in Finance programmes (pre-experience), European Masters Rankings, Comprehensive guide of studies in France, (EU) Which master program should I pursue for a career in finance?

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

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