Seeking advice for non-target (and non-finance) undergrad looking to do a MSF at a decent school

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here's what you need to know about the MSF programs you're considering:

Georgetown MSF

• Reputation: It's noted as an "auto-admittance cash cow program," but it is the top school in the DC area.
• Career Prospects: The employment report is favorable, suggesting decent placement opportunities.
• Feasibility: Given your background (non-finance undergrad and a non-generalist McKinsey internship), breaking into top DC firms is possible but may require additional networking and leveraging the Georgetown brand.

NYU MS in Quant Finance

• Program Structure: This program is jointly offered by NYU Stern and NYU Shanghai.
• Concerns: If you have no interest in studying or working in Shanghai, you should verify if the program requires time at the Shanghai campus.
• Reputation: There is some skepticism about whether this program is highly regarded or primarily a funnel for international students.

Columbia MSFE

• Reputation: This program is highly competitive with a 9% acceptance rate.
• Career Prospects: It is implied that the Columbia MSFE feeds well into top Wall Street firms, making it a strong option if you aim to break into high finance.

Additional Considerations

• Alternative Path: If none of these programs seem ideal, working in operations for a few years and then pursuing an M7 MBA could be a viable strategy. This would allow you to switch into a finance track with a more prestigious MBA credential.

Summary

• Georgetown MSF: Good for DC area, decent employment report.
• NYU MS in Quant Finance: Verify Shanghai requirement, mixed reputation.
• Columbia MSFE: Highly competitive, strong Wall Street placement.

Hope this helps in making an informed decision!

Sources: Q&A: Broke into MM M&A from a non-traditional background and 2 years of networking and internships, Q&A: Broke into MM M&A from a non-traditional background and 2 years of networking and internships, Georgetown University MSB vs. UVA (Undergrad), Georgetown Econ (College) vs Georgetown Finance (MSB), How I've managed to break into IB from a non-target (work in progress)