Is it possible to break into S&T doing History, Politics and Economics at UCL?

I know for investment banking degree carries less weight than university prestige, but I was wondering if it was the same for S&T too? Thanks. 

3 Comments
 

Breaking into Sales & Trading (S&T) with a degree in History, Politics, and Economics from UCL is definitely possible. Based on the most helpful WSO content, university prestige plays a significant role in S&T recruitment, similar to investment banking. UCL is a highly regarded institution, which works in your favor.

However, S&T roles often require strong quantitative and analytical skills. While your degree may not be as mathematically intensive as others, you can compensate by demonstrating your quantitative abilities through internships, relevant coursework, or certifications. For example, pursuing financial modeling courses or certifications like those offered in the WSO Academy (e.g., Excel Modeling or Financial Statement Modeling) can help bridge the gap.

Additionally, networking is crucial. Many S&T firms recruit from top universities, and leveraging UCL's alumni network or attending industry events can provide valuable connections. Highlighting your interest in markets, trading, and your ability to think critically under pressure will also strengthen your application.

In summary, while your degree may not be the most traditional path for S&T, UCL's prestige, combined with proactive efforts to showcase your quantitative skills and market knowledge, can make you a competitive candidate.

Sources: MSc in Economics to get into S&T, Is S&T still a good career path?

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

Ab et modi in. Cum voluptatem molestias qui vitae inventore sequi. Eum voluptas praesentium ea quia placeat dolorum similique. Natus aut et vero similique veritatis dolor.

Porro voluptas et ab harum distinctio. Sint temporibus sunt explicabo non accusamus aliquam sed aut. Dolore sapiente explicabo fugiat velit non architecto. Blanditiis dolore et nihil perspiciatis et natus sint esse. At omnis et qui.

Career Advancement Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.3%
  • Morgan Stanley 08 97.8%
  • Goldman Sachs 02 97.2%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.3%
  • Banco Santander 02 97.8%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.2%

Professional Growth Opportunities

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.9%
  • Morgan Stanley 06 98.3%
  • Goldman Sachs 01 97.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 97.2%

Total Avg Compensation

August 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (16) $429
  • Associates (47) $258
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (25) $178
  • Intern/Summer Associate (14) $159
  • 1st Year Analyst (83) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (74) $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

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
6
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
7
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
8
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
9
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
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...”