MSF Degree (not a MSF vs MBA thread)

ANT:

It depends on a lot of things. Really hard to say since the MBA is much more common at this point. I do know of one MD with just an MSF, but he is at a smaller MM shop and only one data point. The MBA is a branding tool and only two programs in the US have the brand weight to compete with the MBA. In Europe it is a different story, but Europe is a more mature market for the MSF.

The problem with the MSF is that it is a focused graduate degree. MBA's are broad and diverse, allow you to build a solid network and build yourself as well as your resume. An MSF is niche and doesn't deal with that other stuff. Your network is only finance people also.

From my experience and conversation with others I can attest to the fact that having an MSF will carry some weight once you get in the business, but right now a top MBA is still the standard course. As more MSF grads move up the ladder and the degree gets more and more mature you will see people with just an MSF in more senior roles. You just need to wait.

ANT, your insight is is always spot on, but I have to respectfully disagree with your 'msf doesn't deal with that other stuff' comment. I know MSF's at some schools, ex. Vandy, go through the same networking, personal branding, and job search training as Vandy MBA's. MSF's, at least in the mentioned program, are encouraged to attend all MBA networking events and forums, and are able to take MBA classes. They tend to build strong networks through most MBA contacts. Some students in that program got most of their links to positions through MBA's. On a side note, thanks for promoting the MSF as you have, I know it is doing wonders for the degree.