UChicago Booth MiF vs Vanderbilt MsF
Hey guys,
I recently got accepted to both Vanderbilt's MsF program and UChicago's Booth MiF and would like some advice/help if possible in deciding.
Vanderbilt has historically always been successful in placing students in IB, its program is 9 months long, and the program places strong emphasis into the recruitment side.
UChicago Booth holds the more prestigious name between the business schools and the MiF program is 15 months long. It is also in Chicago, which I prefer. Because it is a new program, however, it's unclear what the career outcomes will be for the first cohorts.
Which program do you think would give me better career prospects in IB in the US? Any input will be really helpful. Thanks!
Ahoy there! You've got yourself in quite the exciting pickle, haven't you? Choosing between Vanderbilt's MsF and UChicago's Booth MiF is like deciding between a perfectly aged cheese and a fine wine – both are excellent choices, but they cater to different tastes and goals. Let's break it down, shall we?
Vanderbilt's MsF Program: - Duration: A swift 9 months, making it a quick turnaround from education to employment. - Placement: Historically, Vanderbilt has a strong track record of placing students into Investment Banking (IB) roles. This is a significant point to consider if IB is your end goal. - Recruitment Focus: The program places a strong emphasis on the recruitment side of things, which can be incredibly beneficial in landing your desired role in IB.
UChicago's Booth MiF Program: - Prestige: Booth carries a weighty name in the world of business schools, which can open doors and create opportunities based on the brand alone. - Duration: At 15 months, it's a bit longer than Vanderbilt's offering. This could mean more time for internships, networking, and diving deeper into finance. - Location: You mentioned a preference for Chicago, which is a significant consideration for your overall happiness and networking opportunities. - Newness of the Program: The MiF program being new introduces an element of uncertainty regarding career outcomes. However, the Booth brand and its network could mitigate this risk.
Decision Time: - If your heart is set on breaking into IB as swiftly as possible and you value a program with a proven track record in this specific field, Vanderbilt's MsF might be the way to go. Their focus on recruitment and historical success in placing students into IB roles are compelling points. - On the other hand, if the prestige of the institution, the allure of Chicago, and the potential for a broader network appeal to you, Booth's MiF could offer incredible value. The longer program duration allows for more in-depth exploration of finance and additional networking opportunities.
In the grand scheme of things, both programs can lead to successful careers in IB. It might come down to where you see yourself fitting best and which program aligns more closely with your immediate career goals and personal preferences. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Choose the path that excites you the most and the rest will follow. Good luck, future finance mogul!
Sources: Vandy MSF vs. Villanova MSF for IB, Booth vs. Columbia for MBA, Vanderbilt (full-tuition) vs UChicago ($15,000 scholarship) vs MIT (full-pay), School Decision for Investment Management: Booth / Columbia ($$) / MIT Sloan?, Brandeis MA in international economics and finance (full tuition) or Vandy MSF
Scholarships??
First cohort is really spooky.
got for both around the same amount, so it really isn't influencing my decision twards one over the other
Yeah then I tend to like the advice of mal.
Having the ability to complete the internship and recruit if necessary while still not yet graduated is really nice.
If you don’t mind, can I ask how much is the tuition for Uchicago Booth MiF and how much you received for a scholarship? I would very appreciate for your share.
The most secure option would undoubtedly be Vanderbilt.
Nevertheless, the extensive professional connections you could cultivate at U Chicago could prove immensely advantageous.
Personally, I would advise against prioritizing the fastest track to completing the degree unless you have a solid pathway to IB.
I did a two-year program and I’m happy I did because navigating internship opportunities during the first year amid the COVID-19 pandemic was challenging, with few firms actively recruiting interns or full-time analysts.
Given the current competitive hiring landscape, it’s prudent to opt for the safest option available. Moreover, if there’s an opportunity to prolong the program, I would highly recommend seizing it. It’s preferable to remain enrolled in a program than to graduate prematurely without any prospects lined up.
That’s my 2 cents.
mal381what you said makes a lot of sense, thank you!
Hey. Do you mind if I ask which 2 year program you did? I'm basically trying to rebrand and break into IB through a Masters degree. I am an international student btw.
I completed the Georgetown MSF program.
I shared some insights about my experience within this app.
Given that the UChicago program is 15 months, means that you would likely do an internship, and the name recognition is there. Vanderbilt really places it's cohort into IB in the south (Texas, Atlanta, Charlotte). Booth seems better if you are targeting Chicago.
Hi, sorry to interrupt but can you share your stats? I'm planning to apply for both msfs next year..
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