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Is A Master In Finance Worth It?

The Master in Finance is among the most popular graduate business school degrees. But are Masters in Finance worth the investment?

Fri Aug 5 2022

BusinessBecause

The Master in Finance (MiF) is one of the most popular graduate business degrees, with over 35% of programs reporting a growth in applications in 2021. 

While many of the best Masters in Finance programs can be found at European business schools—at top schools like HEC Paris, ESCP Business School, and ESSEC Business School—MiF programs are increasingly found in Asia and the United States. 

Like other business school degrees, a Master in Finance doesn’t come cheap. European programs like the Master of International Finance at HEC Paris come in at around $37k in tuition, while US MiF programs like that at MIT Sloan cost in excess of $86k. 

So, is a Master in Finance degree worth it? 


MiF jobs | Working for top financial institutions


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©lucky-photographer


Many of the first MiF programs in France, such as HEC Paris and ESCP Business School, were set up by French chambers of commerce in order to create the next generation of leaders in the financial industry. 

“MiF degrees are very focused on the theoretical aspects of all things finance. With such a focused approach, candidates end up with very strong fundamentals in finance-related fields,” explains Piyush Ranjan, founder of admissions consultancy Management Masters.

As a path into top jobs at the world’s leading financial institutions, a Master in Finance is still second to none. At HEC Paris, consistently ranked as the world’s best Master in Finance program according to the Financial Times, companies like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and BlackRock are among the top employers of MiF graduates. 

The same goes for top-ranked programs like MIT Sloan in the US and Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance in China. They act as stepping stones to financial hubs like Wall Street or the Shanghai Stock Exchange. 

Clement Dumur, a Master in Finance graduate from HKUST Business School, landed an investment management job at Credit Suisse after graduation. He often leans on the expertise he gained from the program. 

“Many of my clients don’t know much about finance, and I have to explain a lot of concepts,” he explains. “The way I do this has been influenced by my teachers at HKUST, who made things very accessible.”


READ: What Can You Do With A Master In Finance? 

ff7e9e9066def3932b95075424226355393ed660.png ©Jirapong Manustrong/iStock


MiF jobs | Alternative job opportunities in finance


Not all graduates take up conventional roles in investment banking or wealth management. Increasingly, Masters in Finance programs offer students an insight into alternative sections of finance. 

Fintech is a popular subject area, and is attracting more attention for those looking to combine an interest in technology with a financial specialization. Private equity and venture capital are other areas that are increasingly popular with MiF grads. 

Jerome Troiano, careers director for masters programs at EDHEC Business School, believes the strength of a Master in Finance is the options it opens up for graduates. 

“You can apply these skills in almost any industry across a wide range of positions. You’re able to have both international mobility and to move from one sector to another. When you think about it, there are few functions that can allow this.”


Download Our Master's Survival Kit 2022 

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The public sector also remains popular for students from a Master in Finance background. Bocconi MiF graduate Elena Falcettoni is now an economist at the US Federal Reserve, working to widen access to healthcare. 

“My MSc in Finance was very practical, using very quantitative tools to address real life issues,” she says. “As an applied economist, that’s what I’m still doing, just at a higher level.”


Master in Finance | Salaries & Career Progress


Among specialized master’s programs, Masters in Finance graduates earn some of the highest salaries. The latest Corporate Recruiters Survey by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC) found the median starting salary for US MiF graduates to be $110k. 

Within three years of graduating, this tends to increase quite quickly. MIT Sloan graduates are the best paid, and can expect to earn around $174k annually. Top-ranked HEC Paris also sees grads earn above $170k. 

Graduates from Chinese schools are increasingly well compensated, with the advantage of tapping into China’s booming economy and financial industry. MiF graduates from Tsinghua University, Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance can also expect salaries above $170k, while Peking University grads typically earn in excess of $150k. 

If you're looking to strengthen your employability and unlock higher salaries a Master in Finance is sure to be a good investment. 


Next Read:

Master's Survival Kit: 10 Things You Should Know Before Going To Business School

Student Reviews

Bocconi University

Edoardo

Verified

25/01/2022

Blended

Everything was great ( apart from the covid part)

I really enjoyed this experience because I built a really strong relationship with other students and professors. This fact has permitted me to grow as a person and also to improve my academic background by confronting myself with other people. I would encourage Bocconi to create a new method of exams for online courses (I have experienced it during the covid-19 period) because they could not manage to control and to avoid shameless situations such as software breakdowns just before the exams.

Student

Verified

8/11/2021

On Campus

Amazing course

The workload is really heavy, but that’s the only way to prepare students for the job market. Bocconi offers also many services to help students kick off their careers. Overall, Bocconi University Masters Degree is the best option for ambitious students and the best choice among Italian and maybe European universities.

Student

Verified

24/07/2020

A great experience

A fundamental experience to understand what I want to do in life. In the three years I attended Bocconi University, I laid the foundations for my business education. I will always be grateful to it. I absolutely recommend it.

Alessandra

Verified

26/06/2020

Bocconi: Italian Quality

The great thing about this University is that it is one of the few Italian universities offering such international programs. My course is unique and doesn't exist anywhere else, so if you like arts and economics, Bocconi is the best place. The course provides both subjects concerning arts/philosophy, and ones more related to economics. Personally, I have decided to follow a different path because I am not so interested in working in this specific field, but this course is totally worth it if you want to work in a creative industry. Indeed, it gives people with a passion for luxury, arts and so on with a complete knowledge concerning management. The best part has been the great support offered by the University in every aspect, going from on-campus facilities to monthly job fairs to better understand the kind of career we want to pursue. This is often taken for granted in Italian universities.

Student

Verified

25/05/2020

Professional and amazing

Very well organized university. I have studied Financial management and I graduated with 108/110. The teachers are really good and professional. The university has all the facilities and the services are professional. I really enjoyed studying in a professional and international environment. Bocconi has played an important role in finding my actual job!

Student

Verified

28/10/2019

Great university which gives wonderful placement opportunities.

I really like Bocconi. What I appreciated the most was the high level of teaching and the opportunities given in terms of placement and networking connections. I strongly recommend this university if you want to pursue a great working career.

Student

Verified

27/10/2019

Beautiful environment

Beautiful community of students with lots of opportunities for in-campus activities. The university offers 8 residences near the campus, perfect for freshmen at the first year in Milan. Professors are very prepared and always ready to help students

Student

Verified

24/03/2018

An outstanding university

The great efficiency and organization, the high quality of teaching, and the possibility to take part in many interesting and useful experiences make Bocconi University stand out. It distinguishes itself from the Italian academic background. Many people say Bocconi is too stressful, but to me, it’s worth it.

Student

Verified

20/03/2018

Excellent

Bocconi is outstanding university. Among the best in Italy. The international franework helps students to get involved in projects/associations that enrich the campus. I study law and i’ m happy about my 4 years and experiences that i had the opportunity to

Edoardo

Verified

25/01/2022

Blended

Everything was great ( apart from the covid part)

I really enjoyed this experience because I built a really strong relationship with other students and professors. This fact has permitted me to grow as a person and also to improve my academic background by confronting myself with other people. I would encourage Bocconi to create a new method of exams for online courses (I have experienced it during the covid-19 period) because they could not manage to control and to avoid shameless situations such as software breakdowns just before the exams.

Student

Verified

8/11/2021

On Campus

Amazing course

The workload is really heavy, but that’s the only way to prepare students for the job market. Bocconi offers also many services to help students kick off their careers. Overall, Bocconi University Masters Degree is the best option for ambitious students and the best choice among Italian and maybe European universities.

Student

Verified

24/07/2020

A great experience

A fundamental experience to understand what I want to do in life. In the three years I attended Bocconi University, I laid the foundations for my business education. I will always be grateful to it. I absolutely recommend it.

Alessandra

Verified

26/06/2020

Bocconi: Italian Quality

The great thing about this University is that it is one of the few Italian universities offering such international programs. My course is unique and doesn't exist anywhere else, so if you like arts and economics, Bocconi is the best place. The course provides both subjects concerning arts/philosophy, and ones more related to economics. Personally, I have decided to follow a different path because I am not so interested in working in this specific field, but this course is totally worth it if you want to work in a creative industry. Indeed, it gives people with a passion for luxury, arts and so on with a complete knowledge concerning management. The best part has been the great support offered by the University in every aspect, going from on-campus facilities to monthly job fairs to better understand the kind of career we want to pursue. This is often taken for granted in Italian universities.

Student

Verified

25/05/2020

Professional and amazing

Very well organized university. I have studied Financial management and I graduated with 108/110. The teachers are really good and professional. The university has all the facilities and the services are professional. I really enjoyed studying in a professional and international environment. Bocconi has played an important role in finding my actual job!

Student

Verified

28/10/2019

Great university which gives wonderful placement opportunities.

I really like Bocconi. What I appreciated the most was the high level of teaching and the opportunities given in terms of placement and networking connections. I strongly recommend this university if you want to pursue a great working career.

Student

Verified

27/10/2019

Beautiful environment

Beautiful community of students with lots of opportunities for in-campus activities. The university offers 8 residences near the campus, perfect for freshmen at the first year in Milan. Professors are very prepared and always ready to help students

Student

Verified

24/03/2018

An outstanding university

The great efficiency and organization, the high quality of teaching, and the possibility to take part in many interesting and useful experiences make Bocconi University stand out. It distinguishes itself from the Italian academic background. Many people say Bocconi is too stressful, but to me, it’s worth it.

Student

Verified

20/03/2018

Excellent

Bocconi is outstanding university. Among the best in Italy. The international franework helps students to get involved in projects/associations that enrich the campus. I study law and i’ m happy about my 4 years and experiences that i had the opportunity to

Yangxin

Verified

27/03/2024

On Campus

Excellent university full of opportunities

I had almost zero experience in business before coming to Bocconi. However, this did not hinder my career prospects here. I was fortunate to receive valuable opportunities such as in-company training and internships. Through these experiences, I gained invaluable practical insights into various business scenarios, becoming more acquainted with the real business world. Before arriving here, I had not learned Italian, which initially made me concerned about possible cultural or language barriers. Bocconi offers Italian language courses that proved indispensable in helping me adapt to Milan during my days here. Additionally, my Italian classmates have been incredibly welcoming, assisting me with cultural adjustments and willingly serving as language partners to help with my Italian language learning journey. My two-year life here has become both manageable and enjoyable. In conclusion, I would recommend this university to those people who are eager to embrace a future brimming with opportunities.

Alex

Verified

28/03/2024

On Campus

So many opportunities

Bocconi has been an amazing journey for me, filled with growth and opportunities, both on a professional and personal level. The professors teaching the International Management Master's are of really high quality and they were able to transfer some much "knowledge that matters", thanks also to the many teamworking experiences during the course. Bocconi also allowed me to experience a double degree program with ESADE, which taught me a lot both in terms of professional development, as well as allowing me to expand my network of international students even further. Overall, Bocconi unleashed plenty of opportunities I could not foresee before joining the university and that I'm really grateful for and excited to dive into.

Marina

Verified

30/03/2024

On Campus

Invest in your knowledge

Bocconi offers plenty of opportunities to grow as a person and as a professional. I was able to both broaden my interests and deepen existent knowledge during my Master's degree in Finance. It's very challenging, but the result is totally worth it. Bocconi has a very impressive reputation across the world, which allowed me to have an internship at my dream company.

Tara

Verified

1/04/2024

On Campus

A University Ripe with Opportunity

As a first year Masters in International Management student, the global perspective, abundant learning opportunities and networking opportunities were the main aspects that drew me towards pursing my studies at Bocconi. And Bocconi has delivered in full on these promises. In my classes I have really valued the more application based approach which centres around collaboration with peers from around the world. There are also so many opportunities for learning outside the classroom through supplementary activities, societies, guest lectures and other events hosted by the university! The networking opportunities and career services are world class. The university regularly hosts events like Bocconi

Martina

Verified

1/04/2024

On Campus

Environment and experiences

Entering Bocconi, I was shy and uncertain. I was surprised to discover a supportive community that not only challenged me academically but also encouraged me to come out of my shell. I found myself surrounded by lifelong friends who turned out to be an invaluable support for me. Despite my initial indecision, my chosen course (Economics and Management for Arts and Culture) proved to be the perfect fit, seamlessly blending rigorous economic principles with insights into the cultural landscape. I found myself immersed in a dynamic environment that fostered healthy competition, pushing me to excel while simultaneously supporting my personal growth. Reflecting on my period at Bocconi, I can confidently say it was the best time of my life. Through unforgettable experiences in students associations, internships and study-abroad periods, Bocconi accompanied me from adolescence into adulthood. It provided me with the confidence and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the real world, offering me an environment where I could flourish both academically and personally.

Erik

Verified

2/04/2024

On Campus

Great programme in MSc Finance

I have done the MSc in Finance, and I am extremely happy with it. The quality of the education is really good, and has more than prepared me for my job in Asset Management after my studies. There are also a lot of group projects and labs in the classes which lets you try things in practice. In addition to this, there are a lot of good student associations for finance which allows you to connect with a lot of really brilliant people.

Student

Verified

2/04/2024

On Campus

My Experience at Bocconi University

Bocconi University offers a great deal of programs. The small classes make it easy for students to interact with professors, all very experienced in their field, and not only care for the students' life inside the classroom but also for their lives outside, providing many amazing extracurricular activities, from sports, and associations to theater and singing. Overall, a great experience!

Student

Verified

4/04/2024

On Campus

Excellent university providing a great preparation

I have chosen Bocconi University for both my bachelor's and master's degree and I am extremely satisfied with my experience and the preparation the institution has given me, both academically and to be equipped to enter the job market. The programs are very international, which has allowed me to make friends from all over the world, and the university offers a wide range of interesting courses, both in Italian and in English, which often combine a theoretical strong preparation together with practical applied projects. Bocconi also has a great and efficient career service that organizes useful events to get ready for the job market, meet employers and network with companies. I have also appreciated the presence of over a hundred student associations, which has allowed me to pursue some interests of mine while meeting students from several different courses and gainining more practical experience through additional projects.

Anna

Verified

8/06/2024

On Campus

Friends for life!

As I come to the end of my time here at Bocconi university, I have come to understand how lucky I was to end up at this school. I was lucky because I had the freedom to explore my academic possibilities, and discover how great I can be. I'll forever hold the friends I've made dear to my heart.

Maria

Verified

28/06/2024

On Campus

More than a degree

I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at Bocconi University. The professors were exceptional, showing great passion for their subjects. I had numerous chances for professional growth and preparation. In addition to earning a degree, I acquired priceless practical knowledge and a strong professional network. I highly recommend it!

Pritish

Verified

2/10/2024

On Campus

A place for learning through collaboration

The 2 years of my Master of Science program have been the experience I sought after my Bachelor's in India. Bocconi emphasized theoretical and practical ways of learning, which involved collaboration among my course peers and those in other universities and organizations. I feel more prepared to enter the workforce having realised the areas of my interest and following the pursuit of skills that will enhance my career trajectory.

Tara

Verified

2/10/2024

On Campus

Opportunities ripe for the taking

Bocconi University offers an exceptional educational experience, one that I can attest to as a student studying in their Master of Science in International Management programme. The program provides a strong academic foundation in global business practices, while also putting into practice the theory learnt. One of Bocconi's standout features is its robust networking opportunities, with frequent events, guest lectures, and corporate partnerships that connect students with industry leaders worldwide. The university's career services and global alumni network open doors to internships and job opportunities at top international firms, making it a great launching pad for a global career in management.

Student

Verified

29/09/2024

On Campus

An amazing experience!

I love the quality of education I received at Bocconi. Having previously studied Management back in Turkey, coming here to do my masters in Marketing Management allowed me to get much more specialisation regarding my field. I got to know more about the data side of marketing, which brought me a whole other perspective. The school itself has many opportunities to make your university life the best possible experience. I enjoyed the seminars held, the extracurricular activities carried out, the opportunities to join an association, and have also been staying in one of the residences of Bocconi, which has made my life so much easier. Overall, I can say that both in terms of the education I got and the campus life Bocconi provided me, I am very satisfied with everything.

Student

Verified

27/09/2024

On Campus

Quality of the education

Having studied in Spain, US, and UK, I can attest to the quality of education at Bocconi when compared with universities from other countries. The professors are of an extremely high quality, and they are always available for students to answer any doubts or provide any guidance. Bocconi has a competitive environment that demands a high degree of commitment from students. Yet the rewards for this high level of dedication are clear, an excellent education and an amazing student experience filled with deep friendships forged over studying.

Student

Verified

27/09/2024

On Campus

Program with life-long benefits

I am a Chinese student enrolled in the DSBA program at Bocconi. The course structure and content are thoughtfully designed and highly beneficial for aspiring data scientists or business analysts. The curriculum covers nearly all the techniques that employers seek and commonly inquire about during interviews. Additionally, there are numerous extracurricular opportunities, including music concerts, research seminars, and sports activities. For instance, the campus regularly hosts seminars led by prominent researchers, international company executives, and politicians. I was particularly inspired by one of these seminars, which helped me discover my true passion for research. I really recommend Bocconi to prospective applicants. Here, you can find your career goal and receive excellent preparation through the dedicated courses and enriching activities.

Student

Verified

10/09/2024

On Campus

Building lifelong connections at Bocconi

The Bachelor in International Economics and Management at Bocconi not only offers academic excellence but also fosters lasting friendships. The diverse student body and collaborative environment create strong personal and professional bonds that endure. These relationships extend beyond the classroom, enriching both your personal growth and global network.

Student

Verified

4/09/2024

On Campus

A first step into the real world.

The strength of Bocconi University lies in its teaching method. Whenever possible, classes and topics discussed refer to real-life case studies, helping students understand the practical applications of the subjects they are studying.

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