LSE BSc Economics or LSE BSc Finance

Subject: LSE BSc Economics vs. BSc Finance

Hello! I recently got an offer to study BSc Economics at LSE, which I was considering accepting as a backup. However, I’m contemplating asking to switch to BSc finance instead, since my goal is to pursue a high-finance career in fields like investment banking, private equity, or hedge funds. I’m curious if switching to finance would provide any significant advantages in terms of recruitment, job opportunities, or course content. What are your thoughts? Thank you!

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One response

  1. Congratulations on your offer! Both BSc Economics and BSc finance at LSE are highly respected degrees, and they can both lead to successful careers in high finance roles like investment banking (IB), private equity (PE), and hedge funds (HF).

    Here are some points to consider when deciding between the two:

    1. Course Content:
    2. BSc Economics will provide you with a strong foundation in economic theory and analytical skills. It often includes a broader range of topics, including international Economics and public policy, which can be beneficial for understanding the bigger picture in finance.
    3. BSc Finance, on the other hand, is typically more focused on finance-specific topics such as corporate finance, investments, and risk management. If your primary goal is a career in finance, this program could offer more directly relevant skills and knowledge.

    4. Recruitment and Employment:

    5. Investment banks and finance firms often recruit from both economics and finance graduates. However, some firms specifically prefer candidates with a finance background for certain roles.
    6. Networking opportunities and recruitment events might differ slightly between the two programs, so researching past recruitment outcomes and alumni pathways for both degrees could be helpful.

    7. Skill Development:

    8. BSc Finance may place a stronger emphasis on quantitative skills and financial modeling, which are essential for roles in IB and HF. If you have a strong interest in these areas, Finance might be a better fit.
    9. BSc Economics can sharpen your analytical and problem-solving skills, which are valuable in any finance career, particularly in roles that require a good understanding of market dynamics.

    10. Future Opportunities:

    11. While BSc Finance might position you slightly closer to finance-specific roles from the get-go, many successful professionals in IB, PE, and HF come from an Economics background. What matters more than the degree itself is how you leverage your experiences, internships, and networking opportunities while studying.

    Ultimately, the choice should align with your interests and career goals. If you’re more inclined towards finance-specific roles and the content of BSc Finance excites you, it may be worth considering a switch. However, if you enjoy the economics perspective and feel it will provide you with a well-rounded skill set, sticking with BSc Economics could also lead you to your desired career path. Good luck!

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