MBA vs MSF

[vlad17]

Hi all, I have been admitted to the MSF program at Boston College and the MBA program at Darden School of Business (UVA). The MSF is a one-year program that would require me to get a loan of around 50k and the MBA at Darden costs 3 times as much and takes two years. I am 30 years old and have been a trader for the last 4 years. What do you think is the right choice in my situation since I am looking to find a job in either banking or asset management?

[Reinventing]

Vlad17, are you more interested in quant/analytical-focused roles or strategic roles? MSF is an easier sell for quant/analytical roles, MBA for strategic roles (as well as other roles, depending on your academic background).

Given your work background, if you are considering more strategic roles, I would call UVa and ask to talk with a few finance-focused candidates from the Class of 2011. UVa will open a lot of doors in general, but it is expensive, and you need to know whether hiring companies will be receptive to your background as a transition to banking or asset management. The bar is high.

Also figure out if there are any grads from BC working in roles or with companies you are interested in.

Try posting to business forums. There aren't always a lot of business applicants here.