In the competitive landscape of business education, the choice of a business school plays a crucial role in shaping one’s career, especially in Finance.
Several factors contribute to the overall success of a business school, and among them, key indicators include Percent Hired, Number Hired, Median Salary, and Median Sign-on Bonus. In this article, we will delve into the data of the top 15 business schools, examining each school’s performance in these critical parameters and understanding their significance.
- Methodology
- Top 15 Business School for a career in Financial Services Industry
- 1. The Wharton School
- 2. Columbia Business School
- 3. Harvard Business School
- 4. Chicago Booth School of Business
- 5. Stanford Graduate School of Business
- 6. Cornell Johnson School of Business
- 7. NYU Stern
- 8. LBS (London Business School)
- 9. Virginia Darden
- 10. Kellogg School of Management
- 11. Kenan-Flagler Business School
- 12. Dartmouth Tuck School of Business
- 13. Yale School of Management
- 14. Duke Fuqua School of Business
- 15. MIT Sloan School of Management
- Notable Mention – Oxford Saïd
- Final Thoughts
Methodology
We considered several key metrics to ensure a proper evaluation in order to select the best business schools for a career in finance. The criteria encompassed a combination of factors designed to reflect the overall effectiveness of each business school in preparing graduates for successful finance careers.
Key Metrics Considered
- Percent Hired in Finance: This metric provides insight into the school’s ability to consistently place a significant percentage of its graduates in finance roles. A higher percentage reflects the school’s success in channeling students toward finance careers.
- Number of Students Hired: While percent hired is crucial, the absolute number of students securing finance positions offers a more tangible perspective on the school’s impact. A higher number indicates a substantial cohort entering the finance sector.
- Median Salary: The median salary is a crucial indicator of the financial rewards awaiting graduates. It reflects the competitiveness and market value of the education provided by the business school.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A generous sign-on bonus is often indicative of the demand for graduates from a particular institution. It enhances the overall compensation package and is a key factor in attracting top talent.
Top 15 Business School for a career in Financial Services Industry
| S. No. | School Name | Percent Hired | Number Hired | Median Salary | Median Sign-on Bonus |
| 1 | The Wharton School | 36.70% | 245 | $175,000 | $40,000 |
| 2 | Columbia Business School | 36.90% | 293 | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| 3 | Harvard Business School | 33% | 320 | $175,000 | $40,000 |
| 4 | Chicago Booth School of Business | 32.60% | 162 | $175,000 | $47,000 |
| 5 | Stanford Graduate School of Business | 38% | 97 | $200,000 | $30,000 |
| 6 | Cornell (Johnson) | 35% | 100 | $175,000 | – |
| 7 | NYU (Stern) | 29.40% | 93 | $175,000 | $54,539 |
| 8 | London Business School | 27% | 139 | $135,949 | – |
| 9 | Virginia (Darden) | 26% | 82 | $175,000 | – |
| 10 | Kellogg School of Management | 22% | 92 | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| 11 | Kenan Flagler | 28% | 72 | $175,000 | – |
| 12 | Dartmouth Tuck | 23% | 40 | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| 13 | Yale School of Management | 22.30% | 60 | $175,000 | $48,750 |
| 14 | Duke (Fuqua) | 21% | 81 | $175,000 | – |
| 15 | MIT Sloan School of Management | 19.90% | 90 | $175,000 | $50,000 |
Let’s explore each business school in this table in a little more detail.
1. The Wharton School
The Wharton School, affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, is renowned for its strong emphasis on finance education. With a substantial 36.70% of its graduates hired, it stands out as a prime choice for those aspiring to excel in finance careers.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: The impressive 36.70% employment rate indicates Wharton’s ability to consistently place a significant portion of its graduates in finance roles.
- Number Hired: Boasting 245 hires, Wharton ensures a sizable cohort enters the finance sector, enhancing networking opportunities and industry exposure.
- Median Salary: The median salary of $175,000 reflects the financial rewards awaiting Wharton graduates, aligning with industry standards.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A substantial $40,000 sign-on bonus sweetens the deal, further positioning Wharton as a top choice for finance enthusiasts.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| INDUSTRY | Median Annual Salary (US $) | # with Sign-On Bonus | Median Sign-On Bonus (US $) |
| Investment Banking/Brokerage | $175,000 | 54 | $50,000 |
| Private Equity/Buyouts/Other | $175,000 | 30 | $25,000 |
| Hedge Funds/Other Investments | $175,000 | 3 | $25,000 |
| Investment Management | $170,559 | 22 | $40,000 |
| Insurance & Diversified Services | $162,000 | 10 | $36,250 |
| Venture Capital | $150,000 | 4 | $22,500 |
In the Wharton Financial Services sub-industry, graduates entering Investment Banking/Brokerage and Private Equity/Buyouts/Other sectors receive the highest median annual salaries at $175,000.
The Investment Banking sector particularly stands out with a substantial number of graduates (54) receiving a median sign-on bonus of $50,000, showcasing the industry’s competitive compensation packages.
On the other hand, graduates entering the Venture Capital sector receive a slightly lower median annual salary of $150,000 but still benefit from a reasonable median sign-on bonus of $22,500.
2. Columbia Business School
Columbia Business School, situated in the heart of financial hub New York City, holds a prestigious position among finance-focused institutions. With a 36.90% hiring rate, it provides a fertile ground for finance careers.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 36.90%, Columbia Business School matches Wharton’s hiring prowess, ensuring a robust transition to finance roles.
- Number Hired: A commendable 293 graduates finding employment underscores the school’s strong ties with financial institutions.
- Median Salary: The median salary of $175,000 positions Columbia Business School graduates lucratively in the finance domain.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A generous $50,000 sign-on bonus adds allure to Columbia’s finance program, attracting top talent.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | % of Graduates | Base Salary Range | Median Base Salary | Other Guaranteed Compensation Range | Median Other Guaranteed Compensation | % Receiving Other Guaranteed Compensation |
| Investment Management | 8.2% | $82,500 – $300,000 | $162,500 | $3,395 – $200,000 | $56,000 | 74.0% |
| Private Equity | 4.7% | $120,000 – $400,000 | $162,500 | $15,000 – $335,000 | $30,000 | 50.0% |
| Venture Capital | 3.3% | $80,000 – $250,000 | $180,000 | $15,000 – $75,000 | $40,000 | 50.0% |
| Consumer Finance & Analytics | 2.1% | $120,000 – $170,000 | $125,000 | $10,000 – $41,500 | $40,000 | 78.6% |
| Investment Banking | 16.7% | $118,272 – $210,000 | $175,000 | $10,000 – $175,000 | $50,000 | 94.7% |
| Other | 1.9% | $87,480 – $225,000 | $145,000 | $30,000 – $40,000 | $35,000 |
Notably, Investment Banking has the highest percentage of graduates (16.7%) and boasts the highest median base salary and other guaranteed compensation. Other prominent sectors include Investment Management, Private Equity, and Venture Capital, each with distinct salary ranges and compensation structures. The majority of graduates in these sectors receive additional guaranteed compensation, emphasizing the competitive nature of Columbia’s financial services placement.
3. Harvard Business School
Harvard Business School, synonymous with excellence, maintains a formidable presence in finance education. Despite a slightly lower hiring rate of 33%, it remains a powerhouse for finance careers.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: Although at 33%, slightly less than its counterparts, Harvard’s reputation ensures a high-quality placement for its graduates in finance.
- Number Hired: With an impressive 320 graduates securing positions, Harvard’s extensive alumni network plays a crucial role in finance placements.
- Median Salary: The median salary of $175,000 aligns with industry standards, offering financial stability to its graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A $40,000 sign-on bonus complements the salary, enhancing the overall compensation package for Harvard Business School graduates.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | % of Graduates | Median Base Salary | Median Signing Bonus | % Receiving Signing Bonus | Median Performance Bonus | % Receiving Performance Bonus |
| Venture Capital / Private Equity | 20% | $180,000 | $30,000 | 38% | $175,000 | 75% |
| Investment Management / Hedge Fund | 6% | $175,000 | $50,000 | 57% | $113,000 | 74% |
| Investment Banking / Sales & Trading | 3% | $175,000 | $54,000 | 100% | $100,000 | 87% |
| Other Finance | 3% | $150,000 | $20,000 | 32% | $60,000 | 79% |
Harvard Business School’s graduates pursuing careers in the financial services sub-industry exhibit a diversified distribution across key sectors. Notably, 20% enter the competitive field of Venture Capital / Private Equity, commanding a median base salary of $180,000 and a substantial signing bonus of $30,000.
Investment Banking / Sales & Trading attracts 3% of graduates with a lucrative median base salary of $175,000, coupled with a generous signing bonus of $54,000.
Investment Management / Hedge Fund sees 6% of graduates, offering a median base salary of $175,000 and a signing bonus of $50,000.
Other Finance roles, encompassing 3% of graduates, present a median base salary of $150,000 and a signing bonus of $20,000.
Across these sub-industries, Harvard Business School ensures a high percentage of graduates receive signing and performance bonuses, enhancing overall compensation packages.
4. Chicago Booth School of Business
The Booth School of Business, affiliated with the University of Chicago, excels in finance education. While its 32.60% hiring rate is slightly lower, the school compensates with other compelling factors.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 32.60%, Booth demonstrates a commitment to placing a significant number of graduates in finance roles.
- Number Hired: 162 graduates securing positions signifies the school’s ability to foster successful transitions to finance careers.
- Median Salary: A competitive median salary of $175,000 ensures financial well-being for Booth School graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: The $47,000 sign-on bonus enhances the overall compensation package, making Booth an attractive option for finance aspirants.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Industry | Percent of Hires | Number of Hires | Minimum Salary | Maximum Salary | Median Salary | Median Sign-On |
| Private Equity | 9.1% | 45 | $70,000 | $247,500 | $166,500 | Insufficient |
| Diversified Financial Services | 6.2% | 31 | $100,000 | $183,000 | $175,000 | $47,000 |
| Investment Management/Research | 3.2% | 16 | $150,000 | $230,000 | $180,000 | $45,000 |
| Venture Capital | 2.2% | 11 | $120,000 | $225,000 | $150,000 | Insufficient |
| Investment Banking/Brokerage | 11.1% | 55 | $135,000 | $225,000 | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| Insurance | 0.4% | 2 | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient |
| Commercial Banking | 0.2% | 1 | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient |
| Hedge Funds | 0.2% | 1 | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient | Insufficient |
Booth School of Business excels in placing graduates in various financial services sub-industries. Notable strengths include significant representation in Investment Banking/Brokerage (11.1%) and Private Equity (9.1%).
The Diversified Financial Services sector also sees a substantial 6.2% of Booth graduates. While specific salary data varies across industries, Booth graduates in these sectors command competitive median salaries, with attractive sign-on bonuses.
The data underscores Booth’s strong standing in preparing students for diverse and lucrative roles within the financial services domain.
5. Stanford Graduate School of Business
Stanford Graduate School of Business, renowned for innovation, excels in producing finance leaders. With a 38% hiring rate, it stands out as a top choice for those seeking lucrative finance careers.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: Stanford’s impressive 38% hiring rate highlights its effectiveness in channeling graduates into the finance sector.
- Number Hired: While a smaller cohort of 97, the school’s reputation ensures these graduates enter prestigious finance roles.
- Median Salary: The highest median salary of $200,000 reflects Stanford’s commitment to offering top-tier financial opportunities.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: Although a comparatively lower sign-on bonus of $30,000, the higher base salary compensates, making Stanford a compelling option for finance enthusiasts.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Industry | Percent | Median Base Salary | Median Expected Bonus | Median Signing Bonus |
| Private Equity | 18% | $215,000 | $181,250 | $27,500 |
| Venture Capital | 13% | $180,000 | $158,750 | $25,000 |
| Other | 5% | $220,000 | $166,250 | $50,000 |
| Investment Management | 2% | $175,000 | NA | $150,000 |
Stanford GSB’s Financial Services sub-industry data reveals a diversified landscape. Private Equity dominates with 18%, offering a high median base salary of $215,000, a substantial expected bonus of $181,250, and a noteworthy signing bonus of $27,500. Venture Capital and Other sectors follow, each presenting unique salary and bonus structures. Investment Management, while having a lower percentage, provides a solid median base salary and a significant signing bonus, making it an attractive option for a niche group. Overall, Stanford GSB prepares its graduates for varied and rewarding careers in the financial services sector.
6. Cornell Johnson School of Business
Cornell’s Johnson School, with a 35% hiring rate, offers a comprehensive finance program. Though slightly below the top contenders, its strengths lie in other aspects.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: A 35% hiring rate positions Cornell Johnson as a robust choice for finance careers.
- Number Hired: 100 graduates finding employment demonstrates the school’s efficacy in connecting students with finance opportunities.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary aligns with industry standards, providing financial stability to graduates.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | Percent Employed | Median Base Salary | Salary Range |
| Investment Banking | 70% | $175,000 | $110,000-$200,000 |
| Corporate Finance | 19% | $130,000 | $79,000-$160,000 |
| Asset Management and Equity Research | 4% | $140,000 | $124,800-$165,000 |
| Other Finance & Investment Banking | 6% | $150,000 | $140,000-$180,000 |
Cornell Johnson’s graduates in the Financial Services sub-industry show strong placement in Investment Banking, constituting 70% of employment. The graduates command an average salary of $175,062, with a median of $175,000.
Corporate Finance follows with 19% employment, offering competitive salaries ranging from $79,000 to $160,000. Asset Management and Equity Research, while representing a smaller percentage (4%), provides lucrative compensation ranging from $124,800 to $165,000.
Other Finance & Investment Banking roles contribute 6% to employment, with an average salary of $159,000 and a median of $150,000.
Overall, Cornell Johnson’s financial services graduates exhibit a robust presence in diverse roles within the industry, with a focus on high-paying positions in Investment Banking.
7. NYU Stern
NYU Stern, located in the financial capital of the world, is a prominent choice for finance education. Despite a 29.40% hiring rate, its strengths lie in other significant aspects.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 29.40%, NYU Stern ensures a substantial portion of graduates embark on successful finance careers.
- Number Hired: With 93 graduates securing positions, the school provides ample opportunities for networking and industry exposure.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary positions NYU Stern graduates competitively in the finance sector.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: An impressive $54,539 sign-on bonus adds considerable value to the overall compensation package, attracting top finance talent.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Industry | % | Average ($) | Median ($) | Low ($) | High ($) | Average Signing Bonus ($) |
| Investment Banking | 23.3% | 171,773 | 175,000 | 100,000 | 225,000 | 55,984 |
| Asset Management | 1.7% | 165,000 | 140,000 | 130,000 | 225,000 | † |
| Venture Capital | 1.7% | † | † | † | † | † |
| Diversified Financial Services | 1.0% | 153,333 | 150,000 | 135,000 | 175,000 | 40,000 |
| Private Equity | 1.0% | † | † | † | † | † |
| Other1 | 0.6% | † | † | † | † | † |
Investment Banking dominates with a substantial 23.3% of graduates securing positions, enjoying an average salary of $171,773 and a median of $175,000, accompanied by an average signing bonus of $55,984.
Diversified Financial Services and Asset Management follow with 1.0% and 1.7% hiring rates, respectively, each offering competitive compensation.
Private Equity and Venture Capital have a presence, though specific salary details are not provided.
The data highlights NYU Stern’s strength in preparing graduates for diverse roles within the financial services sector especially Investment Banking. Also, reveals the impact of its location in New York City on it’s Financial Services Hiring Data.
8. LBS (London Business School)
LBS, situated in the global financial hub of London, offers a unique perspective in finance education. Despite a 27% hiring rate, its global connections and diverse curriculum contribute to its allure.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 27%, LBS ensures a substantial portion of its graduates enter finance roles, leveraging its international reputation.
- Number Hired: 139 graduates securing positions reflects the school’s global reach in the finance sector.
- Median Salary: The median salary of $135,949, while slightly lower, still aligns with industry standards, offering financial stability.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Industry | Mean Base Salary | Other Compensation |
| Investment Banking | $138,072 | $114,461 |
| Private Equity | $122,894 | $84,700 |
| Investment Management | $152,955 | $98,693 |
| Venture Capital | $135,859 | $38,840 |
| Real Estate | $128,607 | – |
London Business School excels in preparing graduates for diverse financial services sub-industries. In Investment Management, graduates command the highest mean salary of $152,955, with significant additional compensation at $98,693.
Investment Banking follows closely with a mean salary of $138,072 and substantial other compensation at $114,461.
Private Equity and Venture Capital exhibit competitive figures, while Real Estate, although offering a solid mean salary of $128,607, lacks data on additional compensation.
Overall, the school’s graduates are well-positioned for lucrative careers in the financial services sector.
9. Virginia Darden
Darden, associated with the University of Virginia, provides a unique approach to finance education. With a 26% hiring rate, it focuses on quality placements.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 26%, Darden emphasizes quality over quantity in finance placements.
- Number Hired: 82 graduates securing positions signifies the school’s commitment to ensuring meaningful careers for its finance graduates.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary reflects competitive compensation, ensuring financial stability for Darden graduates.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
Despite the absence of specific hiring data for the financial services sub-industry, Darden’s overall commitment to quality placements remains evident. With an emphasis on personalized career development and a 26% overall hiring rate, Darden positions itself as a business school that values meaningful career trajectories over sheer quantity.
Darden’s unique approach, coupled with a median salary of $175,000, ensures its graduates are competitively positioned in the finance sector. While the lack of specific data for the financial services sub-industry is a limitation, prospective students can consider Darden’s overall strengths, global network, and commitment to personalized growth in evaluating its suitability for a finance career.
10. Kellogg School of Management
Kellogg, affiliated with Northwestern University, is a prominent player in finance education. With a 22% hiring rate, it combines academic excellence with unique opportunities.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 22%, Kellogg focuses on producing graduates of exceptional quality for the finance sector.
- Number Hired: With 92 graduates securing positions, Kellogg ensures a strong network of alumni in the finance domain.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary aligns with industry standards, providing financial stability for Kellogg graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A substantial $50,000 sign-on bonus adds significant value to the overall compensation package.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Financial Services Sub-Industry | Percent (%) | Base Salary Low ($) | Base Salary High ($) | Base Salary Median ($) | Median Signing Bonus ($) |
| Private Equity | 9.81% | 85,000 | 450,000 | 190,000 | – |
| Investment Banking/Brokerage | 7.69% | 145,000 | 216,000 | 175,000 | 57,500 |
| Venture Capital | 1.33% | 165,000 | 275,000 | 180,000 | – |
| Diversified Financial Services | 1.06% | 158,000 | 171,000 | 164,500 | 42,500 |
| Investment Management | 0.80% | – | – | – | – |
| General Financial | 0.53% | – | – | – | – |
| Commercial Banking | 0.27% | – | – | – | – |
| Hedge Funds | 0.27% | – | – | – | – |
| Insurance | 0.27% | – | – | – | – |
Kellogg School of Management’s data for the Financial Services sub-industry reveals a diverse placement landscape.
The Investment Banking/Brokerage and Private Equity sectors stand out with high percentages (7.69% and 9.81%, respectively).
The Investment Banking/Brokerage sector offers a competitive base salary median of $175,000, complemented by a substantial median signing bonus of $57,500.
Private Equity, with a median base salary of $190,000, showcases a wide salary range (85,000 to 450,000) indicating potential for lucrative compensation.
Other sub-industries like Diversified Financial Services and Venture Capital also demonstrate significant representation, offering varied salary structures.
11. Kenan-Flagler Business School
Kenan-Flagler, affiliated with the University of North Carolina, offers a comprehensive finance program. With a 28% hiring rate, it combines academic rigor with industry relevance.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 28%, Kenan-Flagler positions itself as a strong contender for finance careers.
- Number Hired: 72 graduates securing positions demonstrates the school’s ability to facilitate successful transitions to finance roles.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary reflects competitive compensation, ensuring financial stability for Kenan-Flagler graduates.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub Industry | % of Students | Median Salary |
| Investment Banking | 16% | $175,000 |
| Real Estate | 12% | $125,000 |
| Industry Finance | 3% | $136,000 |
| Private Equity | 3% | $135,000 |
| Capital Markets & Investment Management | 2% | $150,000 |
| Banking (non-Investment Banking) | 1% | $125,000 |
| Venture Capital | 1% | $130,000 |
| Private Wealth Management | <1% | $150,000 |
Kenan-Flagler’s financial services sub-industry data highlights the prevalence of Investment Banking as the dominant choice among students, constituting 16% of the cohort with a median salary of $175,000. Real Estate follows closely, attracting 12% of students with a median salary of $125,000. Notably, Industry Finance, Private Equity, and Capital Markets & Investment Management each draw 3% or fewer students, reflecting a diverse range of career interests within the financial services sector.
12. Dartmouth Tuck School of Business
Dartmouth Tuck, with a 23% hiring rate, is recognized for its close-knit community and personalized approach to finance education.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 23%, Dartmouth Tuck focuses on ensuring quality placements in finance roles.
- Number Hired: 40 graduates securing positions reflects the school’s commitment to personalized career development.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary aligns with industry standards, providing financial stability for Dartmouth Tuck graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A $50,000 sign-on bonus adds significant value to the overall compensation package.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| INDUSTRY | PERCENT | MEDIAN | BASE SALARY RANGE | PERCENT RECEIVING SIGNING BONUS | MEDIAN SIGNING BONUS | SIGNING BONUS RANGE |
| Investment Banking | 14% | $175,000 | $129,052 – $200,000 | 94% | $53,800 | $40,000 – $60,000 |
| Private Equity, Venture Capital | 3% | $175,000 | $135,000 – $275,000 | 80% | $10,000 | $5,000 – $20,000 |
| Investment Management | 3% | $150,000 | $100,000 – $180,000 | 71% | $40,000 | $30,000 – $110,000 |
| Other | 2% | $164,500 | $149,000 – $171,000 | 100% | $37,500 | $35,000 – $50,000 |
Dartmouth Tuck’s financial services sub-industry placement data indicates a diverse range of opportunities for graduates.
Investment banking emerges as the dominant field, constituting 14% of placements, with a median salary of $175,000 and a substantial signing bonus range. Investment management and private equity/venture capital sectors, though representing smaller percentages, offer competitive salaries and signing bonuses.
The “Other” category, encompassing various financial roles, showcases a 100% signing bonus distribution among placed candidates, reflecting the lucrative nature of these opportunities.
Overall, Dartmouth Tuck prepares its graduates for a well-compensated entry into diverse financial service roles.
13. Yale School of Management
Yale School of Management, known for its holistic approach, boasts a 22.30% hiring rate in finance.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 22.30%, Yale SOM emphasizes producing well-rounded graduates for the finance sector.
- Number Hired: 60 graduates securing positions signifies the school’s commitment to quality over quantity in finance placements.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary aligns with industry standards, offering financial stability to Yale SOM graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A $48,750 sign-on bonus adds considerable value to the overall compensation package.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | Median Base Salary | Median Signing Bonus |
| Investment Banking | $175,000 | $50,000 |
| Investment Management | $160,000 | * |
| Diversified Financial Services | $140,000 | $20,552 |
| Private Equity | $150,000 | * |
| Venture Capital | * | * |
Yale School of Management (SOM) excels in preparing graduates for various financial services sub-industries. In Investment Banking, graduates can expect a competitive median base salary of $175,000 with a substantial signing bonus of $50,000.
For Investment Management, the median base salary is $160,000, and specific signing bonus data is not available.
In Diversified Financial Services, the median base salary is $140,000, complemented by a signing bonus of $20,552. Private Equity offers a median base salary of $150,000 with undisclosed signing bonus details. Venture Capital specifics are unavailable.
14. Duke Fuqua School of Business
Duke Fuqua, affiliated with Duke University, is recognized for its collaborative community and global perspective. With a 21% hiring rate, it ensures quality placements in finance.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 21%, Duke Fuqua focuses on quality placements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for finance careers.
- Number Hired: 81 graduates securing positions reflects the school’s ability to connect students with prestigious finance opportunities.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary positions Duke Fuqua graduates competitively in the finance sector.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | Percentage of Hires |
| Investment Banking/Brokerage | 53% |
| Other | 16% |
| Private Equity | 7% |
| Investment Management | 5% |
| General | 5% |
| Private Equity/Venture Capital | 4% |
| Venture Capital | 4% |
| Asset Management/Buyside | 3% |
| Commercial Banking | 1% |
Duke Fuqua’s Financial Services sub-industry hiring data for various sectors reveals a strong focus on Investment Banking/Brokerage, constituting the majority with 53%. Other significant areas include Private Equity (7%), Investment Management (5%), and a notable 16% in diverse roles classified as “Other.”
This distribution underscores the school’s diverse approach to preparing graduates for various segments within the financial services industry.
While specific salary data is not available, the emphasis on these sectors suggests a strategic alignment with the dynamic landscape of financial services.
15. MIT Sloan School of Management
MIT Sloan, known for its cutting-edge approach to management education, maintains a 19.90% hiring rate in finance.
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: At 19.90%, MIT Sloan emphasizes quality placements, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the finance sector.
- Number Hired: 90 graduates securing positions demonstrates the school’s commitment to facilitating successful transitions to finance roles.
- Median Salary: The $175,000 median salary reflects competitive compensation, ensuring financial stability for MIT Sloan graduates.
- Median Sign-On Bonus: A $50,000 sign-on bonus adds significant value to the overall compensation package, making MIT Sloan an attractive option for finance enthusiasts.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub Industry | Percent Hired | Median Salary | 25th – 75th Percentile Range |
| Investment Banking/Brokerage | 6.2% | $175,000 | $175,000 – $185,000 |
| Investment Management | 3.8% | $165,000 | $157,500 – $172,500 |
| Venture Capital | 3.8% | $156,800 | $146,250 – $175,000 |
| Diversified Financial Services | 3.0% | $150,000 | $140,000 – $171,000 |
| Private Equity | 2.4% | $180,000 | $163,750 – $185,000 |
| FinTech | 0.7% | – | – |
MIT Sloan’s Financial Services sub-industry placement data indicates a diverse range of opportunities for graduates.
While the overall finance sector has a hiring rate of 19.9%, specialties like Investment Banking/Brokerage and Investment Management stand out with 6.2% and 3.8% hiring rates, respectively.
The median salary across these sub-industries is competitive, ranging from $150,000 to $180,000. Notably, Venture Capital positions boast a wide salary range, indicating potential for high earnings. The data suggests that MIT Sloan provides students with access to various lucrative opportunities within the financial services sector.
Notable Mention – Oxford Saïd
| Metric | Data |
| % Class Hired | 26.7% |
| Number Hired | 65 |
| Average Salary | £86,218 |
Data Observations:
- Percent Hired: Oxford Saïd Business School demonstrates a commendable 26.7% class hired percentage, indicating a substantial portion of graduates securing employment.
- Number Hired: With 65 graduates securing positions, the school facilitates a noteworthy number of placements, reflecting its efficacy in connecting students with employment opportunities.
- Average Salary: The average salary of £86,218 reflects competitive compensation, providing financial stability for Oxford Saïd Business School graduates.
Finance Sub-Industry Hiring Data
| Sub-Industry | Percentage of Hires |
| FinTech | 1.90% |
| Impact Investment | 3.30% |
| Insurance | 0.90% |
| Investment Banking | 5.20% |
| Investment Management | 9.80% |
| Other | 5.60% |
- Diverse Exposure: Oxford Saïd Business School exhibits a diverse exposure to various sub-industries within financial services, with representation in areas such as FinTech, Impact Investment, Insurance, Investment Banking, Investment Management, and Other.
- Prominence of Investment Management: The highest percentage of hires is in Investment Management at 9.80%, signaling a strong focus on preparing graduates for roles involving asset management and buy-side activities. This suggests the school’s emphasis on cultivating skills relevant to managing financial portfolios.
- Investment Banking and FinTech Presence: Oxford Saïd also demonstrates a significant presence in Investment Banking (5.20%) and FinTech (1.90%). This reflects a balanced approach, catering to both traditional finance sectors and the rapidly evolving landscape of financial technology.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right business school is a pivotal decision for aspiring finance professionals, and the data presented sheds light on the top 15 institutions making a significant impact in the realm of finance education. Each school’s unique strengths, be it robust placement rates, competitive median salaries, or generous sign-on bonuses, contribute to their standing as leaders in preparing graduates for successful careers in finance.
As you explore your options, consider factors beyond percentages and numbers – the school’s culture, alumni network, and industry connections play crucial roles in shaping your finance journey.
In conclusion, this comprehensive guide serves as a valuable resource for individuals embarking on their journey towards a rewarding career in finance. The insights into hiring rates, median salaries, and bonuses provide a nuanced understanding of what each business school brings to the table. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your career goals, personal preferences, and the unique offerings of each institution.