Posted in: Experienced, Switching Sectors 3 February 2012 1 answer
Jenish%5FIT

Question: Advice on MSc in Financial Computing and Financial Systems Engineering (UCL)

Dear all,

I am from the computing background and have recently achieved Hons Degree in Computer Science (2.1) and I have over 6 years of System Admin and Support experience in academic institutions. I want to move to the Financial Sector and planning to apply for MSc in ‘Financial Computing’ at UCL. But I have been told that I am not eligible due to my computing background and recommended me ‘Financial Systems Engineering’ instead.

I am just wondering if you have any advice on this course? Is it worth doing it? I am currently employed full-time as an IT Officer but I will have to give up my job in order to study MSc at UCL. It’s a gamble, do you think it’s worth taking? Upon finishing MSc how difficult is it to get a job in the City?

Many thanks,
Jen

Answers (1)

  1. UCL is a target university for major banks, and that specific MSc (FSE) provides you with an opportunity to work at a bank/financial services related firm as part of your group project (unless they’ve recently changed that). I have seen people, with what I would have personally rated as CVs on the weaker side, get jobs in various banks after that particular MSc. Of course, distribution of your strengths/weaknesses will impact the type of role you get within the bank. Also, if you are willing to work outside London, then it makes it perhaps a bit more likely that you’ll be able to secure a place. Expect, however, significantly less salary. Having said that, you should aim to join as part of a grad programme irrespective of geographical location/starting salary.

    As for you question about getting a job in the City, it is a difficult question to answer since it really depends on your profile as a candidate and how you perform during the interview process. You should however be able to secure an interview (provided there are no major issues with your profile, of course), unless market really tanks around your graduation time. I can, however, tell you that is not easy to find technically solid people and banks have been struggling to some extent.

    In summary, do well in that Msc, build a solid profile, etc, and you should hopefully make it.

    Good luck.