Which would the Big 4 firms prefer?

Would they prefer an Economics and Finance degree from Lancaster University, or a Modern Language with Business and Management from the University of Manchester?

Reply 1

artful_lounger

Universities Forum Helper

I don't think they'd care either way. I know someone who went into a Big 4 accoutancy scheme with a degree in history and politics from Cardiff.

I don't really think the big 4 have any preferences regarding degree subject or where you studied it - it's just a tickbox part of the application as I understand.

Pick the degree that actually interests you personally, at the uni you'd feel you'll enjoy the most, so you make the most of your time at uni :smile:

Reply 2

ajj2000

I doubt they would care unless the particular language was in demand.

Reply 3

Lancaster Student Ambassador

Official Rep

Original post by Olawday

Would they prefer an Economics and Finance degree from Lancaster University, or a Modern Language with Business and Management from the University of Manchester?

Hello!

This depends on what position/career path you are interested in. For example, studying Economics and Finance might give you a more relevant background if you are thinking of applying to roles within Corporate Finance, Risk, Valuation, Accounting, Forensic Data Analysis, etc. However, studying a Modern Language with Business and Management might better equip you for roles such as Business Consulting or People Advisory Services, HR, Business Analytics, etc.

What would matter to them more is your value as a candidate, rather than the title of your degree and where you studied. So, consider choosing your degree based on which course's content interests you more and better aligns with your personal goals, as well as at which university you are more likely to enjoy your next few years.

Speaking for Lancaster, it has a wonderful, cozy yet busy and diverse campus. Another thing to highlight is the careers support provided by the university and the Management School department (in which the Economics and Finance degree is based). There is a lot of personalised career support available, from mentoring schemes, 1-1 CV checks, workshops to assist you in preparing for interviews and assessment centers, as well as a lot of part-time internship positions available within the University through the Employment and Recruitment Service. It seems like this career-focused environment might fit you well, as you are already determined to secure a place at one of the Big 4 firms.

There are a lot of other aspects to consider, aside from the degree contents and career support, such as accommodation, societies, campus vs city, etc.

Ultimately, both degrees would be respected, and it is more about your value and ability as a candidate.

Hope this helps,
Polina,
Lancaster University Student Ambassador.