Masters in social policy

Question

Hello!

How will my choice to pursue a postgraduate degree in social policy be construed by top consulting firms? I have done my Bachelore degree in business, then worked in investment banking and later on moved onto the social sector where I worked on policy research projects with the government for poverty eradication. I pursued my masters in social policy so as to gain more quant heavy skills in the field of policy research. However, since starting grad school, I have been reading up more and more about the social sector projects that many consulting firms undertake- pro bono or otherwise. I believe that I will benefit significantly from some years in consulting. Will my lack of MBA be considered as a drawback? I am well verse with business, valuation and accounting concepts.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Hi,

Several things here:

MBA is not a must-have for MBB candidates
Actually, MBB companies love candidates with diverse backgrounds
I recommend applying to the office where the Public sector is strong (e.g. DC) and use it as a competitive advantage
Try to demonstrate problem-solving and business judgment in your resume. Public policy projects are tied to business skills a lot - you just need to highlight that.
I recommend learning valuation and accounting concepts anyway since you'll have no time for this once you are in

Best!

Answer 2

Hi,

Top consulting companies typically recruit candidates from diverse background. Lack of MBA is not necessarily a drawback, however you may be considered for a pre MBA role. You already have a degree in business and work experience in investment banking, thus you should still be a relevant candidate. You just need to highlight why you want to switch to consulting (as it seems that you're heading into social sector more) in your cover letter.

Best,

Deniz

Answer 3

Hi,

It sounds like you've had a solid path and your resume looks good - lack of an MBA given your diverse experience isn't necessarily a drawback. However, in order to not get slated into a lower title/role, make sure to highlight any business, consulting/client relationship, and management experience you have!

Answer 4

Hello!

I have seen multiple questions lately in the Q&A regarding doing masters, which one to choose, MBA vs. MiM, which schools to choose (both in US and Europe).

I joined McK after finishing my master in Architecture (totally not related field of study, and still), and I am doing an MBA in MIT atm. Happy to talk about this, given that you are also considering a “non-conventional” path for your masters

Feel free to PM! Cheers,

Clara