When someone dreams of working in investment banking, one of the first questions that comes to mind is about education. Specifically, many ask, which degree is best for investment banking, and whether their choice will truly matter in the long run.
The truth is, your degree plays an important role. It can help open doors faster, give you access to better internships, and allow you to build the skills investment banks value the most. That being said, there is no single path set in stone.
This article breaks down the most popular degrees for investment banking, what they teach you, and why they help. It also covers some less traditional routes and how to improve your chances if you come from a different background.
Why the Right Degree Matters
Investment banking is a tough field. Competition for roles is fierce, and employers look for strong proof of knowledge and skills. A degree that shows you can think clearly, work with numbers, and handle pressure will always put you ahead.
While a degree will not guarantee success, choosing a degree suited best for investment banking gives you a real advantage. It shows that you have built the right foundation to survive and grow in a fast-moving environment.
Top Degrees That Are Best for Investment Banking
Some degrees are seen more often among successful investment bankers. Here are the top options:
| Degree | Why It Helps | Skills You Gain |
| Finance | Directly related to banking and financial analysis | Valuation, modelling, financial statement reading |
| Economics | Builds strong understanding of markets and economic forces | Market analysis, data interpretation, critical thinking |
| Business Administration | Covers a wide view of business operations | Management, marketing, finance basics |
| Accounting | Focuses on financial reporting and control | Attention to detail, technical accounting skills |
| Mathematics/Statistics | Sharpens analytical and problem-solving skills | Data analysis, logical thinking, quantitative reasoning |
Each of these fields trains your brain in ways that are best for investment banking work. They teach you how to manage large amounts of information quickly and make decisions under pressure.
Other Good Degree Choices
While finance and economics degrees are common, they are not the only way in. Investment banks also hire people from backgrounds like engineering, law, and even physics. The main thing they look for is the ability to think sharply and solve problems fast.
Engineering, for example, teaches discipline and complex problem-solving. Law degrees build strong skills in negotiation and understanding regulations. These qualities are all highly useful in banking.
If you are passionate and willing to learn, a less traditional degree can still lead you into the industry. You may have to work a little harder to prove yourself, but it is definitely possible.
How to Make the Most of Your Degree
No matter what degree you choose, some extra steps can make you a stronger candidate. So, a smart degree choice, combined with these efforts, will put you in a strong place to succeed.
- Take internships early: Start getting work experience as soon as possible. Internships are often the easiest way to get noticed. They show employers you are serious about your career and willing to learn from the ground up. Many full-time job offers actually come from internship programmes, so it is worth putting in the effort early.
- Learn practical skills: Knowledge of financial modelling, valuation techniques, and Excel is vital. The more hands-on skills you show, the better. Courses or certifications that teach real-world applications can give you an important advantage. Recruiters are impressed when candidates can already perform tasks expected on the job.
- Build a network: Talk to people already working in banking. A strong network often makes all the difference when applying for jobs. Attend events, join professional groups, and connect with alumni from your university. Sometimes a recommendation from the right person is more valuable than a perfect CV.
- Get good grades: Banks care about academic results. A high score shows you can work hard and meet tough standards. Good grades reflect discipline, intelligence, and an ability to work under pressure, all essential for investment banking. Many top firms have minimum grade cut-offs before they even review applications.
The Importance of Practical Skills
While degrees are important, real-world skills matter just as much. Banks want candidates who can build financial models, analyse company reports, and present findings clearly.
Courses that focus on practical knowledge often make a big difference. Theory is important, but knowing how to apply it in real life is what investment banking is truly about.
This is why many candidates take extra training to boost their skills beyond their university degree. It can help you stand out from hundreds of other applicants with similar academic results.
Conclusion
Choosing the path the is best for investment banking means picking a degree that matches what banks are looking for, strong finance understanding, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Finance, economics, and business are natural fits, but success is possible with other degrees too, if you work hard and stay focused.
Remember, a degree opens the first door. After that, your attitude, skills, and network matter just as much. If you are serious about a career in investment banking, it may help to get practical training alongside your studies. A good place to start is The WallStreet School, known for its practical investment banking courses and skill-focused programmes. Their training can give you the real-world edge that banks are looking for today.
FAQs
- Which degree is most preferred by investment banks?
Most investment banks prefer degrees in finance, economics, business administration, accounting, or mathematics. These subjects show strong technical skills and business understanding. - Can you get into investment banking without a finance degree?
Yes, it is possible. Many successful bankers have backgrounds in engineering, law, or the sciences, provided they show strong problem-solving ability and financial knowledge. - Does university reputation matter for investment banking?
Yes, it can matter quite a lot. Banks often recruit heavily from top universities because they trust the training and quality of students from these institutions.
- Is a master’s degree necessary for investment banking?
Not always. Many people enter banking with a bachelor’s degree, but a master’s can help if you are switching careers or come from a non-traditional background.
