Passionate Voices in MBA-CFA Debate

4 May 2007

1 minute read

There's no shortage of opinions when it comes to an MBAs versus a CFA., or on how to approach psychological testing.

CFA or MBA: Which is right for you?

It's good, it's bad and it's even a little ugly as eFinancialCareers users continue to weigh in on the relative value of an MBA versus a CFA designation. In addition to some useful thoughts, the comments show the intensity many people have toward one or the other - or both. Add your two cents - or more - here.

Psychological Testing: A Primer for Job Applicants

Jon Jacobs' story on psychological testing also has garnered attention. Among the comments was this from Jordan, who works in asset management: "I am sure in firms that use these tests you still have people who are bad managers or who do not do well in the job. I would happily be an advocate of the personality test to filter out micromanagers and bad communicators." Post your thoughts in testing here.

Of course, you can comment on any of our stories - Just post your comments in the area immediately following each item. Or, write us at USeditor@efinancialcareers.com. We'd love to hear from you.

AUTHORMark Feffer

Insider Comment

bu
buyside
19 June 2008
Now that it's 2008 we can all take five and observe the carnage that is the financial services sector. The rest of this year and perhaps for the remainder of this decade, banks of all types (commercial & investment) will be trying to shed MBS and various other misvalued and misunderstood assets as well as indirect investments in these products. Most of these investment decisions were made by glad-handing, self-congratulating MBA's. Granted, not all MBA's are equal, but with a CFA at least you know your decision-maker can and probably has read the balance sheet, income statement, statement of cash flows and not just following the herd that is the "MBA network."
With regard to the top 10 MBA: This is a select group, small in number that includes trust fund babies, other legacies as well as qualified students. Everyone else has to gain expertise and an edge in the labor market. The CFA obviously affords that opportunity to the dedicated.
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ro
roy
27 May 2008
I'm searching for jobs and most of investment banking or investment management job requires MBA. I have CFA but don't have MBA and enough experiences, so i'm having difficulties landing a job. Should've just get an MBA.
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An
Andy
24 September 2007
Ms finance is the ultimate thing- CFA is part of Ms finance.
Do Ms finance from ICFAI, University- Institute of Chartered Financial Analyst of India.
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MB
MBA Graduate
15 May 2007
The MBA is reputable and demanding.It is my experience.You need more knowledge than in case of CFA.
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St
Steele Private Equity
15 May 2007
Do you really want someone who grew up poor under mean circumstances managing your assets? Surly most of us would prefer someone who grew up privileged over some beady eyed social climer. There are plenty of jobs out there for poor people other than money management/finance.
We do not want to admit that there is a caste structure embedded in American business, but clearly, there is. It's always funny to see some poor schmo who thinks that just because he attended Harvard, somehow he has become royalty.
Guess what guys...if P. Hilton started a private equity firm half the folks on this blog would be lining up to be her CFA/MBA lap dogs.
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