HEC Paris Launches MBA-MSc International Finance Dual Degree

By Pavel Kantorek Updated Feb 19, 2021

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Introduction
Dual-MBA options not limited to finance

Learn more about the diverse range of MBA programs out there

HEC Paris has announced a new dual MBA-MSCMSc International Finance degree. The course lasts for 20 months, in comparison to the 16-month MBA and the 10-month MIF program. The dual-degree is aimed at those who want to supplement the more general management skills of the MBA with harder technical training in finance, with a view to giving themselves an advantage when it comes to getting a job in the financial services industry. Those with a previous grounding in finance start financial modules at a slightly more advanced stage.

As well as the finance qualification, MBA-MIF students at HEC Paris can also specialize in strategy, entrepreneurship or general management.

“The financial crisis has challenged business schools to find new ways to equip their graduates with the right set of knowledge, skills and values,” says Jacques Olivier, professor of finance and program director in a press release from the school. “HEC Paris has designed the MBA-MIF dual degree for young professionals who wish to acquire not only the general management education and leadership skills from a leading MBA program, but also advanced technical knowledge in finance to differentiate themselves from their peers. This unique combination will allow dual degree students to fast-track onto senior management positions within finance and consulting,”

Dual-MBA options not limited to finance

Last year’s GMAC Application Trends Survey indicated a recovery in the volume of applications for full-time MBA programs, after a period of stagnation, while master’s programs in finance, accounting and management have been steadily increasing in in popularity (though 2013 represented a slowdown for such programs, with the exception of management).

Although, naturally, not everyone will have the stomach or the desire to grapple with the challenges of a dual program, there does seem to be an appetite out there for specialized provision – something which business schools must move to accommodate to remain competitive – be it in terms of specialized master’s degrees or dual offerings.

While there’s plenty of healthcare, computer science and JD dual courses out there as well and finance (hello Wharton, Stanford et al), others are a little more unconventional. Boston College’s dual course combining pastoral ministry with an MBA leads the way here, graduating one student in its first five years of existence. NYU Stern offers a dual MBA/MFA, run in conjunction with the Kanbar Institute of Film & Television at the Tisch School of the Arts for aspiring film makers, while over a Michigan Ross, it’s musicians who are allowed to combine art and business in the joint MBA/MM. At USC Marshall, you can sign up for a MBA/Master of Science in Gerontology or MBA/Master of Arts in Jewish Nonprofit Management.

Written by

Pavel Kantorek

Mansoor is a contributor to and former editor of TopMBA.com. He is a higher and business education specialist, who has been published in media outlets around the world. He studied English literature at BA and MA level and has a background in consumer journalism.