Last Updated on March 4, 2023 by MBA Gateway Team
This article is a part-of ‘MBA Careers’ Series
Best MBA programs for a Career in Private Equity
Private equity is a type of alternative investment that involves buying and selling companies to generate high returns for investors. Private equity firms often seek out MBA graduates to join their teams due to their analytical and strategic thinking skills. Here are some of the best MBA programs for a career in private equity:
- The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania: Wharton has a reputation for being one of the top schools for finance, which makes it a popular choice for those interested in private equity. The school offers a variety of finance-focused courses and has a Private Equity and Venture Capital Club that hosts networking events and case competitions.
- The Stanford Graduate School of Business: Stanford has a strong reputation in entrepreneurship and venture capital, which can be beneficial for those interested in private equity. The school offers a Private Equity and Venture Capital Club that hosts networking events and connects students with alumni in the industry.
- Harvard Business School: Harvard Business School has a reputation for producing successful alumni in finance, and its case study method can be especially helpful for those interested in private equity. The school offers a Finance Club and a Private Equity and Venture Capital Club that provides opportunities for networking and professional development.
Here are three tips for MBA graduates interested in a career in private equity:
- Gain relevant work experience: Private equity firms often look for candidates with previous experience in investment banking, management consulting, or other finance-related roles. Consider pursuing internships or jobs in these fields to build your skills and increase your chances of getting hired by a private equity firm.
- Network: Building a network is essential in the private equity industry. Attend industry conferences, join professional organizations, and connect with alumni from your MBA program who work in private equity. Consider reaching out to recruiters and asking for informational interviews to learn more about the industry and gain valuable insights.
- Develop strong analytical skills: Private equity firms rely heavily on data analysis and financial modeling to make investment decisions. Take courses in finance, accounting, and statistics to build your skills in these areas. Consider pursuing a certification such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation to demonstrate your expertise to potential employers.
Table: Top 15 Business Schools for Private Equity
| Top 15 Business Schools for Private Equity | % Students Going into Private Equity | # Students Going into Private Equity |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard Business School | 39% | 74 |
| The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania | 35% | 67 |
| The University of Chicago Booth School of Business | 31% | 59 |
| Stanford Graduate School of Business | 29% | 37 |
| Columbia Business School | 28% | 41 |
| New York University Stern School of Business | 25% | 24 |
| MIT Sloan School of Management | 24% | 33 |
| Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management | 22% | 28 |
| London Business School | 21% | 21 |
| INSEAD Business School | 20% | 21 |
| Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth | 19% | 12 |
| Yale School of Management | 18% | 19 |
| Duke University Fuqua School of Business | 16% | 13 |
| University of Virginia Darden School of Business | 16% | 11 |
| UCLA Anderson School of Management | 14% | 13 |
