<p>If one does not get accepted into the Kellogs Certificate Program then do they have a good chance at landing a job in the financial service industry with just an econ degree?</p>
<p>Also, how competitive is admissions into the Kellogs Certificate Program?</p>
<p>From what I understand, as a non-Kellogg certificate student, its extremely hard just to fulfill the prerequisites, and so anyone that is able to do so is likely to get in. That being said, its a pretty small program and while its graduates will likely go on to good jobs, there are more than 20 spots for bankers in every class. Econ is good. Engineering is perhaps better (IE/Econ is a popular combo). Math is good. But dont sweat it if you dont want to take all the BS prerequs to do the Kellogg program – a solid GPA and good interviewing skills will do you fine.</p>
<p>I’m not too sure what aspect of finance you’re interested in, but with respect to the banking side of things, the Kellogg certificate is not going to do much for you if you’re looking to get into the NYC offices. Most of them probably have no idea what the program even is. Chicago offices tend to have a better understanding of NU’s curriculum, but from what I’ve seen, it’s still not necessary. I would suggest sticking to an Econ major if your goal is to get into banking. I wouldn’t recommend engineering (which will most likely pull down your GPA) or something like sociology (NU is not enough of a target for you to do that). Networking and interview skills matter so much more than your coursework.</p>
<p>^ Agreed. And as for the Certificate, you definitely don’t need it. There are a bunch of kids here adamant about how to get on the finance track (obsessing about MMSS & the Kellogg Certificate), but it’s entirely unnecessary. If you enjoy learning math and those things, keep at it (pre-reqs for KC are quite rigorous). As for me, I hated MENU, so it gave me a good idea of what to expect and I didn’t end up applying to MMSS or the KC, and I ended up fine. What’s important is to maintain a strong GPA, get some internships under your belt (Chicago’s right there), network, and stay persistent. Talk with alumni, they’re all over the States. They can give you plenty of insight into the industry, whether it be in IB, AM, the buy-side, etc.</p>