Hi ad2478,

I personally can speak for the UK. I am planning to study MSc Financial Economics or MSc Finance starting in 2010.

This is obviously a largely subjective topic, but I will provide some points for consideration.

First of all, I think the situation differs depending on whether you plan to go into academia or into the private sector.

Academia
In the UK, if you may be required to have done a Masters degree in order to do a PhD. Masters are obviously key under such circumstances.

Private Sector
It does appear to me to be less clear for people entering the private sector.

If someone can gain access to a significantly more reputable institution or course, people seem to agree this can successfully improve someone's chances for competitive private sector jobs. The disadvantage would be cost, though: many institutions are clearly making huge profits, charging £25000 for one year's study for example.

But in situations where someone already has a great undergraduate degree, I have heard many people argue that a masters degree is unnecessary. I don't think anyone I have spoken to has said it would be a *disadvantage*, but it would certainly be of little benefit if you're already in a great position from your Bachelor's degree.

(My source is really personal experience here; speaking to various people and using sites like thestudentroom.co.uk. I would certainly recommend visiting that site if you'd like some more views on this matter.)

All the best,
James

P.S. You are welcome to discuss degrees here; we do not mean to restrict ourselves to pro qualifications at all.