Is MBA worth the hard work and work experience??

Question

I'm divided between doing an MBA in Finance and getting into the Actuarial Science classes and getting myself a certification on Actuarial Science.

My interest is in investment and portfolio management, fund management, interest and financial risk hedging, business strategy and strategic planning in relation to global climate change. I'd like to know the breadth of options that will available for me if I do an MBA in Finance and compare that with the likes of ACCA, CIMA, and ASB.

Answer 1

You are aware that the MBA (even in finance) is a generalist degree while Actuarial science is a very specialised area. The value of your MBA will depend on where you do it. LBS, Cranfield, INSEAD, Cambridge MBAs are good, and Harvard even better in terms of earning potential (although the Harvard MBA is soul-destroying). MBAs from lesser places could be disappointing in this respect. If you are capable of passing the final exams in actuary, you will stand to do very well financially. It is a very tough exam, as you probably know.

Answer 2

If your interest is ininvestment and portfolio management, fund management, interest and financial risk hedging, business strategy and strategic planning, then ACCA might NOT suitable for you.

There is only two paper that are in your area of interest -  F9 Financial Management and P5 Advanced Performance Management.

Answer 3

Go for Actuarial science,its tough but  you will be happy for  your  entire life

Answer 4

An MBA is a lot easier than becoming an actuary -- A LOT EASIER.

An MBA from a top school will put you in the same salary range as becoming an actuary.  It will also give you a lot more options, as you will not be limited to finance and insurance.

An MBA from an unranked school will do very little for you.

A third alternative is to get the CFA designation.