G5 unis and their best degrees

University of Oxford

Best Degrees:

  • PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics)

  • Law

  • Philosophy and Politics

  • Economics and Management

  • History and Politics

  • Geography

  • Classics

  • International Relations

Why It's Great for You:
  • PPE is particularly renowned, aligning perfectly with your Government & Politics, Philosophy and Theology, and Geography A-Levels. It’s a prestigious course that prepares students for consulting, political strategy, and business leadership, giving you critical thinking, global economic insights, and a foundation in ethics and policy.

  • Oxford’s Law program is one of the best in the world, ideal for those considering a corporate law career or thinking about policy consulting.

  • Economics and Management is a strong fit for future investment bankers or those pursuing strategy consulting.

  • Oxford’s History and Politics or Geography degrees can equip you with a deep understanding of global affairs, ideal for entering consulting or policy work.

How it Fits Your Career Aspirations:
  • Consulting: Oxford is an excellent choice for management consulting with its strong network, diverse degree offerings in political economy, strategy, and global affairs.

  • Finance/Investment Banking: Oxford is often seen as the gold standard for finance, especially with Economics and Management.

  • Politics and Law: If you are inclined towards policy work, international relations, or law, Oxford offers world-class training.

Campus Life:
  • Networking with a large group of top consultants, politicians, and business leaders in and around the university.

  • High-profile guest lectures and direct recruitment links with top consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Deloitte.

2. University of Cambridge

Best Degrees:

  • Human, Social, and Political Sciences (HSPS)

  • Law

  • Philosophy

  • Economics

  • Management Studies

  • Politics and International Relations

  • Philosophy and Politics

Why It's Great for You:
  • Cambridge's HSPS program allows for a comprehensive study of sociology, politics, philosophy, and anthropology, which is ideal for developing analytical skills and critical thinking for consulting and business strategy.

  • Law at Cambridge is a world leader, preparing students for careers in corporate law, international law, and public policy.

  • Philosophy and Politics ties into your interests in critical thinking, political theory, and government systems—helpful for consulting, policy or government roles.

  • Economics and Management Studies are highly respected, and Cambridge is particularly strong in preparing students for high-paying careers in finance and strategy consulting.

How it Fits Your Career Aspirations:
  • Consulting: The HSPS program, along with Philosophy and Politics, prepares you for high-level roles in consulting, especially in policy consulting or management consulting.

  • Finance/Investment Banking: Economics at Cambridge is a rigorous degree, offering opportunities for direct entry into finance roles.

  • Law: With its Law degree being world-renowned, Cambridge is a great choice for corporate law or international legal consulting.

Campus Life:
  • Cambridge offers extensive internship opportunities and strong connections with top consulting and finance firms.

  • Access to Cambridge Union debates, which will enhance your debating and negotiation skills.

3. London School of Economics (LSE)

Best Degrees:

  • PPE

  • Economics

  • Management

  • Law

  • Government

  • Accounting and Finance

  • International Relations

  • Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

Why It's Great for You:
  • LSE is the best in the world for social sciences, especially Economics, which is highly relevant for your consulting and investment banking aspirations.

  • LSE’s PPE is a fantastic choice if you want to build skills in public policy, business and politics, while understanding the underlying economic and philosophical principles.

  • Management at LSE focuses heavily on business strategy and leadership, making it perfect for future consultants or those heading into business or finance.

  • LSE also offers specialized courses in International Relations and Government that tie into your Politics A-Level.

How it Fits Your Career Aspirations:
  • Consulting: LSE is a consulting powerhouse with ties to firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Deloitte. LSE’s focus on global economics and policy will help you make a direct impact in management consulting.

  • Finance/Investment Banking: LSE’s Economics and Accounting and Finance degrees are a springboard into top roles in investment banking and corporate finance.

  • Politics/Policy: LSE’s Government and International Relations degrees equip you to analyze public policy and work in government or NGOs.

Campus Life:
  • Extensive industry connections with top consulting and finance firms.

  • Great opportunities for debating, political discussions, and networking with leading economists, politicians, and business professionals.

4. University College London (UCL)

Best Degrees:

  • Philosophy, Politics, and Economics (PPE)

  • Law

  • Management Science

  • Politics and International Relations

  • Economics

  • Geography

  • History and Politics

Why It's Great for You:
  • UCL's PPE degree is interdisciplinary and will support your development in areas like critical thinking, economic analysis, and political theory, which are crucial for consulting.

  • The Law program is highly respected and prepares students for high-caliber careers in corporate law, policy law, and international law.

  • Management Science at UCL is an excellent fit for aspiring consultants and those wanting to enter business management.

  • UCL’s Politics and International Relations degree fits well with your A-Level interests in Politics and Geography, allowing you to gain insight into global political systems and international diplomacy.

How it Fits Your Career Aspirations:
  • Consulting: UCL is highly regarded by top consulting firms, and its PPE and Management programs prepare students for careers in strategy consulting, management, and policy.

  • Finance/Investment Banking: Economics and Management degrees from UCL are strong choices for those heading into finance or investment banking.

  • Law: UCL’s Law degree offers a pathway into corporate law or international relations law, with a strong emphasis on global legal systems.

Campus Life:
  • UCL boasts strong ties with firms in consulting, finance, and law.

  • You'll be part of a global network in one of London’s most prestigious universities.

5. Imperial College London

Best Degrees:

  • Management

  • Business Analytics

  • Economics and Finance

  • Mathematics

  • Engineering

  • Physics

Why It's Great for You:
  • Imperial’s Management degree is particularly strong in preparing students for business strategy and consulting. It's ideal for future management consultants and those pursuing business roles.

  • Economics and Finance at Imperial is a great fit for your interest in investment banking and corporate finance.

  • Mathematics and Physics are highly analytical degrees that can also support roles in consulting, particularly in quantitative roles within business strategy or data analysis.

How it Fits Your Career Aspirations:
  • Consulting: Imperial’s Management program prepares students for management consulting roles, with a focus on strategic business problems.

  • Finance/Investment Banking: Imperial’s Economics and Finance degree is highly suited for entering the world of investment banking and corporate finance.

  • Business Strategy: Imperial is known for its rigorous quantitative approach, offering deep insight into data-driven business strategies.

Campus Life:
  • Strong connections with finance and consulting firms.

  • Innovative projects and a focus on entrepreneurship make it a great place for future business leaders.