Agree with previous poster 100%. I did an undergraduate degree, worked for a number of years in various junior/middle/senior operational management roles and then did an MSC before moving into consulting. I've also worked with a number of graduate/post-graduate level entry staff and I can tell you, it's the experience and academic background combined that give you the edge in a consulting role. Academia = low level, analyst type assignments to start with which will train you to do what? More of the same .... Academia = no understanding of the 'real world' so less connection with the real environment clients work in. All the best.