What Can You Do With A Finance Degree?

What Can You Do With A Finance Degree?

Explore career opportunities with a finance degree jobs. Explore roles like financial analyst, investment banker, and financial planner to boost your career.

Last Update
25 Feb 2025

Introduction

A degree in finance opens a broad spectrum of employment opportunities in public, corporate, and personal finance among other fields. The possibilities with finance degree careers are many whether your interests lie in business investments, government budget management, or personal financial planning assistance for others. Finance degree jobs include investment banking, financial analysis, risk management, and wealth advisory.

It’s important to know how the right schooling can open doors when there are so many to choose from. Students who want to be successful in finance major careers start by getting good grades in the subject. This gives them the chance to learn important skills like financial models, data analysis, and economic predictions. From your first year of college to higher degrees like an MBA or a Master’s in Finance, your education prepares you to lead in the fast-paced world of finance by teaching you how to handle complicated financial markets and institutions.

Types Of Finance Degree

The types of finance degrees and the diverse career opportunities they offer. From investment banking to financial analysis, explore jobs you can get with a finance degree to succeed.

Bachelor’s Degree

Students who want to start a career in the financial sector require at least a bachelor’s degree in finance. Usually finishing takes four years, and it includes business analysis, financial management, and accounting among other crucial subjects. WIth this degrees jobs you can get with a finance degree like banking, corporate finance, or financial analysis at the entry-level. Many times, a Bachelor’s degree will help students get a professional job.

Master’s Degree 

Master’s degree in Finance will be complete in two years. It addresses corporate finance, investment strategies, and financial models. Leaders and those interested in risk management or investment banking can benefit from this degree. A Master’s degree can improve salary and job prospects.

Doctorate in Finance

A Doctorate in Finance is a high-level degree in the finance sector. Students can complete three to five years to finish. Research, mathematical analysis, and advanced financial ideas are what it’s all about. Most college graduates go on to work in education or high-level business. A doctorate makes you an expert in business and gives you access to top jobs .

Each type of degree has its own perks that can help you move up in your financial job.

Advantages And Disadvantages In Careers With Finance Degree

Exploring careers with a finance degree reveals both exciting opportunities and potential challenges. While jobs with a finance degree often offer lucrative salaries and growth potential, they can also involve high pressure and long hours. 

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of a finance degree.

AdvantagesDisadvantages/Challenges
High Earning PotentialHigh Competition
Finance careers often come with lucrative salaries, especially in fields like investment banking and corporate finance. The median wage for financial analysts is above the national average, and top roles can earn six-figure incomes.The finance industry is highly competitive, especially for top-tier positions in investment firms, hedge funds, and corporate finance. Breaking into the industry can be challenging without significant experience or education
Job Growth and DemandLong Hours and High Stress
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial analyst jobs are expected to grow by 6% from 2021 to 2031, reflecting ongoing demand for financial expertise across industriesFinance professionals, especially in investment banking, may experience long working hours, often extending into nights and weekends, resulting in a stressful work-life balance.
Diverse Career OpportunitiesRegulatory Changes and Uncertainty
A finance degree offers versatility, allowing you to explore various fields such as corporate finance, financial planning, real estate, and investment management.Constant regulatory changes and economic uncertainties can pose challenges for finance professionals who need to stay updated on compliance and market trends.
Professional Growth and AdvancementPressure for Performance
With the right education and experience, finance professionals have ample opportunities to advance to senior or leadership roles, providing long-term career growth.Performance-driven roles, like those in investment banking or sales, often come with significant pressure to meet targets, leading to potential job instability.

Careers With Finance Degree

A finance degree opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities, from entry-level roles to senior positions. Explore various types of careers in finance, each offering unique responsibilities, challenges, and earning potential.

CareerAverage SalaryKey Responsibilities
Financial Analyst$80,000Evaluate investments, analyze market trends, and provide insights to help companies and individuals make informed financial decisions.
Investment Banker$200,000  Assist organizations in raising capital, advise on mergers and acquisitions, and manage large-scale financial transactions.
Financial Planner$76,353Develop personalized financial plans, advise on investments, retirement, and tax strategies to help clients achieve financial goals.
Corporate Finance Manager$111,922 Manage a company’s financial activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and risk management to ensure profitability and growth.
Risk Manager$129,836Identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks related to market volatility, legal liabilities, and operational challenges.
Accountant$65,000 Maintain financial records, ensure tax compliance, and prepare financial reports for businesses and individuals.
Portfolio Manager$121,060. Oversee investment portfolios, make strategic decisions to optimize returns, and align investment choices with client objectives.

Jobs You Can Get With A Finance Degree

A degree in finance is a useful tool that provides access to an array of rewarding and exciting employment options. Graduates often find themselves in great demand due to the robust employment market for financial experts, which may result in a speedy job placement and the possibility of high wages.

Many finance careers provide intellectual challenges, professional progress, and opportunities in corporate finance, real estate, banking, and investments, in addition to cash perks. As you consider what jobs you can get with a finance degree, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. Here are some financial job titles to help students comprehend the diverse opportunities available.

  • Financial Analyst
  • Investment Banker
  • Financial Planner
  • Portfolio Manager
  • Risk Manager
  • Corporate Finance Manager
  • Credit Analyst
  • Budget Analyst
  • Accountant
  • Treasury Analyst

Types Of Finance Jobs

There are many professional routes in finance, each with distinct obligations and possibilities for development. From risk control to financial analysis, explore the main influences on the financial environment.

1. Financial Analyst


Regarding investments, planning, and forecasts, financial analysts are very important in guiding companies toward wise judgments. They analyze industry trends, financial data, and profit-boosting ideas. Financial analyst employment will climb 6% over the next decade, according to the BLS. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and communication are essential.

2. Investment Banker


Through stock and bond issuance, investment bankers help companies raise money; they also provide mergers and acquisition advice. Although this job is well-known for its great income possibilities, it also requires long hours and great pressure. With an expected BLS growth of 4% the employment market for investment bankers is competitive. Success depends much on strong negotiating and relationship-building abilities.

3. Financial Planner


Through guidance on investments, retirement, estate planning, and tax strategies, financial planners assist people and families in managing their money. This is a very personal and relationship-driven job that calls for both trust and communication. Reflecting increasing demand for individualized financial services, the BLS forecasts a 9% employment growth rate for financial advisers. In this industry, financial knowledge and great people skills are very vital.

4. Risk Manager


Risk managers identify and assess financial hazards within a business or investment portfolio, then use techniques to help to reduce them. They include businesses like corporate finance, insurance, and banking. The BLS projects a 6% employment growth driven by the need to protect companies from operational and financial hazards. Among critical skills are risk analysis and strategic thinking.

5. Corporate Finance Manager


Highlighting budget, investment plans, and capital management, corporate finance managers supervise financial activities within a company. They make sure the financial objectives of a business complement its general direction. As companies keep growing and need competent financial control, corporate finance positions should increase by 5%. Key to this function are good leadership and management abilities.

Though each of these financial positions has different duties and needs for different knowledge, they all center on financial analysis, strategy, and relationship management.

Faqs

With a finance degree, you may seek a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) credential; although, usually more work is involved. A degree in finance by itself could not satisfy the educational criteria for the CPA test, which often calls for a certain total of accounting-related courses. To meet these criteria, many recent graduates in finance decide to enroll in extra accounting classes or pursue a Master’s in Accounting. Students have to pass the CPA test and satisfy work experience requirements upon completion of the required courses.
Yes, for entrepreneurship a degree in finance is very helpful. It gives you fundamental financial management, planning, and forecasting skills—qualities absolutely vital for operating a profitable company. Knowing financial statements, cash flow, and investment methods helps business owners decide wisely, get capital, and properly control risk. Having a background in finance can help you provide a solid basis for running and expanding a successful company.
No, a master’s degree in finance is not strictly necessary to succeed in the field, but it can offer significant advantages. A bachelor’s degree in finance or a related field may be sufficient for entry-level finance degree jobs, such as financial analyst or accountant. However, a master’s degree, like a Master’s in Finance or an MBA with a finance concentration, can open doors to higher-paying, specialized roles like investment banking, corporate finance, or portfolio management. It also offers advanced skills, networking opportunities, and a competitive edge in a crowded job market.
A finance degree equips you with a range of valuable skills, including financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and investment management. You’ll develop proficiency in interpreting financial statements, analyzing market trends, and making data-driven decisions. Additionally, communication and presentation skills are emphasized, as conveying complex financial information clearly is crucial. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and attention to detail are also enhanced, preparing you to navigate the complexities of financial markets and effectively manage risk in various business settings.
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