What Can a Bachelor’s in Finance Do for your Career?
October 19, 2012
•Finance
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Money is the backbone of every economy. After all, it is money that is exchanged for goods and services, driving economic development and providing salaries. Individuals with a mind for money or a desire to better understand how cash trickles through an economy may find a Bachelor’s in Finance interesting. Many individuals however, remain unaware what a Bachelor’s in Finance can do for their career.
The world of finance is fast paced and requires individuals who possess a wide range of skills. Students with strong analytical, communication, and decision-making skills are likely to succeed in this field, but not without a Bachelor’s in Finance. So what can that degree do for you?
Not All Degrees Are Created Equal!
While an Bachelor’s in Finance can help you for effective leadership in today’s fast-paced business world, not all of the Bachelor’s in Finance degree programs out there are the same. When examining any Bachelor’s in Finance program, make sure the program is accredited by an accrediting body, such as The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). ACBSP accreditation certifies that the teaching and learning processes of these programs within a business school meet rigorous educational standards. ACBSP is a leading specialized accreditation association for business education supporting, celebrating, and rewarding teaching excellence. Established in 1988, ACBSP is the only business accrediting organization for all associate, baccalaureate, and graduate degree programs.
A degree in an accredited program can be the differentiator in today’s competitive job market, so be sure to ask questions about accreditation when talking to any college or university.
Provide a Competitive Edge
According to Yahoo! Education, the Bachelor’s in Finance ranked #5 on a list of the top degrees that provide working professionals with the competitive edge they need for advancement. Finance degree programs teach students about critical financial functions such as planning, raising funds, wise investing, and cost-control.
Marti Benjamin, a career management coach and founder of a career management firm, believes that a firm grasp of these principles in finance provide an individual with a competitive edge that boosts their chances of employment over those who have not had this education.
Great Option for Career Revival
The Bachelor’s in Finance was recently highlighted by Yahoo! Education as being one of the top degrees for those looking to either switch career fields or change tracks within their career. Not everyone is lucky enough to find a lifetime career straight out of school. Sometimes the individual has to reinvent themselves in order to be successful. It is noted however that this route is often easier for those who already possess experience somewhere in the field of finance.
Great Careers Await
Graduates from finance programs have a variety of career options to pursue after earning a diploma. Some positions, many of them entry-level, have been identified by Monster.com as follows:
- Actuary: Develop forecasts of future financial conditions
- Budget Analyst: Work to determine the best use of financial resources
- Financial Planner: Help companies and individuals invest wisely
- Financial Manager: A jack-of-all-trades, individuals in this role partake in various financial departments and decisions
- Insurance Underwriter: Assess the risk of insuring individuals and groups
- Loan Officer: Analyze the financial abilities of individuals and businesses seeking loans
Finance serves as the backbone of any business and as such, there are financial positions available within any company. However, not every individual will be well-suited for a position in the world of finance. While one company may seek individuals with a Bachelor’s of Finance, some companies will place a greater value on experience. Regardless, a Bachelor’s of Finance serves as a great foundation for a career in the world of finance.
Sources:
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm#tab-4
http://career-advice.monster.com/job-search/company-industry-research/bachelor-finance-equal-great-career/article.aspx
http://education.yahoo.net/articles/five_degrees_for_adults.htm?wid=1004&svkid=MQNE&usid=729d8eaf-49e2-4add-9995-3f5dc87b7b1d