While anyone can handle money, true financial mastery comes from having an experienced, comprehensive understanding – a wisdom typically associated with those with a finance degree. While the prospect of a finance degree paving the way for a prosperous career is thrilling, it can also be a formidable responsibility. The question arises: How does a recent graduate harness the full potential of their hard-earned degree?
Monty Cerf takes a look at a few of the opportunities available for finance graduates.
Forging a Career Path With a Finance Degree
It’s not uncommon for people and companies to mismanage their funds. Fortunately, finance majors are able to provide help, but most fresh grads don’t know how to find those that need it.
One option is to simply start with working on what they’re already passionate about.
Find a Niche
Finance experts have extensive knowledge of how money works.
Therefore, it’s up to them whether they want to impart their knowledge to those less familiar with finances, spend time calculating and analyzing numbers, or be responsible for planning other people’s earnings and investments.
Once a person (with a background in finance) finds their niche, it’s easier to set eyes on a career path related to their degree – focus on being a financial manager, accountant, stockbroker, etc.
However, it’s also fine if none of these niches are feasible to get into.
Explore Different Industries
Whether it’s to help businesses get back on their feet, prepare couples for their next life chapter, or advise an investor where to allocate their funds, everyone needs input on how they’ll save or spend their money.
For instance, if a company’s advocacy is worth supporting, they could use an accountant or auditor to advise them on which departments they can spend less on.
Middle-aged couples could also use advice on how much money they need to spend on insurance and emergency funds.
However, if these industries seem unstable, finance graduates already have a degree that isn’t going to disappear. If all else fails, they can start work in other industries.
Follow the Trend
Every so often, new markets emerge. Right now, a new generation of individuals is getting into investments – and most finance graduates already know the ins and outs of this venture. Therefore, becoming their advisor seems beneficial.
If not, there are a few other trending entry-level jobs for finance grads. Here’s just a few:
| Position | Salary |
| Business Teacher | $27,999 |
| Accountant | $61,359 |
| Tax Associate | $68,073 |
| Budget Analyst | $71,804 |
| Auditor | $91,140 |
In addition, a finance major can potentially earn more if they further their finance education.
Acquire Additional Degrees
Anyone with a degree in finance is already a highly-qualified individual. However, like with most careers, the more certificates one acquires, the more opportunities will await them.
Isn’t a bachelor’s degree enough to be considered a financial expert, though?
Unlike someone with a bachelor’s degree in finance, those with a master’s degree can specialize in specific fields. In addition, they’ll also learn more about investments and risk management – roles that are vital to entrepreneurs and multinational companies.
Still, while a master’s degree may be prestigious, new grads shouldn’t feel pressured into acquiring it right away. Gaining experience can also help strengthen a person’s portfolio.
Conclusion
Every industry needs someone to advise them on what to do with their money. Thankfully, financial advisors are exactly the ones who can help them with that.
Finding a niche, industry, or direction may seem daunting right now, but countless opportunities await. Like finances, careers need to be planned and evaluated.
