Of course, a career in finance requires, at the very least, a bachelor’s degree, however, there are some specializations that may possibly require additional education and certification. Furthermore, if you show the initiative and obtain applicable certification of your own volition, you will be able to successfully boost your resume and demonstrate your dedication to your career. Many employers encourage their prospective applicants to seek additional training and certification, although it may not be required. In some instances, you may need several years of work experience before applying for certification.
As obtaining finance certifications have grown significantly important and hold great value, it is imperative that if you are already in an entry-level finance job and you wish to secure a job in management, then it would be in your best interest to seek a certification that best compliments your interest and proficiency that applies to your area of specialization. Below, we will look at a few certification descriptions that might help you in your endeavors.
One of the most popular certifications to obtain in finance is the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification. For certification in this area, one must successfully pass a test by exhibiting their knowledge in economics, portfolio management, ethical practices and in the subject of investment banking and analysis.
In the accounting field, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is offered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. You must have one year of experience as a Public Accountant to sit for this exam to showcase your abilities as an accounting professional in the areas of risk management, forensic accounting, and tax regulations. This credential is of utmost importance in the career of a Public Accountant. It represents your competence and commitment to the field of accounting.
After obtaining your online Bachelor’s degree in Finance, the Financial Planner will benefit greatly by securing Certified Financial Planner (CFP) certification. This is the most popular credential for Financial Planners. It will show your expertise in the areas of estate planning, investing, tax regulations, in addition to, retirement and insurance planning. The CFP course will take about 18 to 24 months to complete and the test can be taken online. CFP certification will prepare you for an abundance of career choices.
As the world of finance changes daily in today’s economy, a career in risk management may require Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification. After two years of work experience, you will then be qualified to take the two-part exam. FRM certification will demonstrate your dedication to the field, as well as, add excellent value to your resume. A professional with this certification will be considered for all types of careers in the corporate and private sector of risk management.
There are other areas of specialization certifications, such as, Financial Modeling Certification, Chartered Global Management Accountant, Certified Management Accountant, Certified Information Systems Auditor, in addition to, certification for the Certified Internal Auditor. You will need to do research to see which certification is required or which one will benefit you the most. Thankfully, obtaining your certification can be easily done while maintaining a full-time job commitment and often can be completed online.
Certifications can help you up your game by offering additional training, increasing your value to present or future employers and provides job security, not to mention, a few extra dollars in your pocket. If you are interested in this field, see our list of the Top 10 Online Bachelor of Finance Degree Programs.