Completing a master of finance degree is likely to be an essential requirements for many professionals working in the field of finance who are looking to advance to management positions or find entry into the profession. Working in the field of finance is fast-paced, rewarding, and satisfying, and as the demands on financial transparency and reporting continue to increase, so does the demand for qualified, knowledgeable financial professionals.
Courses to Complete for a Masters in Finance Degree
The courses in a masters in finance degree program are designed to help students gain the skills and knowledge needed to enter or advance in the profession. Accounting courses often include financial accounting and reporting in addition to courses such as financial mathematics. Students will also take several finance courses including entrepreneurial finance, investments, financial decision making, international finance, and speculative markets. Business courses often include mergers and acquisitions, security valuation, market dynamics, and quantitative methods. Economics courses typically include advanced macroeconomics and advanced microeconomics.
In addition, graduate students gain a foundation in the legal and ethical theories and issues important to the finance profession. Additional courses include finance theory, analysis of finance, financial mathematics, and investment management. Students might also take courses in managerial economics, organizational communication, and leadership.
Skills and Knowledge to Work in Finance
On top of coursework, graduate level programs in finance most likely include the option of either completion of a thesis or capstone project, offering students the opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge and practical experience in a relevant area. Many universities also offer field work, internships, and externships as part of the graduate program in finance to enable students to gain more practical experience and knowledge in the field.
As a finance professional, there are numerous roles, responsibilities, and tasks that might be performed, depending on a particular position. From preparing reports to analysis of income statements and other financial records to overseeing all financial operations, knowledgeable and experienced finance professionals are able to oversee and ensure the successful financial operations of for-profit business, not-for-profit organizations, government offices, and all other types of entities.
Certifications are also sometimes beneficial to get started or advance in a finance career. For additional information, visit the Association for Financial Professionals.
Careers in Finance
With a masters in finance and the right skill set, graduates have a number of options for advancement or entry into the workforce. Many jobs that require a masters in finance include analyst positions. Budget analysts and quantitative analysts, for example, might work in government agencies, financial institution such as a bank or credit union, private corporations, or non-profit organizations. Controller positions also often require a graduate degree in finance.
Experience in management or management coursework can also help job seekers find management positions all the way through executive management positions. Financial manager, risk manager, and chief financial officer positions often require a minimum of a masters in finance or other related field.
Whether looking to advance to a management position or get started in another finance career, there is a diverse set of possibilities for entering into an in-demand, rewarding profession. A master of finance degree is one of the steps that can be helpful for gaining the mathematical, analytical, ethical, and practical experience and knowledge required.
