Pursuing a finance degree? 4 types to know before enrolling

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Why finance? Because apart from lucrative opportunities available in the financial sector, you will also learn key skills that can translate easily into finance roles in mainstream corporations.

However, not all finance degrees are equal and without knowing the exact type you need, you might end up enrolling in the wrong type of degree! That would mean not learning the right coursework or being awarded the right level of credentials that’s needed for your dream job.

In this article, we will take you through the four main types of finance degrees.

1. The Associate Degree in Finance

The first type of degree, the associate’s, can be completed within 1-2 years and allows a graduate to get entry-level positions at institutions such as a bank, accounting firm or investment firm.

However, these responsibilities here are largely administrative and clerical (like data entry and reporting). If you seek to eventually climb up the ranks to supervisory and management levels or switch into a department that requires deeper financial knowledge, more advanced degrees would be needed!

What will you learn?

You will be taught an overview of finance including microeconomics, macroeconomics as well as basic accounting principles and how to read financial statements.

Is it for you?

Yes, if you are:

unsure about the field of finance, or
choosing a finance major and would like some exposure to the industry, or
if you can’t quite meet the entry requirements of the bachelor’s degrees.

2. The Bachelor Degree in Finance

If you want to fully explore the most of your career options in the financial industry, the bachelor’s degree would be a great launchpad you should pursue!
Taking between 3-4 years to earn, the bachelor’s degree opens up a wide range of career possibilities including positions such as a financial advisor, investment analyst, trading analyst, auditor and tax associate.

What will you learn?

From capital management to understanding investments, international finance and performing financial analysis, you will learn a variety of skills including risk management. Many universities also give their bachelor undergraduates opportunities to specialise in areas such as real estate.

Is it for you?

If you would like to take on a direct financial role in a variety of organisations (such as the mid-office or front office roles), the bachelor’s degree is your best bet!

3. The Master’s Degree in Finance

This post-graduate degree can be earned in 1-2 years after attaining your bachelor’s degree. Also known as a Master in Business Administration (MBA), this qualification allows you to access some of the best opportunities in the finance field.

In fact, many companies make it a requirement for the employees to attain an MBA before they can move into a key decision making role!

What will you learn?

Courses in this degree program might include game theory, mergers & acquisitions and venture capital. These are aimed at turning finance professionals into leaders who can shoulder heavier responsibilities such as managing investment portfolios.

Is it for you?

If you already possess a finance degree and would like to access a higher tier of professional opportunities, then the Master’s Degree in Finance is for you!

4. The Doctorate Degree in Finance

Looking to be a professor, a government economist or conduct investment and financial research in a bank? Then the highest qualification in finance - the doctorate could be for you!

What will you learn?

While courses in doctorates could vary from university to university, you will be learning advanced finance principles such as asset pricing and corporate finance theory.

Is it for you?

A doctorate degree will help you access niche opportunities in both educational, public and commercial fields with your work having a great impact that could affect an entire organisation or even nation!