What Finance Jobs Are Available With a Master’s in Finance Degree?

Master's in FinanceIf you are considering earning a business degree to find success in today’s competitive global marketplace, it is important to remember that there are a wide array of finance jobs available with a Master’s in Finance degree. Unlike Master of Business Administration (MBA) programs that provide a broad-based education in the business field, the Master’s of Finance degree is strongly focused on covering practical business applications that can be used to address current financial challenges in the vast financial industry. In fact, Forbes magazine recently declared finance in a tie for the 6th best master’s degree for jobs. With an in-depth understanding of exchange rates, commodity fluctuations, shareholder values, and other financial assets, the following are the most popular career options after graduating with a Master’s in Finance degree.

Investment Banker

After obtaining the master’s degree in finance that is often required for high-level positions in the securities industry, investment bankers are given the responsibility of connecting businesses with investors who can provide funding to cover the costs of their operations. Through a process that is referred to as underwriting, investment bankers provide initial public offerings (IPOs) as well as mergers and acquisitions. In order to ensure that all financial transactions go smoothly, investment bankers must explain available services, evaluate cost and revenue for agreements, analyze company finances thoroughly, monitor financial markets, and make recommendations.

Personal Financial Advisor

With the goal of helping clients plan to meet their short and long-term financial goals, personal financial advisors provide financial advice to individuals and/or couples for investments, taxes, insurance decisions, education expenses, retirement funds, stocks, and more. Personal financial advisors are typically responsible for meeting with clients, explaining various financial services, answering questions about potential risks, recommending investments, monitoring clients’ accounts, improving account performance, and researching financial opportunities. Although a bachelor’s degree can provide entry-level options, a Master’s in Finance degree goes a long way towards opening doors for advancement.

Financial Manager

As one of the highest paid finance jobs available with a Master’s in Finance degree at an average annual salary of $109,740, financial managers occupy leadership positions in ensuring the financial health of organizations. On a typical day, financial managers will be involved in preparing business activity reports, supervising financial employees, monitoring financial details, brainstorming ideas to cut costs, analyzing current market trends, acquiring other companies for expansion, and making solid long-term financial decisions. Financial managers usually must have five years or more of experience in another financial occupation before promotion.

Commercial Lending Officer

Since businesses often have to utilize loans to purchase supplies or upgrade operations, commercial lending officers are given the responsibility of assessing and authorizing loan applications for commercial businesses. With a Master’s in Finance degree, individuals will have the financial knowledge needed to evaluate larger loans and review complex financial statements for businesses applying for a loan. In the credit intermediation industry, commercial lending officers often work in commercial banks, credit unions, mortgage companies, private practices, and other financial institutions.

Related Resource: Financial Advisor

Overall, a Master’s in Finance degree can provide you with a balanced education for all areas of the financial industry in preparation for an exciting career as a professional in financial and/or investment management. When you select a program that has been properly accredited through the respected Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business , you will realize the wide variety of finance jobs available with a Master’s in Finance degree immediately.