What Jobs Can You Get With a Bachelors in Finance?

A Bachelor’s degree in Finance provides students with a foundational understanding of financial principles, analytical methods, and quantitative reasoning. This program equips individuals with skills for interpreting and managing financial data. Coursework often includes economics, accounting, corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets, and risk management. The degree prepares graduates for diverse professional paths by developing analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and technological proficiency across various industries.

Investment and Capital Market Roles

Careers in investment and capital markets focus on financial instruments, market dynamics, and capital allocation strategies. These roles require a deep understanding of market trends and valuation techniques. Investment banks, hedge funds, and asset management firms are common employers.

Investment Banking Analyst or Associate

An Investment Banking Analyst or Associate facilitates complex financial transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, and capital raises for corporations. These professionals engage in financial modeling, valuation, and due diligence to support deal execution. They gain exposure to various industries and financial structures within investment banks.

Equity Research Analysts

Equity Research Analysts evaluate publicly traded companies and industries to provide investment recommendations. Their work involves in-depth analysis of financial statements, industry trends, and economic conditions to generate insights for investors. These analysts work for investment banks, brokerage firms, or asset management companies and communicate findings through detailed reports and presentations.

Portfolio Managers

Portfolio Managers manage investment portfolios for clients, including individuals, institutions, or mutual funds. They make decisions on asset allocation and security selection to achieve investment objectives while managing risk. This role involves continuous monitoring of market conditions and adjusting portfolios.

Traders

Traders execute buy and sell orders for financial instruments on behalf of clients or their firm’s own accounts. They need strong quantitative skills and quick decision-making abilities to navigate fast-paced market environments and balance risk. Traders work in investment banks or proprietary trading firms, specializing in specific asset classes like equities or fixed income.

Sales & Trading

Sales & Trading roles connect institutional clients with financial products and facilitate transactions. Salespeople manage client relationships and pitch trading ideas, while traders execute orders and manage market risk. This division within an investment bank provides liquidity and efficient execution for large-volume trades.

Corporate Finance Roles

Corporate finance positions support the financial health and strategic operations of non-financial companies. These roles focus internally on optimizing a company’s financial performance and resource allocation. Professionals manage budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow to support business objectives.

Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst in a corporate setting examines financial data, analyzes historical results, and creates forecasts to support management decisions. They prepare reports and presentations for executives, offering insights into business growth drivers, risks, and opportunities. This role involves evaluating financial performance by comparing actual results against plans and forecasts, identifying variances.

Budget Analysts

Budget Analysts assist in financial planning by analyzing an organization’s financial data and managing budgets. They collaborate with various departments to gather budget proposals, analyze funding needs, and ensure alignment with organizational goals. These analysts monitor spending, conduct cost-benefit analyses, and provide recommendations for cost-saving initiatives.

Treasury Analysts

Treasury Analysts manage a company’s cash flow, liquidity, and financial risk. Their responsibilities include daily cash positioning, managing bank relationships, and optimizing working capital. They ensure the company has sufficient funds for operations while investing excess cash.

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A)

Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) professionals handle budgeting, forecasting, and analytical activities that support corporate decisions. They analyze trends, develop financial models, and provide insights to transform company strategy into long-range plans. FP&A teams anticipate future outcomes and help management formulate effective strategies based on data.

Financial Planning and Wealth Management Roles

Financial planning and wealth management roles advise individuals, families, and small businesses to help them achieve financial goals. These positions are client-facing, emphasizing effective communication and building trust. Professionals offer personalized guidance on a range of financial matters.

Financial Advisor

A Financial Advisor meets with clients to discuss financial objectives, providing advice on investments, insurance, taxes, and retirement planning. They assess a client’s financial situation, including income, expenses, and risk tolerance, to develop tailored financial plans. Advisors educate clients on investment options and potential risks, helping them make informed decisions.

Wealth Managers

Wealth Managers provide comprehensive financial services to high-net-worth individuals and families, encompassing investment management, estate planning, tax strategies, and philanthropic giving. They develop long-term financial strategies to preserve and grow significant assets. This role involves coordinating with other professionals to address complex client needs.

Personal Financial Planners

Personal Financial Planners assist clients with creating personal budgets, establishing savings objectives, and managing expenses. They help clients plan for specific life circumstances by recommending appropriate financial products and strategies. These planners regularly monitor client accounts and adjust financial plans based on life changes or market conditions.

Private Banking

Roles within private banking cater to affluent clients, offering exclusive financial products and services beyond traditional banking. Professionals provide personalized advice on investments, credit solutions, and wealth transfer strategies. They act as a single point of contact for all financial needs of their clients.

Risk Management and Compliance Roles

Risk management and compliance roles identify, assess, and mitigate financial risks while ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements. These positions protect an organization’s financial stability and reputation within the regulatory landscape. Professionals develop and implement controls to safeguard assets and maintain integrity.

Risk Analyst

A Risk Analyst identifies and evaluates potential financial risks, including credit, market, and operational risk. They develop risk models and analytical tools to assess the impact of various risk exposures on an organization. Their work helps management make informed decisions to mitigate potential losses and maintain financial stability.

Compliance Officers

Compliance Officers ensure an organization operates within relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards. They monitor regulatory developments, develop internal policies and procedures, and conduct assessments to identify compliance risks. These professionals also provide training to employees on compliance obligations and investigate any issues.

Internal Auditors

Internal Auditors evaluate a company’s financial controls, record-keeping processes, and operational activities for accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. They identify deficiencies, assess risks, and recommend corrective actions to improve internal controls and safeguard assets. Internal auditors help ensure the organization adheres to internal policies and external regulations.

Fraud Analyst

A Fraud Analyst detects and prevents fraudulent activities within organizations by analyzing financial data for suspicious patterns and trends. They investigate potential fraud incidents, collaborate with other departments, and develop prevention strategies. These analysts work across various industries and may assist in preparing evidence for legal proceedings.