The field of finance includes three categories: public, corporate, and personal. Regardless of what sector you prefer, the majority of finance jobs require at least a bachelor of science, finance, business, or equivalent. A master’s or doctorate will net you a higher salary.

Careers in Finance Recent Graduates Should Consider

Finance careers are well-suited for people who enjoy managing accounts, cases, and money. If you have strong analytical skills and a keen eye for detail, you’ll excel in the following.

1. Financial Planning

Financial planners help clients meet their current and long-term financial goals. They use their knowledge to guide clients toward better financial decisions, whether that includes building a budget or saving for retirement. Financial planners advise and assist clients on various tasks.

Most financial planners will work within a national or local firm. While a degree is usually all a financial planner needs to work in America, it may also require a CFP certification.

2. Commercial Banking

Commercial bankers offer a variety of financial services to individuals. They also provide advice on checking accounts, saving accounts, and loan options. There is a lot of growth within commercial banking, as tellers can often receive promotions and become branch managers.

Most commercial banking careers don’t require a bachelor’s degree, but you may need specific certification to move into certain roles, such as a financial planner or mortgage broker.

3. Investment Banking

Investment banking is a high-intensity field that involves buying, selling, and trading corporate securities. They also provide advice to individuals and corporations. Investment bankers primarily trade stocks and bonds on the stock market, which requires a special license.

Want to Sell Securities, like Mutual Funds? You’ll Likely Need to Pass the Series Exam

If you want to sell securities, you’ll need to pass the Series 63 exam. Since it can be difficult to pass the first time, Testing.org developed a Series 63 study guide for investment newbies.

4. Insurance Agent

Working in the insurance field is tough, but if you have a knack for sales and want a more flexible career, becoming an agent may be ideal. Top agents can earn more than $100,000 a year without a bachelor’s degree. However, most agents will make $30,000-$55,000 yearly.

There are plenty of careers to explore besides sales. For example, you could be a customer service specialist or can help calculate the risk and probabilities of financial trends for clients.

5. Hedge Fund Manager

A hedge fund manager makes investment decisions for a pool of capital often provided by investors that meet specific net worth requirements. Similar to an exchange-traded fund or mutual fund manager, hedge fund managers are also responsible for handling portfolios. 

Hedge fund managers often handle higher-risk portfolios that are actively traded, so they typically explore higher education and/or certification to make them look more credible.

6. Venture Capitalist

Venture capitalists are private equity investors that offer capital to startups. They typically target businesses that have high growth potential. In exchange for equity or ownership share, venture capitalists, when acting on behalf of a firm, will invest funds in the seed funding round.

Since venture capitalism has a high rate of failure, venture capitalists have to assess potential risks carefully. This involves several years of experience and years worth of education.

7. Public Accountant

Likely the most well-known financial career option, a public accountant works with individuals and corporations to maintain their financial transactions. They’re also adept at auditing client records, preparing and filing tax returns, and offering financial advice to their clients.

Accountants often get a bachelor’s degree in accounting, which can set them up to become a CPA. However, you will need to pass a test and complete several other requirements.

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