Discover the Profession:

Finance professionals help people and organizations make decisions about money. They work in banks, investment firms, insurance, accounting, companies and government. Typical jobs include financial analyst, accountant, banker, auditor and risk manager.

  • Path:

    Usually 3–4 years for a bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or economics, often followed by professional certifications such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), or CPA (Certified Public Accountant).

FAQ

  • What is the difference between finance, accounting and economics?

    Accounting records and checks money. Finance uses that information to make decisions about investing and funding. Economics studies how markets and countries work.

  • Do I need to be amazing at maths?

    You need to be comfortable with numbers, percentages and basic statistics. Advanced maths matters more in some areas, such as trading and risk.

  • How long does it take?

    A bachelor’s degree usually takes 3–4 years. Many people then study for professional certificates such as CFA, ACCA or CPA while they work.

  • What jobs can I do?

    You could become an analyst, accountant, auditor, banker, investment manager, insurance specialist or financial adviser. Companies in every industry need finance teams.

  • Is it all sitting at a desk?

    A lot of it is analysis and meetings. You also explain numbers to people who are not experts, so communication skills matter.

  • What can I do now to prepare?

    Learn to budget, follow business news and practise maths. Join a school business or economics club if you have one.

This page is a starting point, not career advice. Entry requirements differ between universities and countries, so check them with the university you are interested in. Ask the professionals at Explore anything you want to know.