Doctoral Degree in Finance

Do you have a way with numbers? Have you decided to work in an occupation that will allow you to apply this ability? By obtaining some level of formal degree and training in finance you will surely be prepared for a wide range of employment options in this industry. It is important to understand that in this industry it is common for students to also need to complete certifications in addition to their completed degree program. For instance, there are certifications in areas of financial management, auditing and accounting, and securities and investments.

Keep in mind, for each area of certification there are different prerequisites that you must complete; you will likely want to familiarize yourself with what is required for your intended area of certification. In addition, some certifications will require that you have a specific number of years' experience before you will be eligible for certification.

As you work to obtain your doctoral level degree in an area of finance you will likely be required to complete courses such as: insurance, financial markets, business statistics, investment, finance for small businesses, the principles of finance, strategic finance, multinational finance, the fundamentals of real estate, and corporate securities. It is important to understand that in this industry a bachelor's level degree is only likely to qualify you for entry-level positions.

While a doctoral level degree is not a definite requirement, it is crucial to understand that the job market in this industry is quite intense. Therefore, by obtaining a higher educational degree level you are more likely to stand out against fellow job seekers in your profession. Of course, as with any graduate level program, you will need to complete an undergraduate degree program in an area of finance before you can be admitted into a master's degree program in a field of finance. Keep in mind, a master's degree program should take you less than two years to complete and you can likely complete the requirements while maintaining your current employment.

It is common for a doctoral degree program to consist of classes such as: econometrics, financial reporting, financial markets, financial institutions, risk management, mergers and acquisitions, managerial accounting, financial investments, and portfolio management. Once you have completed the graduate level educational requirements and the possible certification requirements you will be qualified to work in many governmental agencies at the state, local, or federal level. In addition, you could also seek employment as a chief financial officer of a large corporation, as a portfolio manager, or as a financial analyst. However, with an undergraduate degree it will be possible for you to work as a financial services expert, as a corporate investment expert, or as a corporate portfolio manager.