As someone who has always been interested in finance. I know just how important it is to have a solid understanding of finance basics. So I did a bit of research on what are the top certifications to get if you plan on joining any financial industry. And the result is pretty interesting.
With the right finance certifications, you can gain a competitive edge in the job market and make yourself more attractive to potential employers. In this blog post, I’ll be discussing some of the top finance certifications for beginners and the benefits of obtaining them.
Benefits of Obtaining Finance Certifications
There are many benefits to obtaining finance certifications. First and foremost, they demonstrate to potential employers that you have a strong understanding of financial basics and are committed to your career in finance. This can make you a more attractive candidate for job opportunities and help you stand out from other applicants.
Moreover, finance certifications offer specialized knowledge in finance fields like financial planning and risk management. These certifications prove helpful, particularly when switching to another finance area or advancing in your current role.
Finally, obtaining finance certifications can help you earn a higher salary. According to a survey by the CFA Institute, CFA charterholders earn an average of 54% more than non-charterholders. This is just one example of how to finance certifications can help you advance your career and increase your earning potential.
Top Finance Certifications for Beginners
Let’s explore top finance certifications for beginners after considering the advantages of acquiring these certifications.
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) Certification
Many consider the CFA certification to be one of the most esteemed finance certifications worldwide. Investment professionals pursue it, and it encompasses ethical and professional standards, quantitative methods, economics, financial reporting and analysis, corporate finance, equity investments, fixed income, derivatives, alternative investments, and portfolio management.
To attain the CFA certification, candidates must pass three levels of exams that the CFA Institute administers annually. The exams are challenging and require significant preparation, but the benefits can be significant. The CFA charter is acknowledged globally as the “gold standard” of investment analysis and portfolio management, as per the CFA Institute.
CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Certification
Anyone interested in an accounting career should acquire the CPA certification. This certification targets accountants and covers subjects such as financial accounting and reporting, auditing and attestation, regulation, and business environment and concepts.
To obtain the CPA certification, you’ll need to pass the Uniform CPA Exam, which is administered by the American Institute of CPAs. The exam consists of four sections: Auditing and Attestation (AUD), Business Environment and Concepts (BEC), Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR), and Regulation (REG). Each section of the exam is four hours long and requires significant preparation.
CFP (Certified Financial Planner) Certification
Financial planners pursue the CFP certification, which covers subjects such as professional conduct and regulation, financial planning principles, education planning, risk management and insurance planning, investment planning, tax planning, retirement savings and income planning, and estate planning.
To obtain the CFP certification, you’ll need to complete a series of education requirements, pass a comprehensive exam, and have at least three years of relevant work experience. The exam is administered by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards and covers all of the topics listed above.
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) Certification
The ACCA certification is for accountants and encompasses financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, financial management, audit and assurance, corporate and business law, and performance management.
To obtain the certification, one must meet education requirements, pass a series of exams, and have at least three years of related work experience. The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants administers the exams, which cover all the subjects mentioned above.
FRM (Financial Risk Manager) Certification
Risk management professionals pursue the FRM certification. Subjects in this program include quantitative analysis, financial markets and products, valuation, risk models, market risk management, credit risk management, operational and integrated risk management, and risk management in investment management.
To earn the FRM certification, one must pass two levels of exams, which the Global Association of Risk Professionals administers. The exams are comprehensive and require a significant amount of preparation, but the payoff can be huge. According to the GARP, FRM charter holders are in high demand and can command high salaries.
Best Online Finance Courses and Certification Programs
In addition to the finance certifications listed above, there are many online finance courses and certification programs that can help you gain specialized knowledge in specific areas of finance. Here are some of the best online finance courses and certification programs:
- Coursera: Coursera offers a wide range of online finance courses, including courses from top universities like Yale and Columbia.
- edX: edX offers courses in finance from top universities like MIT and the University of Michigan.
- Udemy: Udemy offers a wide range of finance courses, including courses on financial modeling, accounting, and financial analysis.
- Wall Street Prep: Wall Street Prep offers a variety of online courses and certification programs in finance, including courses on financial statement analysis, valuation, and financial modeling.
Tips for Studying and Preparing for Finance Certifications
Studying for finance certifications can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can set yourself up for success. Here are some tips for studying and preparing for finance certifications:
- Start early: Don’t wait until the last minute to start studying. Give yourself plenty of time to prepare and review the material.
- Create a study schedule: Create a study schedule that works for you and sticks to it. Set aside dedicated time each day or week to study and review the material.
- Use practice exams: Practice exams can be a great way to prepare for finance certifications. They can help you identify areas where you need to improve and get familiar with the exam format.
- Take breaks: Taking regular breaks can help you stay focused and avoid burnout. Make sure to take breaks throughout your study sessions.
- Get support: Don’t be afraid to reach out for support if you need it. Consider joining a study group or hiring a tutor to help you prepare for your finance certification exams.
Final Thoughts
Get a competitive edge in finance and jumpstart your career by obtaining finance certifications. There are various finance certifications for accounting, financial planning, investment analysis, and risk management. With commitment and effort, you can attain your career goals in finance.
