15 Types of Finance Majors & Careers for 2025

Finance majors offer diverse opportunities, catering to various career goals and skill sets. Whether you're interested in corporate finance, investment analysis, or accounting, there are educational paths to suit your aspirations.

If you want to get into finance, use the information we provide about the four levels of finance degrees you can earn: associate, bachelor's, master's, or doctoral. To help you figure out if a finance degree is right for you, we provide specifics about types of finance degrees and possible careers as well.

Associate Degrees in Finance

Associate degrees in finance provide a quick and affordable way to gain foundational knowledge of financial principles. These two-year programs prepare students for entry-level roles or further study in the field. Below are some common associate degrees in finance and related areas.

1. Associate of Science in Finance

An Associate of Science in finance introduces the essential principles of finance, helping students earn affordable credits to transfer to a bachelor's program or begin their finance careers at the entry level. The coursework, which gives you the tools to analyze and interpret financial data accurately, covers key topics such as:

• investments
• risk management
• budgeting
• financial reporting

Through hands-on assignments and projects, you will gain experience creating financial reports, evaluating market trends, and understanding the dynamics of financial markets.

2. Associate of Science in Financial Management

In an Associate of Science in financial management program, you focus on managing financial resources effectively. You'll work on tasks such as analyzing cash flow, creating detailed budgets, and developing comprehensive financial plans. The program emphasizes practical applications, including preparing financial statements, evaluating resource allocation strategies, and using financial tools to support decision-making.

3. Associate of Science in Accounting

An Associate of Science in accounting emphasizes the core principles of accounting through practical coursework. You'll learn how to prepare and analyze financial reports, understand auditing basics, and navigate tax preparation processes. The program focuses on developing technical skills, such as tracking financial transactions, reconciling accounts, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. You'll also practice using accounting software to manage financial data efficiently and accurately.

Bachelor's Degrees in Finance

Bachelor's degrees in finance are the industry standard for most finance careers. These four-year programs combine core business principles with specialized finance coursework, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for advanced study or professional roles.

The best bachelor's in finance programs are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), a prestigious designation that ensures rigorous academic standards and global recognition. AACSB-accredited programs emphasize high-quality teaching, up-to-date curriculum, and strong connections with industry leaders.

Below, we've listed some common bachelor's degree options for those pursuing a career in finance.

1. Bachelor of Science in Finance

A Bachelor of Science in finance provides comprehensive training in financial principles, focusing on investment analysis, corporate finance, and portfolio management. To help you build the skills to evaluate data, develop strategies, and solve complex financial challenges in real-world settings, the program includes coursework in the following areas:

• financial modeling
• risk management
• market analysis

2. Bachelor of Science in Financial Management

A Bachelor of Science in financial management focuses on managing company finances, strategic planning, and effective financial decision-making. The coursework teaches you how to analyze data and develop strategies to optimize organizational performance by covering budgeting, resource allocation, and financial reporting.

3. Bachelor of Science in Financial Planning

If you want to help others prepare for their future financially, a Bachelor of Science in financial planning teaches you skills like retirement planning, tax strategies, and wealth management. You'll learn to analyze financial needs, create personalized plans, and develop strategies to meet long-term goals.

4. Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance

You can also earn a Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in finance. This degree blends core business principles with specialized financial knowledge. You'll study topics such as accounting, marketing, and financial management, gaining a broad understanding of how finance integrates with overall business operations.

5. Bachelor of Science in Accounting

A Bachelor of Science in accounting emphasizes auditing, tax preparation, and financial reporting. You'll develop skills in analyzing financial records, preparing tax documents, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The program provides a solid foundation in accounting principles, offering the technical expertise needed to manage and evaluate financial data effectively.

Master's Degrees in Finance

Master's degrees in finance offer advanced training for those seeking to deepen their expertise in specialized areas of the field. These programs provide a rigorous curriculum focused on analytical, strategic, and technical skills, allowing students to tackle complex financial challenges. Below are common master's degree options for advancing your education in finance.

1. Master of Finance

A Master of Finance focuses on advanced topics such as quantitative analysis, financial modeling, and investment strategies. The program provides in-depth training in data analysis, risk management, and portfolio optimization, enabling you to solve complex financial problems. Emphasizing practical applications, it prepares you for tackling intricate challenges in finance.

2. Master of Business Administration With a Concentration in Finance

A Master of Business Administration with a concentration in finance integrates advanced financial knowledge with managerial training. The program covers areas such as corporate finance, strategic decision-making, and financial analysis. You'll develop skills in budgeting, resource management, and leadership, equipping you to handle complex financial operations and make high-level organizational decisions.

3. Master of Science in Finance

A Master of Science in finance emphasizes technical finance skills, such as econometrics, risk analysis, and derivatives. The program provides a rigorous foundation in quantitative methods, financial modeling, and analytical tools, enabling you to assess risk, evaluate investment opportunities, and apply advanced techniques to solve complex financial problems.

4. Master of Science in Accounting

A Master of Science in accounting focuses on advanced topics such as auditing, taxation, and financial reporting and prepares you to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The program provides in-depth knowledge of accounting standards, regulatory compliance, and analytical methods, ensuring you can confidently manage complex financial data and address intricate challenges in the field of accounting.

5. Master of Accountancy/Accounting

A Master of Accountancy/Accounting provides specialized training in areas like public accounting, forensic accounting, and internal auditing. The program focuses on advanced techniques in financial analysis, auditing procedures, and compliance standards, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of professional accounting practices. It also fulfills the educational requirements needed for CPA certification.

Doctoral Degrees in Finance

Doctoral programs in finance are designed for individuals seeking to achieve the highest level of expertise in the field. These programs focus on advanced research, critical analysis, and theoretical applications, providing a deep understanding of financial systems and practices. Below are two common doctoral degree options for finance professionals.

1. Doctor of Business Administration With a Concentration in Finance

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) with a concentration in finance emphasizes applied research and advanced financial strategies. The program focuses on developing expertise in areas such as financial decision-making, corporate strategy, and market analysis. You'll engage in research projects that address real-world financial challenges and refine advanced problem-solving skills.

2. PhD in Finance

A PhD in finance is centered on theoretical and empirical research, offering a comprehensive understanding of advanced financial principles and methodologies. The program explores specialized topics like econometrics, asset pricing, and corporate finance. Through original research, you'll examine complex financial systems and contribute to the advancement of financial knowledge and theory.

Careers in Finance

Finance is a great career path because of how many opportunities you have across industries. From analyzing market trends to managing budgets and ensuring compliance, finance professionals play a critical role in organizational success. Below, we've outlined some of the most common finance careers, highlighting the unique responsibilities of each role.

• Accountant: manages financial records, prepares tax filings, and ensures compliance with accounting standards.
• Auditor: ensures accuracy and compliance in financial reporting by examining financial documents and procedures.
• Banking relationship manager: manages and nurtures relationships with banking clients, addressing their financial needs and recommending appropriate products or services.
• Bookkeeper: maintains financial records, tracks transactions, and manages accounts for individuals or businesses.
• Budget analyst: prepares and monitors organizational budgets, ensuring financial resources are allocated effectively and efficiently.
• Business analyst: analyzes data to improve business operations and financial outcomes by identifying trends and recommending strategic solutions.
• Certified Public Accountant: provides specialized accounting services, including tax preparation, auditing, and financial consulting, and adheres to high professional standards.
• Development officer: secures funding for organizations through grants, sponsorships, and donor engagement.
• Financial advisor: helps clients create financial plans and achieve their long-term financial goals.
• Financial analyst: evaluates financial data and provides insights to support strategic decision-making.
• Financial assistant: supports financial operations by preparing reports, managing records, and assisting with budgets.
• Financial examiner: reviews financial records and operations to ensure compliance with laws and regulations.
• Grants analyst: oversees grant funding, ensures compliance with grant requirements, and manages grant-related documentation.
• Insurance sales agent: advises clients on insurance products and helps them choose policies to meet their needs.
• Investment analyst: assesses market trends, evaluates investment opportunities, and provides insights for financial decision-making.
• Loan officer: assesses and approves loan applications, ensuring borrowers meet financial qualifications.
• Loan processor: prepares and organizes loan applications, ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
• Underwriter: evaluates risk for insurance or financial products and determines terms for approval.

Finance Certifications

Earning a professional certification can enhance your expertise and credibility in the finance field. These credentials demonstrate specialized knowledge, improve career prospects, and often lead to higher earning potential. Below are some of the most valuable certifications for finance professionals, each tailored to different areas of specialization within the industry.

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): Recognized as the gold standard for investment professionals, the CFA certification focuses on expertise in investment management, financial analysis, and portfolio management.
• Chartered Investment Banking Analyst (CIBA): For specializing in the skills and knowledge required for investment banking, the CIBA certification deals with structuring, valuation methods, and mergers and acquisitions.
• Financial Risk Management (FRM): The FRM certification emphasizes advanced skills in identifying, assessing, and managing financial risks.
• Certified Financial Modeling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA): Providing specialized training in creating financial models and performing valuation analyses, this certification is particularly useful for professionals in corporate finance, investment banking, or equity research.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA): A key requirement for advanced accounting roles, the CPA certification demonstrates expertise in areas like auditing, taxation, and financial reporting.

Find a Finance Degree Program

If you earn a finance degree, you have many lucrative career options to choose from. Reach out to the colleges on Learn.org with a finance program that interests you today.