Business professionals seeking to expand on
their work experience may be interested in a certificate in finance.
Though diploma programs aren't common, many schools offer online finance
certificate programs that equip students with the skills and techniques
needed to make informed business and investment decisions.
Online Certificate in Finance Overview
A certificate in finance can teach students how to address risk and
return issues, evaluate investment opportunities and understand
financial statements and documentation. These programs are typically
designed for business professionals who are not financial managers, but
are appropriate for students looking to begin a career in finance.
Students that have attended college may be able to transfer previously
earned credits.
Program Description and Details
Although students are typically able to work at their own pace, most
schools expect students to complete an online finance certificate
program in less than 12 months. Some programs can be as short as 12
weeks. Many schools also provide internship opportunities to students
who do not already have careers in business or finance.
Some online finance certificate programs are geared toward
professionals who want or need to obtain continuing education credits
for certification. Others may qualify graduates to obtain the Certified
Financial Planner credential. In order to participate in these online
programs, students should have computer systems able to play
Internet-based video and audio and run chat programs to communicate with
instructors and classmates.
Common Program Courses
The curriculum of most online certificate in finance programs
contains courses in economics, financial analysis, corporate investment
and risk management. Because these programs are designed for
professionals in the business world, most schools do not require
students to complete general education prerequisites before they begin
their finance courses.
Capital Investment Course
This course trains students to make efficient and effective
investment decisions and discusses which types of investments are
appropriate for different kinds of financial projects.
Understanding Financial Statements Course
Students learn how to read and interpret balance sheets and income
statements. They also learn how to explain a company's financial
condition to colleagues and clients.
Risk and Return Course
Students get a comprehensive overview of how the risk-return relationship effects budgeting and investment decisions.
Career Outlook for Financial Managers
Many jobs in the financial industry may require bachelor's degrees,
but graduates of online certificate programs in finance could find work
as a budget analyst, personal financial advisor or other professional.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most budget
analysts made $44,860-$101,660 during May 2010 (
www.bls.gov).
Those with a master's degree may have better job prospects, the BLS
reported. Most personal financial advisors made $32,660-$111,990 during
May 2010, and bachelor's degrees are often preferred by employers, the
BLS reported.
Continuing Education Opportunities
Students looking to enter into a degree program in finance can find
several programs both online and in the classroom. Additionally, most
schools allow credits earned during a
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