Master’s in Finance Career Paths
If you’re serious about finance jobs, consider fast-tracking your future by pursuing a master’s degree in finance. It ranks second on Monster.com’s top 10 list of best-paying master’s degrees, offering greater returns than most other post-graduate degrees. It is the most advanced, in-depth finance-related degree you can earn, and it’s a perfect choice for those who aspire to careers in finance with leadership potential.
A Master of Science in Finance from the Sellinger School of Business at Loyola University Maryland will develop your expertise in financial analysis, corporate finance and investment management, and if you already have a finance background, it will deepen your proficiency in investment banking, derivatives and both financial and investment analysis. A master’s in finance will open the doors to a wide range of MS Finance careers and finance jobs. Here are five popular finance jobs to consider:
- Financial Analyst: Helps clients achieve their financial goals by interpreting financial data and creating financial strategies for choosing the right investments. Observes stocks, bonds and other investments for growth and investment opportunities. Studies market trends – identifying potential investment challenges and finding solutions. Per US News, the average salary for a financial analyst was $95,320 in 2015, and the median salary was $80,310.
- Financial Advisor: Helps clients manage their money and plan their financial futures by evaluating key financial data and developing plans for saving and investing that ensure financial stability. Provides advice on a range of money issues including investments, insurance, mortgages, estate planning, taxes and retirement saving. A financial planner is a popular type of financial advisor that often has an area of expertise and usually holds various licenses, most commonly as a certified financial planner (CFP). Per US News, the median salary for financial advisors was $89,160 in 2015, and the average was $118,050.
- Financial Manager: Oversees the finances of organizations and major companies. Tracks profit and loss; strives to reduce risk and develops strategies for long-term profitability. Directs investments and cash management. A financial manager often reports to a chief financial officer. Per US News, the median salary for a financial manager was $117,990 in 2015, and the average was $134,330.
- Chief Financial Officer: Has responsibilities similar to those of a financial manager, but in contrast, interacts and participates in decision-making at the highest level of the organization. Per Salary.com, the median salary for a chief financial officer was $307,893 as of March 2017.
- Investment Banker: Typically works in a financial institution and raises capital for companies and other entities. May advise on opportunities and provide an array of services including the sale and trading of securities and conducting mergers and acquisitions. Per PayScale.com, investment bankers with less than five years of experience average $95,000 annually, and the median salary for seasoned veterans is $228,000.
Careers in finance are varied and lucrative. Sellinger MSF alumni hold prominent positions in organizations across the region, and graduates share their finance success stories within an elite network of more than 20,000 alumni throughout leading business, nonprofit, and government organizations. Learn more about the finance courses available in our Masters of Finance program.