How to Become a Financial Advisor in Ohio

Online Associates (AS)

Associate degrees in finance generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Every curriculum is unique, but undergraduate programs usually include both general liberal arts and major-specific classes. By studying various topics in communication, mathematics, and science in addition to major-specific content, students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for further learning in the future. Those majoring in finance can also expect a general introduction to the field. Common areas of study include business, accounting, and bookkeeping. Those enrolled are also likely to receive instruction pertaining to the payroll process, helpful financial software, and banking.

This type of degree typically prepares graduates for employment as accounting clerks, billing specialists, and bookkeepers. It may also be possible to find work in other industries that require professionals capable of spreadsheet management, budgeting, tax preparation, and financial data analysis. Opportunities at this level may be limited, however, as most companies and organizations prefer to hire professionals with more education and/or experience. As a result, many graduates opt to pursue additional education.

Notably, undergraduate course credits may be transferred and applied towards new degree program requirements. Most colleges and universities accept up to 60 or 90 hours of prior coursework, which is typically equivalent to two years of undergraduate study. As a result, those with associate degrees in finance may only need two additional years of education before earning bachelor’s degrees.

Online Bachelors (BS or B.Fin)

Bachelor’s degrees in finance often consist of 120 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately four years to complete. These are undergraduate programs, as well, which means program curriculums still tend to include both general liberal arts and major-specific classes. Continuing to study various topics in communication, mathematics, and science ensures students receive a well-rounded education that can be applied to various facets of life and further academic pursuits, if desired. Additionally, those majoring in finance can expect to receive a broad introduction to the most important subjects in the field. This usually entails studying financial planning, forecasting, investing, evaluating financial statements, cash flows, and security markets. Other common areas of study include accounting principles, financial institutions and markets, investments, and risk management.

Many colleges and universities encourage finance majors to select concentrations, or specialty areas of study while enrolled. Pursuing additional instruction in particular sub-fields often helps students prepare for certain types of employment after graduation.

Concentration options vary, but often include:

Based on information provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the standard minimum education level for finance professionals in the United States is the bachelor’s degree. Graduates often qualify for entry-level jobs as financial planners, accountants, and financial analysts. It may be possible to find employment in other industries, as well.

Alternatively, graduates often possess the knowledge and skills necessary to enroll in further education. Those planning to apply to master’s degree programs should be prepared to provide official undergraduate transcripts to gaining institutions. Applicants will also need to meet minimum grade point average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test score requirements.

Online Masters (MS or M.Fin)

Master’s degrees in finance generally range from 30 to 36 credit hours of coursework that take full-time students approximately two years to complete. Accelerated programs also exist, which can be completed in as few as 18 months.

Notably, graduate-level programs no longer incorporate general liberal arts classes. Many do, however, require applicants to pass specified undergraduate courses, or prerequisites, prior to admittance. This ensures all incoming students possess the basic knowledge and skills needed for advanced study in the field.

Graduate degree curriculums are typically designed to help students prepare for advanced employment opportunities in the finance field. Course requirements vary, but those enrolled often study various advanced topics in business communications, financial accounting, derivatives and risk management, financial modeling and firm valuation, and international financial management. As with the bachelor’s degree, it is often possible to select concentrations as well.

Specialties that may be available include:

Graduates often qualify for employment as financial analysts, financial examiners, financial managers, and personal finance advisors. Individuals who possess master’s degrees tend to have some of the best job prospects and typically make more money than those with less education.