Four things to do with a finance degree
Every company needs employees who are skilled in finance. From increasing company profit to analyzing economic and market trends, a career in finance implies a multitude of opportunities, offering stability and consistent demand projections. With a degree in finance, you won’t have trouble finding a place to work; your only difficulty will be in choosing which job to pick.
The University of Florida Warrington College of Business offers a bachelor’s degree in finance, equipping students with the knowledge and experience to start their careers in any area of the financial field. UF Warrington finance graduates have joined businesses such as the Bank of America, Truist, Citi, JP Morgan Chase, KPMG, NextEra Energy, Protiviti, Capital One, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, Honeywell and Raymond James Financial, earning an average salary of $80,600 with a $7,200 average signing bonus.
Majoring in finance pairs well with industry-related minors, such as actuarial science or foreign languages, or with a combination graduate degree to propel students into the field. There are also multiple student organizations and programs such as Exploring Financial Economics and the Finance Professional Development program to support students in developing their career interests.
With an education in finance from UF Warrington, you can develop your skills and learn how finance works best for you. Listed below are four things you can do with a degree in finance.
1. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts examine an organization’s financial data to assess its financial health and performance. From their analyses of financial statements, market trends and economic indicators, analysts provide insights and recommendations for a company’s next steps. Their work spans across multiple sectors, like asset management, to help clients or their own organizations make informed investment and financial decisions.
2. Investment Banker
Investment bankers facilitate financial transactions for clients, helping them with mergers and acquisitions, underwriting securities and raising capital. Leveraging their financial expertise and networks, they provide strategic advice, negotiate terms and navigate regulatory requirements. They play a pivotal role in driving economic growth and corporate expansion through their financial expertise and deal-making abilities.
3. Commercial Real Estate Credit Analyst
A commercial real estate credit analyst evaluates the creditworthiness of applicants seeking loans for commercial real estate projects, such as office buildings or retail centers. Using financial statements, credit histories and project proposals, they determine the level of risk associated with the loan and how to establish the details of the loan. They are also responsible for monitoring existing loan portfolios to ensure borrowers are meeting their repayment obligations and may recommend appropriate actions in case of any issues or defaults.
4. Finance Operations Associate
Finance operations associates support the financial operations of a company by handling accounts payable and receivable, processing invoices and reconciling financial transactions. They may assist in budget preparation and financial reporting, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements, streamline financial processes and implement cost-effective strategies to improve the efficiency of financial operations. Their role is crucial in maintaining the financial health and stability of an organization.
Earning a finance degree will equip you to take on these and other careers in the expansive field of finance.
“The finance major at the University of Florida is a very popular between both students and employers,” said Sierra Bice, Assistant Director of Business Career Services. “As a finance student, you will have the opportunity to learn about and engage in any area of finance you are interested in. A finance major affords you the ability to look at many different career options and make connections with numerous employers who visit campus every year.”
