Business Finance

Although business is a popular field of study, it is a broad one. Students pursuing an education in this field often choose to focus on one concentration of the business world, such as finance.

Inside Business Finance

Business finance, the management of assets and money, is crucial for any company. Its primary focus is to increase profit and minimize financial risks. Business finance covers a multitude of diverse occupations, such as in global finance, budget analysis, portfolio management and financial forecasting. Many professionals in this field serve as financial analysts, financial managers or budget analysts. An education in finance may also lead to employment as a real estate broker, insurance agent or loan officer, among other positions.

Professionals in business finance must usually earn at least a bachelor's degree in an applicable field, though requirements vary by position and employer. Many colleges, universities and vocational schools offer degrees in business finance or degrees in business administration with finance concentrations. Such programs tend to include coursework in investment analysis, international finance, accounting and managerial finance. Some advanced positions, like those in financial analysis and management, may entail a master's degree, licensure, certification or a combination of these requirements.

Job opportunities are generally expected to grow in business finance fields within the next several years. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that financial analysts would benefit from an employment increase of 20% from 2008-2018 (www.bls.gov). In the same decade, jobs in budget analysis were expected to increase 15%, while employment of financial managers was expected to rise eight percent.

Salary potential in business finance depends on the specific position and level of education. According to May 2010 BLS reports, financial analysts earned an average yearly salary of $86,040. During the same period, budget analysts earned an average annual salary of $70,660, and financial managers earned on average $116,970 per year.

Learn More About Business Finance

Business finance is a broad field that offers a variety of educational opportunities and career prospects. Sorting through your options can be overwhelming, but Education-Portal.com is here to help you pave a path to a career in business finance.

Degree Options

While education requirements vary by profession and employer, many business finance careers require at least a bachelor's degree in an applicable field. Below are just a handful of articles from Education-Portal.com describing degrees that may put you on the track to a career in this field.

Career Options

With the proper education, you may qualify for an assortment of professions in business finance. Here is a selection of career choices to consider.

Distance Learning Options

Business finance students may also complete coursework through online programs. These programs may in be in the form of certificate and degree programs or single courses.

Certification Requirements

Certification may be required for certain professionals, such as financial managers and analysts. In other cases, certification serves to demonstrate proficiency in the field.

Continuing Education Options

Business finance professionals can continue their education in several ways. Graduate certificate programs are available for graduates as well as other courses and programs for business finance professionals. Many of these courses are offered online.