What Can You Do With a Finance Degree?

Finance is one of the most versatile and in-demand academic degrees, and it can open doors to opportunities across banking, investing, corporate finance, and beyond. For prospective students of Champlain College Online and working professionals seeking advancement, a degree in finance offers strong salary potential and job security. Explore the roles finance graduates pursue, current compensation trends, leading industries, and the competencies and certifications that set candidates apart in the field of finance.

Why a Finance Degree Is Valuable

Finance degrees offer strong value due to high earning potential, broad applicability, and a positive job outlook. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many business and finance-related roles report above-average wages compared to the national median of $49,500, with an annual median of $80,920 in 2024 in the finance industry. Additionally, the BLS projects faster-than-average employment growth for finance occupations, with an estimated 942,500 annual job openings from 2024 to 2034.

Top Career Paths for Finance Graduates

In addition to the anticipated positive job and salary outlook, opportunities in finance also provide graduates with flexibility, as the potential career paths span several industries and sectors, from public, private, and personal finance to corporate finance, healthcare, and tech.

So, what can you do with a finance degree? The following list provides an overview of some of the top career paths and roles pursued by graduates with a bachelor's degree in finance.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts evaluate investment opportunities, financial data, and market trends to guide business decisions. They typically work in offices within banks, corporations, or investment firms. Industries include finance, insurance, consulting, and corporate sectors. These positions often support strategic planning and portfolio management initiatives.

• BLS 2024 Median Annual Salary: $101,910
• BLS Job Outlook 2024–2034: 6% faster than average

Personal Financial Advisor

Personal financial advisors help individuals manage investments, retirement plans, and savings goals. They often work in financial planning firms, banks, or independently. Industries include wealth management, banking, and insurance. Client-facing responsibilities include meetings, consultations, and personalized financial strategies.

• BLS Median Annual Salary (2024): $102,140
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 10% much faster than average

Investment Banker

Investment banking involves assisting companies and government agencies in raising capital through underwriting, mergers, and acquisitions. They primarily work in fast-paced office environments at major banks or other financial institutions. Industries include investment banking, corporate finance, and private equity. The role often involves high-stakes deal-making.

• The BLS does not provide specific data on investment banking. According to Glassdoor, total compensation (including bonuses) for investment bankers can range from $133,000 to $247,000 per year.

Corporate Finance Manager or CFO

A corporate financial manager or CFO oversees financial planning, budgeting, and strategic decision-making within organizations. They primarily work in corporate headquarters across industries such as healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and retail. They typically hold executive offices and focus on long-term financial health and growth.

• BLS Median Annual Salary (2024): $161,700
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 15% much faster than average

Commercial Banker or Loan Officer

Commercial banking and loan officer duties involve evaluating loan applications and helping businesses or individuals secure financing. They work in banks, credit unions, and lending institutions. Industries include banking, real estate, and small business finance. These positions are often customer-facing in traditional office environments.

• BLS Median Annual Salary (2024): $74,180
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 2% slower than average

Budget Analyst

Budget analysts develop and manage organizational budgets to ensure efficient allocation of resources. With a focus on fiscal planning, they typically work in government agencies, universities, nonprofits, or large corporations. Industries include public administration, education, and corporate finance. Workplaces are usually structured office environments.

• BLS Median Annual Salary (2024): $87,930
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 1% slower than average

Risk Management Specialist

Risk management specialists are a type of management analyst responsible for identifying, analyzing, and mitigating financial risks for organizations. They work in banks, insurance companies, corporations, and consulting firms. Industries include finance, insurance, and corporate governance. They typically operate in office settings and focus on safeguarding assets and stability.

• BLS Median Annual Salary for Management Analysts (2024): $101,190
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 9% much faster than average

Financial Examiner

Financial examiners ensure financial institutions comply with laws, regulations, and reporting standards. They work for government agencies, regulatory bodies, private auditing firms, and sometimes banks. Industries include banking, insurance, and public administration. Financial examiners work in office environments and focus on compliance, auditing, and financial oversight.

• BLS Median Annual Salary (2024): $90,400
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 19% much faster than average

Forensic Accountant

Forensic accountants investigate financial discrepancies, fraud, and legal disputes and sometimes offer courtroom support, using accounting and auditing skills. They work in accounting firms, law enforcement agencies, government offices, and consulting companies. Industries include accounting, legal services, and corporate investigations.

• BLS Median Annual Salary for Accountants and Auditors (2024): $81,680
• BLS Job Outlook (2024–2034): 5% faster than average

Industries That Hire Finance Graduates

One of the most notable advantages of a finance degree is its versatility across industries. Nearly every organization relies on financial professionals to manage budgets, assess risk, analyze investments, and support long-term growth. Finance graduates can apply their skills in traditional financial institutions, global corporations, government agencies, startups, nonprofits, and emerging technology companies. This flexibility allows professionals to pursue careers that align with their interests while building expertise in a wide range of economic and business environments.

Banking and Financial Services

Banking and financial services remain among the largest employers of finance graduates. Work environments range from retail banks to global investment firms. Finance professionals help individuals, businesses, and institutions manage assets, secure financing, and navigate complex markets.

Professionals in this industry support functions like:

• Lending
• Investment management
• Wealth advising
• Risk analysis
• Financial planning

Roles often emphasize analytical thinking, customer service, compliance knowledge, and data-driven decision-making in highly regulated environments.

Corporate and Strategic Finance

Corporate and strategic finance professionals work in fast-paced business settings, helping organizations manage budgets, forecast growth, evaluate investments, and improve profitability. They often work within finance departments at corporations in industries like healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and technology.

Responsibilities may include:

• Financial modeling
• Mergers and acquisitions analysis
• Treasury management
• Long-term strategic planning

These roles support executive decision-making and organizational performance while requiring strong analytical, communication, and leadership competencies.

Government and Public Policy

Government agencies and public policy organizations hire finance professionals to:

• Oversee budgets
• Analyze economic trends
• Manage public funds
• Ensure regulatory compliance
• Handle financial reporting
• Manage auditing
• Evaluate policy from a financial perspective
• Optimize resource allocation

Finance graduates often work at local, state, or federal levels in departments focused on taxation, public administration, or economic development. Public-sector finance careers appeal to professionals who are interested in fiscal responsibility, transparency, and community impact through financial stewardship.

Insurance

The insurance industry relies on finance professionals to:

• Assess financial risk
• Support underwriting decisions
• Manage investments
• Maintain organizational profitability

Graduates often work in claims analysis, actuarial support, corporate finance, or risk management roles. Insurance companies operate in highly data-driven environments that require careful forecasting and regulatory compliance. Professionals in this field help organizations and policyholders minimize financial uncertainty while contributing to long-term stability and strategic financial planning initiatives.

FinTech and Emerging Finance

FinTech and emerging finance companies combine technology with financial services to create innovative products and digital solutions. Finance graduates in this sector often work in roles related to:

• Data analytics
• Digital payments
• Blockchain
• Investment platforms
• Financial software development

These organizations tend to operate in collaborative, fast-moving environments that value adaptability and technical proficiency. Careers in FinTech appeal to professionals who are interested in innovation, entrepreneurship, and influencing how consumers and businesses manage money in evolving markets.

Skills You'll Develop in a Finance Program

Finance programs help students build the technical expertise and professional competencies employers seek across industries.

Technical Competencies (Hard Skills)

• Financial Modeling – Used to evaluate investments, forecast performance, and support business decisions
• Data Analysis – Helps professionals interpret financial trends and guide strategy
• Budgeting and Forecasting – Supports resource planning and long-term financial management
• Investment Analysis – Used to assess risk, returns, and portfolio opportunities
• Financial Regulations – Essential for compliance and ethical financial operations
• Excel and Financial Software Proficiency – Critical for reporting, modeling, and financial analysis tasks

Foundational Competencies (Soft Skills)

• Analytical Thinking – Helps professionals evaluate complex financial information accurately
• Communication – Important for presenting financial insights to clients and leadership teams
• Ethical Decision-Making – Supports compliance, trust, and responsible financial practices
• Attention to Detail – Reduces errors in reports, audits, and forecasting
• Problem-Solving – Helps organizations address financial challenges and inefficiencies
• Collaboration – Enables finance professionals to work effectively across departments and teams

Certifications That Boost Your Finance Career

Professional certifications can help finance professionals demonstrate expertise, specialize, increase earning potential, and stand out in competitive hiring markets. Some of the most popular options include:

• CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) – Offered by the CFA Institute, the CFA is designed for investment and portfolio management professionals. It requires passing three rigorous exams and meeting work experience requirements.
• CFP (Certified Financial Planner) – Administered by the CFP Board, the CFP supports careers in personal financial advising. Candidates complete coursework, an exam, and professional experience requirements.
• FRM (Financial Risk Manager) – Offered by the Global Association of Risk Professionals, the FRM demonstrates skills for careers in risk analysis and compliance. Certification requires passing two exams and demonstrating relevant work experience.
• CMA (Certified Management Accountant) – Provided by the Institute of Management Accountants, the CMA focuses on corporate finance and strategic management accounting. Candidates complete exams and professional experience requirements.
• CPA (Certified Public Accountant) – Offered through state licensing boards and supported by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the CPA benefits finance graduates who are pursuing accounting, auditing, or compliance-focused careers.

Is a Finance Degree Worth It?

While the answer depends on your individual interests, goals, and priorities, generally, it's yes. A finance degree offers strong career flexibility, competitive salaries, and growing demand across industries. When comparing a finance vs. accounting degree, many professionals value finance for its versatility. Online bachelor's programs also make earning the degree more accessible for working professionals.

Advance Your Finance Career at Champlain College Online

Champlain College Online's bachelor's degree in finance combines financial modeling, FinTech and blockchain coursework, and real-world simulations with a flexible online format built with modern learners in mind. Its career-focused curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for evolving financial industries. To learn more, we invite you to explore our program page or contact admissions today.