If you know where to look, you can get a job in finance with just a GED or no education at all. Although the majority of these are entry-level jobs, many of them offer future opportunities for advancement into better positions. To assist you in starting a career in finance, we have put together a list of jobs in finance that don’t require a degree.
A career in finance involves primarily dealing with money, people’s financial welfare, financial statements, and financial planning. All financial careers start somewhere, and many financial institutions have entry-level positions where you can begin your career as a financial professional, even if you only have a high school diploma or GED.
7 finance certifications you can earn without a degree
The following list of seven finance certifications you can obtain without a degree will aid in your job search:
1. Certificate in Investment Performance Management
An internationally recognized credential, this CFA Institute certification can assist candidates in developing their investment performance, evaluation, and reporting skills. Professionals who want to work in performance evaluation, like risk analysts or investment consultants, can benefit from this certification. Candidates earn the certificate after passing two exams. Although there are no academic requirements for the initial exam, the organization does demand that applicants have a passport and concur to a code of ethics. The institute offers exam study materials and calculates that it takes candidates 150 hours to fully prepare for both exams.
2. Certified Financial Education Instructor
For professionals who want to instruct others about personal finance, the National Financial Educators Council offers this certification. Candidates finish a 40-hour course that covers two topics, including content knowledge and teaching methods. Candidates can learn about personal finance topics like credit, debt, budgeting, and savings while also honing their presentation skills. Candidates can take the exam online and become certified if they receive a score of at least 75%. The price of the course includes textbooks, exam prep, and a certificate of completion. Anyone interested in learning about personal finance is qualified to apply for the certification.
3. Certified Personal Finance Consultant
Professionals who want to offer personal financial coaching services to people can benefit from becoming certified as a personal finance consultant through the National Financial Educators Council. Candidates must complete 180 hours of continuing education credits in order to receive this certification. They can finish the course independently, but they meet frequently with a personal counselor. Financial counseling, coaching’s behavioral elements, and knowledge of personal finance are among the study areas. Although there are no educational or professional requirements for this certification, the organization may permit professionals with financial experience to test out of certain certification training areas.
4. Enrolled Agent
This certification is provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who wish to represent taxpayers in tax matters, such as audits and appeals. It is acknowledged as the highest IRS credential in all 50 states. Candidates can apply to take the Special Enrollment Examination (SEE) and obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) in order to become enrolled agents. The test has three sections with a total of 100 questions each on people, businesses, and representation, practices, and procedures. By completing the requirements for continuing education and renewing their PTIN, enrolled agents can renew their credentials every three years.
5. Certified Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst
Professionals can prepare for careers in a variety of fields, including financial planning, private equity, corporate development, and investment banking, with the aid of this certification from the Corporate Finance Institute. In the certification program, courses in accounting, valuation, forecasting, and strategy are taught by professionals in the field. No matter what their profession or level of experience is, anyone can complete the program. The duration of the course is four to six months. Scores of 80% or higher on each module exam and 70% or higher on the final exam are requirements for certification.
6. Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor
The College for Financial Planning’s certification program aids professionals in learning about individual retirement planning. Candidates can enroll in online classes that take place at specific times and dates, or they can complete the course at their own pace through self-directed activities. Retirement planning-related topics are covered in the course, including income tax, estate planning, investing, benefits, and health care. At the conclusion of the course, candidates take an 80-question exam. To pass and receive the certification, they must score 70% or higher. There are no prerequisites for education or experience, but having a solid understanding of finances is beneficial.
7. Life Underwriter Training Council Fellow
The College for Financial Planning’s certification program can assist professionals in getting ready to become insurance agents. The certification consists of three courses on prospecting, selling, and business administration. Candidates must pass an exam after each module in order to move on to the next. Candidates take a final exam at the conclusion of the three courses, which they can pass with a score of 70% or higher. There are no educational or professional prerequisites for the course. Every two years, professionals can renew their certification by earning 16 credits of continuing education.
What is a finance certification?
An official certification in finance is a credential that professionals can obtain to demonstrate their proven expertise in a particular area of finance, such as accounting. You can obtain these credentials from a certifying body, which frequently necessitates that you take courses and pass exams in order to obtain the certification. There are financial certifications you can obtain without a degree, despite the fact that some certifications may also have educational prerequisites, such as a bachelor’s degree. These degrees can prepare people seeking entry-level positions in the financial industry or those looking to change careers by teaching them crucial financial skills.
Tips for earning a finance certification
To increase your chances of landing a job in finance, consider the following advice for obtaining a certification:
Choose a specialty
Examine your interests and long-term professional objectives before deciding whether to pursue a certification. then decide on a certification that will enable you to convince prospective employers of your expertise in that field. For instance, getting certified in spreadsheet software could help you learn how to manage financial records if you want to work as an accounting clerk. Choosing a specialty when obtaining a certification in finance can demonstrate to potential employers that you have particular skills that can help you successfully complete job tasks.
Use study materials
Many certifying organizations include the cost of registering to apply for the credential in the price of study guides. Utilize these resources as you finish the course to assist you in learning the skills required to obtain the certification. If you need to pass a final exam to receive certification from the certifying body, these study materials will be especially helpful. Look through the resources to make sure you comprehend the subjects covered on the test as you study for these exams. Review past tests if available to help you understand the kinds of questions on the test, which can boost your confidence.
Highlight your certification
Before applying for jobs after obtaining a finance certification, be sure to update your resume to reflect your new qualification. You can list your certification at the top of your resume to demonstrate to hiring managers that you have financial knowledge and skills even if you don’t have any other finance-related experience. Include the full name of the certification, the name of the certifying body, and the date you obtained the credential on your resume. Your ability to transition to a career in finance can be demonstrated to potential employers by highlighting a finance certification on your resume.
Please be aware that Indeed is not connected to any of the businesses or certifications mentioned in this article.
How to Get into Investment Banking with 0 Experience and No Finance Degree
FAQ
What finance certifications can I get without a degree?
- Certificate in Investment Performance Management. …
- Certified Financial Education Instructor. …
- Certified Personal Finance Consultant. …
- Enrolled Agent. …
- Certified Financial Modeling and Valuation Analyst. …
- Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor.
Is it possible to get a job in finance without a degree?
Key Takeaways. Without an MBA or having studied finance in college, it is still possible to have a successful career in the financial sector. Your endeavor will benefit from taking relevant courses in finance or economics. Frequently, a reputable company internship will enhance your resume.
Which certification is best for finance?
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification.
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.
- Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) designation.
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
- Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification.
How do I become a finance manager without a degree?
- Gain Relevant Experience. …
- Enroll in a Financial Training Program. …
- Your current investment performance is measured by the Certificate in Investment Performance Measurement (CIPM), which also aids in the development of your skills through real-world applications.
