Are you about to graduate with a degree in Finance or Economics and wondering where to go next? Many finance grads face the same challenge. You know you’ve got some solid training, skills and knowledge behind you – and that it’s highly applicable to the world of work – but it can be tough to know exactly how to run with it.
With so many opportunities, it can feel overwhelming to choose a path that fits your skills and aspirations. But the beauty of a finance background is its versatility. Whether you’re drawn to the fast pace of private equity or the steady world of financial planning, there’s a niche in this industry that’s pretty likely to tick your boxes.
Here’s a little more on this subject to help point you in the right direction, with five career options that leverage the finance and economics training you’ve worked so hard to achieve. You’ll learn what makes each path unique, the skills you’ll need, and how to get started.
1. Wealth Management
Can you picture yourself sitting down with clients and helping turn their dreams into financial plans. This is the world of wealth management, where you work directly with individuals to grow their assets and safeguard their future.
So what makes wealth management unique? This career combines finance expertise with people skills. It’s not just about numbers — it’s about understanding your clients’ goals, explaining options clearly, and building trust. If you’re a people person, this could be a good option for you.
Key skills you’ll need:
- A solid grasp of investment strategies and financial markets
- Communication skills to explain complex ideas in layman’s terms
- The ability to listen and adapt to different clients’ needs
How to get started:
A good way to break into wealth management is by gaining certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Internships at private banks or financial advisory firms will also give you hands-on experience.
If you’ve got a knack for building relationships and enjoy seeing the tangible impact of your work, wealth management could be a great fit.
2. Private Equity
Private equity (PE) is every bit as exclusive and exciting as it sounds. Here, you’ll work with private investors to buy, grow, and eventually sell companies for profit.
What makes private equity unique? PE combines the drive of investment banking with the satisfaction of nurturing businesses. Instead of just facilitating deals, you play a direct role in growing companies.
Key skills you’ll need:
- Advanced financial analysis and valuation proficiency
- The ability to evaluate businesses’ operational and financial health
- Negotiation skills to secure the best deals
How to get started:
Many professionals enter private equity after gaining experience in investment banking. Certifications like CFA or an MBA can also make your resume stand out. It’s also worth getting familiar with private equity practice management software, so you can hit the ground running when you get a job.
Private equity offers deep, strategic work that’s as rewarding as it is challenging. If solving intricate financial puzzles appeals to you, this could be your career calling.
3. Corporate Finance
If you’re more interested in working within a company rather than for individual clients, corporate finance might pique your interest. Here, you’ll help organizations make key decisions about managing their money, from budgeting to big investments.
What makes corporate finance stand out? Corporate finance puts you right in the middle of a company’s financial success. You’ll be helping businesses make strategic choices that often impact their bottom line.
Key skills you’ll need:
- Strong analytical and forecasting skills
- Knowledge of financial modeling and valuation tools
- The ability to think both strategically and operationally
How to get started:
Internships and entry-level positions in the finance departments of major companies can pave the way for your career. Obtaining an MBA down the line can also provide a wider array of opportunities in this field.
If you thrive off the idea of steering major financial decisions, corporate finance might be your calling.
4. Investment Banking
Does a high-paced, high-stakes environment excite you? Investment banking is a world like no other, where long hours are rewarded with high-paid, high-impact work.
What makes investment banking unique? Here, you’ll manage mergers and acquisitions, help companies raise capital, and advise on stock issues. It’s a challenging but highly rewarding space where you can leave your mark in big deals.
Key skills you’ll need:
- Exceptional Excel and financial modeling abilities
- A laser focus on detail (one typo in a pitch deck can cost millions!)
- The stamina to thrive under immense pressure
How to get started:
Most investment banks prioritize candidates with strong academic performances and internships at well-known firms. Networking is huge in this space, so start building contacts early.
If you’re prepared to hustle and don’t mind high-pressure environments, investment banking could fast-track your career in finance.
5. Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A)
For those who love making sense of numbers and crafting long-term plans, FP&A is a field worth exploring. FP&A professionals analyze past financial performance and forecast what’s to come, which is critical for an organization’s strategy.
What makes FP&A unique? While it requires technical know-how, FP&A is also about storytelling — you’ll translate your findings into actionable recommendations for leadership.
Key skills you’ll need:
- Deep knowledge of Excel and data analysis tools
- Strong presentation skills to communicate findings effectively
- The ability to spot trends and identify risks
How to get started:
Look for entry-level FP&A roles at mid-sized to large companies. Showcasing strong analytical skills in your resume and interviews is crucial to breaking into this field.
If you enjoy turning raw data into valuable insights, FP&A may offer the perfect balance of analysis and strategy.
Your finance or economics degree is more than a piece of paper — it’s a ticket to a versatile, rewarding career. From working with individuals in wealth management to writing multi-million-dollar deals in private equity, the possibilities are endless. The key is to reflect on what excites you the most. Do you love negotiating deals? Building relationships? Analyzing data? Once you pin down your passion, you’ll find countless opportunities where your skills can shine.