5 Trending Short Term Finance Courses You Should Do In 2024

Let’s get one thing straight first. There are no shortcuts to success in the finance industry. You have to put in the time, effort and due diligence before you reap the fruits of your hard work. There are more career opportunities, job openings and growth prospects in the finance industry than ever before. However, it comes with high expectations, more challenges and severe competition. Having said that, there are some quick methods to help you achieve your goals. Five short-term finance courses that pave an easier path for you on your professional journey. These courses are curated as they offer the maximum learning experience in a minimum amount of time. They are highly regarded in the field, look good on your resume and give you the edge you need to get recruited.

So if you can’t do a two-year, full-time MBA or an intensive long-term finance certification, that’s fine. Here are five finance certifications that can be completed in a short time, and still benefit your career in the long run.

Top 5 finance courses that will boost your career in 2024

Here are some of the top specialised certifications that will elevate your position within your company or enhance your recruitment chances.

1. CFA – Chartered Financial Analyst Course

The investment services industry is one of the biggest and most lucrative sections of finance. Many commerce and finance students hope to work with some of the top investment firms or financial institutions and make their banks as investment bankers.

As you probably suspected, this is not easy. Many top-tier MBA graduates are eligible for coveted front-office positions in this industry.

Your best bet is to do the CFA program, one of the top finance courses in the world. It can propel your chances of landing the best jobs. The Chartered Financial Analyst course sets the benchmark in the field of investments and finance. The syllabus is designed to contain relevant industry topics, finance skills and core concepts. The course has three levels and ten subjects including portfolio management, economics, financial statement analysis and quantitative methods.

Highlights of the CFA course:

• • The CFA is one of the most respected finance courses in over 165 countries.
  • The course offers students a strong foundation in several finance roles.
  • The CFA is known for teaching real-world, practical skills, enhancing analytical reasoning and leadership abilities and implementing strong ethical standards.
  • CFA holders can join CFA societies, a global community that offers exclusive access to resources, job openings and the latest industry developments.

Also Read – CFA Jobs & Salaries In India After CFA Level 1, Level 2 & Level 3

Career opportunities:

• • Professionals with a CFA certification can work in various job profiles in the finance and investment industry such as investment banker, research analyst, financial advisor, corporate finance, relationship manager, credit analyst and many more.
  • CFA holders earn high salaries depending on the certification level, company and location.
  • On average, annual salaries for level 1 holders are Rs 5 lakhs to 8 lakhs, level 2 is Rs 10 lakhs to 15 lakhs and level 3 professionals earn around Rs 15 lakhs to 25 lakhs.

2. Financial Modelling

If there is just one short-term finance course that could make a huge difference to your recruitment opportunities, you’ve found it here. Many finance, accounting and investment profiles use financial modelling regularly. It is a spreadsheet software system that helps to organise and plan the finances of an organisation, create projections and help with making business decisions.

Highlights of the Financial Modeling course:

• • Students learn to create financial models that help to make projections, critical business decisions and manage the cash flow of a company.
  • You learn practical skills and real-world finance knowledge including topics like valuations, projections and financial analysis.
  • Undergraduates and graduates are both eligible to enrol for this finance course.

Also Read – Average salaries after completing the financial modelling course

Career opportunities:

• • This is one of the few finance courses with several applications in fields such as investment banking, project finance, corporate finance, financial planning, private equity and many others.
  • The average annual salary for a financial modelling professional is Rs 9 lakhs to Rs 10 lakhs.
  • Experienced professionals can earn over Rs 30 lakhs a year, but this figure varies depending on your job profile.

3. CFP

The Certified Financial Planner certification is highly regarded in over 26 countries including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong and India. It is one of the best finance courses and CFP holders get a significant advantage over their peers during the recruitment process. A CFP professional is proficient in financial planning and wealth management, and trained to offer advice to individuals, families and prominent investors.

Highlights of the CFP course:

• • The syllabus offers an intensive education in important subjects like insurance, taxation, real estate planning and portfolio management.
  • Students are trained in real-world situations concerning financial planning.
  • The skills taught in this course are transferable to other fields in finance.

Also Read – How to Get a Job in a Private Sector Bank – A Detailed Guide

Career opportunities:

• • You can become a personal financial planner or even work for banks and other financial institutions.
  • The average annual salary for a CFP professional is around Rs 6 lakhs to Rs 9 lakhs.

4. FRM 

The finance risk manager certification is considered one of the highly skilled and coveted short-term finance courses in the finance industry. The course offers a comprehensive and detailed study of risk management and its various applications. Students who qualify for the FRM certification join a prestigious community of professionals who work with some of the leading banks, finance companies and wealth management firms in the world.

Highlights of the FRM course:

• • You learn to monitor, analyse and calculate various risk factors in real-life financial scenarios.
  • The syllabus includes several critical topics, such as quantitative analysis, risk models and valuations and financial markets and products.

Career opportunities:

• • FRM professionals can join the finance industry in various profiles such as risk analyst, market risk manager, credit risk manager or liquidity manager.
  • The average annual salary for a FRM professional is around Rs 5 lakhs to Rs 9 lakhs.

5. Certified Fund Specialist 

The CFS is one of the popular finance short-term courses well suited for specialising in mutual funds. Students are taught about financial instruments and market price movements to help clients with investment decisions.

Highlights of the CFS course:

• • The syllabus includes relevant concepts such as financial planning, real estate and insurance.
  • Students are taught practical valuation techniques to identify and purchase appropriate mutual funds for their clients.

Career opportunities:

• • Certified fund specialists can work for mutual fund houses, banks, investment firms and other financial institutions.
  • CFS professionals can earn between Rs 4 lakhs to Rs 6 lakhs per year.

4 advantages of doing a short-term finance course in 2024

1. Can be done alongside a job or a college degree 

A short-term finance course is perfect for those professionals or students who are pressed for time but believe in making every minute count. If you are a working executive, a finance course can boost your chances of getting promoted or recruited without giving up your current job. College undergraduates and post-graduate students save valuable time by combining both academic courses. So when you graduate, your resume is already quite impressive. In today’s competitive world, you need to do whatever it takes to stay two steps ahead of the others who are vying for the same job positions.

2. Upgrade your skills without any downtime 

The only thing predictable about the finance sector is that it is constantly evolving. Yesterday, the industry followed a specific set of accounting principles. Today, there is a shift to more internationally accepted standards such as the IFRS. You don’t want to lose out by being behind the times. You have to be on top of your game in this line of work. Some finance courses are quick to finish and get up to speed with the rest of the world.

3. Offers an understanding of the finance industry 

If you are a commerce student uncertain about your future, a short-term finance course can offer you some perspective. You can gain valuable insights, understand significant concepts and get a feel of what is expected of you. It is good exposure and can help you decide if this is the field for you without wasting too much of your time.

4. Gives your resume more punch 

If you are worried that your commerce degree won’t impress recruiters, then any of the five short-term finance certifications below will rev up your CV. A financial modelling course or CFP qualification can make you a candidate that gets called in for an interview.

Also Read – How to build a career in finance industry

Why you should study with IMS Proschool 

As one of India’s finest coaching institutes, Proschool enjoys an impressive success rate and reputation in the corporate industry. The establishment is known for teaching students to become experts in finance courses such as CFA, IFRS, financial modelling, ACCA and others. Here are a few reasons how Proschool can make a difference in your career:

• The school uses the active learning methodology to teach students more effectively
• The faculty comprises educated and experienced industry professionals with a genuine interest in teaching
• The institute also offers many different types of learning resources, such as mock tests, study prep books and over 2,000 practice papers
• Each student receives personalised attention so all doubts are cleared and core concepts are reinforced
• Proschool has a 100 per cent placement program for all individuals who clear their courses
• Students also benefit from recruitment training, as they learn about resume writing and interview techniques

In conclusion

If you lack the time or inclination to do any of the long-term, full-time finance courses, that’s fine. The trick here is to work smart, not work hard. Enrol yourself in any of the short-term finance courses listed above. These five finance certifications are power packed with the skills and knowledge you need to progress in your career. Once you complete your certification, there will be a whole world of opportunities waiting for you.

Want to know more about Finance Courses

FAQs

1. What is the best finance course?

Answer: The “best” finance course really depends on your career objectives and current skill set. If you’re aiming for a comprehensive understanding with a global perspective, courses like CFP (Certified Financial Planner) or IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards) are top picks. For those inclined towards analytics and data handling, Financial Modelling could be a game-changer. Remember, each course has its unique strengths and caters to different career paths in the finance world.

2. Is finance a good career?

Answer: Absolutely! Finance is not just a good career; it’s a dynamic and rewarding one. With the constant evolution of markets and the global economy, finance professionals are always in demand. Whether you’re interested in investment banking, financial planning, or corporate finance, this field offers robust career growth, competitive salaries, and the opportunity to make a significant impact in the business world.

3. What is the highest salary in finance?

Answer: Salaries in finance can vary widely based on your role, experience, and the company you work for. Typically, roles in investment banking, private equity, and hedge funds can offer some of the highest salaries, sometimes going up to several crores annually for senior positions. However, it’s important to note that these high salaries often come with long hours and intense work environments.

4. What is the easiest finance course?

Answer: “Easiest” is subjective, but if you’re looking for something less intensive yet valuable, consider starting with a basic course in Financial Management or an introductory course in Accounting. These courses provide a solid foundation without overwhelming you, making them great starting points for a career in finance.

5. How do I start studying finance?

Answer: Starting a study in finance is all about direction and commitment. Begin by identifying your areas of interest within finance, be it investment banking, financial analysis, or planning. Then, select a course that aligns with your interest and career goals. You can opt for online courses, certifications, or even a degree program. Don’t forget to supplement your learning with real-world experience, like internships or part-time jobs in financial firms.

6. What are my options if I do the CFA course?

Answer: Here are some of the job profiles you can pursue after completing the CFA course:

• • Equity research analyst
  • Investment manager
  • Credit analyst
  • Relationship manager
  • Portfolio manager
  • Investment banker
  • Financial planner
  • Corporate finance manager
  • Trader

7. I want to work in a bank. Which finance courses should I consider?

Answer: It depends on what position you are planning to take up. Most banks consider a bachelor’s degree in banking, finance or economics a minimum requirement.

For management positions, you need an MBA in banking and finance. In the case of financial planning, relationship management, investments and other services, professionals with CFP, CFA or IB qualifications are also hired.

8. How can I start working in the investment industry?

Answer: It helps to have the correct credentials. Investment banks and financial companies look for candidates with an MBA or CFA qualification listed in their resumes.

9. Is it tough to clear the CFA course?

Answer: Yes, the Chartered Financial Analyst program is a difficult course to clear. The average pass rates are between 37 to 48 per cent. Only a certain calibre of finance professionals become CFA holders because of the high-quality standards.

If you enrol with a reputed coaching institution such as Proschool, your chances of passing increase as you receive a comprehensive training experience that helps you master complex concepts and enhance skill development.