18 Accounting & Finance Courses Every Commerce Student Must Know

Finance and accounting are the bedrock of any organization. As organizations from all industries are required to keep public records, file income tax, pay GST, and aspire to list their company, there will always be a demand for finance and accounting professionals. 

There are plenty of high-paying jobs in the accounting and finance industry. Since accounting is required in every business, expert knowledge is necessary, which can only be obtained by doing specialised accounting and finance courses in India. 

From accounting standards and laws and regulations to equity research and basics of investment planning, these courses provide deep theoretical and practical knowledge on all finance and accounting skills you need in the industry. 

 List of Accounting & Finance Courses

Course Eligibility Job Opportunities (Examples) Salary Range (INR)
Chartered Accountancy (CA) 12th pass with commerce or equivalent Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst ₹8-15 lakhs per annum
ACCA 12th pass with commerce Financial Accountant, Auditor ₹6-8 lakhs per annum
US CPA Bachelor’s degree in relevant field Public Accountant, Tax Advisor ₹7-10 lakhs per annum
US CMA Bachelor’s degree or pursuing one Management Accountant, Financial Analyst ₹6-8 lakhs per annum
Company Secretary (CS) 12th pass Company Secretary, Legal Advisor ₹4-6 lakhs per annum
MBA in Finance Bachelor’s degree in any field Investment Banker, Financial Manager ₹10-20 lakhs per annum
M.Com in Accounting & Auditing Bachelor’s degree in commerce Auditor, Accountant ₹4-6 lakhs per annum
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting & Finance 12th pass with commerce Accountant, Financial Analyst ₹3-5 lakhs per annum
Certification in Financial Planning (CFP) 12th pass Financial Planner, Wealth Manager ₹4-6 lakhs per annum
Bachelor of International Business & Finance 12th pass with commerce International Financial Analyst ₹3-5 lakhs per annum
Bachelor of Accounting & Finance (BAF) 12th pass with commerce Accountant, Financial Analyst ₹3-5 lakhs per annum
Bachelor of Financial Markets (BFM) 12th pass with commerce Financial Analyst, Stock Broker ₹2-4 lakhs per annum
B.Com in Banking & Finance 12th pass with commerce Banker, Financial Analyst ₹2-3 lakhs per annum
Diploma in IFRS Graduate in accounting/finance Financial Reporting Specialist ₹5-7 lakhs per annum
Chartered Institute of Management Accountant (CIMA) 12th pass Management Accountant, Business Analyst ₹6-8 lakhs per annum
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Bachelor’s degree or final year student Financial Analyst, Portfolio Manager ₹10-18 lakhs per annum
Financial Modeling No formal eligibility, beneficial for graduates Financial Analyst, Investment Banker ₹4-7 lakhs per annum

  • Chartered Accountancy (CA)

Administered by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI), this program equips students with comprehensive knowledge in auditing, taxation, financial reporting, and business strategy. The program is divided into three levels: CA Foundation, CA Intermediate, and CA Final, with a mandatory articleship training of 2.5-3 years. 

 Eligibility Criteria

CA foundation is the first level of CA course. To be eligible for it, a candidate has to clear Class 12 examination by a minimum of 50% marks. 

 Jobs and Salary

As a Chartered Accountant, you can explore career opportunities as an auditor, tax consultant, financial analyst, and more. The average salary for a Chartered Accountant in India ranges from ₹8-10 lakhs per annum. However, depending on job profile, company and your experience, you can demand more. 

  • ACCA

The feather in the cap of Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is the fact that it is a globally recognized accounting qualification. It covers key areas such as accounting, taxation, audit, and financial management, making it highly valuable for those looking to work internationally. You can pursue ACCA after CA, ACCA after 12th and even after graduation. It takes 2-3 years to complete the ACCA course. 

 Eligibility Criteria

If you’re an undergrad, ACCA awaits. But first, the GPA roadblock gets you to slow down. You need a minimum of 50% in the sacred subjects: English (for eloquence) and Mathematics/Accounts (for number-crunching prowess). Now, if you are a 12th grader, eyes wide with ambition. ACCA you still got the scope! Secure a minimum of 65% in at least two subjects. For the rest, a modest 50% will suffice. If you cover all these, you are all set for your ACCA journey.

Jobs and Salary

There are plenty of job opportunities for ACCA professionals including roles as financial accountants, auditors, tax consultants, and management accountants. In India, ACCA professionals can expect an average salary ranging from ₹5-7 lakhs per annum. Finally, ACCA isn’t just about numbers; it’s about financial storytelling that ripple across balance sheets and echoes in boardrooms.

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  • US CPA

If you are the one whose eyes shine with aspirations of ‘The American Dream’, this one is for you. The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification is highly regarded in the United States and internationally. It focuses on US accounting principles, auditing standards, and taxation laws, making it ideal for those seeking to work in public accounting or multinational corporations.

 Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for CPA, the candidate must have 120 accounting credits. If we align that with the Indian education system, 120 credits translates to 16 years of education.

Here’s the US CPA eligibility criteria for Indian students – 

  • Post-graduation degree in any stream of accounting, finance or commerce. 
  • Even if you hold a three-year degree from NAAC-A accredited universities in India, you are eligible for the US CPA exam*. However, this varies from state to state. Hence, you need to check the criteria of the respective state where you apply. 
  • Other than that, Bcom (any college) + CA IPCC-cleared candidates are eligible.
  • Bcom (any college) + CS candidates are eligible. 
  • Bcom (any college) + qualified CMA or CA candidates are eligible.

 Jobs and Salary

CPA course has diverse career opportunities, including roles as public accountants, tax advisors, auditors, and financial analysts. In India, CPAs can expect an average salary ranging from ₹8-10 lakhs per annum.

  • US CMA

This course is perfect for those who aspire to excel in management accounting and financial strategy. The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential, offered by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), is recognized globally and focuses on financial management and strategic management.

 Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the US CMA program, candidates need a bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience in management accounting or financial management. Students can also start the program while pursuing their degree. The US CMA course can be completed within 6 months to 2 years, depending on the student’s study schedule and exam clearance.

 Jobs and Salary

CMAs typically work in roles such as management accountants, financial analysts, and cost accountants. The average salary for CMA professionals in India ranges from ₹6-8 lakhs per annum. Master the numbers, shape the strategy, and lead with precision. Your CMA journey isn’t just about calculations; it’s about steering organizations toward success.

  • Company Secretary (CS)

For the aspirants who wish to specialize in corporate law, governance and compliance, the Company Secretary (CS) course is designed for you. Administered by the Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI), this qualification is essential for roles in corporate governance and compliance.

 Eligibility criteria

Students need to pass their 12th grade to start the CS Foundation program, while graduates can directly enroll in the Executive level. The CS course usually takes 2-3 years to complete, depending on the level of entry and the student’s progress through the stages: Foundation, Executive, and Professional.

 Jobs and Salary

Company Secretaries can pursue careers as compliance officers, legal advisors, and corporate planners. In India, the average salary for a Company Secretary ranges from ₹5-7 lakhs per annum. And Remember, you are not just becoming a Company Secretary, you become a navigator of corporate excellence.

  • MBA in Finance

An MBA in Finance is a postgraduate program that offers advanced knowledge in financial management, investment strategies, and corporate finance. This program prepares students for leadership roles in the finance industry opening the doors to the world of administration.

 Eligibility criteria

Candidates need a bachelor’s degree in any field to enroll in an MBA program. Admission typically requires passing entrance exams like CAT, MAT, or GMAT. The MBA in Finance program usually takes 2 years to complete, with options for full-time, part-time, or executive programs.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates with an MBA in Finance can pursue careers as investment banker in India, financial managers, and financial analysts. The average salary for MBA Finance graduates in India ranges from ₹12-20 lakhs per annum. Even after you complete MBA, there are plenty of finance courses for MBA graduates that you can pursue to further upskill and increase your income. 

  • Masters of Commerce in Accounting & Auditing

The Master of Commerce (M.Com) in Accounting & Auditing is a postgraduate degree focusing on advanced accounting practices, auditing standards, and financial analysis. This program is ideal for students who wish to deepen their expertise in accounting and auditing.

 Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the M.Com in Accounting & Auditing, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in commerce or a related field. The duration of the M.Com program is typically 2 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can pursue careers as auditors, accountants, financial analysts, and tax consultants. The average salary for M.Com graduates in India ranges from ₹4-6 lakhs per annum. This is where Commerce meets Mastery.

  • Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting & Finance

The Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com) in Accounting & Finance provides a strong foundation in accounting principles, financial management, taxation, and business law. This commerce course after 12th is designed for students aiming to build a career in accounting and finance.

 Eligibility criteria

Students who have completed their 12th grade with a commerce background are eligible for this course. The B.Com in Accounting & Finance program typically lasts 3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can pursue roles such as accountants, financial analysts, auditors, and tax consultants. The average salary for B.Com graduates in India ranges from ₹3-5 lakhs per annum.

  • Certification in Financial Planning (CFP)

The Certification in Financial Planning (CFP) is globally recognized and highly valued in the finance industry. It is designed for professionals aiming to provide financial planning services, including investment planning, retirement planning, and risk management.

 Eligibility criteria

Students need to have completed their 12th grade to enroll in the CFP course. Graduates can also pursue this certification. The duration of the CFP course ranges from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the study mode (full-time or part-time).

 Jobs and Salary

CFP professionals can work as financial planners, wealth managers, and investment advisors. The average salary for CFP professionals in India ranges from ₹4-6 lakhs per annum.

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  • Bachelor of International Business & Finance

If you are someone who is looking to build a career in international finance and trade, this course just might be it. The Bachelor of International Business & Finance is an undergraduate degree that focuses on global financial markets, international trade, and financial management strategies.

 Eligibility criteria

Students who have completed their 12th grade with a commerce background are eligible for this course. The duration of the Bachelor of International Business & Finance program is typically 3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can work as international financial analysts, trade finance officers, and export managers. The average salary for graduates in this field ranges from ₹3-5 lakhs per annum.

  • Bachelor of Accounting & Finance (BAF)

This is yet another opportunity if you are an accounting and finance enthusiast. The Bachelor of Accounting & Finance (BAF) is an undergraduate degree providing in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, financial management, taxation, and auditing. This program is designed for students aiming to specialize in accounting and finance.

 Eligibility criteria

Students need to pass their 12th grade with a commerce background to enroll in the BAF program. The duration of the BAF program is typically 3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can work as accountants, financial analysts, auditors, and tax consultants. The average salary for BAF graduates in India ranges from ₹3-5 lakhs per annum. 

  • Bachelor of Financial Markets (BFM)

If you were always intrigued by how the stock markets and financial institutions functioned this course might give you a push in the right direction. The Bachelor of Financial Markets (BFM) is an undergraduate degree focusing on financial markets, investment strategies, and securities trading.

 Eligibility criteria

Students need to pass their 12th grade with a commerce background to enroll in the BFM program. The duration of the BFM program is typically 3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can work as financial analysts, stock brokers, and investment advisors. The average salary for BFM graduates in India ranges from ₹3-5 lakhs per annum.

  • B.Com in Banking & Finance

If you’re drawn to financial institutions, insurance, or banking, this program aligns perfectly with your interests! The B.Com in Banking & Finance is an undergraduate degree that covers banking operations, financial services, and investment management. This program is designed for students looking to build a career in the banking and financial services industry.

 Eligibility criteria

Students who have completed their 12th grade with a commerce background are eligible for this course. The duration of the B.Com in Banking & Finance program is typically 3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

Graduates can work as bankers, financial analysts, and investment advisors. The average salary for graduates in this field ranges from ₹3-5 lakhs per annum.

  • Diploma in IFRS

The Diploma in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is designed for professionals who want to gain expertise in international accounting standards. Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles and standards that govern financial reporting on a global scale.

 Eligibility criteria

Graduates with degrees in accounting or related fields can leverage this course to deepen their understanding of IFRS principles. Non-accounting professionals, such as MBAs, CSs, CFAs, and CFPs, can join the program to enhance their knowledge of accounting practices. The duration of this program is from 6 months to 1 year. 

 Jobs and Salary

With IFRS certification, you can explore roles like financial analyst, audit manager or even a consultant specializing in IFRS compliance. The average salary for IFRS professionals in India ranges from ₹4-6 lakhs per annum. However, if you like accounting and gain considerable experience, sky is the limit! 

  • Chartered Institute of Management Accountant (CIMA)

The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) is a globally recognized qualification in management accounting, focusing on financial strategy, risk management, and business performance. The CIMA course teaches management accountancy as a special field which improves candidate’s credibility. CIMA has 2 major certifications – CIMA certificate in business accounting and CIMA certificate in professional qualification. 

 Eligibility criteria

Students need to pass their 12th grade to enroll in the CIMA program. The duration of the CIMA course is typically 2-3 years.

 Jobs and Salary

CIMA professionals can work as management accountants, business analysts, and financial managers. The average salary for CIMA professionals in India ranges from ₹6-8 lakhs per annum.

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  • Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a gold-standard qualification in the field of finance and investments. CFA charter is a globally recognised designation. It focuses on investment management, financial analysis, and ethical standards. This qualification is globally recognized and highly valued in the finance industry. Proschool provides comprehensive CFA exam training for 3 levels. 

Eligibility criteria

Candidates need a bachelor’s degree or be in the final year of their bachelor’s program to enroll in the CFA course. The duration of the CFA program ranges from 2 to 4 years, depending on the student’s pace and exam clearance. 

Jobs and Salary

CFA professionals can work as financial analysts, portfolio managers, and investment advisors. The average salary for CFA professionals in India ranges from ₹8-12 lakhs per annum.

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  • Financial Modeling

If you always looked forward to working in investment banking, corporate finance, or financial consulting, then read-on! Financial Modelling is a skill-based course that teaches students how to create financial models used for business valuation, financial analysis, and investment decisions.

 Eligibility criteria

There is no formal eligibility for the Financial Modelling course, but it is beneficial for graduates in finance, accounting, or related fields. The duration of the Financial Modelling course ranges from 3 to 6 months.

 Jobs and Salary

Professionals skilled in financial modeling can work as financial analysts, investment bankers, and corporate finance analysts. The average salary for professionals with financial modeling skills in India ranges from ₹4-7 lakhs per annum.

Matching your aspirations with your career path is very critical and thus, choosing the right accounting and finance course can significantly impact your career trajectory. Whether you are just starting after 12th grade or looking to specialize after graduation, the courses listed above offer a range of opportunities to develop your expertise and advance your career. Consider your interests, career goals, and the eligibility criteria of each course to make an informed decision, the one which you can drive to heights of unimaginable success.

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FAQs 

  • Which accounting and finance courses can be pursued after 12th commerce?

After 12th commerce, you can pursue all undergraduate courses like Bcom, BAF, Bcom in Banking and Finance, CA, CS and even other unconventional courses like ACCA, CIMA and IRFS. 

  • Which accounting and finance courses have the highest salary?

If you want to land a high paying job in commerce, consider studying for courses like CA, ACCA, CFA, US CPA, and Diploma in IFRS.