Financial Management Degree Program and Career Education

Financial managers oversee the budgets, investments, and cash-management strategies of the companies for which they work. They institute financial plans and policies, prepare financial reports, monitor cash flow, and hire and manage staff. They may supervise all financial matters throughout one or more departments within a company.

Individuals who wish to work in the field of financial management should excel at problem solving, be analytical and creative thinkers, possess excellent communication skills, understand business basics, and be technologically savvy.

Education, Training and Degrees in Financial Management

Those wishing to pursue a career in the field of financial management must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field. Many employers prefer individuals who possess a master's degree in finance, economics, business administration, risk management, or a similar field.

In addition to college degrees, ongoing education is important for financial managers. Seminars and graduate classes allow them to keep up to date with changing federal and state laws and regulations.

Financial managers may also benefit from professional certification, such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Institute's Chartered Financial Analyst designation, the Association for Financial Professionals' Certified Cash Manager credential, or the Institute of Management Accountants' Certified in Financial Management designation.

Find more information about online Business degrees, certificates, and diplomas.

Explore Career Opportunities in Financial Management

Financial managers work in virtually all businesses and government agencies. As businesses merge, consolidate and expand globally, financial managers are needed to help reduce risk and maximize profit. A number of career opportunities exist in this ever-changing field. Below are some of the most popular occupations. Below are more details concerning careers within this field.

Branch Manager
Managers of banks and financial institutions manage personnel, approve loans and lines of credit, help customers, and market their business in order to attract more business to their branch.

Cash Manager
Cash managers monitor and control cash flow. They help determine whether loans must be obtained or whether extra cash should be invested.

Chief Financial Officer
Chief Financial Officers (CFOs) oversee all financial business within a company. In large corporations, they may manage one financial department, while in smaller organizations, they may handle all financial matters.

Controller
Controllers prepare financial reports, such as balance sheets and future earnings or expenses reports, and they file government-required reports. They typically oversee the accounting, audit, and budget departments.

Credit Manager
Credit managers determine to whom a business will loan money. They determine credit ceilings and oversee the collection of late accounts.

Risk Manager/Insurance Manager
Risk and insurance managers attempt to minimize financial risk and loss, and manage a company's insurance budget.

Treasurer
Treasurers and finance officers direct a business's budgets and financial goals. They create investment strategies, manage risks, oversee mergers and acquisitions, and supervise cash flow, among other tasks.


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