Top Finance Certifications to Pursue in 2023

In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, acquiring specialised knowledge and skills in finance has become more important than ever. Whether you are a recent graduate or a seasoned professional looking to enhance your career prospects, finance certifications offer a fantastic opportunity to stay ahead in the ever-evolving financial landscape. 

In this blog, we’ll explore a diverse range of online finance certification courses, helping you make informed decisions about which certification aligns best with your career goals. 

List of online finance certification courses

Financial Analysis Prodegree In Collaboration With KPMG

Offered by Imarticus Learning, this course helps build a solid career in finance while strengthening your investment banking skills as well. 

 

This is a 120-hour skill-building programme being offered by Imarticus which will help you to reignite or transform your career. With concepts like financial modelling training, financial statement analysis, equity research, valuation, transaction execution, and Microsoft Office applications, you can prepare to become a part of future industry leaders. 

Certified Investment Banking Operations Professional Course

The Certified Investment Banking Operations Professional (CIBOP) program offered by Imarticus is a comprehensive course designed to equip participants with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in investment banking operations. 

The course covers various aspects of investment banking operations, including trade lifecycle, settlements, reconciliation, risk management, financial modelling, and regulatory compliance. 

Through practical training and real-world case studies, participants gain hands-on experience, making them industry-ready for a rewarding career in the financial services sector.

Certified Management Accountant Course

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) course is a reputed program designed to develop finance professionals with advanced skills in management accounting and financial management. The course covers a wide range of topics, including cost management, performance measurement, financial planning, analysis, and decision-making. With practical training and an industry-focused curriculum, the CMA program prepares individuals to become strategic financial professionals capable of fueling business performance and making informed managerial decisions.

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, UK

The Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) is an internationally recognised qualification in across 179 countries that prepares individuals to become skilled and competent accountants. The program covers a comprehensive range of accounting and finance topics, including financial reporting, taxation, audit, and business analysis. 

Through rigorous training and practical exposure, participants acquire the expertise needed to succeed in the global business landscape and pursue rewarding careers as qualified ACCA professionals. 

Professional Certificate in Fintech

The Professional Certificate in Fintech jointly offered by SP Jain School of Global Management and Imarticus Learning provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the rapidly evolving fintech landscape. Through this course, individuals gain insights into disruptive technologies like blockchain, AI, and data analytics, along with their applications in finance. 

The program’s hands-on approach and industry-aligned curriculum enable participants to stay ahead in the fintech domain, equipping them with valuable skills and knowledge to thrive in the fintech industry and drive innovation in financial services.

Opportunities after enrolling in finance certification courses 

The online financial certification courses will provide you with the required skills and knowledge, having an impact both on your personal as well as professional career. These courses will help you to understand the business requirements while helping you to plan and manage corporate transactions and assets.

Some of the career opportunities that you’ll be potentially rewarded with post-course completion include:

  • Financial Analyst
  • Actuary
  • CA
  • Securities Trader
  • Investment Banker
  • Corporate Controller

..and so much more! All you need is a strong set of skills and an equally strong resume, which you’ll have after enrolling in any of the courses mentioned above. With the right course, skill set and ample experience, you’re ready to take over the world of finance with your finesses!

How can an IIM shape your career in financial services

If you’re interested in a career in financial services, pursuing an MBA from one of India’s prestigious Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs) can open up a world of opportunities. An IIM education can help you develop a strong foundation in financial principles, as well as provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this highly competitive industry. In this article, we’ll explore the various ways that an IIM education can shape your career in financial services, from the advantages of the program to the specific opportunities available to graduates.

Advantages of an IIM Education for Financial Services Careers

1. Comprehensive curriculum

IIMs offer a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that covers a broad range of financial topics, including accounting, financial management, corporate finance, and investment management. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a strong foundation in the principles and practices of finance that will serve you well throughout your career.

2. Industry connections

IIMs have strong connections with the financial services industry, which can provide you with valuable networking opportunities and access to job openings. Many IIMs also offer internship programs that allow you to gain practical experience in the field.

3. Prestige and reputation

IIMs are widely regarded as some of the top business schools in India and around the world. Having an IIM degree on your resume can give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs and can help you stand out from other candidates.

4. Case studies and real-world experience

In addition to a strong theoretical foundation, IIMs also emphasize real-world experience through case studies, group projects, and other hands-on learning opportunities. This can give you a deeper understanding of financial principles and prepare you to apply them in practical settings.

5. Soft skills development

While technical skills are important in financial services, soft skills such as communication, leadership, and teamwork are also essential. IIMs place a strong emphasis on developing these skills through group projects, presentations, and other collaborative activities, which can help you stand out as a well-rounded candidate in the job market.

6. Flexibility and customization

Many IIMs offer flexible MBA programs that allow you to tailor your coursework to your specific career goals. For example, you may be able to choose electives in areas such as financial risk management or wealth management, depending on your interests and career aspirations.

Opportunities Available to IIM Graduates in Financial Services

In addition to the advantages of an IIM education, there are also several specific opportunities available to IIM graduates in the financial services industry. Here are some of the most promising areas:

1. Investment banking

Investment banking is a popular career choice for IIM graduates. Many investment banks actively recruit from IIMs and offer high-paying jobs with opportunities for advancement.

2. Private equity

Private equity is another field that’s popular among IIM graduates. Private equity firms look for candidates with strong financial skills and an understanding of business strategy, both of which are emphasized in the IIM curriculum.

3. Asset management

Asset management is another area where IIM graduates can excel. With a strong foundation in investment management and financial analysis, IIM graduates are well-equipped to work in asset management firms and help clients manage their portfolios.

Pursuing an MBA from an IIM can be a great way to launch or advance your career in financial services. With a comprehensive curriculum, valuable industry connections, and a prestigious reputation, an IIM education can help you stand out from the competition and achieve your professional goals. Whether you’re interested in investment banking, private equity, or asset management, an IIM degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Ready to take your financial services career to the next level?

Pursuing an MBA from an IIM can be the perfect way to set yourself up for success. With a comprehensive curriculum, valuable industry connections, and a range of opportunities available to IIM graduates in the financial services industry, there’s no better way to gain the skills and knowledge you need to excel in this field.

If you’re ready to take the next step, check out Imarticus Learning’s range of MBA programs in financial services. With expert faculty, flexible learning options, and a strong track record of success, Imarticus Learning is the ideal platform to launch your career in financial services.

A Guide to Financial Services Course

Financial services are leading the employment grounds, with the global financial services sector estimated to constitute one-fourth of the world’s economy. With an array of job profiles available, there has been an increasing inclination toward careers in financial services. 

A multi-disciplinary programme, financial services embody a broad range of services the financial sector offers, including banking, investment, insurance, and other services. Pursuing a financial services course can make way for great employment opportunities like Financial Analyst, Financial Consultant, and Financial Manager, among many others. It is appropriate for business professionals or entrepreneurs looking to upskill themselves and achieve a higher salary. 

An introductory guide to financial services course offers a comprehensive view of the various financial services available, how they work and how you can use them to your benefit. 

A brief introduction to financial services

Financial services encompass various services and products offered by financial organisations designed to help people, corporations, and governments manage their money. Banking, investment, insurance, wealth management, and financial planning are some of the services included in this category.

Under banking services come current and savings accounts, loans, mortgages, credit cards and more. Investment services offered by banks cover retirement and brokerage accounts and mutual funds.

Life, health, and property insurance, alongside other forms of insurance plans, are examples of insurance services that protect individuals and businesses from financial losses brought on by unforeseen circumstances.

Investment services pertain to the investment choices of individuals, companies and governments, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate. The aim of financial services is to help organisations and individuals build a financial plan based on their present financial conditions, future goals and risk tolerance.

Wealth management services are intended for wealthy individuals and incorporate various services such as tax planning, estate preparation, and investment management.

A comprehensive guide to financial services course

Capital Market courses

Before opting for careers in financial services, individuals must understand what the course entails, its career scope, eligibility criteria and what specifically the course offers.

Eligibility criteria

Most institutes offering a financial services course require a bachelor’s degree in finance or a related field with a minimum of 50%. MBA students and those with an MSc in finance can also pursue this course.

Additionally, some institutes may require a prospective student to have at least 2 years of work experience, preferably in the financial sector.

Course details

 A financial services course equips learners with an understanding of the financial industry and arms them with skills and knowledge to help them navigate it. Here’s an outline of what the course covers:

Introduction to Financial Services: This module introduces financial services and the different types of institutions that provide these services.

Banking Services: With this module, you will cover the different types of banking services, including savings and checking accounts, loans, and credit cards.

Investment Services: This module will cover investment services, their types and how they function. Bonds, stocks, mutual funds, and other investment options are covered here.

Insurance Services: In this module, students will learn about the different types of insurance services, including life, health, and property insurance.

Financial Planning: The essentials of financial planning will be covered in this module, including defining financial objectives, building a budget, and debt management.

Retirement Planning: In this module, you will learn about various retirement plans and how to save for retirement.

Estate Planning: This part will cover the fundamentals of estate planning, such as drafting a will, establishing trusts, and asset management.

Regulations and Compliance: This lesson instructs on the rules and regulations for financial institutions and the financial industry.

Ethical Issues: This module will explore ethical issues in financial services, such as conflicts of interest and financial institutions’ obligations to clients.

Case Studies: In this module, you will learn from real-world examples of financial services in operation. 

Scope of financial services course

A globally competitive financial services market has rapidly developed the sector. The scope for employment is significantly high than in other fields, with the industry comprising finance companies, commercial and non-commercial banks, retirement funds, cooperatives and much more.

Some of the job profiles or careers in financial services include:

  • Financial Officer
  • Treasurer
  • Finance Controller
  • Credit Analyst
  • Financial Consultant

Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Barclays, SBI, HDFC, JP Morgan Chase & Co. are some of the top recruiters in the field.

Conclusion

Financial services are essential to maintain individuals’ and businesses’ financial stability and growth by managing their money effectively, achieving their financial goals, and mitigating financial risks. If you have financial acumen combined with an ability to perform well under pressure, this might be the right job for you.

IIM Lucknow’s Advanced Management Program in Financial Services and Capital Markets, offered in collaboration with Imarticus, is a world-class programme in financial services. It prepares individuals for leadership roles in organisations with an advanced outcome-focused curriculum. Visit the website for further course-related details and take a step towards fulfilling your dreams.