What Can You Do With A Finance Degree? Costs, Requirements & Job Opportunities

 For those with a mathematical and financial mindset, pursuing a career in finance is one of the most rewarding and intellectually stimulating paths to consider. If you’re just starting out, or are already working in finance and want to advance your career and earning potential, completing a Finance degree is one of the best ways to ensure an upward trajectory in the world of finance. Here, we will explore the different Finance degrees on offer, where to start, what’s involved – their costs and requirements – and, most importantly, the many job opportunities you can consider. The world is your oyster!

The Different Types of Finance Degrees Available       

Whatever your age or stage in life, the following Finance degree types are at your disposal – both at the undergraduate and postgraduate level:

Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degree -

Consider this your entry-level option – the basic requirement for a meaningful career in finance and any subsequent Finance degrees. Typically lasting around three to four years(or longer with flexible online study), undergraduates will be furnished with a solid foundation of skills such as financial analysis, corporate finance, accounting, risk management, investment management, and financial decision-making, alongside professional communication and business strategy.

Your postgraduate options are as follows:

Master of Science -

A much more rigorous programme, typically completed in around 12–14 months full-time or 24 months part-time in an online format,, further developing advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for senior and specialist roles in the financial sector.

At institutions such as LSBF, MSc programmes combine academic depth with real-world application, with a focus on core areas such as financial analysis, corporate finance, financial markets, and investment management. Students can also choose to specialise in specific areas of finance, including Financial Risk Management, Accounting and Financial Management, Investment Banking and Capital Markets, and Mergers, Acquisitions and Private Equity, enabling them to tailor their studies towards defined career paths within the financial sector.

Master of Business Administration -

Providing a comprehensive and strategic overview of global business management, developing leadership skills, strategic thinking and functional areas of business, like accounting, finance, operations and human resources. At institutions such as LSBF, MBA programmes are typically completed in around 12–14 months full-time or 24 months part-time in a flexible online format, combining academic theory with real-world application through global case studies, practical projects, and consultancy-based learning,, making you an attractive candidate for senior executive finance positions. Students can tailor their studies through elective modules, including finance-focused pathways such as Financial Management and Investment Banking, preparing them for senior leadership roles.

Entry Requirements for a Finance Degree

While entry requirements vary by institution and programme, many finance degrees value a strong numerical or analytical background. Whether you’ve completed A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), AP exams, or equivalent qualifications, there are typically academic entry requirements (such as UCAS points or international equivalents), as well as proven proficiency in English, if you wish to attend an English-speaking university. To give you more of an idea, these are the undergraduate Finance degree requirements at LSBF.

What are the career opportunities in Finance?

Finance degree job options are endless. These are some of the main jobs for Finance graduates to consider:

1. Investment banker: advising clients on mergers, raising capital, acquisitions, and high-level financial strategies. The hours can be long, but positions command high salaries and international opportunities.

2. Financial analyst: assisting organisations in making sound financial decisions based on strategic analysis of financial data, regulations and market insights

3. Accountant: measuring, processing, and communicating financial information about an individual or businesses. Accountants organise and analyse financial transactions (like income, expenses, assets, and liabilities) to prepare financial statements and reports that help in decision-making, tax compliance, and performance evaluation.

4. Data analyst: gathering valuable insights from complex data, employing statistical analysis, programming languages, and data visualisation techniques to transform raw information into meaningful patterns and trends.

5. Market Research Analyst: synthesising surveys, interviews and data to communicate and present market trends to inform broader marketing strategies.

6. Risk Manager: identifying, anticipating and mitigating financial risks and developing coordinated strategies to control the probability and impact of these risks.

7. Stockbroker: the ‘middleman’, buying and selling securities on behalf of individuals or institutional clients on the stock exchange. These professionals may also provide financial advice and portfolio management.

8. Insurance Broker: an intermediary providing unbiased advice on insurance policies and terms to help clients find the best coverage policies.

9. Tax Consultant: focusing on tax planning and optimisation to structure a client’s finances, investments and business activities to legally minimise their tax liability.

10. Auditor: providing assurance over of a company’s financial records, control systems and compliance with industry laws and regulations, helping to build trust amongst all relevant stakeholders.

FAQs

Is having a Finance degree worth it?

If staying abreast of the ever-morphing world of economy and engaging in lucrative, stimulating career options across a wide range of industries interests you, the Finance degree opportunities are infinite. A degree in this subject equips you with the financial management and business skills sought after globally. It’s an invaluable leg-up the career ladder.

Can I study a Finance degree online?

Yes! Studying a Finance degree online at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels at reputable organisations like LSBF offers significant flexibility, allowing you to earn a fully accredited degree, while managing work and other commitments. Programmes are designed for fully online delivery, making them suitable for working professionals, with 24/7 access to digital learning resources and structured support throughout your studies. This flexible format allows you to balance a full-time career while studying. Students can also apply their learning directly within their current roles, using real-world scenarios to develop practical, career-relevant skills without the need for on-campus attendance.

What skills will I gain from a Finance degree?

A Finance degree provides a thorough understanding of financial analysis and decision-making, equipping students with skills essential for the business world. Courses teach you to analyse financial statements, evaluate investments, and manage capital, building strong analytical proficiency. You develop comprehensive knowledge of financial markets, instruments, and risk management, enabling you to confidently optimise returns while navigating global economic intricacies. These skills make you an attractive candidate for a wide range of careers in finance.

What finance jobs will be replaced by AI?

As in all sectors, AI is replacing repetitive, data-heavy financial tasks, hitherto completed by bookkeepers, clerks and junior accountant teams. AI should enhance rather than replace strategic roles that require specialist analysis, critical thinking and emotional intelligence. Read more here about the impact of AI on the world of finance.

How long does it take to complete a Finance degree?

Depending on the undergraduate or postgraduate nature of your course, a full-time Finance degree can take three to four years. A full-time master’s (including MBA) usually takes about 12-14 months to complete. Part-time or online Finance degrees often take longer, depending on flexibility options.