Is Finance a Hard Major? - Bay Atlantic University - Washington, D.C. (2024)

Money makes the world go round, but does studying finance make your head spin?

Finance is a major that requires high skills and a strong understanding of economic theory. But is it as challenging as it’s made out to be? In this blog, we dive deep into the benefits of finance and explore the question: Is finance a hard major? Buckle up and join us as we answer this question.

What Is Finance?

Finance is the management of money. It encompasses investing, lending, borrowing, saving, budgeting, and forecasting. Professionals in finance are concerned with how businesses raise, spend, or invest money. Apart from large business firms, finance also deals with how individuals achieve personal goals within their limited financial resources.

Studying finance helps prospective students develop multiple skill sets that will set them up for success in several industries.

What Do You Learn in a Finance Degree?

A finance degree will give you a comprehensive understanding of financial markets, investments, and financial management. You learn to analyze financial data, read financial statements, and make informed investment decisions. You also dive into financial accounting, economics, statistics, and risk management topics.

A finance degree is not just about crunching numbers and analyzing charts but also about understanding how financial decisions impact businesses, individuals, and the global economy. A finance degree develops your critical thinking and problem-solving skills as you learn to evaluate complex financial situations and develop strategies to optimize outcomes.

So, if you’re ready to jump into finance and take on the challenge of managing money, a finance degree might be the perfect fit for you!

Is Finance a Hard Major?

A major in finance requires you to have a strong math and economics background. But don’t let that intimidate you! With dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn, anyone can succeed in this field.

Plus, the rewards of a finance degree are well worth the effort—you’ll have a deep understanding of financial markets, investments, and management and a wide range of career opportunities to explore.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for a finance degree vary depending on the university and program. Generally, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent qualification and strong grades in math and other relevant subjects. Some programs may require submitting proof of English language proficiency. Some universities also need a personal statement or interview as part of the application process.

Course curriculum

A typical finance degree curriculum covers various topics, including

• Financial Accounting
• Business and Economics Statistics
• Principles of Marketing
• Investments and Portfolio Management
• Principles of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
• Investment Strategies
• International Business or Finance
• Ethics

What Skills Do You Need to Work in Finance?

Working in finance requires diverse skills, including a strong foundation in math and analytics, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of financial markets and products. Attention to detail, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills are also essential, as you’ll analyze complex data and make strategic decisions.

1. Financial planning and reporting skills

These skills help finance professionals identify areas of improvement and develop strategies to optimize economic outcomes. Financial planning involves preparing and analyzing financial statements, creating budgets, and forecasting future financial performance.

2. Problem-solving skills

Problem-solving skills allow professionals to evaluate complex financial situations and develop solutions to challenges. These skills help finance professionals identify and resolve financial issues, such as identifying cost-saving opportunities or minimizing financial risk.

3. Technology expertise

Technology expertise is becoming increasingly important in the finance industry as new technologies such as blockchain and AI change how financial transactions are conducted. Expertise in technology helps finance professionals adapt to these changes and develop new solutions to streamline financial processes.

4. Decision-making skills

Decision-making skills are crucial in finance as finance professionals are often responsible for making strategic financial decisions that impact the success of businesses or investments. Strong decision-making skills help evaluate risks, weigh options, and make informed decisions that optimize financial outcomes.

5. Cash flow management

Cash flow management is essential in finance. It involves monitoring and managing the inflow and outflow of cash in a business or investment. Having expertise in cash flow management helps finance professionals ensure effective and efficient usage of financial resources.

6. Analytical-thinking skills

Analytical thinking skills are crucial for finance professionals as they are critical in decision-making. Finance professionals are responsible for analyzing large amounts of data and identifying patterns and trends to make informed decisions about investments, budgets, and financial strategies.

Analytical thinking skills help finance professionals identify problems, evaluate solutions, and make decisions based on available data. These skills also enable them to critically evaluate financial reports, identify risks and opportunities, and develop strategies to manage them.

Why Major in Finance?

Choosing a major in finance can be an excellent choice for those interested in a dynamic and challenging career offering high job security and financial rewards. A finance degree equips students with the skills and knowledge to analyze and manage financial resources, make informed investment decisions, and navigate the complex economic landscape.

Majoring in finance can be an excellent investment in your future, opening up a range of career opportunities and providing the skills and knowledge required to succeed in the dynamic and ever-changing world of finance.

Real world preparation

By pursuing a major in finance, you will acquire a comprehensive understanding of financial concepts and tools, enabling you to make informed decisions and solve complex financial problems.

Moreover, a degree in finance will equip you with a highly sought-after skill set, including analytical thinking, risk management, and strategic planning, which are transferable across various industries and career paths.

With a finance degree, you can pursue a rewarding career that offers excellent job prospects, high earning potential, and the chance to impact business and finance significantly.

High salaries

Finance is a high-paying field; a finance degree can open many job opportunities. Many finance professionals earn salaries well above the national average, from investment bankers to financial analysts. According to recent data, the average salary for these professionals is $76,570.

Career growth

Finance is a growing industry, and the demand for finance professionals will continue to grow in the coming years. As a finance major, you’ll have access to various career paths and opportunities for growth and advancement.

In-demand skills

Finance majors develop various in-demand skills, including financial analysis, data interpretation, and risk management. These skills are highly valued in multiple industries, including finance, consulting, and technology, making finance majors highly employable.

The Bottom Line

While a finance major can be challenging, it can be an excellent choice for those passionate about finance and eager to develop valuable skills. From financial planning and reporting to problem-solving and decision-making, a finance degree can prepare you for a rewarding career with high earning potential and ample opportunities for growth and advancement.

So, if you’re up for the challenge and ready to dive into the exciting world of finance, you can join our today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is finance a hard major compared to other business fields?

Finance can be challenging, but the difficulty level may vary depending on individual strengths and interests. Some find its quantitative aspects demanding, while others struggle with the theoretical concepts.

Do I need strong math skills to succeed in finance?

While a solid understanding of mathematics is beneficial, particularly in areas like calculus, algebra, and statistics, many finance programs offer support and resources to help students grasp these concepts.

What are the key challenges in studying finance?

One challenge is mastering financial theory and applying it to real-world scenarios. Additionally, financial analysis often involves complex data interpretation, which can be daunting for some students.

Are there resources available to help with the difficulty of finance courses?

Yes, universities typically offer tutoring services, study groups, and academic advisors to support students struggling with coursework. Online resources such as instructional videos and forums can also be helpful.

Is finance more theoretical or practical?

Finance majors typically blend theoretical knowledge with practical application. While some courses focus on financial theories and principles, others emphasize real-world case studies, simulations, and internships to provide hands-on experience.

What career opportunities are available for those with a finance degree?

A finance degree can lead to various career paths, including investment banking, corporate finance, financial planning, risk management, and financial analysis. The diversity of options reflects the breadth and depth of the field.