By Vandana Bhama
Finance is the life blood of a business and considered as an integral part of running any organization. Whether looking to start a new business or expand an existing one, financial education is the way to success. Amidst the various courses rising in popularity, one course that has come to immense significance is the financial management course. This program exposes students to an understanding of accounting and financial practices, portfolio and investment management, project financing, bank management, risk analytics and personal wealth management. Students who complete a financial management course will be ready to take further professional certification exams such as the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Global Association of Risk Professional (GARP) certification etc.
While earning a foundational degree in financial management is undoubtedly important, it is the higher education that exposes students to advanced knowledge and understanding. A PGDM program in finance provides learners with both theoretical understanding and practical experience, acquiring them with skills needed to thrive in the field. Here are the ways that financial management courses can help to build a career:
Profound financial knowledge: For students looking to make a career in finance, the importance of crucial financial concepts cannot be denied. A financial management course introduces learners to a profound understanding of financial concepts, including accounting principles, budgeting, financial analysis, investments and risk management. This broad knowledge in conjunction with appropriate skills works wonders in securing positions requiring financial expertise.
Analytical thinking skills: Analytical thinking and strategic decision-making are two crucial skills that modern-day employers increasingly look for. Financial management education exposes students to challenging situations and scenarios that encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills. In addition to being critical in the financial management landscape, these abilities are highly transportable and allow for rapid adaptation to a variety of professional contexts.
Networking opportunities: Robust networking is essential in today’s fast-paced commercial environment. A financial management course provides students with numerous networking opportunities, which leads to collaborations, career suggestions, and professional assistance. Also, by offering students a worldwide viewpoint, these courses equip them with the abilities necessary to effectively navigate the challenges of international business. This global understanding is critical for learners seeking to advance their careers in global organisations.
Financial management education: A look ahead
As more and more students look forward to exploring different aspects of finance, the demand for financial management courses is destined to grow. These courses not only help students build a strong skill set appropriate for the financial industry but they also provide them with a comprehensive understanding of financial systems, enabling them to make wise decisions in both their personal and professional lives. In addition, it also opens a pathway to various job roles including financial manager, financial analyst, equity analyst, consultant, banker and risk manager, amongst others. Hence, it is safe to assert that the significance of financial management education is poised to increase as the economy undergoes transformative changes.
The author is assistant professor – Finance at FORE School of Management. Views are personal.