2011 median salary for Financial Analysts: $75,650; employment growth rate from 2010 to 2020 is forecast to be 23% (Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS]).
A master’s degree in finance gives graduates a competitive edge in areas such as investment management, corporate finance, commercial and retail banking, and financial management of companies and nonprofits, as well as analysis and brokerage.
Financial Analysts evaluate investment opportunities for businesses and individuals. They evaluate the performance of stocks, bonds, and other types of investments. Some Financial Analysts evaluate the feasibility of a deal and create a plan of action based on financial analysis.
Many employers seek candidates with a master’s degree in finance or an MBA. Those with experience have an opportunity to become a Portfolio Manager and supervise a team of analysts. Portfolio Managers choose the mix of investments for a company’s investment portfolio.
They work for banks, mutual funds, pension funds, securities firms and other types of businesses. Successful financial analysts often become senior financial analysts or associates after three to four years.
