Top 6 banking courses to pursue

The value of personal savings in the United States is estimated at a whopping USD 2.3 trillion in the year 2021. This makes the industry of banking one of the most valuable and fast-paced industries in the corporate world. There are several reasons why aspirants opt to pursue careers in a field like banking. For example, the job stability associated with opportunities in this field is significant and has ample scope for growth. The remuneration associated with this industry is excellent, offering a wide range of benefits to all. These include pension, medical, and minimal interest rates on loans. 

A key aspect of the banking industry is that with continual developments in technology, new opportunities are always cropping the field. People today require banking services that are top-notch and of the highest quality. This makes the careers in this field challenging and highly result-oriented. To sustain under that kind of pressure, aspirants need to have the right knowledge, skills, and exposure. They need to know how to put their theories into practice. The best way to develop relevant skills is by pursuing the right kind of banking course. 

While there are a large number of banking courses to choose from, selecting the right one is key to landing a good job. Discover the 6 best courses in banking for aspirants below!

1. BA in Banking and Finance 

A Bachelor of Arts program in Banking and Finance provides aspirants with a basic foundation for all the niches within the field. Students develop a wide range of skills, including organizing and interpreting financial statements. 

This program covers a wide range of Banking and Finance elements-

• Financial Markets 
• Financial Accounting 
• Banking Management 
• Management of Financial Institutions 
• Investment Management 
• Insurance Principles 

The syllabus of this program is continually revised to reflect current industry developments. Students learn relevant skills such as problem-solving, analytical, effective communication, and critical thinking. 

2. BCom in Banking and Finance 

A BCom in Banking and Finance is a 3-year undergraduate program that covers a wide range of concepts. These include Insurance Law, Insurance Risk, Banking Law, Accounting, and Bank Regulations. This is one of the most basic commerce banking courses available and is a much sought-after option by many aspirants. 

The program syllabus is designed to cover all aspects relevant to current industry developments. From risk management to financial organization, students are trained in all niches in the field. 

The career opportunities that an aspirant can consider after completing this program include-

• Sales Officer 
• Market Expert 
• Auditor 
• Loan Office 
• Credit Risk Manager 
• Equity Research Specialist

3. BSc (Hons) Economics with a Specialization in Banking 

A BSc Honors Economics program in Banking and Finance can serve to be a launchpad into a variety of careers within the industry. Students of this course receive a wide range of relevant technical and transferable skills. This allows them to successfully operate at a national and global level. 

The various subjects covered within this dynamic program include-

• Management Accounting 
• Applied Management Research 
• Macro and Microeconomics 
• Sustainable Strategy in Practice 
• Business Ethics 
• Financial Risk Management 

Additionally, students receive a wide range of relevant practical skills. Like communication, collaborative teamwork, research and self-study, critical thinking, and computing skills. These skills are in high demand in the industry today. 

4. MBA in Banking and Finance 

This is among the most popular postgraduate banking courses for aspirants. An MBA in Banking and Finance provides students with a strong skillset as is demanded by the field. This teaches you a wide range of skills, such as issuing credits and loans, money exchange & savings, and the management of accounts. 

A wide range of concepts is covered within this dynamic degree including-

• Mergers & Acquisitions 
• Business Valuation 
• Risk Management 
• Capital Management 
• Financial Accounting

Once this program is complete, students can choose from a wide range of career opportunities. These include corporate analysts, investment bankers, research analysts, finance managers, marketing analysts, and accounts managers. 

5. Certified Public Accountant (CPA) 

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is among the most recognized designations within the field of banking and finance. These professionals have a wide range of relevant skills in all aspects of the field. These include financial analysis, regulatory compliance, auditing, and taxation. 

An individual with a CPA certification is often presented with a wide range of employment opportunities. This is because of their specialized skill sets.

The CPA designation also indicates a professional’s skills in-

• Regulation 
• Financial Analysis 
• Auditing 
• Taxation 

This certification is among the most recognized banking courses available. As a result, students develop significant earning potential. 

6. Certified Financial Planner (CFP) 

The CFP credential is among the most preferred credentials within the field of banking and finance. Being CFP accredited demonstrates your skill to work as a competent professional within banking and finance. A significant portion of the population is dependent upon CFPs to promote ethical financial transactions. Many acquire this accreditation for the excellent remuneration and associated benefits. 

A large number of banking and financial firms seek CFPs who are adept in their field and can carry out the responsibilities assigned to them. Receiving this certification proves the skill, knowledge, and expertise of the professionals. This is primarily because the testing process to receive the CFP certification is intensive.

Key takeaways 

• The banking industry is one of the highest-paying and respectable industries in the world. Several aspirants opt for careers in the field owing to the financial and professional benefits it offers.
• For professional success, aspirants need to display high levels of skill, knowledge, and practical exposure. 
• Pursuing reputed banking courses from a recognized provider can help aspirants achieve their professional goals. 
• There is a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate options available for aspirants to choose from. 
• Specialized certifications like CPA and CFP can help aspirants gain an advantage by boosting their knowledge, skills, and earning potential. 

FAQs 

Q1. Which are the best global universities for a program in banking?

Answer – Some of the best universities you can consider include the University of Kent, London Metropolitan University, and Swansea University. 

Q2. What kinds of companies recruit BCom graduates? 

Answer – BCom graduates are often sought after by business schools, health departments, consultancies, and mortgage agencies. 

Q3. What are the requirements of a professional CPA? 

Answer – Professional CPA requirements vary greatly across jurisdictions. However, a minimum of 12 months or 2000 hours of public accounting experience is necessary to receive this accreditation.