Financial Analyst

What Does a Financial Analyst Do?
The main duty of a financial analyst is to research the financial health of companies. They do this with a view to recommending these companies to others who wish to invest in them. They will also look at their clients' current portfolio to ensure that further recommendations are a good fit. They may even make recommendations to sell a poorly performing investment.

Daily tasks typically involve using spreadsheets, and making forecasts based on previous history, current trends, and anything which may affect a particular type of industry for good or bad e.g. The cost of crude oil rising. Depending on their seniority and nature of their employment, financial analysts may purchase securities on behalf of a client. Most financial analysts tend to specialize in a particular industry sector. All the better to keep abreast of new laws, regulations, or emerging potential investments. For this reason, they often work in teams providing a broad range of expertise between them. They may work in investment banking departments of securities or banking firms.

How to Become a Financial Analyst
A college degree is essential to become a financial analyst. Preferred disciplines include: business administration, accounting, statistics, or finance. While certification is not a requirement, it is strongly recommended if you are serious about this as a career. To become a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), not only must you hold a bachelor's degree, you need three years' work experience in a related field, and must pass a set of three examinations. The essay exams cover courses such as accounting, economics, securities analysis, asset valuation, and portfolio management. You need to pass one a year for three years to qualify.

Schools are listed in alphabetical order by state then city.

Kaplan University

[Fort Lauderdale, FL]

Looking to gain a competitive edge in your career? Kaplan University offers a learning experience that is anything but typical. Our faculty and staff are not just academics—they’re seasoned professionals who can give you the real-world knowledge you need to succeed. And we offer a flexible and accelerated schedule designed to meet the needs of your busy life. Our programs are designed to prepare you for success in any of a variety of fields, including Criminal Justice, Health Care, Business, Education, Information Technology, Legal Studies, or Fashion and Design.
Programs:

AAS in Accounting

B.S. in Business/Accounting

B.S. in Management/Accounting Management

BS in Accounting

BS in Accounting - Auditing-Forensic Accountancy

BS in Accounting - Managerial Accountancy

BS in Accounting - Public Accountancy

BS in Accounting - Tax Accountancy

BS in Business Administration - Financial Analysis

MS in Accounting - Audit Specialization

MS in Accounting - Finance Specialization

MS in Accounting - Government Specialization

MS in Accounting - Tax Specialization

MS in Finance - Financial Analysis

Request More Information >

AIU Online	[Online]
Programs: Bachelor's of Business Administration - Accounting & Finance MBA - Accounting Request More Information >

The University of Liverpool	[Online]
Programs: Master of Business Administration (Finance & Accounting) MSc in International Accounting and Finance MSc in International Finance & Accounting (Emerging Markets) MSc in International Finance & Accounting (Intl Financial Reporting) MSc in International Finance & Accounting (Strategic Finance Practice) Request More Information >