The idea that commerce is only for business or finance students is outdated. Today, commerce has a lot to offer all students. Professional courses in commerce, such as ACCA, CA, and CMA, provide students with in-demand practical knowledge and skills, especially in the finance and accounting industries.
This blog will outline how selecting the appropriate professional certificate in commerce can help students leverage their expertise to thrive in the financial sector. Read on to find out all the career paths that it has to offer and also the benefits.
Best professional courses in commerce
Whether you’re a freshman, a graduate, or a professional looking to upskill, here are some of the best professional courses in commerce to consider:
1. Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
Issued by the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP), this course is designed for professionals focusing on risk management within the finance industry. FRM-certified individuals are trained to identify, assess, and manage various types of financial risks. FRM professionals are highly valued in investment banking, asset management, and regulatory bodies.
-
- Skills enhanced: Risk assessment, quantitative analysis, financial markets expertise, regulatory compliance, credit risk management.
- Career prospects: High demand in financial institutions, banks, consulting firms, and government agencies.
- Job roles:
-
- Risk Quantification Manager
- Market Risk Specialist
- Regulatory Risk Analyst
- ROI: High, as risk management roles offer competitive salaries and career stability due to regulatory needs.
2. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Administered by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), CPA certification provides extensive expertise in accounting, tax, audit, and financial analysis.
-
- Skills enhanced: Financial accounting, auditing, tax planning, SOX compliance, forensic accounting.
- Career prospects: CPAs are hired by multinational corporations, public accounting firms, and government agencies.
- Job roles:
-
- Tax Advisor
- Auditor
- Financial Controller
- ROI: High, given the competitive compensation packages, job security, and versatility across sectors,
3. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The CMA course is internationally recognised, offering expertise in financial management and strategic planning.
-
- Skills enhanced: Financial analysis, strategic planning, and cost management.
- Career prospects: Opportunities in financial planning and analysis roles globally.
- Job roles:
-
- Financial Manager
- Budget Analyst
- Corporate Controller
- ROI: High, particularly due to demand in multinational corporations and global mobility.
4. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
The CFA certification is highly valued by those interested in investment banking, financial analysis, or asset management.
-
- Skills enhanced: Financial analysis, investment management, portfolio strategy.
- Career prospects: High demand for investment firms, banks, and consulting firms.
- Job roles:
-
- Investment Banker
- Portfolio Manager
- Research Analyst
- ROI: High, especially within investment firms and global financial services.
5. Chartered Accountancy (CA)
One of the most esteemed professions in the field of commerce is chartered accountant. The program provided by ICAI prepares you with sophisticated skills in accounting, taxation, and auditing.
-
- Skills enhanced: Financial management, auditing, taxation, and compliance.
- Career prospects: High demand in both public and private sectors.
- Job roles:
-
- Auditor
- Tax Consultant
- Financial Analyst
- ROI: Excellent due to job security, attractive salary, and international acclaim.
6. Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
CFP is ideal for those who want to specialise in financial planning and wealth management. This course covers personal finance, investment, and retirement planning.
-
- Skills enhanced: Financial planning, client advisory, investment strategies.
- Career prospects: High demand in banking, insurance, and independent advisory.
- Job roles:
-
- Financial Planner
- Wealth Manager
- Retirement Consultant
- ROI: High, as personal finance advisories continue to expand, especially with affluent client bases.
Which one would you prefer?
Choosing the right professional course can greatly enhance your career. Each of these professional courses in commerce provides unique advantages and a strong ROI potential. So, choose wisely based on your professional goals!
The WallStreet School offers CFA online course and classroom bootcamp coaching for the CFA Level 1 exam. With these courses, ensure top-notch preparation for the CFA Level 1 exam and get ahead in your finance career!
Visit The WallStreet School or contact us via email or phone (+91-9953729651) for more details.
FAQs
- Which professional certification is best for commerce students?
Professional courses in commerce are not limited to commerce students. Students from any discipline can pursue these courses. The best courses include CA, CMA, CIMA, CFA, CFP, and many more.
- Is a professional certificate worth it?
Yes, a professional certification is a proof of expertise in that field. In fact, a professional certificate can help you get a higher salary due to your expert skillset.
- Is a professional certificate in commerce equivalent to a commerce degree?
A professional certification doesn’t and can’t replace a college degree. Instead, certifications only add to your education or work experience in your field.
