Top 15 Career Options in Finance: What To Do After A Finance Degree in 2025?

Did you know that the IMF has projected India to become the 4th largest economy in the world in 2025? This speaks volumes about the scope and growth in the Indian economic and finance sector.

With revolutionizing fintech achievements such as UPI, India is set to run at the forefront of financial advancement. Moreover, the Indian finance industry revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 14.39 %.

Thus, embarking on a finance career promises financial prosperity, rapid growth, and work-life balance. Navigating finance requires diverse financial management, economics, mathematics, and accounting skills. 

In this guide on career options in finance, we will delve into top roles, essential skills, and the evolving industry, empowering you for a successful and fulfilling professional journey.

Keep reading as we engage in an in-depth discussion!

Explore upGrad’s MBA in Finance Courses to start your career in financial management!

Top 15 Career Options in Finance in 2025

There are a number of options among careers in finance you can pursue if you want to specialize in finance or make a finance career in financial professional jobs. Take a look at the most popular finance careers or finance jobs.

You may also Read: Top 37 Finance Projects Ideas & Topics

1) Public Accounting

Public accounting involves managing financial records, offering advice, and preparing reports for private companies and public entities. Accountants help improve financial health, reduce expenses, and boost revenue. The Big Four firms—Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC—dominate the field globally with services like auditing, tax consulting, and business advisory.

Key Responsibilities:

• Record and maintain financial transactions and records
• Provide financial analysis and suggestions for cost reduction and revenue growth
• Assist in auditing, taxation, and business advisory services
• Evaluate and report on the financial health of organizations
• Support internal control and governance for corporate clients

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Commerce, Business Administration, or Accounting
• CPA (Certified Public Accountant) qualification for international recognition
• Master's degrees like M.Com. or MBA (Finance) for higher opportunities
• Relevant certifications in accounting or finance (e.g., CFA, CMA)

Learn Top MBA Courses from the World’s top Universities. Earn Master’s, Executive PGP, or Advanced Certificate Programs to fast-track your career.

2) Corporate Finance

Corporate finance involves securing business funds, making investment decisions, and capital restructuring. Professionals optimize company value, manage financial risks, and assist in mergers and acquisitions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Balance risk and profitability in investment decisions
• Analyze economic trends to inform business strategy
• Maximize stock value and improve financial health
• Manage funds, investments, and financial risk mitigation

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's in finance, economics, or business
• MBA (Finance) for mid-senior roles
• CFA or FMVA for specialized expertise
• Experience in financial analysis and risk management

3) Investment Banking

Investment banking is a prestigious and lucrative career path involving tasks like financial remodeling, market analysis, and improving business operations. Roles can include trading, asset management, and equity research.

Key Responsibilities:

• Work with data to improve business operations and financial decisions
• Buy and sell shares for clients (stockbroking)
• Manage investments and mitigate risk (asset management)
• Conduct equity research to guide investment decisions

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or business
• MBA (Finance) or Law degree for higher roles
• Short courses in stock analysis or market research
• Certifications from organizations like the National Stock Exchange (NSE)

Read here: How to Become an Investment Banker in India?

4) Portfolio Management

Portfolio management combines business, mathematics, and analytics to oversee clients' investment mixes. Professionals guide asset allocation and work to maximize profits while managing risk, often conducting SWOT analyses to assess market opportunities and threats.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage clients’ overall investment mix for optimal returns
• Guide asset allocation and investment policies
• Conduct SWOT analyses to evaluate market risks and opportunities
• Maximize profits at negotiated risks while ensuring client satisfaction

Qualifications:

• Degree in Economics, Business Administration, or Accounting
• Training in statistics and strong mathematical skills
• Experience in financial asset management or investment institutions
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

5) Risk Management

Risk management professionals identify market risks and poor investment outcomes, using their analytical skills to minimize risks and maximize returns. Roles in this field include financial, enterprise, supply chain, operational, and digital risk management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Identify and assess market risks and poor investment outcomes
• Develop strategies to minimize risks and maximize returns
• Advise clients on risk-related business matters
• Monitor and manage risks across various organizational functions

Qualifications:

• Advanced degrees such as an MBA or PG Diploma in Risk Management
• Certification courses from organizations like the Risk Management Association of India (RMAI)
• Strong mathematical and analytical skills
• Relevant experience in risk management or finance roles

Must Read: What are Risk Management Strategies?

6) Financial Planning

Financial planners help individuals and businesses secure their financial futures by reviewing financial statements, managing cash flows, and creating investment strategies tailored to clients' needs. Specializations include wealth, tax, estate, and retirement planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Review financial statements and cash flows
• Create personalized savings and investment strategies
• Specialize in areas like wealth, tax, estate, or retirement planning
• Advise clients on methods for financial stability and growth

Qualifications:

• Postgraduate degrees like MBA (Finance), MS (Finance), or MA (Economics)
• Certification in financial planning or wealth management
• Knowledge of financial markets and investment strategies
• Relevant experience in financial planning or advisory roles

Also Read: Financial Manager Salary in India

7) Commercial Banking

Commercial banking offers services like savings accounts, loans, and credit cards, supporting both individuals and businesses. Roles in this sector include credit analysts, account managers, and branch managers, with a focus on customer relationships and financial analysis.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide customer services, including account management and loan facilitation.
• Analyze financial statements and assess industries
• Develop relationships with existing customers and acquire new clients
• Ensure smooth daily banking operations and service delivery

Qualifications:

• Undergraduate degree in Business or Commerce
• MBA for advanced business development and client-facing roles
• Certification in banking or financial analysis
• Knowledge of Fintech innovations and technology-driven banking solutions

8) Compliance and Internal Control

Compliance and internal control professionals ensure that companies adhere to legal, ethical, and regulatory standards. They help protect businesses from financial fraud and reputational harm, supporting transparency and effective performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Ensure adherence to laws, ethical practices, and industry standards
• Protect investors and maintain transparency in financial operations
• Reduce financial fraud and mitigate system risks
• Support regulatory compliance across different departments

Qualifications:

• Degree in accounting, finance, or law
• Advanced finance degree like a specialized MBA
• Certification in compliance or internal auditing
• Knowledge of financial regulations and corporate governance

9) Private Wealth Management

Private Wealth Management helps high-net-worth individuals manage their finances, including investments, tax planning, and estate management. Professionals create personalized strategies to grow and protect wealth, providing a comprehensive approach to clients' financial needs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop personalized investment strategies for high-net-worth clients
• Manage tax, estate, and retirement planning
• Advise on portfolio diversification and wealth growth
• Build and maintain long-term client relationships

Qualifications:

• Degree in finance, economics, or business
• Certifications like CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
• Experience in wealth management or financial advisory
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

10) Actuary

Actuaries use mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to assess financial risks. They help businesses and governments predict future financial outcomes, particularly in insurance, pensions, and other risk-related sectors, guiding financial decision-making.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze financial risks and uncertainties
• Use statistical models to predict future events
• Advise on pricing for insurance policies and pension plans
• Help companies mitigate financial risks

Qualifications:

• Degree in actuarial science, mathematics, or statistics
• Certification from a professional actuarial body
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Knowledge of financial markets and risk management

11) Hedge Fund Management

Hedge fund managers oversee investment portfolios using advanced strategies to achieve high returns. They manage assets across multiple classes, using techniques such as short selling, derivatives, and leverage while focusing on risk-adjusted performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee investment strategies and portfolio management
• Analyze market trends and economic data to make investment decisions
• Monitor and adjust portfolios to maximize returns
• Manage risk through diversification and hedging techniques

Qualifications:

• Degree in finance, economics, or related field
• Strong knowledge of investment strategies and risk management
• Experience in financial analysis or portfolio management
• Certifications like CFA or CAIA for specialization

12) Stock Trading

Stock traders buy and sell stocks on behalf of clients or firms, aiming to profit from short-term market fluctuations. They must stay updated on market conditions, news, and economic indicators to make informed trading decisions.

Key Responsibilities:

• Buy and sell stocks based on market analysis
• Monitor stock prices and economic indicators
• Make quick decisions to capitalize on market opportunities
• Advise clients on investment strategies and stock choices

Qualifications:

• Degree in finance, economics, or business
• Knowledge of financial markets and trading platforms
• Strong analytical skills and market understanding
• Certification in securities trading (e.g., FINRA Series 7)

13) Financial Analysis

Financial analysts assess financial data to guide business decisions. They analyze financial performance, market conditions, and economic trends to provide insights, helping organizations optimize investments and improve profitability.

Key Responsibilities:

• Analyze financial statements and business performance
• Monitor market trends and economic conditions
• Provide recommendations for investments and cost-saving strategies
• Prepare reports and forecasts to support business decision-making

Qualifications:

• Degree in finance, accounting, or economics
• Certification such as CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
• Proficiency in financial modeling and analysis tools
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills

Check out: 30 Essential Finance Interview Questions & Answers

14) Insurance

Insurance professionals help individuals and businesses manage risk by offering policies that protect against financial loss. Careers in insurance include underwriting, claims management, and risk assessment, ensuring clients are adequately covered.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assess risks and recommend suitable insurance policies
• Underwrite and evaluate insurance applications
• Handle claims and process payouts
• Advise clients on the best coverage options

Qualifications:

• Degree in business, finance, or risk management
• Professional certifications in insurance (e.g., CIC, CPCU)
• Strong analytical and decision-making skills
• Knowledge of insurance laws and regulations

15) Asset Management

Asset managers handle investment portfolios for individuals or institutions, aiming to maximize returns while managing risk. They focus on stocks, bonds, and other assets, ensuring portfolios align with clients' financial goals and risk tolerance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and manage investment portfolios for clients
• Conduct market research and assess asset performance
• Diversify investments to balance risk and return
• Advise clients on investment strategies and market conditions

Qualifications:

• Degree in finance, economics, or related field
• Professional certifications like CFA or CAIA
• Experience in portfolio management or financial analysis
• Strong understanding of financial markets and investment strategies

Also Read: Top 15 Highest Paying Finance Jobs in India

How to Choose the Right Career in Finance? 

Choosing the right career in finance requires a strategic approach that is rooted in self-reflection, understanding your strengths, and aligning your interests with industry demands. Here are some tips to help you choose the right career in finance:

1. Assess Your Strengths  - Identify your core strengths and interests—whether you're analytical, detail-oriented, or enjoy working with people. Knowing what excites you helps you pick a finance role that suits your skills and passion.
2. Research Different Roles - You can explore finance roles like financial analyst, investment banker, or financial planner. Understand their responsibilities to determine which aligns best with your skills, interests, and long-term career goals.
3. Obtain Relevant Education and Certifications - A degree in finance, economics, or accounting and certifications such as CFA or CPA will enhance your qualifications. These credentials will further open doors to opportunities and help you specialize in your chosen career.
4. Gain Practical Experience - Gain experience through internships or part-time jobs to explore different finance areas. Practical experience helps you confirm your interests, build skills, and expand your professional network.

You can also check out our free courses offered by upGrad in Management, Data Science, Machine Learning, Digital Marketing, and Technology. 

Top Skills For a Successful Career in Finance 

Here are the top financial skills you will need for a job in a finance company: –

1. Education – To begin with, you must have the right degree and training to kickstart your finance career. Experience at work matters undoubtedly, but having the right certifications and education helps you kick start the career right.

2. Interpersonal Skills – Finance careers aren’t about crunching numbers in a nook. At least- not anymore. You must be able to deal with clients, communicate clearly, and build relationships. Such skills matter as much as your knowledge in the discipline does.

Explore upGrad’s Free Soft Skills Courses!

3. Analytical Skills- If you can analyze a scenario to deduce relevant conclusions, then a career in finance is a good pick. Skills such as strategic thinking and leadership are much needed in the field of finance too.

4. Financial modeling – It is the representation of a financial situation using abstract methods. You get to design a model that portrays the financial performance of a portfolio or asset.

Check out this Job-ready Program in Financial Modelling & Analysis from upGrad!

5. Accounting skills – Accounting skills assist you in keeping track, recording, and managing financial transactions without facing any errors. Furthermore, accounting skills are highly sought in financial analysis, data management, financial reporting, and financial modeling.

6. Cash flow management – Cash flow management analyzes, optimizes, and monitors the cash flow in receipts. Businesses use this technique to manage finances. 

7. Data management – It is the process of gathering, managing, storing, and maintenance of data acquired from an organization. It is vital while performing data analysis. Financial data management also allows you to comply with the latest laws and regulations.

Read More Here: Top 12 Crucial Financial Skills That Employers Value in 2025

Benefits and Challenges of Having A Career In Finance 

While careers in finance can offer a plethora of benefits, they can also pose a number of challenges for professionals working in this domain. Let’s take a deeper look at this dual nature of finance careers:

Benefits of a Finance Career 

1. Good Money And Growth – It goes without stating that once you are settled in a career in the finance domain, you have the potential to earn high. Even several entry-level positions are lucrative in terms of payments in the fields of finance. Moreover, there is scope to work up the career ladder quickly with the right set of skills and abilities.
2. Balanced Lifestyle – Jobs across the financial sector let you have a balanced lifestyle since you are better off in terms of work schedules. Of course, there are stressful days, but overall, the job domain offers a better balance.
3. Job security: A career in finance bestows you with the option to settle for a job that offers maximum financial protection. An all-rounded security feature is beneficial in any field. It allows you to relax in any place without giving the move a second thought. 
4. Diversity: One of the most noticeable features of a career in finance is that it offers a range of posts that cater to the field of finance. There are many specializations that one can choose from in the financial sector.
5. Scope for growth: Finance firms always look for new talent to upscale their establishment. It makes it easier for people looking to move up the career ladder. At the same time, career paths in finance offer an easy option to relocate since it isn’t always location-specific. 

Also Read: Finance vs Accounting: Which One Should You Choose? 

Challenges of A Career in Finance 

1. High Competition: The finance industry is highly competitive, with many qualified professionals vying for limited job opportunities. Landing a job and advancing your career can be challenging due to the intense competition.
2. Long Working Hours: Finance professionals often work long and irregular hours, especially in investment banking and trading roles. The pressure to meet deadlines, analyze data, and make critical decisions can lead to extensive work hours.
3. High Stress Levels: The finance industry is fast-paced and involves managing significant amounts of money. This pressure can lead to high-stress levels, particularly during market fluctuations and economic uncertainties. Professionals need to handle stress effectively to succeed in this field.
4. Regulatory Changes: The finance industry is heavily regulated, and regulations frequently change in response to economic events and government policies. Staying updated with these changes and ensuring compliance with regulations is a constant challenge for finance professionals.
5. Risk Management: Managing financial risk is a fundamental aspect of finance careers. Professionals need to have a deep understanding of market risks, credit risks, and operational risks. Making accurate predictions and mitigating risks is a constant challenge, especially in volatile market conditions.
6. Burnout: Due to the high demands of the job, finance professionals are susceptible to burnout. Balancing demanding work schedules with personal life can be challenging, leading to stress and fatigue.

Another Must-Read: Scope of Financial Management

Future Trends in Finance Careers 

The finance industry today is widely tech-driven. We can ascertain certain future trends that reflect the growing need for finance professionals. Below are some future trends in finance careers:

1. Fintech and Digital Transformation - The rise of fintech is revolutionizing finance, with roles in blockchain, cryptocurrency, and digital payments in high demand. Professionals who specialize in technology-driven solutions will be essential as banks and companies adopt more digital platforms.
2. Rise of Artificial Intelligence and Automation - AI and automation are transforming financial services by improving efficiency and decision-making. Careers focused on data science, machine learning, and robotic process automation (RPA) will become increasingly important as firms strive for more intelligent, cost-effective operations.
3. Sustainable Finance and ESG Investing - As environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors gain prominence, careers in sustainable finance are emerging. Financial analysts, fund managers, and consultants specializing in ESG will be crucial in helping organizations align investments with sustainability goals.
4. Need for Cybersecurity in Finance - With the increasing digitization of financial services, cybersecurity roles are more critical than ever. Careers focused on protecting financial institutions from cyber threats, data breaches, and fraud are expanding rapidly, requiring specialized skills in risk management and security technologies.
5. Data Analytics and Financial Modeling - As data becomes more integral to financial decision-making, roles in data analytics and financial modeling are expanding. Professionals skilled in analyzing large datasets and building predictive models shall be highly sought after in the future.

Also Read: Future Scope of MBA in Finance

Conclusion 

Through this list of careers in finance, we aimed to provide you with a closer insight into the finance career landscape. We have explained different career options in finance and detailed the ‘hows’ of attaining job-ready skills. Use this information to restructure your plan and move ahead with a willingness to learn and grow! 

With a deeper understanding of the various career options in finance, skills, and job prospects, you can assess your interests towards a role of your choice. Most jobs in finance fall into a versatile role category, due to which you must not only be multi-skilled but also fall into the habit of utter agility and continuous learning.

Many new trends are shaping the industry, and you must also work on developing better IT-related skills to survive and thrive in the same. Thus, you require a well-rounded set of skills for a successful career in finance.

You can start your learning journey today by exploring our Financial Analysis Courses!

And, if you’d like to explore your higher education options in finance or any related domain, you may book a free counseling session with our experts who will be readily available to guide you!

References:
https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/app/finance/india 
https://www.statista.com/outlook/amo/app/finance/worldwide
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/navigating-emerging-future-finance-career-india-eliterecruitments-n5efc 
https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/services/financial-advisory/perspectives/future-of-finance-jobs-in-digital-world.html
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/certified-public-accountant-cpa-salary-SRCH_KO0,31.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/corporate-finance-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/investment-banker-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/portfolio-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/risk-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,12.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/financial-planner-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/commercial-banker-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/india-internal-control-and-compliance-analyst-salary-SRCH_IL.0,5_KO6,45.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/private-wealth-management-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/actuary-salary-SRCH_KO0,7.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/stock-trader-salary-SRCH_KO0,12.htm 
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/hedge-fund-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,18.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/financial-analyst-salary-SRCH_KO0,17.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/insurance-salary-SRCH_KO0,9.htm
https://www.glassdoor.co.in/Salaries/asset-manager-salary-SRCH_KO0,13.htm