Are Finance Degrees Worth It? A 2025 Guide for Students and Professionals
Are Finance Degrees Still Valuable in 2025?
In a world increasingly driven by technology, automation, and online education, many students and professionals are asking a vital question:
“Are finance degrees worth it?”
The short answer: Yes, but it depends on your goals.
A finance degree can lead to high-paying jobs, offer strong job security, and open doors in sectors like banking, investment, and fintech. However, it’s also a competitive and sometimes costly path that may not be necessary for every finance-related career.
In this guide, we break down the costs, benefits, career outcomes, and ROI of a finance degree in 2025 so you can make an informed decision.
What Is a Finance Degree?
A finance degree is an academic qualification that focuses on the management of money. It includes the study of:
- Financial planning and analysis
- Corporate finance
- Investment banking
- Risk management
- Economics
- Accounting
- Capital markets
Types of finance degrees:
- Associate Degree in Finance (2 years)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Finance (4 years)
- Master’s in Finance or MBA with finance concentration (1–2 years)
- Doctorate (PhD) in Finance
Pros of Getting a Finance Degree
Strong Earning Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, finance majors consistently land in the top 10 of highest-paying degrees.
Average salaries (2025):
- Financial Analyst: $89,000/year
- Investment Banker: $120,000–$250,000/year
- Corporate Finance Manager: $105,000/year
- Financial Planner: $88,000/year
With career progression and certifications like CFA or CPA, these figures can significantly increase.
High Demand for Finance Professionals
Finance roles are projected to grow steadily through 2030, particularly in:
- Financial advisory
- Risk management
- Fintech
- Wealth management
Fast-growing roles:
- Financial Analyst: +9% growth
- Personal Financial Advisor: +15%
- Risk Analyst: +10%
Diverse Career Opportunities
A finance degree doesn’t just lead to a job in a bank. Graduates work in:
- Government agencies
- Multinational corporations
- Consulting firms
- Startups
- Nonprofits
- Tech companies
Professional Networking and Alumni Access
Universities often have well-established finance departments with strong alumni networks in top firms like Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan, and Deloitte.
These connections can be vital for internships and full-time offers.
Clear Path to Certification
A finance degree lays the groundwork for professional certifications:
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
- CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
These credentials increase job marketability and salary.
Cons of Getting a Finance Degree
High Tuition Costs
Average tuition (2025):
- Public in-state (Bachelor’s): $10,000/year
- Private university (Bachelor’s): $35,000/year
- Top MBA program: $80,000–$120,000 total
If not funded through scholarships or employer sponsorship, debt can accumulate quickly.
Competitive Job Market
Many finance roles—especially in investment banking and private equity—are extremely competitive. You’ll be competing with:
- Ivy League graduates
- Business school MBAs
- Candidates with internships or work experience
Automation and AI Disruption
AI tools now handle many traditional finance tasks like:
- Data entry
- Portfolio analysis
- Reporting
This means entry-level finance roles may be harder to secure without additional tech or data skills.
ROI Can Vary
If you attend a lesser-known school or graduate with student debt and no work experience, it might take years to see a financial return.
Career Paths with a Finance Degree
Is a Finance Degree Worth It Financially?
Let’s break down the ROI (Return on Investment).
Example Scenario:
- 4-year public university: $40,000 total tuition
- Starting salary: $65,000
- 5-year salary: $375,000 (with annual raises)
ROI Calculation:
- Subtract tuition from 5-year earnings = $335,000 net gain
- Compare with alternative paths (e.g., trade school, bootcamps)
Verdict: For students entering solid finance roles after graduation, ROI is typically positive within 5 years.
Alternatives to a Finance Degree
Certifications
- CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
Deep investment knowledge, highly respected in global markets. - CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
Focused on accounting and tax. - CFP (Certified Financial Planner)
Great for personal financial advising careers.
Bootcamps and Online Courses
Short-term, intensive training in financial modeling, Excel, or data analysis.
Examples:
- Wall Street Prep
- Coursera (Finance Specializations)
- edX, LinkedIn Learning
On-the-Job Training
Some firms hire entry-level candidates without degrees and offer training in:
- Insurance sales
- Financial advising
- Banking operations
Finance Degree vs. Business Degree
If you want a career directly in financial services, finance is the better choice. If you want flexibility across industries, business may offer more options.
Who Should Pursue a Finance Degree?
Ideal Candidates:
- Students with strong math and analytical skills
- Those interested in stock markets, banking, or corporate finance
- Individuals aiming for high-paying careers with career progression
- Professionals planning to earn CFA, CPA, or MBA credentials
Who Should Skip a Finance Degree?
- People looking for quick, low-cost education paths
- Those more interested in creative or people-centered careers
- Entrepreneurs who don’t need formal training to start a business
- Professionals focusing on tech, data science, or programming (unless paired with finance)
Real-Life Success Stories
Jane: Corporate Finance Director at Fortune 500
- Degree: B.S. in Finance
- Path: Intern > Analyst > Manager > Director
- Salary: $145,000
- “My degree gave me the foundation, but internships and mentors made the difference.”
Carlos: Self-Taught Financial Advisor
- Degree: None
- Certifications: CFP
- Income: $95,000
- “I built my book of business through trust and consistency.”
How to Maximize the Value of a Finance Degree
Choose the Right School
Top schools offer:
- Better faculty
- Internship access
- Alumni networks
- On-campus recruiting
Intern Early and Often
Get internships starting from your sophomore year. Experience matters.
Develop Soft Skills
Finance isn’t just about numbers. Improve:
- Communication
- Leadership
- Presentation
Learn Financial Software and Tools
Familiarize yourself with:
- Excel
- Bloomberg Terminal
- Python for Finance
- SQL
- QuickBooks
Consider Double Majoring or Minoring
Combine finance with:
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Data Analytics
- Accounting
FAQs About Finance Degree
Is a finance degree hard?
Finance degrees can be challenging due to math, statistics, and financial modeling, but with effort, most students can succeed.
Can I work in finance without a degree?
Yes. Entry-level roles like bank teller, insurance sales, or assistant analyst may not require a degree but will require experience or certifications.
Is an MBA better than a finance degree?
An MBA is broader and typically pursued after work experience. A finance degree is more specific and often the first step in a finance career.
How long does it take to earn a finance degree?
A bachelor’s takes 4 years; master’s programs typically take 1–2 years.
Do finance degrees lead to high-paying jobs?
Yes. Many finance roles are among the highest-paying careers, especially with experience or certifications.
Conclusion: Is a Finance Degree Worth It in 2025?
Yes—if you choose the right path.
A finance degree offers clear benefits:
- High salary potential
- Strong career stability
- Diverse job opportunities
- Foundation for certifications
But it’s not the only path to success. Certifications, experience, and tech skills can also open doors.
Bottom line: A finance degree is worth it if you’re committed to the field, make smart educational choices, and supplement your degree with practical experience.