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FINANCIAL PLANNING AND INVESTMENT
Career Summary
The field of Finance will offer excellent employment opportunities for years to come. There is a growing demand for firms and individuals that manage corporate and public pension holdings and mutual funds. Investors pour billions of dollars into stocks, bonds, and currency daily. Most people do not have the time, let along the knowledge, to make important investment decisions without expert analysis and advice of financial planners and investment professionals. Many businesses and individuals look to financial planners for counsel and guidance in managing their money. Financial planners and investment specialists work for security and commodity brokers, exchanges, investment services and securities firms, banks, insurance companies, mutual and pension funds. New companies have emerged that track and rate the performance of various funds and investments. There are numerous web sites offering similar services. This phenomenon translates into additional job opportunities. Since jobs in the investment sector pay well and are challenging, they are highly competitive, but they do offer an unparalleled chance for career advancement to talented and motivated individuals. A 4-year college education is required for financial analysts and strongly recommended for personal financial advisors. A Master of Business Administration (MBA) is preferred.
Program Description
The GCC Financial Planning and Investment option in the Business Administration Associate of Science program consists of the core curriculum and a cluster of specialized courses. It introduces students to the myriad of financial decisions facing large corporations, small businesses, and non-profit organizations along with the analytical tools and concepts necessary to evaluate various issues and offer appropriate solutions. Coursework provides instruction in efficient money management techniques, fundamentals of financial planning, effects of new laws and regulations, investment principles and objectives, as well as various investment products. Students can learn about the operation of securities markets, investment banking, asset selection and allocation process, the American monetary system, the Federal Reserve structure, monetary and fiscal policy, American financial institutions, and essential computer skills. The program is designed to help individuals secure entry-level employment with investment banking houses, commercial banks, finance companies, stock and commodity exchanges, and securities dealers.
Students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s degree should meet with an academic and/or transfer counselor to discuss transfer requirements.
Key Skills and Characteristics
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Knowledge of economic and accounting principles and practices, financial markets, banking and the analysis and reporting of financial data. |
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Extensive knowledge of investment products, including mutual funds, annuities, stocks, and bonds. |
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Deep understanding of related financial laws and regulations. |
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Solid mathematical, computer, analytical, and problem-solving skills. |
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Effective oral and written communications and persuasive ability. |
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Self-confidence, maturity, high ethical standards, integrity. |
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Willingness to work independently and on a team. |
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Experience in using computers. |
Related Career Titles
Financial Analyst * Personal Financial Advisor * Ratings Analyst * Financial Service Associate * Investment Consultant * Securities Sales Representative * Financial Services Sales Agent * Securities & Commodities Account Executive * Financial Portfolio Manager * Financial Planner
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