Top 10 Finance Courses in India

Why Choose a Career in Finance Today?

Finance is the cornerstone of any business, whether an established company or a start-up. From purchasing assets and raw materials to funding projects, a company’s finances determine the success of all business operations. Thus, managing finances becomes crucial for any organisation. Companies in India and abroad hire finance professionals, and the demand for finance experts is only rising.

But how do you prepare for a rewarding career in finance? You can start a career in finance at any time and age if you know what to do, how to do it, and from where to do it. Whether you have just completed your class 12, are pursuing graduation, or are perhaps working, taking one of the best finance courses in India is the first step towards building a career in the financial sphere.

Read on to learn about the top 10 finance courses in India and the job prospects they offer.

Courses on Portfolio Management and Investment Analysis

1. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is one of the most sought-after finance courses in India after graduation. The CFA course primarily deals with investment tools, asset valuation, portfolio management, and much more. It is a go-to course for students who incline toward investment management.

• Duration: The duration of this course is about 2-3 years.
• Eligibility criteria: Students with two years remaining in their undergraduate studies are now eligible to register for the Level I exam.
• Salary: The average CFA salary in India is 6-15 LPA.
• Job roles: The job profiles of CFA are Portfolio Manager, Research Analyst, Risk Manager, Corporate Financial Analyst, and Investment Banking Analyst.

Hiring companies: KPMG, Deloitte, Motilal Oswal, Morgan Stanley, and others.

2. Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA)

Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA) is a prestigious certification course highly regarded in the finance industry, particularly for professionals interested in alternative investments. This course equips individuals with specialised knowledge and skills essential for analysing, managing, and advising on alternative investment opportunities.

• Duration: The CAIA program typically spans between 12 and 18 months, consisting of two levels of examinations.
• Eligibility criteria: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university or possess relevant professional experience in the finance industry.
• Salary: CAIA charter holders typically command lucrative salaries, with potential earnings ranging from 8 LPA to 60 LPA or more in India.
• Job roles: Some of the common job roles for CAIA charter holders include Alternative Investment Analyst, Hedge Fund Manager, Private Equity Analyst, Portfolio Manager, Risk Manager, and Investment Consultant.
• Hiring companies: Some prominent hiring companies include Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, BlackRock, Bridgewater Associates, KKR, and McKinsey & Company.

3. Financial Modelling & Valuations

Financial Modelling & Valuations is a comprehensive certification course highly esteemed in the finance industry, specifically tailored for individuals keen on mastering the art of financial modelling and valuation techniques.

Embarking on the Financial Modelling & Valuations certification journey not only enhances your analytical skills and financial acumen but also positions you for exciting career opportunities and lucrative earning potential in the dynamic world of finance.

• Duration: The course typically spans between 3 and 6 months, offering in-depth training and practical applications.
• Eligibility criteria: Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university, preferably in finance, accounting, economics, or related fields.
• Salary: Individuals with expertise in this field can command attractive salaries, ranging from 8 LPA to 30 LPA or more in India.
• Job roles: Some common job roles include Financial Analyst, Investment Analyst, Equity Research Analyst, Investment Banker, Corporate Finance Manager, and Valuation Specialist.
• Hiring companies: Leading companies such as Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Deloitte, J.P. Morgan, and McKinsey & Company actively seek candidates with expertise in financial modelling and valuations.

Courses on Risk Management

4. Financial Risk Manager (FRM)

The US-based Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP) offers the Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification. Risk management professionals are primarily involved in analysing and controlling potential liquidity, credit, and market risks. 

• Duration: The duration of the course ranges from 2 to 3 years.
• Eligibility criteria: The eligibility criteria for this course are a bachelor’s degree and two years of relevant work experience.
• Salary: The average salary of an FRM is in the range of 3.2 – 5 LPA.
• Job roles: The FRM course gives various job opportunities in risk management, trading, structuring, and related areas.
• Hiring companies: Companies like Amazon, Deloitte, PayPal, and American Express hire FRMs.

2. Professional Risk Manager (PRM)

PRM (Professional Risk Manager) is a prestigious certification course highly respected in the finance industry, tailored for professionals seeking to specialise in risk management. This course equips individuals with advanced knowledge and skills necessary for identifying, assessing, and mitigating financial risks in various sectors.

Duration: The PRM program typically spans between 6 and 9 months, comprising rigorous training and examinations.

Eligibility criteria: Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university or possess relevant professional certifications approved by the Professional Risk Managers’ International Association (PRMIA). 

Salary: The average salary for PRM-certified individuals in India ranges from 8 LPA to 35 LPA.

Job roles: Obtaining the PRM certification qualifies individuals for various job roles in risk management, including Risk Manager, Credit Risk Analyst, Market Risk Analyst, Operational Risk Manager, Financial Risk Analyst, and Compliance Officer. 

Hiring companies: Top-tier companies such as Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, BlackRock, Deloitte, and PwC actively recruit PRM-certified professionals for key risk management positions.

Courses on Financial Planning and Wealth Management

6. Chartered Financial Planner (CFP)

Chartered Financial Planner (CFP) is a globally recognised professional course offered by the Financial Planning Standards Board (FPSB). Finance enthusiasts choose this course because of the scope of growth in the market. Chartered financial planning deals with concepts like risk analysis, financial planning, insurance planning, budgeting, financial modelling, and tax planning.

Duration: The duration of the course ranges from 6 to 24 months.

Eligibility criteria: CFP is one of the best finance courses in India after the 12th. To be eligible for this course, candidates should have qualified their 10+2 examination.

Salary:  The average salary of a Financial Planner is 3.5-10.3 LPA.

Job roles: The CFP certification opens various job opportunities with profiles such as Portfolio Manager, Tax Planner, Risk Analyst, Debt Management Specialist, Financial Advisor, and Mutual Fund Advisor.

Hiring companies: Various NBFCs and AMCs like ICICI, Chartered Bank, RBI, JP Morgan, and Visa hire CFPs.

7. NISM and NCFM Certifications

NISM (National Institute of Securities Markets) and NCFM (NSE’s Certification in Financial Markets) certifications are esteemed credentials highly regarded in the financial industry, designed to equip professionals with specialised knowledge and skills essential for navigating the complexities of the financial markets.

Duration: The duration of NISM and NCFM certification courses varies depending on the specific certification pursued, ranging from a few days to several months.

Eligibility criteria: Candidates seeking NISM and NCFM certifications typically require a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university or relevant professional experience in the financial industry. 

Salary: The average salary for individuals holding these certifications in India ranges from 4 LPA to 20 LPA.

Job roles: NISM and NCFM certifications qualify individuals for various job roles across different sectors of the financial industry, including Stock Broker, Investment Analyst, Equity Research Analyst, Mutual Fund Manager, Risk Analyst, Compliance Officer, and Financial Advisor. 

Hiring companies: Graduates certified in NISM and NCFM are sought after by leading financial institutions, broking firms, asset management companies, investment banks, and regulatory bodies. Top-tier companies such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Securities, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Axis Securities actively recruit professionals with NISM and NCFM credentials for key positions in financial markets.

Courses on Accounting, Auditing, and Financial Control

8. Certified Management Accounting (CMA)

Certified Management Accounting (CMA) is a prestigious certification course with global acceptance. This course is apt for students interested in planning, budgeting, and forecasting decisions for companies. While CMA is offered in the US, CIMA is conducted by the UK-based Chartered Institute of Management Accountants.

• Duration: The duration of the course ranges from 6 to 9 months.
• Eligibility criteria: A candidate having a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university or an IMA-approved professional certification is eligible for this course.
• Salary: The average salary of a CMA is 6.5 LPA in India, which rises up to even 50 LPA.
• Job roles: The CMA certification qualifies individuals for various job profiles, including Financial Manager, Financial Risk Manager, Cost Accountant, Cost Advisor and others.
• Hiring companies: L&T, Capgemini, Haier, and others.

9. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a prestigious certification course recognised globally for individuals seeking expertise in accounting and financial management. This course is ideal for students aspiring to excel in financial planning, analysis, and decision-making for organisations.

• Duration: The duration of the CPA course typically ranges from 18 to 24 months.
• Eligibility criteria: Candidates pursuing the CPA certification must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university
• Salary: The average salary for CPAs in India ranges from 8 LPA to 30 LPA or more, depending on factors such as experience, specialisation, and industry demand.
• Job roles: Acquiring the CPA certification qualifies individuals for various job roles in accounting, finance, and auditing. These roles include Certified Public Accountant, Financial Controller, Auditor, Tax Consultant, Financial Analyst, and Compliance Officer. 
• Hiring companies: Top-tier companies such as Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and JP Morgan actively recruit CPAs for key positions in accounting, auditing, and financial management.

10. International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)

International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) is a renowned certification course globally recognised for individuals seeking expertise in financial reporting and accounting standards. This course is tailored for professionals interested in mastering the complexities of global financial reporting practices and enhancing their career opportunities in the field of accounting and finance.

• Duration: The duration of the IFRS course typically ranges from 3 to 6 months
• Eligibility criteria: Candidates pursuing the IFRS certification must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognised college or university. Additionally, candidates may need to demonstrate relevant professional experience in accounting or finance, along with a strong understanding of accounting principles and financial reporting frameworks.
• Salary: The average salary for individuals with IFRS certification in India ranges from 8 LPA to 35 LPA.
• Job roles: Roles include Financial Accountant, Auditor, Financial Controller, Reporting Analyst, Compliance Officer, and Financial Consultant
• Hiring companies: Top-tier companies such as Deloitte, PwC, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and JP Morgan actively recruit IFRS professionals for key positions in financial reporting and accounting advisory services.

How Will Zell Help You

At this point, you might be wondering, “How can Zell assist me in my finance and accounting journey?” Zell, while not a coaching class itself, offers a unique platform for students and professionals in the financial industry. Here’s how Zell can support you:

1. Expert Guidance: Zell provides access to expert advice and insights from finance professionals who have excelled in their careers.

2. Community: Join our community of finance enthusiasts and learners to connect with peers who share your interests.

3. Information Hub: Access articles, webinars, and resources on finance and accounting topics to enhance your knowledge.

4. Career Opportunities: Explore job listings and career opportunities in the finance and accounting sector through our platform.

5. Networking: Connect with mentors, industry experts, and potential employers in the finance and accounting field.

Zell is your one-stop destination for all things finance, offering support and resources to help you excel in your journey. We are here to guide you, inspire you, and provide the tools you need to succeed.

Let Us answer your questions

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Wrapping up

Now that you have a fair idea about the best finance courses in India online and offline, it will be easier to choose which best suits your career goals and interests. All the courses discussed are in demand and recognised globally. Visit Zell Education for more information on globally recognised courses such as CFA, CMA & ACCA certification. 

FAQs on Finance Courses in India:

Which is the best finance course in India for building a strong career?

For a strong finance career in India, top courses include Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) for investment roles, Chartered Accountancy (CA) for accounting and audit, and MBA in Finance for management positions. Your best choice depends on your specific career goals and interests.

What finance courses are currently in high demand in India?

In India, several finance courses are highly sought after. These include CFA for investment management, CMA (US) for management accounting, FRM for risk management, and Financial Modelling & Valuation Analyst (FMVA) for practical finance skills. Fintech and Data Analytics in Finance are also growing rapidly.

What are some finance courses to pursue right after 12th in India?

Right after 12th in India, Zell Education offers excellent finance courses! You can start with the ACCA program or consider integrated options like ACCA + BBA or ACCA + MBA. We also prepare students for the US CMA, which can be pursued after 12th.

Are there any short-term finance courses in India worth taking?

Yes, absolutely! India has many short-term finance courses that are truly worth your time. They’re perfect for quickly boosting specific skills or exploring new areas. Think Financial Modeling, Investment Banking essentials, NISM certifications, or even IFRS. These can quickly advance your career.

How much do finance courses in India typically cost?

• For undergraduate degrees, expect around ₹20,000 to ₹3 lakh annually.
• Professional courses like CFA can be ₹2.5 to ₹3.5 lakh in total.
• FRM is about ₹1.5 lakh.
• Shorter certifications, like NISM, are typically ₹1,500 to ₹3,500.
• and financial modelling courses are ₹12,000 to ₹50,000. It really depends on the program and institution.

Can I take online finance courses in India that are recognised by employers?

Yes, many online finance courses in India are recognised by employers! Look for programs from reputable institutions or professional bodies. Certifications like CFA, FRM, US CMA, ACCA, and NISM, available online, are highly valued and can definitely boost your career.

Are there any government-recognised finance courses in India?

For government-recognised global finance courses, Zell Education is an excellent choice. They offer programs like ACCA and US CMA, which hold strong international recognition and open doors to diverse, reputable finance careers.

Anant Bengani, brings expertise as a Chartered Accountant and a leading figure in finance and accounting education. He’s dedicated to empowering learners with the finest financial knowledge and skills.