Program Overview: Associate Degree in Banking and Finance
Majors Overview June 15, 2013Banking and finance associate degree programs teach students general accounting practices and monetary principles. This degree is originally offered in an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) format.
A.A.S. in Finance and Banking
Students who successfully complete these programs can seek entry-level jobs at financial institutions such as insurance agencies, credit unions and banks. Program courses include topic areas such as business ethics, financial planning, basic economic theory, and banking structures. An internship is featured in some programs that allow degree candidates to do supervised work at financial institutions. It generally takes about two years of full-time study to complete these programs and applicants seeking admission are only required to hold a general educational development (GED) certificate or a high school diploma.
Program Coursework
These programs feature curricula composed of core finance and banking courses as well as different elective requirements. Electives include classes such as liberal arts, public speaking, and English composition. Program course topics may include the following:
•Databases and spreadsheets
•Banking information systems
•International banking
•Accounting
•Macroeconomics
Career Options
The associate degree programs emphasize on strong customer service skills, so most graduates work directly with the public in banking settings. Students who have earned their associate degree find themselves pursuing support service positions in the financial community. Individuals may obtain the following job titles:
•Sales representative
•Bank teller
•Insurance agent
•Customer service agent
Information on Continuing Education
There are many options to select from for those who are interested in furthering their education beyond the associate degree level. Bachelor degree programs in finance and banking are available. These degree programs will be found in a wide array of program names and degree formats. Examples include a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Financial Management or a Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) with a concentration in banking.
Most associate degree programs in finance and banking are offered at vocational and technical colleges, which have transfer credit policies with affiliated four-year universities. Individuals who are interested in furthering their education by enrolling into a bachelor degree program should check the transfer credit policy of their desired school before enrolling.
