Robert Holland, a W. P. Carey School of Business MBA student at Arizona State University, was drawn to the graduate program for its analytical focus, a core concept for financial analysts. “I saw this interesting opportunity where business and technology were combining into what is now known as business analytics,” he says. Holland plans on utilizing the knowledge he gains in the MBA program to improve his performance as a product manager for the loan program at Perpetual Education Fund, a nonprofit.
In any business, especially those in which every dollar is critical, such as Holland’s, the role of financial analyst can prove invaluable. Analysts support business growth by identifying trends in financial data that help senior managers make informed business decisions. These professionals study current and historical economic and business trends to be knowledgeable in both operations and finance.
Earning an MBA can enhance your viability as a candidate for financial analyst opportunities. According to Lawrence Licon, clinical associate professor of finance at ASU, today’s MBA serves as a “career expander” for students. ASU’s fully online Master of Business Administration program can help you grow your skills through a comprehensive curriculum with opportunities to improve leadership as you study business fundamentals used every day in the world of finance. The industry is fast-paced, competitive and ever-evolving as markets change and global events are scrutinized. MBA programs educate students on the skills to make sound business decisions, incorporate data and analytics into their workflows and communicate effectively in high-stress environments.