What to Consider when Choosing a Business or Finance-Related Degree

Although there are exceptions to every rule, most of the people who want to go into a business or finance-related field have money on their minds. This is no surprise considering the cash to be made in the careers that these usually lead to, but knowing that you want to earn is not enough when it comes to choosing a degree.

There is a lot more to think about, and future success is something that must be planned for well in advance. To help you achieve it, here are five important questions to ask yourself before you choose your degree course…

#1: What Field Do You Want to Go Into?

Firstly, and most importantly, what career are you hoping that your degree will lead to? Not everyone will know this in advance, but in order to get the most useful education that you can, it pays to have an idea. Yes, you can change your mind further down the line, but try to go into the decision-making process with your eyes open, even if you only have a rough sketch to guide you. After all, entrepreneurs will often require a very different skill set to actuaries, forex traders, and commercial lawyers.

#2: Which Universities Have the Best Reputation in Your Field?

Once you have an idea of what you want to do, you need to carry out some research. Every student should be given information about the Russel Group (the country’s foremost universities) by their sixth form or college, yet this will not always reflect those institutions which are the most highly respected in your particular field of interest. To ascertain this, you will need to perform a more specific Google search, as those with the best programmes will open doors all around the world for those who wish to make the most of the opportunities they present.

#3: What Specialisms Would You Like Your Course to Cover?

In particular, think about what specialisms you would like your course to cover. Do you want to look at business at an international level perhaps, or would you rather explore some form of specialised investing? Every university will offer a different syllabus to its counterparts, and it’s important to look at these as closely as possible. Identify the ones that hold the most interest and utility for you, and place these at the very top of your shortlist.

#4: What Career Support Will You Receive?

Next, think about what sort of career support you will receive whilst you’re at university, and also once you graduate. The best institutions will have your future employment as a priority from the word ‘go’, and they’ll do everything they can to equip you with necessary skills and continuous assistance. Indeed, some will offer their services in helping you to network and secure job opportunities for years after you graduate, whilst others will wash their hands of you almost as soon as you walk through their doors with your diploma.

#5: Would It Be Beneficial to Complete Some Relevant Work Experience?

Finally, would it be beneficial to complete some work experience before you begin your degree, or even during it? The former can help you to stand out from other applicants when universities are assessing you as a candidate, whilst both scenarios could be gainful in helping you to secure future employment, as well as giving you an idea of exactly what you’ve signed up for. Considering that many would-be employers cite a lack of experience as a reason for rejecting recent graduates, you could help yourself to get ahead of the game and stand out from the crowd early on.

#6: What Do You Want To Do After University?

The last thing to consider is what you plan on doing after uni. You don’t need to focus on it too much, yet it’s important to have an inkling in your mind as it will impact which course you choose. Also, it will affect whether you go into the workforce or continue on a postgrad path. Online finance postgraduate courses are available if you feel that you require extra knowledge. Of course, gaining experience is imperative, too.

Take note of this advice, and you should ensure that your university experience is a positive one.