A Master of Science (MSc) in Accounting and Finance is a versatile, career-focused postgraduate degree. It prepares you for today’s global job market. Whether you’re passionate about financial analysis, corporate reporting, tax advisory, or strategic management, this qualification opens doors to high-paying, respected roles across industries.
This guide explores the top careers after an MSc in Accounting and Finance. It gives you insights into job roles, salary expectations, required skills, and certifications that can boost your career. Whether you are a fresh graduate or a professional looking to upskill, understanding the finance career path after this degree is crucial for making informed decisions.
Why Choose an MSc in Accounting and Finance?
The MSc in Accounting and Finance is more than just an academic degree—it’s a professional passport that can take you into high-demand roles in banking, consulting, corporate finance, government, and even entrepreneurship. It is especially popular among students who wish to combine accounting and finance expertise to gain a strategic edge in decision-making roles.
What Does the Degree Cover?
Most MSc programs in Accounting and Finance include:
- Financial Reporting and Analysis
- Corporate Finance
- Managerial Accounting
- Taxation and Audit
- Risk Management
- Quantitative Methods for Finance
- Ethics and Corporate Governance
This well-rounded curriculum prepares students to manage real-world financial challenges, understand compliance, and lead business decision-making processes.
Who Should Consider It?
This degree is ideal for:
- Recent graduates in finance, economics, or business
- Mid-career professionals looking to advance or specialize
- Career switchers entering the financial sector
- International students aiming for global careers
Bachelor’s vs Master’s: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Bachelor’s Degree | MSc in Accounting and Finance |
| Level of Knowledge | Foundational | Advanced + Specialized |
| Job Roles | Assistant, Analyst | Analyst, Manager, Associate |
| Salary Expectations | $35,000 – $55,000 | $60,000 – $110,000 |
| Certifications Prepared For | Basic (CPA optional) | CPA, CFA, ACCA, CMA, CIMA |
Skills You Gain from an MSc in Accounting & Finance
Graduates of this program are equipped with a powerful blend of technical, analytical, and leadership skills—making them highly competitive in the job market.
Technical Skills
- Financial Statement Analysis
- Auditing & Assurance
- Budgeting & Forecasting
- Investment Appraisal
- Tax Planning
- Risk Assessment
- Corporate Valuation
- Financial Modeling (Excel, Python, R)
Soft & Strategic Skills
- Business communication
- Cross-functional collaboration
- Problem-solving under pressure
- Strategic thinking
- Leadership and ethics
- Regulatory awareness (IFRS, GAAP, SOX)
These skills are applicable across various finance career paths, from startups to multinational corporations.
Top Careers After an MSc in Accounting and Finance
Let’s explore some of the most in-demand roles for graduates:
1. Chartered Accountant (CA)
A CA manages taxation, audit, and financial compliance for businesses. Many MSc graduates choose this route alongside certifications like ACCA or CPA.
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000
- Industries: Accounting firms, finance departments, public sector
2. Financial Analyst
You’ll evaluate budgets, analyze market trends, and advise executives on financial planning. This role often leads to investment or strategy positions.
- Average Salary: $65,000 – $110,000
- Top Employers: Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, JP Morgan, Amazon
3. Investment Banker
If you thrive under pressure, this high-paying role in M&A, IPOs, and capital markets may suit you. Hours are long, but the financial rewards are substantial.
- Average Salary: $100,000 – $200,000+
- Skills Required: Valuation, Excel modeling, financial structuring
4. Auditor (Internal or External)
Auditors ensure compliance with standards, detect fraud, and improve internal processes. External auditors often work in the Big Four firms.
- Average Salary: $60,000 – $120,000
- Certifications: CPA, CA, ACCA
5. Risk Manager
You’ll identify and mitigate financial risks for banks or corporations. This role is critical in highly regulated sectors like insurance and fintech.
- Average Salary: $85,000 – $140,000
- Top Employers: HSBC, Barclays, Allianz, startups
6. Corporate Finance Manager
You’ll handle budgeting, capital structure, M&A strategy, and financial forecasting. Often leads to CFO-track roles.
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $160,000
- Skills: Strategic finance, cost control, funding management
7. Forensic Accountant
This niche role involves investigating fraud, supporting legal teams, and analyzing complex data to uncover white-collar crime.
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $130,000
- Industries: Legal, law enforcement, insurance
8. Tax Consultant / Manager
You’ll provide advice on minimizing tax liability, interpreting tax laws, and supporting audits.
- Average Salary: $80,000 – $140,000
- Common Employers: EY, PwC, KPMG, Deloitte
9. Management Accountant (CMA)
In this role, you’ll focus on budgeting, internal reporting, and operational efficiency.
- Average Salary: $75,000 – $135,000
- Certification Recommended: CMA
10. Treasury Analyst
This role focuses on liquidity, investments, and managing currency risk for large corporations.
- Average Salary: $70,000 – $120,000
- Industries: Banking, manufacturing, logistics
Emerging Careers in Accounting and Finance
The world of finance is rapidly evolving. Here are future-focused roles to watch:
ESG Reporting Specialist
With global attention on sustainability, businesses now hire specialists to manage Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) disclosures.
Fintech Analyst
Combining finance and tech, this role analyzes blockchain, crypto, digital wallets, and AI-powered tools for investment or risk use cases.
Financial Data Analyst
Strong demand for professionals skilled in data visualization (Tableau, Power BI), Python, and predictive analytics.
Industries Hiring Accounting and Finance Graduates
| Industry | Key Employers |
| Public Accounting | Deloitte, EY, PwC, KPMG |
| Investment Banking | JP Morgan, Barclays, Goldman Sachs |
| Corporate Finance | Amazon, Unilever, Shell |
| Consulting | McKinsey, Accenture, BCG |
| Government & NGOs | World Bank, UN, IMF |
| Technology & Startups | Stripe, Google, Coinbase |
Salary Expectations After MSc in Accounting & Finance
Average Salaries by Role
| Role | Entry-Level | Mid-Level | Senior-Level |
| Financial Analyst | $60,000 | $85,000 | $110,000 |
| Auditor | $55,000 | $75,000 | $120,000 |
| Investment Banker | $100,000 | $150,000 | $250,000+ |
| Risk Manager | $85,000 | $110,000 | $140,000 |
| Tax Manager | $80,000 | $110,000 | $150,000 |
Salaries vary based on location, industry, and certifications.
Certifications to Boost Your Career Post-MSc
Adding professional credentials can significantly improve job prospects:
- ACCA – Widely recognized in over 180 countries
- CPA – Strong in US, Canada, Australia
- CFA – Ideal for investment-focused roles
- CMA – Preferred for managerial accounting roles
- CIMA – Strategic management accounting (UK-based)
Choosing the Right Finance Career Path
When selecting a finance career path, ask yourself:
- Do you enjoy strategic planning or technical accounting?
- Do you prefer working independently or in teams?
- Are you open to travel or relocation?
- Are you comfortable with long hours and high-pressure roles?
Use tools like LinkedIn’s career explorer, informational interviews, or internships to gain clarity.
FAQs: Careers in Accounting and Finance After MSc
- Is an MSc in Accounting and Finance worth it?
Yes. It offers advanced knowledge, better salaries, and access to leadership roles. - Can I get a job abroad after this degree?
Absolutely. With the right certifications (ACCA, CPA), international roles are very accessible. - Do I need a certification alongside my MSc?
While not mandatory, certifications like ACCA or CFA improve your global employability. - What’s the highest-paying job after an MSc?
Typically, investment banking and senior corporate finance roles.
Final Thoughts: Your Future in Finance Starts Here
Pursuing an MSc in Accounting and Finance can be a game-changer. It combines technical rigor, global relevance, and career flexibility. Whether you aim to become a CFO, work on Wall Street, join a fintech unicorn, or lead in ESG, this degree is your launchpad.
Institutions like Maverick Business Academy London offer globally recognized and industry-relevant MSc pathways in Accounting and Finance, designed to equip graduates with both technical expertise and strategic leadership skills. Their programs, which follow internationally regulated qualifications, also provide flexible learning formats for working professionals and international students seeking a cost-effective route to advanced finance careers.
Align your interests with the right careers in accounting and finance, pursue relevant certifications, and continuously build your skillset. The world of finance is vast, and your opportunities are just beginning.
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