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Investment Professionals

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Financial analysts can earn the title chartered financial analyst (CFA). While certification is not required, it is recommended. The CFA program, which is administered by the CFA Institute, consists of three levels of examinations. These rigorous exams deal with such topics as economics, financial statement analysis, and portfolio management. Before taking the exams, you must already have a bachelor’s degree (or four years of professional experience) and have four years' of work experience.

For certain upper-level positions, some organizations may require that you have a certified public accountant license. The Association for Financial Professionals offers the certified treasury professional credential to its members. You must have at least two years of experience as an investment professional and pass an exam.

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