A Master of Finance can be an exceptional investment in your career. Today's businesses are interested in hiring employees who have a high level of education, a depth of knowledge in the field, and a forward-thinking, innovative ability to help keep the company moving forward. Many people obtain a bachelor's degree in finance and then get started in the field. Yet, completing your master's degree can provide advantages that will help you stand out from your peers.

Employers appreciate your advanced degree

The Graduate Management Admission Council reports that 78 percent of employers hired at the master's level during 2014 and 78 percent plan to do the same for 2015. In short, employers are more likely to fill a position with a candidate with a master's degree versus one who has not pursued an advanced degree.

Why do employers want to hire those with more education in today's financial sector? The reasons are numerous.

• Those with a master's degree are not only knowledgeable but have more modern, recent education to use to benefit their company.
• Those with a higher level of education have more leadership and management skills, both of which are key factors in today's diverse workplace.
• Most with a master's degree have both advanced education and work experience, an important qualification for many businesses.

Get your questions answered about going back to school

Even with the the fact that advancing your education could increase your employability, many people wonder if going back to school is really right for them. They may be unsure about their ability to do well, to re-learn how to study, and balance work, life, and school. Consider these common questions:

What is the financial benefit?

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, those who earn a master's degree or higher have an average annual salary of $55,242 (in all sectors) while those with only a bachelor's degree earn $48,877. This is a 30 percent difference in average wage.

What type of position or career can a master's help you achieve?

Many people wonder about the career advancement opportunities a master's degree can provide. Those with a master's may qualify for:

• Senior financial analyst
• Commercial or investment banker
• Financial controller or director
• Chief financial officer
• Real estate finance manager
• Insurance finance manager
• Management roles in any finance department

With a master's in finance, your résumé is more impressive to employers and provides them with a better reason to hire you over other candidates. It also aids in promotions within the same company.

What are the advantages of getting a master's degree in finance?

You'll be better qualified for positions that require management or leadership skills. You'll be able to focus your education on a specific topic that interests you, making you an ideal candidate for positions in that field. And you'll have a higher sense of recognition and accomplishment because you've taken on this advanced degree.

Most master's degrees in finance can be completed in less than two years  and are available on flexible schedules to encourage busy professionals working in the field to complete the coursework. For those who anticipate advancing in this field, continuing your education is perhaps one of the most important decisions you can make.

Johnson & Wales University offers an online Master of Science — Finance degree and a Master of Business Administration — Finance. For more information, complete the "Request Info" form on this page or call 855-JWU-1881.