CFA vs. MBA

CFA stands for Chartered Financial Analyst, and MBA stands for Master of Business Administration. An expert in Business Administration and a CFA expert are both respectable positions in finance. There is a relation between the two because the course of studies and curriculum are almost entirely interlinked. For any candidate who wants to build a career in finance, it is vital to understand the crucial differences between the two.

MBA - Master of Business Administration

MBA or Master of Business Administration is a two-year full-time study course. As the name suggests, the course deals with teaching the students various aspects of running a business. There are multiple units in the MBA course - starting from human resource management to accounting and systems technology.

The MBA curriculum is comprehensive and integrated. Getting an MBA degree is quite expensive. There are two reasons why the degree is so pricey - candidates have to pay for tuition fees and miss out on the earning opportunities during the course tenure. However, the MBA course is coupled with internships and amazing campusing opportunities for the brighter future of the candidates.

CFA - Chartered Financial Analyst

CFA or Chartered Financial Analyst is the course introduced back in 1962. A CFA has more to do with the finance sector. Finance is a part of the MBA degree, whereas the CFA degree revolves around it. This is the significant difference in curriculum between the two. There are three skills that CFA specializes in - asset allocation, investment analysis, and portfolio strategy.

Getting a CFA degree is more cost-effective than getting an MBA degree. CFA is a course that is mainly based on self-study. Thus, while pursuing the course, a candidate can also earn alongside. Also, the tuition fees are lesser than that of an MBA degree. The only issue with the CFA degree is that multiple tiers of the exam are complicated to pass.

Difference Between MBA and CFA

Here are some crucial differences between both degrees. Before starting the differences, it is essential to know that less than one candidate who begins the CFA program can complete the three exam levels within five years. Whereas pass rate of candidates in 1st year of MBA study is 95 %, and the pass rate of MBA 2nd year candidates is 90 %. But with proper guidance from CFA experts and regular classes from CFA online coaching, it is feasible to complete the course successfully.

Skills:

MBA

• Management Skills
• Operations
• Marketing
• Human Resource Management
• Finance

CFA

• Finance Skills
• Investment Analysis
• Asset Allocation
• Portfolio Strategy
• Duration

MBA- 2 Years Full Time

CFA- 3 levels - 300 hours for completion of each level

Cost

MBA- $65,000 - $100,000

CFA- $1000 - $1700

Study Mode

MBA-Classroom Lecture Based. Students need to attend lectures in business schools.

CFA-Rigorous self-study programs. Study at your speed and according to your own schedule. Appear for the exams at the end.

Job Prospects

MBA

• Financial Services
• Education Department
• Government Public Sector
• Energy
• Consultation
• Manufacturing Sector
• Media
• Entertainment
• Sports
• Technology
• Business house

CFA

• Portfolio Manager
• Research Analyst
• Chief Executive
• Investment Analyst
• Relationship Manager
• Financial Advisor
• Consultant
• Risk Manager
• Corporate Financial Analyst
• Focus Areas

MBA

• Finance
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Information Technology
• Operations Management
• International Business

CFA

• Investment Tools
• Fixed Incomes
• Alternative Investment
• Derivatives
• Equity Investment
• Portfolio Management
• Wealth planning
• Asset Valuation
• Ethical and professional standards

Conclusion

MBA- Business Management Focused

CFA- Finance Focused

Do You Need CFA coaching?

CFA course Mumbai is one of the most trending courses in the financial domain. To explore a blooming career as a Chartered Financial Analyst, you must clear the CFA exams, which are regarded as one of the most challenging examinations ever. With CFA online coaching, you can ace the exams and experience a bright future as a successful Chartered Finance Analyst.