Short-Term Finance Certifications Working Professionals Can Pursue Alongside Work

For finance professionals, keeping up with industry changes and cultivating new skills has become a necessity instead of a choice. However, not everyone can take long courses like an MBA or multi-year professional qualifications. This is where short-term finance certifications come into play, providing focused learning, international recognition, and advancement opportunities without conflicting with full-time employment. 

Here are some of the most sought-after short-term finance certifications professionals can opt for.

What are the Short-term Certifications for Working Professionals?

Short-term finance certifications are a great option for working professionals looking to enhance their skills and obtain internationally recognized credentials to improve their promotion prospects without taking time off work. The certifications you pursue will depend on your professional objectives, whether in accounting, investment, banking, or one of the newer areas such as FinTech.

1. DipIFR (Diploma in International Financial Reporting).

• Duration: Approximately 6 months.
• Provider: ACCA, UK
• Ideal candidate: Finance and accounting professionals dealing with Ind AS or IFRS-based reports.
• Value: Due to the universal implementation of IFRS, this certification has become relevant and valuable in India and overseas, particularly for professionals working in multinationals and the Big 4 firms.

2. CFA Investment Foundations Certificate.

• Duration: 3–6 months.
• Provider: CFA Institute.
• Ideal candidate: Individuals pursuing a career in financial markets, investment banking, or asset management.
• Why it helps: This credential offers a great entry point to the finance landscape with strong principles in financial markets, ethics, and investment roles.

3. Financial Modelling and Valuation Courses.

• Duration: 2–4 months.
• Provider: Institutions like CFI, NSE Academy, and Coursera.
• Who should pursue: People interested in a career in investment banking, equity research, or corporate finance.
• Why it helps: Practical knowledge and skills in Excel, as well as in valuation and decision-making, will be acquired, which are highly sought after in the job market.

4. Certificate in Treasury and Risk Management (CTRM)

• Duration: 3–6 months
• Offered by: IIBF (Indian Institute of Banking & Finance) and other global institutes
• Who should pursue: Banking, finance, and corporate treasury professionals.
• Why it helps: Skills in liquidity management, cash flow, foreign exchange and risk are needed in corporate finance roles.

5. Certificate in IFRS & Ind AS (by ICAI)

• Duration: 3–4 months
• Offered by: Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
• Who should pursue: Chartered Accountants and accounting professionals working with listed companies or MNCs.
• Why it helps: Essential for those in the financial reporting arena, as it deepens knowledge on Ind AS and IFRS.

6. Certified Financial Planner (CFP) – Module-Based

• Duration: Each module 2–3 months (Entire program takes longer, but a modular structure is provided)
• Offered by: FPSB
• Who should pursue: Individuals in personal finance, wealth management, or advisory services.
• Why it helps: Validates expertise in personal financial planning, tax planning, and investment advisory services.

7. NSE’s Certification in Financial Markets (NCFM)

• Duration: 1-2 months (depends on module)
• Offered by: NSE Academy
• Who should pursue: Beginners and mid-career stock market, derivatives, and banking professionals.
• Why it helps: Specialization in bank operations, derivatives, and securities markets.

8. Certificate in FinTech

• Duration: 3-6 months
• Offered by: IIMs, other global universities, and several online platforms.
• Who should pursue: Banking, finance, and accounting professionals needing fintech adaptation.
• Why it helps: Topics include innovations in finance, AI, blockchain, and digital payments.

 

Did you know? As per LinkedIn Learning’s 2024 Workplace Report, professionals holding short-term certifications in finance and technology were promoted 30% faster than those who relied solely on work experience.

 

Learn More 

• What is ACCA?
• What is a CPA Course?
• Salary of ACCA 
• Exemption Calculator for ACCA

FAQs on Short-term Certification for Working Professionals 

Which short-term certification offers the best ROI for finance professionals?

DipIFR, Financial Modelling, and Certificate in IFRS/Ind AS are India and globally recognized certifications and require just 3–6 months for a huge career impact.

Are these certifications recognized by employers?

Yes. ACCA, CFA Institute, ICAI, NSE, IIBF, and other body certifications have strong recognition and boost professional credibility.

While it is technically feasible to chase several certifications at once with work commitments, I recommend that you pursue one at a time to ensure a balance between work, studies, and other commitments.