Question : Is the CFA level 1 sufficient to switch careers?
Hi all,

I have a degree in computer science and have been working in IT for almost 5 years as a software engineer. It has taken me 5 years to realize that programming is not for me and would like to use my analytical skills and tech savvy for finance.

I have since wanted to pursue a masters degree in finance, risk management, or financial engineering, until I came across the CFA program.

I am now hoping to pursue a career as an investment banker, hedge fund analyst or portfolio manager. If I pass my CFA level 1 exam, and become a level 2 candidate, will this open any doors for me in the financial sector leading to the careers listed above?

I am not ruling out grad school, but the CFA route is far more appealing.

Thanks!
financial risk management software

Best answer:

Answer by Sark
CFA Level 1 will open a lot of doors for you but you need to clear all 3 levels to get the full benefit.

One of my friends completed level 1 last June and has seen payoffs come his way (salary hikes, better job responsibilities and more).

So the bottom line is, you get CFA advantage in parts. Each level you complete is an achievement. Specially in investment banking, a CFA almost always scores over an MBA.