FRM vs BBA: Which is the Right Career Path for You?

FRM vs BBA: Which is the Right Career Path for You?

Every individual aspires to build a successful career. From an early age, students start envisioning their future professions. You must have had a dream career in mind too, right? While the knowledge and skills gained during early schooling years are essential, it is your higher education that plays a defining role in shaping your career growth and success.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Education Path

The course you choose during your higher education years determines your job opportunities, salary potential, and industry exposure. For finance and accounting aspirants, there are numerous options available, making it natural to feel confused about which path to pursue. One of the most common dilemmas is choosing between FRM (Financial Risk Management) and BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration).

Exploring Your Options: Traditional vs. Professional Courses

Students with a background in finance and accounting have a bright future, but success depends on making informed choices. While BBA is a traditional degree program that provides a solid foundation in business administration, FRM certification is a professional course focusing on financial risk management, financial markets, and portfolio management.

Many students debate whether to follow the conventional route of a BBA degree or opt for a specialized professional certification like FRM. Understanding the major differences, career prospects, and industry demand for both qualifications is crucial in making the right decision.

Making an Informed Choice: FRM vs BBA

If you are unsure about which course is better, this post will provide a thorough comparison based on key aspects. Whether you aim to become a risk manager, investment banker, or financial analyst, understanding your options will help you choose the right path for a rewarding career in the finance industry.

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FRM (Financial Risk Manager)

This certification is granted by GARP. The FRM course enhances the students' practical skills and knowledge in risk management. However, the association does not grant this certification randomly. It conducts a two-part examination. The candidates who qualify for this assessment achieve the FRM title. This certification is recognised in more than 195 countries and territories. As a result, you get easy access to global job opportunities. 

Pros

Enhances Skills and Knowledge

FRM is a professional certification course. It enhances your practical skills and knowledge in a brief period. The course includes real-life case studies. Such case studies allow you to learn about the real-world application of varying concepts. 

Enhances Career Prospects

Another benefit of the FRM course is that it offers a large pool of job opportunities. You can also explore various profiles in the field. It allows you to work under top employers worldwide. 

Increased Earning Potential

The FRM certification gains global recognition. As a result, the top employers acknowledge your expertise. They are keen to hire risk management experts and offer them high salary packages.

Cons

Low Pass Rate

The FRM examination's pass rate is quite low. Students must choose nothing but the best, like NorthStar's FRM course, to clear the paper on the first attempt.

BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)

BBA is the following contender within the FRM vs BBA debate. It is a conventional path that specialises in principles associated with business and administration. Under this course, you'll get to learn topics like: 

  • Finance

  • Marketing

  • Human Resources

  • Entrepreneurship 

Pros

Enhances Knowledge

BBA is a comprehensive course offering extensive knowledge. It mainly focuses on theoretical knowledge. BBA introduces you to the knowledge world of business administration. 

Lucrative Job Options

BBA graduates can find numerous job opportunities. However, the pay scale for these individuals is limited. 

Cons

Lack of Practical Knowledge

BBA courses mainly include theoretical knowledge. Therefore, BBA graduates do not have practical skills. They do not get exposure to the real-world applications of the concepts they study.

Time Commitment

Usually, BBA is a three-year course. So, you will have to spend your three years on this course.

FRM Vs BBA 

You must be very careful when making a choice between two courses. The FRM vs BBA debate is no different. You must compare both courses thoroughly. Several differentiating aspects will help you make the right choice for your bright future. So, go through the thorough comparison between FRM and BBA below.

FRM Vs BBA Eligibility

FRM 

  • High school diploma or 10+2 educational qualification

BBA

  • High school diploma or 10+2 educational qualification

  • Minimum aggregate percentages vary from one college to another

FRM Vs BBA Examination

FRM

Part 1 (100 MCQs)
  • Foundations of Risk Management

  • Quantitative Analysis

  • Financial Markets and Products

  • Valuations and Risk Models

Part 2 (80 MCQs)
  • Market Risk 

  • Credit Risk

  • Operational Risk and Resiliency

  • Treasury and Liquidity Risk Management

  • Risk and Investment Management

  • Financial Markets' Current Issues

BBA

BBA does not have a single entrance test. Some colleges offer admission based on Class 12th marks. On the other hand, some institutes conduct examinations. Some of the many BBA entrance examinations include the following.  

  • DU-CUET

  • IPMAT

  • JIPMAT

  • NPAT

  • SET

In general, the exam curriculum tests the following skills of the candidates- 

  • Skills in English Proficiency

  • Skills in Numerical Aptitude & Data Interpretation

  • Analytical & Reasoning Skills

  • General Aptitude & General Knowledge  


FRM Vs BBA Exam Structure

FRM

The FRM examination has two parts. 

  • Part 1- 100 MCQs

  • Part 2- 80 MCQs

All these questions have equal weightage. FRM examination is a computer-based test. 

BBA

No fixed exam structure is followed for the BBA entrance exams. 

FRM Vs BBA Exam Dates

Below are the exam dates for both parts of the FRM exam:

Exam Window

Part 1

Part 2

May, 2024

11th May - 17th May

12th May - 22nd May

August, 2024

9th August - 10th August

9th August - 10th August

November, 2024

9th November - 15th November

16th November - 19th November


BBA

Every year, BBA entrance exams are conducted in May and June. 

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FRM Vs BBA Cost

FRM Course Fees

Part 1 

New Candidates

  • Enrolment Fee: $400

  • Exam Fee: $600 - $800

  • Total: $1000 - $1200

Returning Candidates

  • Exam Fee: $600- $800

  • Total: $600- $800

Part 2 

Exam Fee: $600- $800

BBA

INR 50 thousand and INR 6 lakhs is the average range for BBA cost. It can go higher or below this range, depending on the college. 

FRM Vs BBA Job Opportunities

FRM

  • Treasury Risk Manager

  • Credit Risk Manager

  • Risk Analyst

  • Market Risk Manager

  • Investment Analyst

  • Quantitative Analyst

  • Portfolio Manager

  • Claims Manager

BBA

  • Sales and Marketing Manager

  • Product Manager

  • Management Consultant

  • Business Development Manager

  • Operations Manager

  • Research Assistant

  • Operations Analyst

  • Sales Executive

  • Loan Officer

FRM Vs BBA Employers & Salary

FRM

The Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification is a globally recognized credential and the top choice for risk management aspirants. It is highly valued by leading employers, including the Big 4 companies, making it your gateway to the global job market.

One of the biggest advantages of earning an FRM certification is the high salary potential. Employers actively seek FRMs for their specialized expertise in financial risk management, offering lucrative packages. In India, the average salary of an FRM professional is INR 8 LPA, with even higher earning potential in international markets.

By pursuing FRM, you not only gain in-depth knowledge of financial risks but also enhance your career prospects in investment banking, portfolio management, and financial analytics.

BBA

BBA graduates have a lower pay scale compared to FRMs. They get around INR 5 LPA in India.

Why Choose NorthStar Academy for FRM Preparation?

NorthStar Academy is one of the best coaching institutes for FRM exam preparation. Our comprehensive FRM course covers everything from level 1 to advanced topics, ensuring that you gain the required skills to excel as a risk professional. Our industry experts provide guidance and support throughout your journey to help you achieve your dream career in the finance domain.

Start Your FRM Journey Today!

The FRM vs BBA debate is not as confusing as you might think. FRM is the clear winner between these two. So, start preparing for its examination today and achieve your accreditation. NorthStar Academy is the best coaching institute for FRM preparation. Our comprehensive FRM course starts from the basics and helps you understand all the advanced topics in detail. So, enrol in our FRM program today to boost your career growth. We have teachers that will support you throughout your journey and ensure success. 

Contact us on WhatsApp to know more. 

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Conclusion

Higher education courses play a crucial role in shaping your future. Therefore, making an informed decision is essential. If you are considering a career in finance, you might be wondering whether to pursue a BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration) or FRM (Financial Risk Management) certification. While both qualifications have their own benefits, FRM offers a solid foundation in financial risk management, making it a sought-after certification in the finance industry.

A BBA degree focuses on business management, covering aspects like human resources, business analytics, and entrepreneurial skills. It is a great choice for those who wish to pursue an MBA (Master of Business Administration) later and explore various career opportunities in business administration. On the other hand, FRM certification, accredited by GARP (Global Association of Risk Professionals), specializes in financial risks, including liquidity risk, portfolio management, and investment banking.

If you aim to pursue a career in risk management, fintech, or international business, then FRM is the better option. It is an excellent choice for those who wish to get into the financial markets and acquire real-world expertise in advanced financial concepts.

Yes! You can pursue both courses simultaneously. While BBA provides a solid foundation in business administration, FRM enhances your expertise in financial risk management. This combination can open doors to job opportunities in investment banking, financial sector, and corporate finance, offering a lucrative salary package in LPA (Lakhs Per Annum).

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