For investment management roles, the work often relates to specific security selections. For Endowments and Pensions, the question is a bit broader. What asset classes? How much of each? What can we expect for a return?
Depending on the role, you can spend a lot of your time communicating investment ideas and results, or you can spend a great deal of time completing due diligence on potential investments.
Both CFA and CAIA certifications are important for professionals in this field. Learn more about these in the certifications section.
This is one area where strong communication skills and interpersonal skills are a plus.
All Finance Majors need to take three Finance Electives. For this career path, these the best options are:
- FIN:4250 Applied Equity ValuationIn this course you will actually be managing a portfolio and will develop strong modeling skills to select stocks for the portfolio
- FIN:4220 Fixed Income SecuritiesThis course will cover a variety of fixed income investments analysis and valuation.
- FEGFEG has a variety of internships in that are a semester long and will be an amazing learning experience.
- Cambridge AssociatesWant to work on the East Coast? This is an excellent opportunity.
- The CFA is the Gold Standard of Financial AccreditationsThis exam is very important in this industry. You may take Level I during your final undergraduate year. But be careful! Less than 50% of the test takers pass, so you need time to study!
- Chartered Alternative Investment AnalystThe CAIA is similar to the CFA, with a strong focus on alternative asset classes
Pioneering Portfolio Management by ISBN: 9781416544692Publication Date: 2009-01-06In his fourteen years as Yale's chief investment officer, David Swensen has revolutionised management of the university's investment portfolio. Pioneering Portfolio Management provides a road map for creating a successful investment program.
You need to know this man if you want to be in this career. Period.
- Pensions and InvestmentsCurrent industry news online.
- Commonfund ResearchCommonfund is a huge manager for endowments.
- Insights from Fund Evaluation GroupLearn what a leading consultant sees in the markets.
- Cambridge Associates InsightsResearch Available from Cambridge Associates
- Yale Endowment ReportsThis University created the endowment model. See what they are doing to manage their endowment.
- Marquette Associates ResearchAnother great consulting firm shares their research.