How Do I Become a Stock Analyst?

To become a stock analyst for an established investment firm, you will need to complete several tasks before obtaining an interview for the position. First, you will likely need to undertake and complete extensive education in finance or business with a much coursework in international trade and macroeconomics. Though you may be able to become a stock analyst with only a four-year bachelor's degree in finance, you will likely need a master's degree as well. The job market for stock analysis at investment banks is competitive, requiring you to have a broad, comprehensive education in the finance and investing field. Unless you obtain your education from a top-tier school, you will also need to work for a number of years at an investment firm as a researcher or in another entry level position before working your way to a stock analyst position.

The education required to become a stock analyst involves applying for and being admitted to the college or university with the best reputation for the finance field. The better the school, the more competitive the admissions process is among prospective students. If you are not a superior student in high school, your prospects for obtaining such an admittance may not be good, but you can still apply to second- or third-tier schools and obtain an excellent education. Your degree program should be in finance and macroeconomics with an emphasis on international trade. Work toward fulfilling all of the prerequisites needed to obtain a master's degree in this discipline as well.

While you are working to complete your bachelor's or master's degree, begin applying for internships at local investment banks. Though these firms do not likely handle high-stakes stock trading, they probably handle real estate, mutual fund, and retirement fund management for a wide array of clients. Such an internship can give you valuable experience working for clients and analyzing market trends in a way that you can directly apply. The internship may not offer payment or a stipend, but you may be able to get a college course credit and you will have the first entry for your resume.

To become a stock analyst, begin applying to investment banks, firms, and other organizations that trade in various stock markets once you complete your bachelor's or master's degree. You can use the network of colleagues and professors that you establish at school to help find leads on possible positions, and often, this professional network will provide the best chance of finding a position as stock analyst. You may also choose to work as a stock analyst on your own, although you must usually invest your own funds to do so, which can be a risky endeavor.