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Should i pursue- finance with accounting or economics or just straight finance?
I am a Year 13 student trying to decide whether I should pursue a degree in Finance & Accounting, Finance & Economics, or just Finance.
I want a stable, decent-paying career, but I do not want anything too high stakes or high pressure like investment banking or trading. I am also not aiming to go to the very top 1% of universities. I have an interest in the legal side of things, but I know that career progression is generally easier to navigate in the finance sector.
I am currently confused about whether to combine finance with accounting or economics. When it comes to finance, I am really drawn to the risk management side something that might be considered a bit boring, but pays well and offers good stability.
On the other hand, I also really love the development and policy modules within economics. However, I want to avoid the heavy statistics side of the subject. Given these specific preferences, I am stuck on which option is the right pick for me.
70 answers
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Anand’s Answer
Hi May,
I'm glad you're asking the right questions and have a sense of what interests you and what doesn't.
I began with a BA in Economics and went on to get a PhD. Economics is very theoretical and helps you develop an analytical mindset. It's not the quickest path to a job, but it prepares you well for further studies, like Law, which you mentioned as a possible interest.
Finance and Accounting are more practical fields. They often lead to jobs right after college, even if your school isn't top-ranked. Finance can be a good path for risk management careers, but these high-paying jobs are competitive. It might be harder to find a job after graduation if you attend a lower-tier school.
In today's world, I suggest not limiting yourself to just these fields. Learning some data science and basic Python programming is important. As AI automates tasks, there will be a need for auditors to ensure AI tools work correctly. This knowledge will help you stand out and be prepared for the future.
Best of luck!
I'm glad you're asking the right questions and have a sense of what interests you and what doesn't.
I began with a BA in Economics and went on to get a PhD. Economics is very theoretical and helps you develop an analytical mindset. It's not the quickest path to a job, but it prepares you well for further studies, like Law, which you mentioned as a possible interest.
Finance and Accounting are more practical fields. They often lead to jobs right after college, even if your school isn't top-ranked. Finance can be a good path for risk management careers, but these high-paying jobs are competitive. It might be harder to find a job after graduation if you attend a lower-tier school.
In today's world, I suggest not limiting yourself to just these fields. Learning some data science and basic Python programming is important. As AI automates tasks, there will be a need for auditors to ensure AI tools work correctly. This knowledge will help you stand out and be prepared for the future.
Best of luck!
Thanks for the advice.
may
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Ericka ’s Answer
I’d say accounting and finance make a good combination, since they are closely related. If you’re interested, you can also earn a few certifications that may open up more job opportunities. In accounting, you have the CPA, and in finance, there are other certifications, or perhaps something related to stock advising.
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Patrick’s Answer
All three are great options. Based on the preferences you listed, Finance and Accounting sounds like the best fit. The skills you build there are very transferable and can keep a lot of doors open across accounting, finance, and economics related roles. For context, I majored in economics and minored in accounting. After college, I did a few years of accounting before moving into more of a corporate finance role.
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Kalyan’s Answer
Finance with Accounting sounds like the best fit: it leads to stable, decent-paying paths like risk, compliance, audit, and corporate finance, with clearer career routes and less pressure than front-office finance.
Finance with Economics is better if you care more about policy and big-picture systems, but it often gets more theoretical and stats-heavy; straight Finance is fine, but less distinctive.
Finance with Economics is better if you care more about policy and big-picture systems, but it often gets more theoretical and stats-heavy; straight Finance is fine, but less distinctive.
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Grace’s Answer
I would suggest studying Finance with Accounting so you can transition and have education in both so you can decide what you'd like to spend your career doing with internships and through experience. It is never too early to shadow an accountant and person working in finance so you can decide, but studying both gives you a lot of flexibility and I'd recommend it.
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Crystal’s Answer
Hello you asked a great question and you're starting out right! It seems like there were a lot of other prior respondents to your question, so definitely consider all suggestions. However, please make your final decision based on what you want to do. From me, I suggest selecting combining finance and accounting if you have enough time to fit all of the classes that are required for both finance and accounting. I suggested both finance and accounting because both of these career paths offer high stability and open a variety of opportunities. In the end, please pick the options that you want for yourself.
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Patrick’s Answer
I don't think you could go wrong with any of the options you've listed. However, Accounting and Finance would provide you with a ton of opportunities in a field that has a lot of needs, especially with an aging workforce. Pairing Accounting and Finance will give you a very strong foundation as Accounting has a very significant influence in Finance. Most of Finance utilizes the financial data, concepts, and deliverables from the Accounting field. Having a background both will make you a very sought after candidate regardless of which field you ultimately pursue upon graduation.
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Marty’s Answer
May,
Congratulations on figuring out which careers interest you! There's no right or wrong choice here. Try taking beginner classes in each area and see what excites you the most. You'll always do better in something that truly interests you, rather than just following what others suggest. Keep exploring and enjoy the journey!
Congratulations on figuring out which careers interest you! There's no right or wrong choice here. Try taking beginner classes in each area and see what excites you the most. You'll always do better in something that truly interests you, rather than just following what others suggest. Keep exploring and enjoy the journey!
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Christopher’s Answer
Hi May,
Based on your preferences above, Finance & Accounting seems to be the best fit. It offers the clearest path to stable, well-paid, lower-pressure roles like risk management, compliance, internal audit, treasury, etc.
Your interest in the legal and regulatory side also points toward Finance & Accounting, since it often includes audit, compliance, controls, law, and conduct standards. Finance & Economics on the other hand is better for policy, macroeconomics, and analysis, but it usually involves more statistics and econometrics than you seem to want.
I would not recommend just Finance unless you are sure you want a broader finance path without the accounting foundation. It can still lead to good careers, but accounting seems the more reliable base for your stated goals.
My recommendation: take course work early on in college in both Finance & Accounting. Then, if possible take economics or policy electives if available to determine what you’re most passionate about.
Based on your preferences above, Finance & Accounting seems to be the best fit. It offers the clearest path to stable, well-paid, lower-pressure roles like risk management, compliance, internal audit, treasury, etc.
Your interest in the legal and regulatory side also points toward Finance & Accounting, since it often includes audit, compliance, controls, law, and conduct standards. Finance & Economics on the other hand is better for policy, macroeconomics, and analysis, but it usually involves more statistics and econometrics than you seem to want.
I would not recommend just Finance unless you are sure you want a broader finance path without the accounting foundation. It can still lead to good careers, but accounting seems the more reliable base for your stated goals.
My recommendation: take course work early on in college in both Finance & Accounting. Then, if possible take economics or policy electives if available to determine what you’re most passionate about.
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Megan’s Answer
Focus on what interests you the most. An accounting degree can open doors in many industries, giving you flexibility. Remember, you shape your career. Stay passionate, engaged, and eager to learn, and you can go in any direction you choose.
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Tom’s Answer
I’d recommend choosing the path you’re most interested in. There’s a lot of overlap between finance, accounting, and economics, and graduates from all three often compete for similar roles.
A combined degree isn’t necessary unless you have a specific goal (like CPA requirements). You can always specialize later through a master’s or certifications.
Overall, focus on what you enjoy most and your skills and experience will matter more than the exact degree title.
A combined degree isn’t necessary unless you have a specific goal (like CPA requirements). You can always specialize later through a master’s or certifications.
Overall, focus on what you enjoy most and your skills and experience will matter more than the exact degree title.
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Wong’s Answer
Hi May. Based on your interests, all three degree options can lead to successful careers, but some appear to align better with your goals than others.
Finance & Accounting may be the strongest option if your priority is career stability and clear professional pathways. Accounting knowledge is highly valued in areas such as risk management, compliance, internal audit, corporate finance, and financial reporting.
Finance & Economics can be a good choice if you are genuinely interested in development, policy, and understanding how economies function. However, economics degrees often involve significant quantitative analysis and statistics, especially in later years. If you already know that heavy statistical work is not something you enjoy, this combination may be less appealing over time.
A straight Finance degree offers flexibility and can open doors to many areas of business and finance. However, it may not provide the same specialized knowledge that accounting or economics can add. Overall, Finance & Accounting appears to match your stated preferences most closely.
Finance & Accounting may be the strongest option if your priority is career stability and clear professional pathways. Accounting knowledge is highly valued in areas such as risk management, compliance, internal audit, corporate finance, and financial reporting.
Finance & Economics can be a good choice if you are genuinely interested in development, policy, and understanding how economies function. However, economics degrees often involve significant quantitative analysis and statistics, especially in later years. If you already know that heavy statistical work is not something you enjoy, this combination may be less appealing over time.
A straight Finance degree offers flexibility and can open doors to many areas of business and finance. However, it may not provide the same specialized knowledge that accounting or economics can add. Overall, Finance & Accounting appears to match your stated preferences most closely.
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Jomi’s Answer
Hi May,
Great question! I was in a similar situation a few years ago. I chose accounting because it offers job security and many benefits. I suggest doing some research on both options and thinking about what you enjoy. People often say your job becomes like a second home, so it's important to choose something you love. I'm sure you'll make a choice that makes you happy!
Great question! I was in a similar situation a few years ago. I chose accounting because it offers job security and many benefits. I suggest doing some research on both options and thinking about what you enjoy. People often say your job becomes like a second home, so it's important to choose something you love. I'm sure you'll make a choice that makes you happy!
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Chase’s Answer
Hi May,
First of all, I don't think there is a bad option amongst any of the paths you have laid out. Personally, I was in a similar position in choosing amongst accounting, finance, or accounting (undergraduate) & finance (master's). Not all schools offer this, but some schools offer 5 year programs where you could pursue an accounting degree and a finance degree in some capacity, which is the route I went. If you still want exposure to economics courses, most business students are required to take microeconomics and macroeconomics, and you could choose additional economics classes as electives.
Based on the points that you have communicated, it sounds like you may be interested in some of the career opportunities that you could pursue with an accounting degree. Many entry level jobs on the finance side will accept an accounting degree if you can demonstrate an understanding of the finance concepts necessary for the job responsibilities (examples of coursework you take in college, certificate programs, etc.); however, many accounting related positions require a increased exposure to accounting concepts that a typical finance degree may not cover. Career progression in public accounting is also fairly predictable. Whether working for large public accounting firm, middle market firm, or a smaller family office, the path for promotion typically follows a set development plan dependent on your performance. A lot of what we do in public accounting also centers on risk assessment and risk mitigation, which aligns with your interests as well. If you were more interest in finding an industry position, you may want to research roles such as: Financial Reporting Manager, Controller, or Treasurer. None of these roles are entry level positions, but each would be something to work towards to help you structure your degree plan and career path.
All that being said, I do not think you can go wrong, but my recommendation based on the opportunities available under each path and the interests communicated in your post would be to pursue an accounting degree (paired with a finance degree if possible).
First of all, I don't think there is a bad option amongst any of the paths you have laid out. Personally, I was in a similar position in choosing amongst accounting, finance, or accounting (undergraduate) & finance (master's). Not all schools offer this, but some schools offer 5 year programs where you could pursue an accounting degree and a finance degree in some capacity, which is the route I went. If you still want exposure to economics courses, most business students are required to take microeconomics and macroeconomics, and you could choose additional economics classes as electives.
Based on the points that you have communicated, it sounds like you may be interested in some of the career opportunities that you could pursue with an accounting degree. Many entry level jobs on the finance side will accept an accounting degree if you can demonstrate an understanding of the finance concepts necessary for the job responsibilities (examples of coursework you take in college, certificate programs, etc.); however, many accounting related positions require a increased exposure to accounting concepts that a typical finance degree may not cover. Career progression in public accounting is also fairly predictable. Whether working for large public accounting firm, middle market firm, or a smaller family office, the path for promotion typically follows a set development plan dependent on your performance. A lot of what we do in public accounting also centers on risk assessment and risk mitigation, which aligns with your interests as well. If you were more interest in finding an industry position, you may want to research roles such as: Financial Reporting Manager, Controller, or Treasurer. None of these roles are entry level positions, but each would be something to work towards to help you structure your degree plan and career path.
All that being said, I do not think you can go wrong, but my recommendation based on the opportunities available under each path and the interests communicated in your post would be to pursue an accounting degree (paired with a finance degree if possible).
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Su-Ting’s Answer
Hi May,
Great question and I hear you on trying to figure out what to major in, as I had the same dilemma as well. I have a BS in Statistics and BA in Economics and this is because I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to do! I knew with these 2 majors together, it is a strong combo to go down finance, consulting, tech, etc. However, if finance is where your interests lie, I would consider the Finance and Accounting or Finance major. Economic classes will usually be more theoretical and less hands on, and I think with a focus in Finance or Finance and Accounting will give you more valuable skills. I also don't think your major defines what you can or can't do in the future though - a lot of it is based on experience as well :)
Great question and I hear you on trying to figure out what to major in, as I had the same dilemma as well. I have a BS in Statistics and BA in Economics and this is because I wasn't exactly sure what I wanted to do! I knew with these 2 majors together, it is a strong combo to go down finance, consulting, tech, etc. However, if finance is where your interests lie, I would consider the Finance and Accounting or Finance major. Economic classes will usually be more theoretical and less hands on, and I think with a focus in Finance or Finance and Accounting will give you more valuable skills. I also don't think your major defines what you can or can't do in the future though - a lot of it is based on experience as well :)
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Doug’s Answer
Accounting is essential to finance and a great choice for your degree. With an accounting degree, you can get a job working with financial statements and other accounting information. This knowledge can lead to more opportunities in finance and other areas.
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Annalise’s Answer
I have a background with a major in Business and Economics and got CPA eligibility for my position. I currently work in mergers and acquisitions due diligence for buy side and sell side. Accounting is a strong background for all finance related careers as it is the bricks of the financial statements with are the inputs with all valuations, trading portfolio, investment banking, etc. Whichever you pick, I would emphasis getting a strong background in accounting taking at least up to intermediate accounting 2. It has helped me immensely in my career and set me up for a wide array of possibilities in the future.
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Samidha’s Answer
Finance and accounting form a strong combination, as accounting provides foundational knowledge that supports a career in finance. It also keeps future options open—an accounting background complements further specialization in economics or finance and broadens career opportunities.
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Sharanya’s Answer
I would generally lean toward Finance and Accounting for someone with these preferences.
It keeps options open for stable, well-playing paths. It also connects well with legal-oriented areas such as a Tax Attorney.
It offers a good mix of stability, flexibility and career versatility without pushing into highly high-pressure roles.
It keeps options open for stable, well-playing paths. It also connects well with legal-oriented areas such as a Tax Attorney.
It offers a good mix of stability, flexibility and career versatility without pushing into highly high-pressure roles.
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Steven’s Answer
Based on what you described, Finance & Accounting looks like the best fit because it aligns well with stable, structured careers such as risk, compliance, audit, controls, and corporate finance. It also tends to give you a clearer career path than Finance & Economics, especially if you want decent pay without aiming for high-pressure areas like investment banking or trading. Finance & Economics makes more sense only if your interest in policy and development is strong enough that you would accept more theory and usually more quantitative work. Straight Finance is still a solid option, but it is broader and may give you less specialization early on, which matters if you already lean toward risk-related roles. My recommendation is Finance & Accounting, then choose electives in economics, law, or policy so you keep that interest alive without making it the core of your degree.
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Meghan’s Answer
Accounting is a great choice! great career stability, lots of earning potential but you can still have work life balance
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
1403
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Chinyere’s Answer
Hi May,
First, I want to say that you have already done something very important: you have thought carefully about what you want and, just as importantly, what you do not want. Some students focus only on salary, but you are also considering stability, work-life balance, and your interests. That is a smart approach.
Based on what you shared, Finance & Accounting sounds like the strongest fit for your goals. Since you are interested in risk management, stability, and a clear career path, accounting provides practical skills that employers value across many industries. It can open doors to careers in risk management, compliance, internal audit, financial analysis, corporate finance, and governance. These roles are often more stable and less high-pressure than investment banking or trading.
Finance & Economics can also be a great degree, especially if you enjoy development and policy topics. However, economics tends to become increasingly quantitative as you progress through university. Although not every module is statistics-heavy, data analysis and mathematical modeling are important parts of many economics programs. Since you mentioned wanting to avoid the heavier statistics side, this is something to think about carefully.
A straight Finance degree is also a solid option, but combining finance with another subject can sometimes give you a broader skill set and make you more versatile in the job market. Between the two combinations you mentioned, accounting appears to align more closely with your preference for structured career progression and stable employment opportunities.
I also noticed your interest in the legal side of things. Interestingly, areas such as risk management, compliance, financial regulation, corporate governance, and anti-money laundering sit at the intersection of finance and law. These fields often attract people who enjoy rules, regulations, and helping organizations manage risk. They can provide good salaries without the extreme pressure associated with some front-office finance roles.
My suggestion would be this: if your priority is stability, clear career pathways, and risk-related work, lean toward Finance & Accounting. If your strongest passion is understanding economic policy, development, and how governments and economies function, and you are comfortable with some quantitative work, then Finance & Economics could be a better fit.
Do not forget that your degree is only the starting point. Internships, work experience, certifications, and the skills you build during university will often have just as much impact on your career as the exact title of your degree. The fact that you are thinking about these questions now puts you in a strong position for the future.
Best wishes!
First, I want to say that you have already done something very important: you have thought carefully about what you want and, just as importantly, what you do not want. Some students focus only on salary, but you are also considering stability, work-life balance, and your interests. That is a smart approach.
Based on what you shared, Finance & Accounting sounds like the strongest fit for your goals. Since you are interested in risk management, stability, and a clear career path, accounting provides practical skills that employers value across many industries. It can open doors to careers in risk management, compliance, internal audit, financial analysis, corporate finance, and governance. These roles are often more stable and less high-pressure than investment banking or trading.
Finance & Economics can also be a great degree, especially if you enjoy development and policy topics. However, economics tends to become increasingly quantitative as you progress through university. Although not every module is statistics-heavy, data analysis and mathematical modeling are important parts of many economics programs. Since you mentioned wanting to avoid the heavier statistics side, this is something to think about carefully.
A straight Finance degree is also a solid option, but combining finance with another subject can sometimes give you a broader skill set and make you more versatile in the job market. Between the two combinations you mentioned, accounting appears to align more closely with your preference for structured career progression and stable employment opportunities.
I also noticed your interest in the legal side of things. Interestingly, areas such as risk management, compliance, financial regulation, corporate governance, and anti-money laundering sit at the intersection of finance and law. These fields often attract people who enjoy rules, regulations, and helping organizations manage risk. They can provide good salaries without the extreme pressure associated with some front-office finance roles.
My suggestion would be this: if your priority is stability, clear career pathways, and risk-related work, lean toward Finance & Accounting. If your strongest passion is understanding economic policy, development, and how governments and economies function, and you are comfortable with some quantitative work, then Finance & Economics could be a better fit.
Do not forget that your degree is only the starting point. Internships, work experience, certifications, and the skills you build during university will often have just as much impact on your career as the exact title of your degree. The fact that you are thinking about these questions now puts you in a strong position for the future.
Best wishes!
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Carrie’s Answer
Accounting is a great skill to have, no matter what job you choose. It's like the language of business and helps with job opportunities and managing your money. Whether you work in public accounting or for a company, you can have a fun and diverse career. Both areas will change with AI, so make sure to include AI in your learning and ways of working.
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Megan’s Answer
The awesome thing about accounting is that it is the building block for all business. It gives you and understanding of all aspects of the business which can give you the foundation to later in your career expand into something more specific like economics or finance if you find those topics interesting in your accounting role.
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Tyler’s Answer
Hi May,
You have some great options ahead of you. Majors can open many doors, so try to study as much as feels right for you. If you're interested in risk management within finance, combining it with accounting could be a smart move. It will give you a solid understanding of financial reporting, regulations, audits, and taxes, and could also lead to a CPA in the future. If you're leaning towards policy development, economics is a great choice, or you might consider majoring in public policy if available. While these fields might not be as stable as finance or accounting, they still offer good stability. Your interest in law could also lead you to a rewarding career in government.
I hope this helps!
You have some great options ahead of you. Majors can open many doors, so try to study as much as feels right for you. If you're interested in risk management within finance, combining it with accounting could be a smart move. It will give you a solid understanding of financial reporting, regulations, audits, and taxes, and could also lead to a CPA in the future. If you're leaning towards policy development, economics is a great choice, or you might consider majoring in public policy if available. While these fields might not be as stable as finance or accounting, they still offer good stability. Your interest in law could also lead you to a rewarding career in government.
I hope this helps!
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Christopher’s Answer
I love questions like these because they can be genuinely difficult to answer. I’d suggest taking a class or two in each subject to see which one resonates with you more. In general, combining two disciplines can be valuable because it gives you a broader perspective and helps you think across subject areas more effectively. I’d also note that economics may offer a bit more flexibility than accounting, especially as AI continues to automate more routine, data-driven tasks. In that context, developing depth in two areas rather than one can be especially useful. Best of luck! Remember there are no wrong choices here. You got this!
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Tayyab’s Answer
Hi May,
I hope you're doing great!
Honestly, you can't go wrong with your choices. Whether you choose a double major in accounting and finance or finance and economics, both will make you stand out to future employers and benefit your career. Even though I only majored in accounting, I remember my school's finance program included many economics courses at both the introductory and advanced levels. As a business major, you'll likely take introductory accounting and economics classes, so I suggest exploring what interests you the most. Also, try to network, get as many internships as you can, and look into certifications that might interest you.
Wishing you the best of luck!
I hope you're doing great!
Honestly, you can't go wrong with your choices. Whether you choose a double major in accounting and finance or finance and economics, both will make you stand out to future employers and benefit your career. Even though I only majored in accounting, I remember my school's finance program included many economics courses at both the introductory and advanced levels. As a business major, you'll likely take introductory accounting and economics classes, so I suggest exploring what interests you the most. Also, try to network, get as many internships as you can, and look into certifications that might interest you.
Wishing you the best of luck!
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Vassilios’s Answer
Public accounting offers a range of career paths that sit at the intersection of accounting, economics, and law. At Deloitte Tax, for example, you can specialize in International Tax, where the work requires both technical accounting knowledge and familiarity with legal and regulatory language. In practice, that means interpreting tax code, reading statutes and other legal documents, and applying accounting principles in a way that aligns with tax law and compliance requirements. Another strong example is Transfer Pricing, where you apply economic concepts to evaluate how related entities price transactions across borders and whether those arrangements are supportable under tax rules.
What makes these paths especially interesting is that they are not limited to pure accounting. They often offer people who like analytical problem-solving, interpreting complex rules, and connecting financial outcomes to broader business and legal considerations. If you want a career that is technical but also interdisciplinary, public accounting—especially within Deloitte Tax—can offer exactly that mix.
What makes these paths especially interesting is that they are not limited to pure accounting. They often offer people who like analytical problem-solving, interpreting complex rules, and connecting financial outcomes to broader business and legal considerations. If you want a career that is technical but also interdisciplinary, public accounting—especially within Deloitte Tax—can offer exactly that mix.
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Michael’s Answer
Hi May! As someone who has taken finance, accounting, and economics courses, I can tell you that any of them are a good choice. I think finance will give you great knowledge of investment and risk management, if that is what you're interested in. However, lots of risk management jobs will also take accounting majors as well. I think that accounting generally teaches you some great skills that are applicable in basically any career path; if you are ever thinking of starting your own business, I would strongly recommend it. You seem like you're interested in the policy side of economics, but from my experience if you choose finance or accounting, you will probably end up taking some economics courses that will expose you to that.
My bottom line: I would pick finance or accounting but don't stress about it too much. I changed my major three times in my first year (bioengineering --> physics --> accounting) and I graduated on time without too much stress. Trust your gut and you'll be just fine!
My bottom line: I would pick finance or accounting but don't stress about it too much. I changed my major three times in my first year (bioengineering --> physics --> accounting) and I graduated on time without too much stress. Trust your gut and you'll be just fine!
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Daniel’s Answer
I'd encourage you not to over-stress this decision. One of the biggest lessons I've learned is that the term "high-stakes" is often a misnomer; almost every career challenge or perceived misstep is fixable and "figureoutable," especially when you're young and have plenty of time to pivot . The most important things are to be a kind person, always do your best, and keep everything in perspective—your career is just one part of a full life. At the end of the day, the things that truly matter are outside of work, and remembering that makes navigating the professional world much less daunting.
I started with a Finance degree and now work as a lawyer in the finance industry, having found my niche at the intersection of the two. Given your interest in risk management roles with a legal flavor, my practical advice leans toward a Finance & Accounting degree. It provides the foundational "rules of the road" for business and is the most direct path to careers in compliance and operational risk, which perfectly blend your interests without the heavy statistics of an economics major (though you will have to take statistics for a Finance degree - sorry!). This solid, practical base can ironically give you more freedom to take calculated risks later in your career, knowing you have a valuable skillset to fall back on.
At the end of the day you never know where you are going to end up. One of the most famous Wall Street alumni, Michael Lewis, started as an art major, became a trader and ultimately made his biggest mark in literature! Right now you are a year 13 student and asking the right questions (and far more questions than I asked myself at this age). Just remember that you have no idea what the future has in store for you - no matter how hard you plan. Your interests may change or opportunities may present themselves. Navigate with kindness, patience and your best effort.
P.S. I'd encourage you to shoot for the top universities if it's something you want. Don't be afraid to fail—it's far worse not to try at all.
Ask yourself these questions: A. What do you want? B. What is true? How do you get A knowing B.
I started with a Finance degree and now work as a lawyer in the finance industry, having found my niche at the intersection of the two. Given your interest in risk management roles with a legal flavor, my practical advice leans toward a Finance & Accounting degree. It provides the foundational "rules of the road" for business and is the most direct path to careers in compliance and operational risk, which perfectly blend your interests without the heavy statistics of an economics major (though you will have to take statistics for a Finance degree - sorry!). This solid, practical base can ironically give you more freedom to take calculated risks later in your career, knowing you have a valuable skillset to fall back on.
At the end of the day you never know where you are going to end up. One of the most famous Wall Street alumni, Michael Lewis, started as an art major, became a trader and ultimately made his biggest mark in literature! Right now you are a year 13 student and asking the right questions (and far more questions than I asked myself at this age). Just remember that you have no idea what the future has in store for you - no matter how hard you plan. Your interests may change or opportunities may present themselves. Navigate with kindness, patience and your best effort.
P.S. I'd encourage you to shoot for the top universities if it's something you want. Don't be afraid to fail—it's far worse not to try at all.
Daniel recommends the following next steps:
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Shannon’s Answer
Hi May! Based on what you described, I would personally lean toward Finance & Accounting. I was an Accounting major with a Finance minor, and I found that the two subjects go together very well. Accounting helps you understand how businesses record and report their numbers, while finance helps you use those numbers to make decisions, understand risk, and evaluate performance.
I also think accounting is one of the more flexible things you can have connected to a finance degree. It can open doors into audit, tax, corporate finance, internal audit, risk management, compliance, insurance, consulting, and general finance roles. Since you are in London, this could be especially useful because there are many banks, insurance companies, accounting firms, consulting firms, and corporate finance teams where accounting and finance knowledge are both valuable.
Since you said you are interested in risk management and the legal side of things, you may want to look into areas like compliance, regulatory risk, internal audit, financial crime, insurance risk, or corporate governance. These can still be well-paying and stable, but they are often different from the very high-pressure environment of investment banking or trading.
Finance & Economics is not a bad option, especially if you really enjoy policy, development, and how economies work. However, I would be careful because economics degrees can involve a lot of maths, statistics, and econometrics. If you like the policy side but want to avoid heavy statistics, make sure you check each university’s module list before choosing.
Straight Finance could also work, but Finance & Accounting may give you a broader foundation and more backup options. My advice would be to compare the actual modules at each university, look for courses with placement years or professional exemptions, and choose the degree that gives you both practical career options and subjects you can stay motivated to study.
I also think accounting is one of the more flexible things you can have connected to a finance degree. It can open doors into audit, tax, corporate finance, internal audit, risk management, compliance, insurance, consulting, and general finance roles. Since you are in London, this could be especially useful because there are many banks, insurance companies, accounting firms, consulting firms, and corporate finance teams where accounting and finance knowledge are both valuable.
Since you said you are interested in risk management and the legal side of things, you may want to look into areas like compliance, regulatory risk, internal audit, financial crime, insurance risk, or corporate governance. These can still be well-paying and stable, but they are often different from the very high-pressure environment of investment banking or trading.
Finance & Economics is not a bad option, especially if you really enjoy policy, development, and how economies work. However, I would be careful because economics degrees can involve a lot of maths, statistics, and econometrics. If you like the policy side but want to avoid heavy statistics, make sure you check each university’s module list before choosing.
Straight Finance could also work, but Finance & Accounting may give you a broader foundation and more backup options. My advice would be to compare the actual modules at each university, look for courses with placement years or professional exemptions, and choose the degree that gives you both practical career options and subjects you can stay motivated to study.
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Aisha’s Answer
Great question. As someone who originally considered finance but ultimately majored in accounting and went on to earn my CPA license, I struggled with a very similar decision in my undergrad days. One piece of advice a professor shared with me that really stuck was that accounting is the language of business and helps you understand what has happened in the past and why. Finance is often focused on forecasting the future, but it’s much easier to make good financial decisions when you understand historic numbers first. That idea, along with the flexibility an accounting background provides, is what ultimately led me to switch from finance to accounting. Even today, many CFOs and senior finance leaders started their careers in accounting and hold CPA credentials because that foundation gives them a strong understanding of how businesses operate.
Based on what you’ve described, accounting may actually align better with your goals than you think! If you’re interested in risk management, regulation, policy, or the legal side of business, there are many accounting-related careers that touch those areas. I started my career in tax at Deloitte, and there was quite a bit of tax law, regulatory interpretation, and policy-related work involved. Many accounting firms also have advisory, risk, compliance, and audit practices that focus on helping organizations navigate regulations and manage risk. If a stable career is also important for you, accounting also offers the opportunity to work in tax-return type work that tends to be pretty stable and cyclical. You can also open your own business down the line if that's of interest to you! While I’m admittedly a bit biased as a CPA, but I think accounting provides a stable career path, strong earning potential, and a broad set of options if your interests evolve over time. You can always move into finance with an accounting background, but the reverse can be more difficult.
Reach out to a few professionals working in accounting, tax, or risk management to ask about their day-to-day work to see which path best algins with your interests.
Review the course requirements for each degree at the universities you are considering.
Based on what you’ve described, accounting may actually align better with your goals than you think! If you’re interested in risk management, regulation, policy, or the legal side of business, there are many accounting-related careers that touch those areas. I started my career in tax at Deloitte, and there was quite a bit of tax law, regulatory interpretation, and policy-related work involved. Many accounting firms also have advisory, risk, compliance, and audit practices that focus on helping organizations navigate regulations and manage risk. If a stable career is also important for you, accounting also offers the opportunity to work in tax-return type work that tends to be pretty stable and cyclical. You can also open your own business down the line if that's of interest to you! While I’m admittedly a bit biased as a CPA, but I think accounting provides a stable career path, strong earning potential, and a broad set of options if your interests evolve over time. You can always move into finance with an accounting background, but the reverse can be more difficult.
Aisha recommends the following next steps:
Aisha, thank you!
may
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Chen’s Answer
Hi May, Happy to answer this question as i do have some relevant background.
I did Accounting and Finance as double major/concentration with my university. I found it to be very helpful as I end up choosing Audit as my career path, and with numbers of trsanction in the market, finance background comes in handy.
If you are more intrested in Coroporate goverance, and risk management, would encourge you to get a rotational internship in some large accounting firms, which would be able to provide you different experiences in multiple aspects so you can rule out what you do not like.
Hope this helps, and good luck with everything.
I did Accounting and Finance as double major/concentration with my university. I found it to be very helpful as I end up choosing Audit as my career path, and with numbers of trsanction in the market, finance background comes in handy.
If you are more intrested in Coroporate goverance, and risk management, would encourge you to get a rotational internship in some large accounting firms, which would be able to provide you different experiences in multiple aspects so you can rule out what you do not like.
Hope this helps, and good luck with everything.
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Danielle’s Answer
Absolutely — here’s a warmer, more encouraging version you could send:
You’ve already done a really good job of thinking this through, and that’s a strength in itself. From what you’ve said, Finance & Accounting sounds like the best fit overall.
It seems like you’re looking for a path that is stable, practical, and decent-paying, without the intensity of investment banking or trading. You also mentioned that you’re interested in the legal/regulatory side of things, which fits really naturally with accounting, risk, compliance, and related areas. On top of that, if risk management appeals to you even if it sounds a bit “boring” at first, that can actually be a very smart choice — a lot of the most reliable careers are built in exactly those kinds of roles.
Finance & Economics could still be a good option if you really enjoy the policy and development side of economics, but it usually comes with more statistics and theory. Since you’ve said you’d rather avoid the heavier stats side, that makes it a slightly less comfortable fit. Straight Finance is also a solid degree, but it may feel a bit broader and less directly aligned with the areas you’ve said you’re most interested in.
So if I were being honest, I’d say:
Finance & Accounting = best overall fit for stability, structure, and risk/compliance careers
Finance & Economics = good if you’re more drawn to policy and development, but more stats-heavy
Straight Finance = flexible, but less targeted for your interests
The good news is that there isn’t one “perfect” answer here. You’re already thinking about the right things: what kind of work you’d actually enjoy, what kind of environment suits you, and what sort of future you want. That matters more than chasing the most impressive-sounding option.
Good luck with everything!
You’ve already done a really good job of thinking this through, and that’s a strength in itself. From what you’ve said, Finance & Accounting sounds like the best fit overall.
It seems like you’re looking for a path that is stable, practical, and decent-paying, without the intensity of investment banking or trading. You also mentioned that you’re interested in the legal/regulatory side of things, which fits really naturally with accounting, risk, compliance, and related areas. On top of that, if risk management appeals to you even if it sounds a bit “boring” at first, that can actually be a very smart choice — a lot of the most reliable careers are built in exactly those kinds of roles.
Finance & Economics could still be a good option if you really enjoy the policy and development side of economics, but it usually comes with more statistics and theory. Since you’ve said you’d rather avoid the heavier stats side, that makes it a slightly less comfortable fit. Straight Finance is also a solid degree, but it may feel a bit broader and less directly aligned with the areas you’ve said you’re most interested in.
So if I were being honest, I’d say:
Finance & Accounting = best overall fit for stability, structure, and risk/compliance careers
Finance & Economics = good if you’re more drawn to policy and development, but more stats-heavy
Straight Finance = flexible, but less targeted for your interests
The good news is that there isn’t one “perfect” answer here. You’re already thinking about the right things: what kind of work you’d actually enjoy, what kind of environment suits you, and what sort of future you want. That matters more than chasing the most impressive-sounding option.
Good luck with everything!
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Matthew’s Answer
Hey May!
I had a similar debate when I was in your shoes. I ended up focusing on Accounting and am glad I did!
Accounting is the language of business and will give you a solid base of knowledge to support you during your career in Finance. The Accounting field has historically been high-paying and stable ensuring job security even long into your career. The Finance field is broad but for most Finance jobs, having a strong grasp on Accounting concepts will benefit you greatly!
Also, realize that you are young and there is lots of time to explore your interests even after starting your career. If you choose one career path, and end up deciding that you want to go to the other, you can do that! Based on my understanding of the fields, I would say that you might have an easier time switching from an accounting/finance job to a economics/finance job rather then the other way around. Although, I do have a coworker who did study economics but now works in accounting. so its totally possible!
I also think that combing with Accounting will allow you time to explore your interest in the legal field. As a part of my degree, I had to take a business law class, and an accounting ethics class. I was also suprised with how much my Tax Accounting classes had overlap with law. Infact, as a part of my CPA exam, the Tax test has a lot of questions on other business law topics.
I would suggest starting out by declaring your major as Finance & Accounting, but also take an Economics class to see if you like it!
Good luck!
I had a similar debate when I was in your shoes. I ended up focusing on Accounting and am glad I did!
Accounting is the language of business and will give you a solid base of knowledge to support you during your career in Finance. The Accounting field has historically been high-paying and stable ensuring job security even long into your career. The Finance field is broad but for most Finance jobs, having a strong grasp on Accounting concepts will benefit you greatly!
Also, realize that you are young and there is lots of time to explore your interests even after starting your career. If you choose one career path, and end up deciding that you want to go to the other, you can do that! Based on my understanding of the fields, I would say that you might have an easier time switching from an accounting/finance job to a economics/finance job rather then the other way around. Although, I do have a coworker who did study economics but now works in accounting. so its totally possible!
I also think that combing with Accounting will allow you time to explore your interest in the legal field. As a part of my degree, I had to take a business law class, and an accounting ethics class. I was also suprised with how much my Tax Accounting classes had overlap with law. Infact, as a part of my CPA exam, the Tax test has a lot of questions on other business law topics.
I would suggest starting out by declaring your major as Finance & Accounting, but also take an Economics class to see if you like it!
Good luck!
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Ali’s Answer
Both combinations have value, but if the goal is job stability and security, I would lean more toward finance with accounting. Finance and economics are a strong pair because they help you understand markets, economic trends, consumer behavior, and the bigger forces that influence business decisions. That combination can be especially useful for roles that involve analysis, policy, research, forecasting, or understanding how changes in the economy affect organizations and industries. It gives you a strong conceptual foundation, and that can absolutely be valuable in a competitive job market.
However, finance and accounting may offer more practical career stability because accounting provides technical, transferable skills that organizations consistently need. Businesses of all sizes must manage financial records, prepare reports, handle tax obligations, follow regulations, and maintain accurate financial information. Those needs do not go away, even when the economy changes. When you combine accounting with finance, you are not only learning how money moves and how investments work, but also how to track, report, and analyze financial information in a way employers can immediately use. That makes the skill set more concrete and often more directly tied to day-to-day business operations.
Another reason I would lean toward finance with accounting is that it opens the door to a wider range of career paths. You could pursue roles in corporate finance, auditing, tax, financial analysis, controllership, budgeting, and even consulting. That flexibility can create a stronger sense of stability because you are not limited to one narrow path. If one area of the job market slows down, your background can still transfer into another function or industry. In contrast, finance with economics can be powerful, but it may be more dependent on roles that are specifically centered on market analysis or macroeconomic insight.
In my view, finance with accounting creates a stronger balance of strategic thinking and practical, in-demand skills. It helps you understand the bigger financial picture while also giving you the technical knowledge employers rely on every day. That combination can make you more marketable, more adaptable, and better positioned for long-term opportunities across industries. If your priority is stability, security, and versatility, finance with accounting is the stronger choice.
Ask what you want
Make a wise decision
However, finance and accounting may offer more practical career stability because accounting provides technical, transferable skills that organizations consistently need. Businesses of all sizes must manage financial records, prepare reports, handle tax obligations, follow regulations, and maintain accurate financial information. Those needs do not go away, even when the economy changes. When you combine accounting with finance, you are not only learning how money moves and how investments work, but also how to track, report, and analyze financial information in a way employers can immediately use. That makes the skill set more concrete and often more directly tied to day-to-day business operations.
Another reason I would lean toward finance with accounting is that it opens the door to a wider range of career paths. You could pursue roles in corporate finance, auditing, tax, financial analysis, controllership, budgeting, and even consulting. That flexibility can create a stronger sense of stability because you are not limited to one narrow path. If one area of the job market slows down, your background can still transfer into another function or industry. In contrast, finance with economics can be powerful, but it may be more dependent on roles that are specifically centered on market analysis or macroeconomic insight.
In my view, finance with accounting creates a stronger balance of strategic thinking and practical, in-demand skills. It helps you understand the bigger financial picture while also giving you the technical knowledge employers rely on every day. That combination can make you more marketable, more adaptable, and better positioned for long-term opportunities across industries. If your priority is stability, security, and versatility, finance with accounting is the stronger choice.
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Shankar’s Answer
The degree you choose might not be as important as you think, but it does reflect something about you, so let's explore it. Finance with Accounting is a very structured path. You'll learn how businesses record, report, and measure value. If you're interested in becoming a CPA or working in audit, tax, or corporate finance, this is a solid foundation. It may not be glamorous, but it's reliable.
Economics is broader and more about concepts. You'll study markets, incentives, and big trends. It pairs well with finance if you're aiming for investment banking, policy, research, or consulting. It focuses on how to think rather than just what to do.
Straight Finance is in the middle, covering capital markets, valuation, and portfolio management. It's ideal if you want to be involved in deals, investments, or corporate strategy.
Ultimately, choose the one where the coursework feels engaging, not like a chore. At the entry level, employers value your attitude, curiosity, and communication skills more than your specific major.
What really sets you apart are the things you do alongside your degree—like internships, certifications such as CPA or CFA, and real projects. These experiences make your resume stand out.
So, don't stress too much about picking the perfect degree. Choose what truly interests you and dive deep into it.
Economics is broader and more about concepts. You'll study markets, incentives, and big trends. It pairs well with finance if you're aiming for investment banking, policy, research, or consulting. It focuses on how to think rather than just what to do.
Straight Finance is in the middle, covering capital markets, valuation, and portfolio management. It's ideal if you want to be involved in deals, investments, or corporate strategy.
Ultimately, choose the one where the coursework feels engaging, not like a chore. At the entry level, employers value your attitude, curiosity, and communication skills more than your specific major.
What really sets you apart are the things you do alongside your degree—like internships, certifications such as CPA or CFA, and real projects. These experiences make your resume stand out.
So, don't stress too much about picking the perfect degree. Choose what truly interests you and dive deep into it.
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Saxon’s Answer
Based on your interests, Finance with Accounting seems like the best choice. It offers the career growth you want in finance and aligns well with roles in risk, compliance, controls, and insurance, which are more stable than investment banking or trading. These areas offer good starting salaries and are in demand. In general, skills in finance and accounting are sought after, and professional qualifications can boost your earnings over time.
I would rank straight Finance as your second option and Finance with Economics as third. Straight Finance is versatile and can lead to graduate programs, but it lacks the regulatory and accounting focus that benefits risk-related careers. Finance with Economics is better if you're interested in policy or macroeconomics, but since you prefer the legal and regulatory side of finance and want to avoid heavy statistics, it may not be the best fit for you. I recommend choosing Finance with Accounting, unless the course is heavily focused on auditing and you know you wouldn't enjoy that.
I would rank straight Finance as your second option and Finance with Economics as third. Straight Finance is versatile and can lead to graduate programs, but it lacks the regulatory and accounting focus that benefits risk-related careers. Finance with Economics is better if you're interested in policy or macroeconomics, but since you prefer the legal and regulatory side of finance and want to avoid heavy statistics, it may not be the best fit for you. I recommend choosing Finance with Accounting, unless the course is heavily focused on auditing and you know you wouldn't enjoy that.
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Shelly’s Answer
Based on the information you've provided, I would avoid focusing too heavily on the specific degree combination and instead think about the types of careers and work environments that appeal to you. Finance, Finance & Accounting, and Finance & Economics can all lead to successful careers, and employers often place more emphasis on your skills, internships, and academic performance than the exact title of your degree. What stands out to me is that you seem to value stability, reasonable compensation, and intellectual interest over pursuing the highest-paying or most competitive paths. I would therefore encourage you to choose the subject mix that you genuinely enjoy studying, as that will make it easier to perform well and stay engaged throughout university. It is also worth remembering that career interests often evolve; many students enter university with one destination in mind and discover entirely different opportunities along the way. The best degree is usually the one that keeps the most doors open while aligning with your strengths and interests.
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Danny’s Answer
It's perfectly okay to not have everything figured out just yet. At your age, it's normal to be exploring. Having a direction is great, but your main focus now should be discovering what truly matches your interests and strengths. Based on what you've shared, Finance & Accounting seems like a solid choice because it offers stability and clear career paths in areas like risk, compliance, and corporate finance. If you're more drawn to policy and economic issues, Finance & Economics might be better, though it's often more theoretical. Straight Finance is also an option, but it can be more limited unless you have a specific area in mind.
I encourage you to try different activities and pay attention to what you enjoy. If you already know what you like, dive deeper into it. If not, don't worry—use this time to explore, learn new skills, and gain experience. Learning how to use AI tools is also a great idea, as they're helpful in almost any business career. There are plenty of free resources online to get started, and getting comfortable with AI now will give you an edge.
If you want a recommendation, I'd suggest Finance & Accounting unless your passion for economics is much stronger. This path offers more flexibility and options as you continue to explore your interests.
I encourage you to try different activities and pay attention to what you enjoy. If you already know what you like, dive deeper into it. If not, don't worry—use this time to explore, learn new skills, and gain experience. Learning how to use AI tools is also a great idea, as they're helpful in almost any business career. There are plenty of free resources online to get started, and getting comfortable with AI now will give you an edge.
If you want a recommendation, I'd suggest Finance & Accounting unless your passion for economics is much stronger. This path offers more flexibility and options as you continue to explore your interests.
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Anita’s Answer
Based on what you've shared, Finance & Accounting seems like a great choice. It's a practical and stable path leading to careers in risk, compliance, audit, and corporate finance. These jobs usually pay well and are less intense than investment banking or trading. If you're interested in policy and big-picture economic issues, Finance & Economics might be appealing, but it can be more theoretical and involve more statistics. Choosing straight Finance is also a solid option, but adding accounting could offer clearer job paths and more flexibility. This combination aligns well with your interest in the legal and risk side and your desire for a structured career without too much pressure.
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Jackson’s Answer
Hey there! I don’t really think there’s a bad option in the finance/account career focus, but with uncertainty in what career to pick I think accounting in general provides a great understanding behind businesses and helps you understand how a business fundamentally runs (how to account for transactions, how does a company keep its books, how are financial statements prepared, etc). Also, as you grow in your career you will naturally grow in understanding financial statements, basic and complex accounting, which will allow you to explore different options or career paths (such as a finance path if you have that interest!) once you grow in your career and industry. I think if you want something more broad as well that gives you fundamentals, a career in audit may be a great idea to start! Again, I wouldn’t focus too narrowly as I don’t think there’s a bad option and you will find what you enjoy as you continue through college, hear more advice, and grow in your career.
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Safia’s Answer
Hi May!
That's a great question and you are already off to a good start by asking questions about your specific degree. My advice would be to pursue a degree in Finance & Accounting. If you prefer to choose a single major, I would recommend pursuing an accounting degree. Accounting is a very versatile degree and offers career stability along with the opportunity to pivot to various career paths. It also provides a foundation for legal education if you decide to go down that path. Even if you decide you do not want to do something in accounting specifically (Audit, Consulting, Tax, etc.), you can still pursue a career in finance, law, public policy, and various other options since it is such a flexible degree. Generally, accounting is known to be a stable career path with decent pay, lots of opportunities, and work-life balance. It is not as high pressure and/or risky as investment banking or trading, but can give you the job stability and predictable schedule you are looking for.
Ultimately, there is no wrong option here, so don't be too stressed when making a decision. Most jobs will take a wide range of degrees as long as you exemplify that you have the work ethic, knowledge, and social skills to fulfill the job requirements. Any degree with business knowledge will help excel your career. The decision depends on what you prefer long-term (work-life balance, risk, higher pay, flexibility, etc.). These would all be questions you ask yourself as you approach your career choices.
That's a great question and you are already off to a good start by asking questions about your specific degree. My advice would be to pursue a degree in Finance & Accounting. If you prefer to choose a single major, I would recommend pursuing an accounting degree. Accounting is a very versatile degree and offers career stability along with the opportunity to pivot to various career paths. It also provides a foundation for legal education if you decide to go down that path. Even if you decide you do not want to do something in accounting specifically (Audit, Consulting, Tax, etc.), you can still pursue a career in finance, law, public policy, and various other options since it is such a flexible degree. Generally, accounting is known to be a stable career path with decent pay, lots of opportunities, and work-life balance. It is not as high pressure and/or risky as investment banking or trading, but can give you the job stability and predictable schedule you are looking for.
Ultimately, there is no wrong option here, so don't be too stressed when making a decision. Most jobs will take a wide range of degrees as long as you exemplify that you have the work ethic, knowledge, and social skills to fulfill the job requirements. Any degree with business knowledge will help excel your career. The decision depends on what you prefer long-term (work-life balance, risk, higher pay, flexibility, etc.). These would all be questions you ask yourself as you approach your career choices.
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Kathryn’s Answer
If I had to give you a simple answer, I’d say both Finance & Accounting and Finance & Economics are strong choices — and the better fit depends less on the exact title of the degree and more on the kind of work you want to do afterward. I also don’t think degree choice matters as much as people make it sound; internships, skills, and the first few experiences you get along the way matter a lot more.
Based on what you described, I’d lean toward Finance & Accounting if you want a path that feels more stable, practical, and broadly useful. Accounting gives you a strong foundation that can lead into audit, risk, compliance, corporate finance, and other steady roles that are still interesting and well paid. Since you mentioned being drawn to the legal side and risk management, accounting could give you a very solid base for that kind of work. Finance is also widely applicable, so combining it with accounting gives you a lot of flexibility.
That said, Finance & Economics also makes sense if you really enjoy policy, development, and the broader way economies work. Economics can open a lot of doors and gives you a bigger-picture view, which is valuable even if the statistics side is not your favorite. In my own experience, I didn’t enjoy economics as much at first, but I’m really glad I was pushed to study it alongside accounting because it gave me a much better understanding of how things work in the real world — and that helped me in my audit job. Even if one subject does not come naturally, it can still be worth doing because it broadens your perspective.
I would not overthink trying to pick the “perfect” degree. A good rule of thumb is to choose the option that keeps you open to business, finance, accounting, or economics-related paths, then use internships and experiences to figure out what actually fits you best. Stable is great, but it does not have to mean boring, there are plenty of steady careers that are still intellectually interesting! The main thing is to stay open, try different paths, and choose the one that feels like the best blend of practical and interesting to you.
Based on what you described, I’d lean toward Finance & Accounting if you want a path that feels more stable, practical, and broadly useful. Accounting gives you a strong foundation that can lead into audit, risk, compliance, corporate finance, and other steady roles that are still interesting and well paid. Since you mentioned being drawn to the legal side and risk management, accounting could give you a very solid base for that kind of work. Finance is also widely applicable, so combining it with accounting gives you a lot of flexibility.
That said, Finance & Economics also makes sense if you really enjoy policy, development, and the broader way economies work. Economics can open a lot of doors and gives you a bigger-picture view, which is valuable even if the statistics side is not your favorite. In my own experience, I didn’t enjoy economics as much at first, but I’m really glad I was pushed to study it alongside accounting because it gave me a much better understanding of how things work in the real world — and that helped me in my audit job. Even if one subject does not come naturally, it can still be worth doing because it broadens your perspective.
I would not overthink trying to pick the “perfect” degree. A good rule of thumb is to choose the option that keeps you open to business, finance, accounting, or economics-related paths, then use internships and experiences to figure out what actually fits you best. Stable is great, but it does not have to mean boring, there are plenty of steady careers that are still intellectually interesting! The main thing is to stay open, try different paths, and choose the one that feels like the best blend of practical and interesting to you.
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Jenna’s Answer
Hi May,
It's great to see you thinking about this at such a young age!
I suggest trying the introductory classes for all three options to find out which one you like best. Choosing can be tough, but a double major is a fantastic way to explore more and open up different career paths after graduation.
As someone who double-majored in accounting and finance, I can say they work well together and offer many job opportunities right out of college. Even if you're not looking for a high-pressure job, gaining experience at a Big Four accounting firm or a well-known finance company can be valuable. You can always switch roles later if it's not a good fit.
When deciding, consider if you're interested in getting a CPA or CFA license, as these are often needed in accounting and finance jobs.
Also, applying for internships during college is a smart move. It helps you gain experience in different business areas and can guide you in choosing a career after college.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions! Good luck!
It's great to see you thinking about this at such a young age!
I suggest trying the introductory classes for all three options to find out which one you like best. Choosing can be tough, but a double major is a fantastic way to explore more and open up different career paths after graduation.
As someone who double-majored in accounting and finance, I can say they work well together and offer many job opportunities right out of college. Even if you're not looking for a high-pressure job, gaining experience at a Big Four accounting firm or a well-known finance company can be valuable. You can always switch roles later if it's not a good fit.
When deciding, consider if you're interested in getting a CPA or CFA license, as these are often needed in accounting and finance jobs.
Also, applying for internships during college is a smart move. It helps you gain experience in different business areas and can guide you in choosing a career after college.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions! Good luck!
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Zell’s Answer
Hi May!
Both choices are great and come with their own benefits and risks.
Accounting can be a solid career path on its own. It's usually stable and offers various specializations like consulting, audit, and tax. Plus, you could aim to pass the CPA exam, which looks great on a resume. However, keep in mind that AI is starting to take over some entry-level tasks in accounting and finance, so it's a good idea to learn about the latest technology.
Economics focuses more on policies and the bigger picture, which also affects finance. It's less structured, so it still needs people to analyze data and understand it. While AI can make charts, humans are needed to interpret the data and predict market trends. With economics, you can specialize in an industry and help a company prepare for future changes.
AI is going to bring a lot of changes. No matter which path you choose, staying updated on technology will be important.
Both choices are great and come with their own benefits and risks.
Accounting can be a solid career path on its own. It's usually stable and offers various specializations like consulting, audit, and tax. Plus, you could aim to pass the CPA exam, which looks great on a resume. However, keep in mind that AI is starting to take over some entry-level tasks in accounting and finance, so it's a good idea to learn about the latest technology.
Economics focuses more on policies and the bigger picture, which also affects finance. It's less structured, so it still needs people to analyze data and understand it. While AI can make charts, humans are needed to interpret the data and predict market trends. With economics, you can specialize in an industry and help a company prepare for future changes.
AI is going to bring a lot of changes. No matter which path you choose, staying updated on technology will be important.
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Jonathan’s Answer
Hi May!
Thanks for your question! I graduated a bit over a year ago with a major in Accounting and a minor in Economics, so I'm happy to share some advice.
Accounting is often called "the language of business," and understanding it can really help you, especially when combined with a finance degree. There's always a need for accountants, so having this skill is very practical and valuable in the real world. Plus, knowing both finance and accounting gives you an edge and opens up many career options.
I also loved economics in high school. However, when I looked for internships during my sophomore year in college, I found there weren't many available for economics students. That's why I switched my major to accounting and kept economics as a minor. Economics is a great subject, but unless you plan to go to law school or pursue a PhD, your career options might be more limited compared to accounting.
I hope this helps. Good luck with your studies and future career!
Thanks for your question! I graduated a bit over a year ago with a major in Accounting and a minor in Economics, so I'm happy to share some advice.
Accounting is often called "the language of business," and understanding it can really help you, especially when combined with a finance degree. There's always a need for accountants, so having this skill is very practical and valuable in the real world. Plus, knowing both finance and accounting gives you an edge and opens up many career options.
I also loved economics in high school. However, when I looked for internships during my sophomore year in college, I found there weren't many available for economics students. That's why I switched my major to accounting and kept economics as a minor. Economics is a great subject, but unless you plan to go to law school or pursue a PhD, your career options might be more limited compared to accounting.
I hope this helps. Good luck with your studies and future career!
Your advice was so helpful!
may
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Sydney’s Answer
Hi May! I currently work in the risk management field and studied economics, but I think accounting will also serve you well. Like other people have mentioned, economics gives you a strong theoretical groundwork, while accounting gives you that specific, practical knowledge. Both can lead to a wide range of job opportunities (I work alongside people who studied accounting too!). Accounting offers the added benefit of being a bit more specialized as a skillset, which provides additional opportunities should you decide to pursue other career options down the line.
That being said, I definitely recommend taking courses in whatever field you don't choose - ex. taking some economics courses if you go down the accounting route, and vice versa. It's good to have that core knowledge, and will ultimately help you better prepare for whatever field you end up in. Internships and projects in your classes may help you better understand where your interests lie and what you'd like to pursue.
It sounds like you're putting a lot of thought into this which is awesome. Good luck!
That being said, I definitely recommend taking courses in whatever field you don't choose - ex. taking some economics courses if you go down the accounting route, and vice versa. It's good to have that core knowledge, and will ultimately help you better prepare for whatever field you end up in. Internships and projects in your classes may help you better understand where your interests lie and what you'd like to pursue.
It sounds like you're putting a lot of thought into this which is awesome. Good luck!
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Vishnu’s Answer
That is an excellent question. As much as the same is really dependent truly on your preferences and interests - one of the practical strategy could be to pursue Finance with Accounting at the undergraduate level. These options keep you open to pursue more diversified courses in future based on your preferences - You can later specialize into finance for corporate/investment careers or accounting for CPA certification. Typically, you need certain accounting credits (differ for various state boards) as well as total credits (150 generally to be certified). Economics can be added at the graduate level if they lean toward policy or research. Goof luck and choose wisely! :)
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Sandra’s Answer
This is a great question. For context, I received my degree in economics and accounting. I loved the theoretical side of economics but also appreciated the practicality of an accounting degree. If you like risk management, majoring in accounting will give you great opportunities within that sphere of risk management through a job in audit assurance or advisory services! Pairing accounting with finance is a good combo if you want to have the option to benefit from the stable job outlook in accounting while also being able to branch out into finance while leveraging your accounting foundation. Many business professionals I have had convos with have said that its easier to transition from accounting to finance/econ-related roles, than the other way around. Hope this helps!
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Pankaj’s Answer
Finance & Economics is your strongest combination. It keeps risk management firmly in reach, aligns naturally with your interest in policy and legal-adjacent work, and opens doors to stable, well-paying careers without pushing you toward the high-stakes tracks you want to avoid. Down the road, a graduate program in Financial Risk, Regulation, or Sustainable Finance could make you a particularly compelling candidate in a field that's only growing in importance. You're not boring for wanting stability, you're just thinking longer term than most people your age. That's an asset.
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Matthew’s Answer
That's a great question! All the options are good, so you really can't go wrong. If you're thinking about a major, I would suggest going for accounting instead of finance. It's usually easier to switch from accounting to finance after you graduate than the other way around. I've always found economics fascinating and wish I had studied it in college. Maybe consider having economics as a minor. Try taking classes in each subject and see which one you like best!
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Edwin’s Answer
As someone who majored in economics and really enjoyed it, I’d probably recommend finance with accounting or even just accounting based on what you’re looking for. Economics is a good choice if you want to keep your options open because it’s broader and gives you more exposure to different areas. But if your main goal is a stable, decent-paying career, I think finance with accounting prepares you better for the kind of work you’re more likely to do in the real world.
The skills you build in accounting are usually more practical and directly applicable, and they can lead to clearer career paths. Economics is interesting and valuable, but it can be less direct unless you already know you want to go into something more specialized. So if I were in your position, I’d lean toward finance with accounting.
The skills you build in accounting are usually more practical and directly applicable, and they can lead to clearer career paths. Economics is interesting and valuable, but it can be less direct unless you already know you want to go into something more specialized. So if I were in your position, I’d lean toward finance with accounting.
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Helen’s Answer
I would recommend finance wiht accounting and if you don't hate programming, finance and computer science
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Kate’s Answer
I recommend adding accounting. When I was choosing my major, someone said that with an accounting degree, you can work in finance, but with a finance degree, you can't do accounting. I believe majoring in accounting will benefit you in any career. Accounting is the language of business and gives you a strong base for many career paths.
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Chau’s Answer
If you’re undecided, I’d lean finance + accounting.
Why: it gives you the strongest mix of employability, technical skill, and career flexibility. Finance alone is solid, but accounting adds a concrete skill set that employers understand immediately. Economics is valuable, but it’s usually better if you want policy, research, consulting, grad school, or macro-focused roles rather than the most direct path into business jobs.
Why: it gives you the strongest mix of employability, technical skill, and career flexibility. Finance alone is solid, but accounting adds a concrete skill set that employers understand immediately. Economics is valuable, but it’s usually better if you want policy, research, consulting, grad school, or macro-focused roles rather than the most direct path into business jobs.
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Monica’s Answer
You're asking great questions, and it's fantastic that you're thinking ahead. As a campus recruiter for accounting students, I can tell you that adding an accounting major can lead to specific career paths in accounting while still allowing you to explore broader business opportunities. If you only major in finance, it might be tougher to switch to accounting later. Keep researching and talking to people in these fields. If you're unsure, try taking a couple of accounting classes to see if it interests you. You're definitely on the right path!
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Jyoti’s Answer
I began studying Accounting but soon saw it was just a part of Finance. So, I decided to go further and study Finance. Looking back after 20 years, I'm glad I did because it opened up many opportunities for me. I know choosing a path can be tough, but think about what you enjoy most. That's the secret to finding the right path.
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Alec’s Answer
Go with accounting. Almost every finance job, whether that's asset management, fintech, wealth advising or consulting, comes down to making sense of financial statements, and accounting is what actually teaches you how those are put together. Finance more or less assumes you already understand that part. You'll use it wherever you end up, and it's a lot easier to pick up economics later than to go back and learn accounting on the job.
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Samidha’s Answer
Finance and accounting form a strong combination, as accounting provides foundational knowledge that supports a career in finance. It also keeps future options open.
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Liza’s Answer
Hi May! You're doing great by asking such good questions, so keep it up! There's no wrong answer here. From my experience in auditing, especially with financial service clients, having both finance and accounting knowledge is really beneficial. Accounting offers many opportunities and job security, which is encouraging. But remember, it's all about what you prefer!
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Tim’s Answer
Consider a career in Finance and Accounting. It connects your interest in law through compliance and regulation, and involves risk management without requiring deep statistical knowledge. This field offers strong job security and a good salary, all without the long 80-hour workweeks common in investment banking.
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Kelly’s Answer
Hi! Love that you are being proactive and asking the right questions. I recommend either accounting or finance based on your interests. Those are diverse and wide range paths with many career outlets and opportunities.
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Omar’s Answer
If you're interested in accounting or economics along with finance, consider adding one of these as a major. They share skills and coursework with finance, making them easier to combine than unrelated fields like history or literature. Having a degree in accounting, especially with a CPA, can qualify you for more job opportunities than a finance degree alone. There's no right or wrong choice; it depends on your interests and career goals. Adding one of these majors can open more doors and improve your experience if you enjoy the subject.
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Ekua’s Answer
Hi there! It's wonderful to see young people planning for their future. If you're looking for something stable and reliable, accounting and economics are great choices. With accounting, you have lots of options. As a tax accountant, I deal with tax codes and laws, which can be exciting and challenging. It gets busy at times, but it's an adventure worth preparing for!
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Jack’s Answer
Hi May,
I also studied Finance and Economics at ASU and began my career in Risk & Advisory. I've moved around a bit at Deloitte and now work in Mergers and Acquisitions. It's funny because my job involves a lot of accounting, which I didn't enjoy in college!
I suggest choosing the major that excites you the most. Even though I don't use my economics degree much now, I loved learning about policy and development, and it taught me useful skills. You won't be stuck with just one choice; you'll continue learning on the job. Both degrees involve some statistics and math, so be prepared for that. You might start with Finance and add another major or minor later if you want more variety. Starting with one major can give you time to explore different career paths.
No matter what you choose, it's hard to go wrong. I know many successful people with these degrees. All three are in demand and help you develop skills to adapt and grow. Enjoy your college journey!
I also studied Finance and Economics at ASU and began my career in Risk & Advisory. I've moved around a bit at Deloitte and now work in Mergers and Acquisitions. It's funny because my job involves a lot of accounting, which I didn't enjoy in college!
I suggest choosing the major that excites you the most. Even though I don't use my economics degree much now, I loved learning about policy and development, and it taught me useful skills. You won't be stuck with just one choice; you'll continue learning on the job. Both degrees involve some statistics and math, so be prepared for that. You might start with Finance and add another major or minor later if you want more variety. Starting with one major can give you time to explore different career paths.
No matter what you choose, it's hard to go wrong. I know many successful people with these degrees. All three are in demand and help you develop skills to adapt and grow. Enjoy your college journey!
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Deidra’s Answer
I love the previous answers. I also had this thought when beginning college. Luckily once you take the classes necessary, you will get a more clear inclination of where you want your life to go.
My degree is accounting only. Finance class was not for me. I think it's more difficult, so if you understand finance and risk interests you it sounds like the path to pursue. If you don't want too much stress, just stick with that.
I love economics but I quickly found out it will not benefit me financially to add the degree. We can learn about economics in our free time with no pressure for grading. Unless you want a job that requires an economics degree, that's not really the way to go. The reputation of that degree is below the others.
My degree is accounting only. Finance class was not for me. I think it's more difficult, so if you understand finance and risk interests you it sounds like the path to pursue. If you don't want too much stress, just stick with that.
I love economics but I quickly found out it will not benefit me financially to add the degree. We can learn about economics in our free time with no pressure for grading. Unless you want a job that requires an economics degree, that's not really the way to go. The reputation of that degree is below the others.
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Jared’s Answer
Hi there! I was in a similar situation in college. and it's no doubt a tough decision. I ultimately decided to pursue accounting and finance, but knew a lot of friends who did finance and economics. I ended up getting my CPA and have a stable job in the consulting world. I'll say the skills in accounting and finance have helped me, but I also still still like to learn economics on the side. Accounting, finance, economics (yes - even statistics all crossover with each other, they're don't operating in silos!). Echoing what other people have said, I know these decisions seem daunting and like a life sentence when you're making the decision but know you can always change, even after you graduate. It's likely that as you grow up, your preferences, needs, wants etc will change too.
One of the pieces of advice I got early on in my career is to chase opportunities that truly fill your cup . Life's too short to do something just for the money. If you're truly interested and having fun, it'll show up in your work and the money will come. A couple of questions I'd ask myself: Where do I loose track of time? What do I talk about outside of school with my friends and family?
Good luck! Trust your instincts and gut (it's a lost art in today's world). You will make the right decision.
One of the pieces of advice I got early on in my career is to chase opportunities that truly fill your cup . Life's too short to do something just for the money. If you're truly interested and having fun, it'll show up in your work and the money will come. A couple of questions I'd ask myself: Where do I loose track of time? What do I talk about outside of school with my friends and family?
Good luck! Trust your instincts and gut (it's a lost art in today's world). You will make the right decision.
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Eliana’s Answer
I believe finance itself is a great career path, but if you have the time to double major, I’d recommend finance and accounting. It gives you a strong foundation and a different perspective when analyzing financial statements, one you might not get from a finance major alone.
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Jamie’s Answer
From my personal experience, finance and accounting is the better route. I currently work in accounting, and there are roles open in accounting in every industry. It is such a versatile degree that can be used no matter what industry interests you. Everyone had similar comments when I would tell them I was getting a degree in accounting - I can do so much with it. There are things you can learn with an accounting degree that are foundational and can apply to lots of different fields. From my experience, accounting jobs also usually pay more than jobs in economics in general. Because of the versatility and stability, I would go with finance and accounting. There are many opportunities relating to risk management in the accounting field, as well. Good luck!!
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