A Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) is an undergraduate degree that provides students with foundational knowledge in business and commerce. Students gain skills that allow them to work in a variety of sectors. The core subjects for a BCom degree are finance, economics, accounting, and taxation, which offer a thorough understanding of the financial and operational aspects of a business.
In South Africa, students can choose to complete their Bcom in various specialisations, including the in-demand Banking and Financial Services. This degree equips students with strong financial knowledge and trains them for a specialised career. With the rise in digital banking and fintech, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals for jobs in compliance, risk management, and corporate banking.
In this article, we will understand what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services, its core subjects, and the various career opportunities available to graduates.
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What is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services?
The Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services is typically a 3-year undergraduate programme that prepares students for a career in banking and finance. The curriculum provides foundational knowledge in banking and financial systems and teaches students how to analyse financial documents to make informed decisions.
Students who complete this programme gain a deeper understanding of financial markets, regulatory compliances, the role of banking in the economy, and the ability to identify and manage risk. If students are wondering what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services and how does it differ from a general BCom, the table below should help clarify doubts:
| Criteria | General BCom | BCom in Banking and Financial Services |
| Focus | Broad focus, subjects cover marketing, business communication, etc | Focused on banking, financial markets, risks, and investments |
| Career Paths | Sales RepresentativeSupply & Inventory PlannerOperations Analyst | Financial AnalystRisk AnalystInvestment Banking Associate |
| Depth of Knowledge | Offers a broad knowledge of business and commerce | Concentrates on foundational knowledge in finance, banking, financial documents, credit management, etc |
| Skills | Trained in accounting analysis, taxation basics, budgeting, and marketing management. | Trained in banking processes, financial analysis, financial planning, investment strategies, etc |
| Target | Those seeking broad knowledge of business with the flexibility to choose career paths | Those who are interested in a banking and finance career |
What are the Core Subjects in BCom in Banking and Financial Services?
When students are focused on their career choices, it is always a better option to choose a specialised undergraduate programme that will help them reach their goals. This programme covers core banking principles and provides an understanding of global markets with subjects such as Banking, Economics, Credit Management, and Financial Management.
When we try to answer what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services, it is a focused Bachelor of Commerce degree that is ideal for those who wish to work in the banking and financial services industry.
Aspirants will gain a better understanding of what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services when they go over the core subjects offered by the programme. Listed below are some of the main subjects taught under BCom in Banking and Financial Services.
1. Banking
This subject provides an overview of the banking sector and the role that banks play in running the economy. It also includes the functions of banks and other financial institutions and the regulations that are in place.
2. Financial Management
This important subject covers the best practices for managing capital, including monitoring investments, new avenues of growth, and assessing risk. Students are taught the principles of financial management, which include budgeting and creating financial documents.
3. Credit Management
This subject covers the fundamentals of credit management and focuses on managing credit within financial institutions. It teaches students how to assess risk, determine credit limits, and set repayment terms.
4. Economics
Students understand the principles of economics and how they affect the banking and financial services industry through this subject. It covers how finance moves and how global financial markets work.
5. Risk Management
When trying to understand what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services and its core subjects, you must know that risk management is one of the most important topics. Students learn the various risks that can affect financial markets and the process that should be used to identify, analyse, and mitigate risks.
What are the Skills Acquired Through the Degree?
A BCom in Banking and Financial Services equips students with the skills required for a successful career in finance. Upon completion of this programme, graduates will become experts in understanding financial markets, assessing risk, and analysing financial documents. At the same time, they also acquire assertive leadership qualities essential for guiding and motivating their teams.
If students are confused about their BCom specialisation to reach their career goals, they should research what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services and the skills they will acquire through the programme. Listed below are some skills that students will gain through a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services.
- Analytical and problem-solving skills: Students who choose to graduate from a BCom in Banking and Financial Services programme are trained to identify problems and find solutions based on available data. They can view problems in blocks to try to identify trends and make informed decisions.
- Knowledge of financial instruments and markets: They also gain a deep understanding of the economy of financial markets and how they operate. They learn how to improve asset holding, speculate on futures, and manage risk.
- Risk assessment and management expertise: When students are exploring what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services, one of the the most important skills they learn is risk assessment and management. Financial markets can be volatile and are affected by various factors. They learn to apply processes that can counter risk and protect their holdings.
- Leadership and decision-making capabilities: Corporations and management make decisions based on financial data. Therefore, one of the key skills that graduates acquire is decision-making. The programme also hones their leadership skills, which helps them implement their solutions.
What are the Career Opportunities After a BCom in Banking and Financial Services?
Prospective students should also explore career opportunities when searching for more details on what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services. While most career opportunities are in the banking and financial services sector, graduates can also find job prospects in corporations and government agencies.
While most students choose a BCom in Banking and Financial Services to work in core finance positions, some also pursue regulatory positions. The broad scope of financial skills allows graduates to find employment in general and specialised roles depending on their interests and expertise. Below are some roles that are available to graduates in various sectors.
Banking
- Retail banker
- Credit Analyst
- Investment Banking Associate
Financial Services
- Financial Analyst
- Portfolio Manager
- Wealth Advisor
Corporate Finance
- Risk Manager
- Compliance Officer
- Financial Planner
Government
- Policy Analyst
- Financial Regulator
What are the Benefits of Pursuing a BCom in Banking and Financial Services?
Undergraduate programmes require an investment of time and money. Therefore, it is essential to choose a programme that has a greater Return on Investment (ROI) and will help graduates accomplish their career goals. This is one of the main reasons for picking a focused programme such as the BCom in Banking and Financial Services.
There is a shortage of skilled finance and banking professionals in South Africa. Several prestigious bursaries are available for students to help promote education in this field. These can help cover tuition and living expenses for the duration of the programme.
This list below should help answer any thoughts regarding what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services and how is it beneficial for students.
- High demand in the financial sector: Digital banking, e-commerce, and fintech are leading the way for new roles in banking and finance. Institutions also require qualified professionals for accounting, taxation, and risk assessment positions.
- Diverse career opportunities: While students who complete a BCom in Banking and Financial Services work in core finance positions, they can explore positions in diverse industries. As professionals gain experience, they can start an independent practice.
- Pathway to professional certifications: Students who complete this programme are eligible to train for professional certifications such as Chartered Accountant (CA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA).
- Competitive salaries: The banking and financial services sector offers some of the most competitive salaries globally.
Top Institutions Offering the Degree in South Africa
Regenesys is a leading private institute in South Africa offering in-demand programmes in various undergraduate and postgraduate fields. The Regenesys School of Finance offers a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services, which aims to mould market leaders of the future.
Students are sure to question, what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services like at Regenesys. The curriculum here includes essential subjects such as Economics, Financial Management, and Credit Management, which offer an all-rounded understanding of the field. This is an online programme which makes it possible for students to gain relevant practical experience while they gain an in-demand qualification.
The 3-year programme is registered under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and accredited by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) and the Council of Higher Education (CHE).
Read more on the Difference Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degree
Who Should Study This Degree?
A Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services is a relevant undergraduate qualification for anyone who is interested in a finance-based career. Students who choose this BCom specialisation must have a strong mathematical competency.
Students who are still undecided about an undergraduate degree might be wondering what is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services and if it is the right choice for them. It is an excellent educational choice for students who are organised, problem solvers, and know how to use available data to design solutions that can be implemented. Students who study this programme aim for competitive careers with high earning potential.
This programme is best suited for the following individuals:
- Leaders
- Good Communicators
- Analytical Thinkers
- Problem Solvers
- Have an Interest in Global Markets
- Interested in Finance and Banking
How to Apply for a BCom in Banking and Financial Services in South Africa?
A BCom in Banking and Financial Services can lead students to lucrative careers where they can utilise their knowledge of financial systems. Prospective students who wish to apply for this programme should have passed their matric exams with a Bachelor’s Pass. Most institutes also require students to display strong mathematical competency.
If you are planning to enrol in Regenesys, you must know the admission requirements, which are as given below:
- Matric with Bachelor Pass or NQF Level 4 equivalent [or]
- Relevant NQF Level 5 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
- Competent in Mathematics at NQF Level 4
- Written and oral communication skills at NQF Level 4
Application Process for Regenesys
- Research programme
- Check eligibility requirements
- Fill the online application form
- Attach required documents
- Pay the application fee
- Submit the application before the deadline
- Accept the offer and register
- Apply for financial aid
Application Deadline for Regenesys
The last date to submit undergraduate applications at Regenesys is 3 February 2025.
Find outĀ University Applications for 2025 Undergraduate: Deadlines and RequirementsĀ here!
Conclusion
With the growing demand for financial professionals, a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services is an excellent undergraduate programme for students pursuing a finance career. To help sum up the question of what a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services is, the programme offers specialised knowledge in banking, risk management, and credit management and equips students with the skills needed to succeed in their roles.
Students interested in enroling in a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services should check out complete programme details on the Regenesys website. We also offer various student loans and funding for higher education.
What Is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services? – FAQs
What is a Bachelor of Commerce in Banking and Financial Services?
A BCom in Banking and Financial Services is an undergraduate degree that prepares students for a career in the financial services industry.
How is a BCom in Banking and Financial Services different from a general BCom?
A general BCom covers business subjects like marketing and management, while a BCom in Banking and Financial Services focuses on banking, finance, risk assessment, and financial markets.
What are the benefits of pursuing a BCom in Banking and Financial Services?
Benefits include high demand for financial professionals, diverse career opportunities, potential for competitive salaries, and eligibility for professional certifications like CFA or CA.
What is the admission requirement for the programme?
The typical admission requirement is a Matric Certificate with a Bachelor’s Pass, strong mathematical competency, and proficiency in English. Some institutions may also require an entrance exam.
Where can I study for a banking and financial services degree in South Africa?
There are several institutes in South Africa offering this programme, and Regenesysā€™s School of Finance is a top choice for students.
