Against a global shortage of finance professionals, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is addressing the issue by pursuing a vision of molding competent modern-day finance specialists through specialised programmes.
While the demand for finance professionals has been growing dramatically, driven by data analytics and fintech, as reflected in the rising enrolments at universities, talent shortage has been a matter of concern. According to global recruitment agency Omega Hire, the global finance industry is facing a significant shortage of skilled professionals across sectors, including accounting, banking, investment management, insurance, and fintech.
Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success, and Provost at AURAK, says: “The finance industry plays a pivotal role in the modern global economy, driving businesses, managing risks, and shaping strategic investments. With a dynamic job market and diverse opportunities, the finance sector continues to thrive, even amid technological disruptions and global economic shifts and talent shortage. We at AURAK have crafted a programme that molds professionals to join this booming industry and build a satisfying career for themselves.”
The AURAK BSBA Major in Finance follows an American-style curriculum, accredited by international recognised bodies like SACSCOC and AACSB.
The programme is also accredited by an international professional accountancy body, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in the UK, to ensure that the AURAK graduates are internationally recognised in the accounting profession.
Additionally, it is affiliated with the CFA Institute.
“We have designed this programme to equip graduates with versatile skills applicable across industries, especially valuable in our interconnected global economy,” explains Prof. Vazeer Jan Begum, Associate Dean/Professor, School of Business, AURAK.
“The world of finance is evolving, and practitioners are challenged to keep pace with disruptive developments triggered by AI, Blockchain, and emerging technologies. This programme addresses all these issues and keeps students at the top of the game.”
AURAK’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration BSBA (major in Finance), launched in 2020, has been updated to meet the challenge of talent shortage. Its graduates are trained to pursue career opportunities in booming fields such as investment banking, corporate finance, financial planning, asset management, and consulting.