High School

If you are interested in this career, take courses in mathematics, economics, business, and accounting in high school. You should also take English courses to develop sound oral and written language skills. Computer courses will help you to become computer literate, learn software programs, understand their applications to particular fields, and gain familiarity with accessing electronic information.

Postsecondary Training

Credit analysts usually have at least a bachelor's degree in accounting, economics, finance, or business administration. Those who want to move up in the field often go on to obtain master's degrees in one of these subjects. Undergraduate course work should include business management, economics, statistics, and accounting. In addition, keep honing your computer skills. Some employers provide new hires with on-the-job training involving both classroom work and hands-on experience.

Certification

The National Association of Credit Management (NACM) offers the following certificates to credit professionals: commercial collections specialist, commercial construction credit specialist, and commercial bankruptcy credit specialist. Contact the association for more information.

Other Education or Training

The NACM offers online courses, self-study courses, webinars, and other continuing education opportunities. Recent courses included Business Credit Principles, International Credit and Risk Management, Financial Statement Analysis, and Credit Law. The American Bankers Association, Bank Administration Institute, and National Bankers Association also provide professional development opportunities. Contact these organizations for more information.

Certification or Licensing

The National Association of Credit Management offers the following voluntary certifications to credit professionals: credit business associate, credit business fellow, certified credit and risk analyst, certified credit executive, certified international credit professional, and international certified credit executive. Contact the association for more information.

Those who want to become credit analysts should obtain a college or university degree in accounting, finance, or business administration, in addition to taking computer and communications classes. They should gain experience through internships in banks and other financial institutions. 

Credit analysts are first and foremost adept with numbers. They must be able to sit for long periods of time, analyzing reports and other financial documents. Credit analysts also should be comfortable with people. Since they handle sensitive information, it is important that clients trust them. If they are working with businesses, they most likely must travel to those businesses and meet with key contacts.