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The most useful certification for an equity analyst is the Chartered Financial Analyst, or CFA. There are other certifications, but the CFA is the most likely to be beneficial. Some top business schools offer MBA programs that include study for the CFA certification. The CFA Institute has partnered with 41 graduate schools to provide CFA instruction as part of an existing MBA program. A joint MBA/CFA program lets you prepare for and earn the CFA certification more efficiently, while enrolled in your MBA program. Before you can apply for the CFA certification, you must complete 48 months of relevant work experience in the financial field. This work does not have to be specifically in a role as an equity analyst. The definition of relevant work is fairly broad and can include such areas as trading, economics and corporate finance. To earn the CFA charter, you must pass three successive levels of exams, in order. The Level I exam is offered in either late spring or fall, while the Level II and Level II exams are offered only once a year, in the late spring. The passing rate for the exams is very low, so you should plan to study hard for it. The CFA Institute, that administers the exam, estimates that applicants should plan at least 250 hours of study for each level. Each level consists of a six-hour exam, covering a wide range of topics related to the financial field. The general range of topics includes: ethics and professional standards quantitative methods economics financial reporting and analysis corporate finance equity investments derivatives alternative investments portfolio management wealth planning. The CFA Institute publishes free study materials online, which you can access at https://www.cfainstitute.org/programs/cfaprogram/Pages/index.aspx. In addition, you can find many commercial materials or study programs with a simple search online. You can learn more about the CFA program and the exams at https://www.cfainstitute.org/programs/cfaprogram/Pages/index.aspx. On that page, follow the link to "Register" in order to begin your application. That page contains everything you need about registering for the exam and applying for CFA certification after you complete all requirements. Before you even begin a CFA program, you should discuss your plan with your direct supervisor. Some companies will value this certification, while others may not place such a premium on it. You will be dedicating a great deal of time and effort to your study, and you need to know that the work will be beneficial. Assuming that your application is successful, you should then notify your supervisor when you obtain your certification. This good news should be entered in your personnel file and should help you advance in the company.
Investigate a joint MBA/CFA program. Complete four years of work experience. Prepare for the CFA exams. Register for the CFA exams. Keep your employer advised of your progress and certification.