What is Private Equity and what do Private Equity professionals do?
Private equity (PE) is investing directly in companies, usually buying them privately rather than through the stock market, with the goal of improving their value and selling them later for a profit. PE firms raise money from investors, buy businesses, make operational or financial improvements, and then exit through a sale or IPO.
Is a career in Private Equity right for me?
If you enjoy analyzing companies, working in Excel, creating valuation models, assessing market conditions, and comparing companies, Private Equity might just be a fit for you.
Do I need a finance degree to work in Private Equity?
Often, a degree does help you get started in the industry, but just as importantly, you'll need to demonstrate practical, job-ready skills like Excel modeling, valuation, and business analysis. CFI’s training focuses on job-ready skills and certifications that hiring managers trust, regardless of your educational background.
Will these certifications help me get a job in Private Equity?
Yes. CFI’s certifications are trusted by top employers across the industry. You’ll also gain access to resume building tools, interview prep, and career guidance specific to Private Equity.
Can this help me advance in my current finance role?
Absolutely. Whether you're in accounting, business analysis, or another finance role, Private Equity & Valuation skills in particular can unlock new responsibilities and higher-paying positions. Many CFI learners move from junior analyst roles into manager and director-level positions after completing the FMVA Certification & related specializations.
What makes CFI’s Private Equity related courses different from other courses?
To get started in this career path, you'll need strong Excel skills for modeling and analysis, a solid understanding of valuation techniques, the ability to analyze financial statements, and effective communication and presentation skills. CFI’s FMVA certification is designed to help you build exactly these skills at your own pace.
Is this training NASBA accredited or CPE eligible?
Yes. CFI is NASBA-accredited and offers over 550 verifiable CPD/CPE credits, including credits for the above listed courses. This is ideal for finance professionals who need to maintain certifications, stay compliant, or continue developing their skills throughout their career.
Do I get a certificate? Will it show on LinkedIn?
Yes. After completing each certification or specialization, you’ll receive a digital certificate you can add to your LinkedIn profile, resume, and job applications to show employers your verified skills.