A few similarities exist between an accounting degree and a degree in finance. The most obvious is that both careers deal with money. Also, many of the concepts and theories are identical for finance and accounting. There are enough major differences, however, that getting a degree in one subject will not make you an expert in the another.
At a basic level, accounting involves managing financial information within a company and deals with preparation of accounting records. Finance involves managing the actual money made by the company.
Going into finance requires a high level of financial knowledge because a typical career path in finance can require handling financial analysis, investment management and corporate finance. Coursework in finance generally focuses on three areas: macroeconomics, investments and business finance. An accounting degree, on the other hand, generally emphasizes the following areas: financial accounting, cost accounting, auditing and taxation. Either way, they can both apply to international business, if that is the route you would like to take. For example, you could both your finance and accounting experience to trade forex online.
Curriculum for a finance degree is by its nature a degree that is more math intensive than what you find in coursework for accounting. When you pursue an accounting degree, however, it typically offers a student fewer electives and requires more classes to be filled from the major prerequisites related to accounting.
There are benefits for choosing either option. A finance degree opens doors to a career in commercial banking or in the insurance industry. Many people who earn finance degrees find work right away as a claims adjuster, loan officer or underwriter. Finance offers some good background for those students who desire to enter the real estate industry, because you get a greater understanding of all the nuances that go into buying and selling homes, businesses and property
With accounting, there is less flexibility beyond simply working as an accountant. Still, there are ways to throw a nice twist into that career path. One option, for example is to work as a forensic accountant with law enforcement agencies. These types of accountants track money in embezzlement cases.