Investment banking is one of the most exciting and high-paying careers in finance. Many Indian students dream of becoming investment bankers. But before stepping into this field, it is important to understand the investment banking course duration. You must know how long each type of course takes, and which one suits your goals. The answer to the topic is simple: the investment banking course duration depends on the type of course you choose. Certificate courses take 1 to 6 months. Diploma courses take 6 months to 1 year. Degree programs like BBA or MBA can take 2 to 3 years. You can also join online investment banking courses, which take 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on the platform.
What is Investment Banking?
Investment banking is a special branch of banking that helps big companies and government institutions raise capital and grow. It deals with managing large financial transactions like mergers, acquisitions, and IPOs. Investment bankers offer expert advice to clients, helping them make big money decisions. They also play a key role in buying and selling businesses. In India, investment banking is growing fast, and companies need trained professionals to manage these complex financial deals.
Why is Investment Banking Important?
Investment banking connects businesses with investors. It provides financial advice to companies on how to grow, raise funds, or restructure. It also helps the economy by supporting business expansions and job creation. Investment banks play a key role in the stock market and in helping companies go public.
Investment Banking Course Duration in India
Students and professionals can choose from many types of investment banking courses in India. These courses are designed for different needs and backgrounds. Some courses are short and teach one skill, while others are long and give full knowledge. Based on your career level and time, you can choose the course that fits you best. Let’s look at the duration of main types of investment banking courses available in India.
Certificate Courses
Certificate courses are short-term programs for students and beginners. These courses focus on one or two important skills used in investment banking. You can do them in 1 to 6 months, and most are online. You can learn topics like Excel for finance, company valuation, and basic financial modeling. These courses are cheap and quick to finish, which makes them good for new learners.
- Duration: These courses last between 1 to 6 months. You can study on weekends or in the evenings. You can also learn at your own pace.
- Mode: Most certificate courses are available online. This makes it easy for working people to study.
- Topics Covered: You will learn Excel, financial modeling, investment tools, valuation methods, and basics of mergers and acquisitions.
- Cost: Certificate courses cost between ₹5,000 to ₹50,000. The fees depend on the course level and brand.
- Best For: These are best for commerce students, freshers, and anyone who wants a quick start in investment banking.
| Course Name | Platform | Duration |
| Certified Investment Banking Operations | Imarticus Learning | 3-6 months |
| Financial Markets | Coursera (Yale) | 1-2 months |
| Introduction to Investment Banking | Udemy | 4-6 weeks |
| Investment Banking Basics | NSE Academy | 2-3 months |
| Financial Modeling for Beginners | Wall Street Prep | 1-2 months |
Diploma Courses
Diploma courses are longer and give deeper knowledge than certificate courses. These are ideal for people who already know a bit about finance. You can complete a diploma in 6 months to 1 year. You will learn about financial markets, risk management, and advanced modeling. These courses help you become job-ready and prepare for analyst roles.
- Duration: Diploma courses last from 6 months to 1 year. They include real case studies and projects.
- Mode: You can study online or in a classroom. Many institutes offer hybrid options.
- Topics Covered: These courses cover detailed financial analysis, equity research, capital market functions, and regulations.
- Cost: Diploma courses cost around ₹50,000 to ₹2,50,000. Some institutes provide EMI options.
- Best For: These are ideal for graduates and working professionals who want to upgrade their skills and enter the banking industry.
| Course Name | Platform/Institute | Duration |
| Diploma in Investment Banking Operations | Plutus Education | 9 months |
| Advanced Program in Investment Banking | NSE Academy, NIIT | 9 months |
| Diploma in Investment Banking and Equity Research | Imarticus Learning | 6-10 months |
| Professional Certificate in Investment Banking | CFI | 6-8 months |
| Post Graduate Program in Investment Banking | EduPristine | 9-12 months |
Undergraduate Degree with Finance Focus
If you want to start your career early, you can choose a finance-focused degree after 12th grade. Undergraduate degrees like B.Com or BBA with finance or banking specialization give you a strong base. These degrees last for 3 years and include subjects like economics, accounting, and financial planning. They help you prepare for higher studies and give you time to build core skills.
- Common Courses: B.Com in Finance, BBA in Financial Services, BSc in Banking and Economics.
- Duration: These programs last 3 years and include internships.
- Mode: Full-time regular classroom programs. Some are offered in top colleges and universities.
- Cost: Annual fees range from ₹30,000 to ₹2,00,000 depending on college.
- Best For: Students after class 12 who want a complete finance education and investment banking career.
| Course Name | University/College | Duration |
| BBA in Finance | Christ University | 3 years |
| B.Com (Hons) in Finance | Delhi University | 3 years |
| B.Sc. in Finance | NMIMS | 3 years |
| B.Com in Banking and Insurance | Mumbai University | 3 years |
| BBA (Banking and Financial Services) | Amity University | 3 years |
MBA and Postgraduate Programs
MBA or PGDM in Finance is the most powerful course for investment banking roles. These are 2-year full-time programs offered by top business schools. You will learn about global finance, mergers, and financial strategies. You also get access to strong campus placements and alumni networks. These courses are best for leadership roles in top companies.
- Duration: MBA or PGDM programs last 2 years. Some executive MBAs are shorter.
- Mode: Full-time classroom programs. Executive MBAs may be part-time.
- Subjects: You study corporate finance, portfolio management, international banking, and business laws.
- Cost: Fees range from ₹2,00,000 to ₹10,00,000. Scholarships and loans are available.
- Best For: Graduates with work experience who want to move into top investment banking jobs.
| Course Name | Institution | Duration |
| MBA in Finance | IIM Ahmedabad | 2 years |
| PGDM in Banking and Finance | NMIMS | 2 years |
| MBA in Financial Management | Symbiosis Institute of Business | 2 years |
| Executive MBA in Finance | IIM Calcutta | 1-2 years |
| PG Certificate in Investment Banking | IIM Indore | 6-12 months |
Online Investment Banking Courses
Online investment banking courses are best for busy students and professionals. These flexible courses allow you to study anytime, anywhere. They are offered by global websites and often include videos, case studies, and assignments. You can get certified and build job skills without quitting your job.
- Duration: Online courses take from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on course depth.
- Mode: Fully online. You can access them through laptops or mobile.
- Topics: Excel, financial modeling, valuation, capital raising, risk analysis.
- Cost: Fees range from ₹3,000 to ₹50,000 depending on course provider.
- Best For: Working professionals, students doing other degrees, or people wanting a low-cost option.
| Course Name | Platform | Duration |
| Investment Banking Certification Program | Wall Street Prep | 2-3 months |
| Investment Banking Bootcamp | CFI | 1-2 months |
| Finance and Quantitative Modeling | Coursera (Wharton) | 4-6 weeks |
| Mergers & Acquisitions – The Relentless Deal | Udemy | 3-5 weeks |
| Advanced Investment Banking Program | Elearnmarkets | 3-6 months |
Investment Banking Course Duration FAQs
1. What is the typical investment banking course duration in India?
Investment banking course duration varies by the type of course. Certificate courses usually take 1 to 6 months, diploma programs last 6 months to 1 year, undergraduate degrees take 3 years, and postgraduate degrees like MBA span 2 years. Online investment banking courses may last anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on the content and platform.
2. Can I do investment banking courses after 12th?
Yes, after completing class 12th (preferably with commerce or maths), you can join undergraduate programs like BBA in Finance, B.Com with Finance specialization, or BSc in Economics. These programs form a strong base for a career in investment banking.
3. Which are the best short-term investment banking courses?
Top short-term options include:
- Certified Investment Banking Operations by Imarticus Learning
- Financial Markets by Yale on Coursera
- Investment Banking Bootcamp by CFI (Corporate Finance Institute)
These can be completed in a few weeks to 6 months and focus on practical job-ready skills.
4. Are online investment banking courses valid for jobs?
Yes, if you complete your course from a reputed platform like Coursera, CFI, Udemy, or NSE Academy, it adds strong value to your resume. Online courses are especially useful for upskilling or switching careers while continuing your job or studies.
5. What is the fee range of investment banking courses in India?
The fee can range from ₹3,000 for basic online courses to ₹10,00,000 for full-time MBA programs at top colleges. Certificate and diploma courses usually cost between ₹5,000 and ₹1,50,000 depending on the institute and duration.
