Updated: Tuesday, July 7th, 2009

A new annual survey from the College for Financial Planning, showing brightening prospects for financial advisors, will be welcome news for those who consider an MBA or an online degree in finance.

The 2009 Survey of Trends in Financial Planning has shown that financial advisors are making more money and seeking more education than they did a year ago.

"As people watch their retirement savings or child's college fund shrink, they are increasingly asking advisors for solutions to help live their lives, rather than simply grow their stock investments," says Bing Waldert, director of Cerulli Associates, a consultancy which interpreted the poll's results.

"That requires a more comprehensive approach with a greater emphasis on customer service and better training," he adds.

The study's main findings include the growth in salaries which this year average $215,345, up from $195,394 in 2008, and the fact that over half of respondents receive most of their compensation from fees rather than commissions.

The results clearly show financial advising as a rewarding business career for those who hold the right degrees such as accredited MBAs, especially if they come from top business schools.

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