Job in IB - SII/CFA/FSA

With not getting the required degree result in Econometrics to get into IB, would taking the FSA exams, and then doing some SII certs be helpful?
Would these mean that my degree wasnt so important?
Also would starting hte CFA after taking these be good?
What are your thoughts on joing a small to mid-size Brokers as a way to move up the ranks?

Any help or advise would be great?

Thanks Stark