Why Choose an Online Finance Degree?
Business and financial operations occupations are excellent choices for a career. They are expected to grow by around 5% between 2019 and 2029, which means that around 476,200 new jobs will be created. In this field, the median wage for those employed was an average of $69,820. That’s almost double the median annual wage for all other occupations.
Choosing an Online Finance Degree
When you look at getting an online finance degree, you need to look into different opportunities, such as working as a claims adjuster, budget analyst, or appraiser. Select a field that has the kind of payment you’re looking for at the bachelor’s or master’s level.
Your school choice should offer hands-on experience or training through internships or externships, so you can get the best chance at a job when you graduate.
Below are the 24 best online finance schools based on our research. We have ranked them from our top choice down. If you don’t see a program you like here, let us know what you’re looking for. We’ll help you find a finance degree program that matches your requirements.
The Best 24 Schools with an Online Finance Degree
1. Dickinson State University
Dickinson State University is a part of the North Dakota University System and offers a BBA in finance. There are two options to complete the program, one of which is totally online while the other is hybrid, with classes offered in Williston and Bismarck.
Tuition (in-state): $5,826
Enrollment: 1,350
2. University of Houston-Clear Lake
The University of Houston in Clear Lake offers a bachelor of science in finance that encourages students to learn more about investing. The school offers a hybrid track, requiring at least a few classes on campus. However, graduates may then move on to highly paid careers in insurance, financial planning, and real estate.
Tuition (in-state): $7,920
Enrollment: 9,082
3. University of Minnesota Crookston
The University of Minnesota Crookston offers a bachelor’s in finance program that can be taken remotely, as a hybrid program, or totally on campus. Students take courses in business writing, financial markets, marketing principles, estate planning, and more.
Tuition (in-state): $12,116
Enrollment: 2,768
4. University of Houston- Downtown
The University of Houston offers a bachelor of business administration with a focus on finance. This program augments the program by encouraging a minor in marketing, economics, or accounting. Many graduates sit for the chartered financial planner, certified treasury professional, and chartered financial analyst certification exams.
Tuition (in-state): $7,578
Enrollment: 14,640
5. Missouri State University
Missouri State University offers a bachelor’s in finance program that has been accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The program consists of 120 credit hours and gives students the opportunity to sit for the entry-level chartered financial analyst exam. Students learn how to manage wealth, investments, or other assets for individuals, companies, or public agencies.
Tuition (in-state): $5,202
Enrollment: 23,453
6. Thomas Edison State University
Thomas Edison State University offers a BSBA in finance. The program is focused on financial management, financial markets, and institutions and investments. Applicants to this program have to be at least 21 unless they are enrolled in the military. All students must also complete a capstone project that integrates and validates the students’ knowledge.
Tuition (in-state): $12,024
Enrollment: 10,227
7. The University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a bachelor of science in finance that is fully remote. Students cover topics such as basic marketing, portfolio management, investment management, and more.
Tuition (in-state): $8,100
Enrollment: 22,080
8. Lehigh University
Lehigh University offers a FLEX master of business administration, which is a part-time program. The program is a hybrid MBA that is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. The classes cover financial analysis, corporate financial management, international finance, and business operations, among others.
Tuition (in-state): $27,000
Enrollment: 6,953
9. Villanova University
With a specialization in finance, the master of business administration at Villanova University is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students are required to complete in-person weekend residencies on campus, but the majority of the program is available online.
Tuition (in-state): $20,506
Enrollment: 10,848
10. University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers an online master of business administration with a concentration in finance. The 62-credit program is open to those with six or more relevant years of work experience without a GRE/GMAT.
Tuition (in-state): $10,552
Enrollment: 29,877
11. National University
National University offers 11 different finance courses that go over topics like the valuation of a corporation, risk management, financial statement analysis, wealth management, and capital management skills. Distance learners take classes in four-week blocks, which are designed to help them complete the bachelor of science in financial management while having time to work.
Tuition (in-state): $15,480
Enrollment: 16,670
12. Florida International University
Florida International University offers a bachelor of business administration that is completely online. This program covers topics such as the legal environment of business, strategic management, and business statistics.
Tuition (in-state): $8,912
Enrollment: 58,711
13. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a bachelor of business administration degree in finance. Courses include corporate finance and business data analysis, among others. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students are required to complete 12 general education credits, 12 business core courses, 5 finance majors, 5 upper level business electives, and 21 credits of non business breadth.
Tuition (in-state): $14,014
Enrollment: 31,350
14. Boston University
Boston University offers an online master of science in financial management. The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and has a globally focused curriculum. Students take classes on quantitative methods, international financial management, financial risk management, managerial accounting, and more. By the end of the program, graduates will have the tools, knowledge, and critical thinking skills to pursue their career in finance or advance and pursue a finance major.
Tuition (in-state): $54,720
Enrollment: 33,720
15. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
· Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
· Graduation Rate: 96%
The University of Pennsylvania (Wharton) is hailed as one of the best schools to pursue a degree in finance, hands down. The school is the oldest collegiate school of business, established in 1881. Wharton has also maintained an eighty-one percent employment rate upon graduation.
The school also has a large group of alumni with a count of 90K worldwide. Students can pursue joint degrees at Wharton and through the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Students have a well-rounded experience at Wharton through educational ventures and 25 research centers, and 150 organizations. A high graduation rate and post-graduation employment rate make Wharton a solid school for the pursuit of a finance degree.
Accreditation: AACSB – the International Association for Management Education.
Tuition: $47,668 per year
Acceptance Rate: 9% (2016)
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 81%
16. University of Chicago (Booth)
· Chicago, Illinois
· Graduation Rate: 95%
The University of Chicago Booth is a school steeped in legacy as the second-oldest business school in the U.S. Students who wish to pursue a degree at the University of Chicago Booth have unique options to help catapult their education and career. The Chicago Booth Scholars Program allows students to apply for a Chicago Booth MBA in their final year as an undergraduate. They can also defer admission for two to five years in lieu of professional work experience. It’s a unique opportunity to reflect on different career options and still pursue an MBA later.
The University of Chicago (Booth) claims nine Nobel laureates in the Economic Sciences, which is more than any other business school worldwide. A high graduation rate and postgraduate employment rate make this university a good choice for a finance degree.
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association
Tuition: $73,440
Acceptance Rate: 22.5%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 87.20%
17. New York University (Stern)
· New York City, New York
· Graduation Rate: 87%
New York University (Stern) is one of the oldest business schools worldwide. Students have the option of pursuing dual degrees at a fast pace. Forty student organizations are available for students to explore educational and extracurricular opportunities. There are also ample job opportunities in the city. New York University (Stern) is well known for helping students to secure post-MBA positions in finance.
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Tuition: $66,588
Acceptance Rate: 7.6%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 85.60%
18. Columbia University
· New York City, New York
· Graduation Rate: 95%
Columbia University is one of the oldest universities in New York. It’s also the fifth-oldest university in the United States. Columbia has a reputation that speaks for itself. A degree from this esteemed university is believed to be worth the cost of a Columbia education.
For students seeking a finance degree from Columbia, it’s well known for its focus on financial accounting subjects. Investment banking, corporate and personal financial planning, private equity (PE), mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and alternative investments are well-known areas of focus.
· Accreditation: The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (One of six regional higher education accrediting agencies)
Tuition: $61,788
Acceptance Rate: 6%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 78.40%
19. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)
· Cambridge, Massachusetts
· Graduation Rate: 60%
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan) can take pride in the fact that twenty-five percent of Sloan graduates have become CEOs and company presidents. Students can take advantage of globally selective degree finance programs. Students can take advantage of options to travel and study abroad.
Students also have the opportunity to take part in action labs that allow them to try to solve real-world problems. MIT struts business clubs on the national level in addition to year-long contests in the MIT Entrepreneurship Competition for $100K. Students have the opportunity to win cash prizes for outstanding business plans as well.
Accreditation: AACSB: Global Business Education Network
Tuition: $77,168
Acceptance Rate: 11.6%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 79.30%
20. Stanford University
· Stanford, California
· Graduation Rate: 94%
Stanford is a private research university and the world’s top teaching university. Stanford’s business program is well known for its focus on creating well educated and employable graduates. In fact, Stanford GSB draws attention from MBA recruiters.
Stanford’s close location to the greater university and Silicon Valley are also attractive factors. Another reason why Stanford stands out as a university of choice rests heavily on plentiful financial assistance available to low and middle-class students. Stanford students who want to pursue a degree in finance can receive a top-notch education in addition to substantial financial assistance to make their education affordable.
· Accreditation: WASC-Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $73,062
Acceptance Rate: 4%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 67.50%
21. University of California-Berkeley (Haas)
· Berkeley, California
· Graduation Rate: 94%
The Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, is a public university with ivy league prestige. Students seeking a finance degree can expect to find some of the best business programs available. Berkeley Haas is also known for having five Nobel Prize-winning economists on its faculty, which is also a draw for potential finance students.
As students near graduation, the school’s location affords students many opportunities for employment with major businesses. Google and Visa are examples of a few businesses in proximity. Finance students will also find plenty of internships and jobs to supplement their education. Students can also take advantage of the [email protected] program which assigns student projects with local and global companies. Berkeley Haas business courses have a global focus that complements the campus research center. Finance students have a good chance of finding employment upon graduation.
Accreditation: (WASC)-The Western Association of Schools & Colleges
Tuition: $39,550 (residents); $69,304 (non-residents)
Acceptance Rate: 13.2% (2015)
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 86% of graduates accepted a job offer within 3 months of graduation
22. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ross)
· Ann Arbor, Michigan
· Graduation Rate: 91%
The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ross) receives accolades for applying business principles to real-world scenarios, as well as its focus on innovation. Students can expect to apply the abilities they mastered in the classroom in highly analytical projects with a variety of companies.
Students can earn bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in business/finance. The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ross) also offers an executive education program and an option for dual degrees with other University of Michigan colleges.
Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $71,048
Acceptance Rate: 23%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 87.50%
23. University of Georgia
· Athens, Georgia
· Graduation Rate: 84%
The University of Georgia is one of the oldest public universities in the United States and is considered a public ivy league school. Students seeking an online bachelor’s in finance can rest assured that they’ve chosen a good school based on the popularity of the school in addition to the graduation rate and postgraduate employment rates. Finance is among one of the most popular degrees at the University of Georgia.
Students who attend as freshmen usually stay. This is demonstrated by the 96% freshman retention rate and the 84% graduation rate. Students can expect to graduate with a solid education from a Research Institute of higher learning. UGA is in the top tier of state universities and colleges. This school stands out amongst schools all over the US, and it’s the flagship school for the state of Georgia. The University of Georgia is affordable, comparatively speaking, and offers a top-shelf education. This makes UGA extremely competitive compared to other universities.
· Accreditation: (SACSCOC)-The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $27,450
Acceptance Rate: 49%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 95%
24. Arizona State University (William Polk Carey)
· Tempe, Arizona
· Graduation Rate: 70%
Arizona State University (William Polk Carey) was among the 100 most prestigious universities in the world in 2016 by Times Higher Education. This is the world’s largest academic opinion company. Business/finance heads the list as one of the most popular majors at ASU, followed by Business, Management, and Marketing. In fact, according to the Times Higher Education (2018), ASU is in the top one percent of the world’s most prestigious universities.
The W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University includes 300 faculty and 1,800 graduate students, making it one of the largest business schools in the country. Plus, students benefit from a student-teacher ratio of fewer than 45 students for M.B.A. courses. Classes are kept at a manageable size to encourage group discussions. Students also have the option of pursuing joint degrees paired with the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, the School of Architecture, and the Master of Accountancy and Master of Science in Information Management programs. The prestige of ASU, small class sizes, and the affordability of the school make it a competitive choice as a school to pursue
Accreditation: the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
SCHOOL OVERVIEW
Tuition: $48,400
Acceptance Rate: 84.8%
First Year Retention Rate: 86.7%
Postgraduate Employment Rate: 73.50
Ranking Methodology
Interested in our ranking methodology? We start by ranking the schools based on their tuition rates and enrollment. Based on their scores, they are ranked from 15 to 1, with high tuition rates and high enrollment rates ranking lowest. The combined scores are how the top 15 schools above were identified. This list is subject to change and cannot be guaranteed.
Why is Accreditation Important?
The term accreditation and quality might as well be synonymous. Accreditation helps students and other schools determine whether or not a school meets minimum quality standards. This, in turn, creates milestones to strive towards for any school in terms of self-improvement and self-regulation. However, its importance doesn’t stop here.
Accreditation also matters when it comes to helping other schools determine the credibility of transfer credits. It also helps employers determine how valid programs of study are and whether a graduate is qualified to hold a particular position. This is one of the reasons why employers may require evidence that an applicant has earned their degree from an accredited school.
Graduation Rate
Another important detail that deserves attention is the school’s graduation rate. In other words, what percentage of students actually complete or finish their degrees. If this number is low, this can be a bit discouraging for the future student who hopes to finish his or her finance degree and find a lucrative job in his or her field. A low graduation rate means that many started, few finished.
Most of us understand that completing a degree is extremely substantial and can often result in the inability to receive more sought after jobs in your field. In essence, an incomplete degree represents incomplete training in your field of concentration. This is why a focus on tuition, accreditation, and Graduation Rate provides a way of assessing and judging or ranking a school among other schools and programs.
How did the Schools Stack Up?
Three schools emerge as shining beacons among good schools for the pursuit of a finance degree. These schools had higher acceptance rates, higher graduation rates, and lower tuition. Many of these schools stood out amongst other schools because not only were they affordable, they also had esteemed and well-known business programs. Arizona State University (William Polk Carey) had one of the lower tuition rates compared to other universities. ASU also had a highly favorable acceptance rate of 84%. Plus, over seventy percent of ASU students graduate, and 73.5 find jobs post-graduation.
The University of Georgia is also another stand out university for many of the same reasons. With a comparatively modest tuition rate of $27,450, GSU has little competition. An acceptance rate of 48% also makes this school a plausible choice when it comes to acceptance. Plus, 95% of GSU graduates find a job post-graduation. Last but not least, the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ross) has a fairly high tuition rate of $71,048. However, a twenty-three percent acceptance rate can make this university a less than sure choice when it comes to acceptance. However, these numbers can be offset by the school’s high graduation rate and postgraduate employment rate, at 91.2% and 87.50% percent, respectively. Students can choose a school that’s easier on the pockets yet high in terms of prestige and educational opportunities. High graduation rates paired with manageable acceptance rates and postgraduate employment make these three schools stellar choices for a finance degree. Give us a call.
We’re your one-stop shop when it comes to selecting a school that has a history of success and will meet your unique needs and educational preferences. Most of us understand how beneficial it can be to get accepted by a school with higher acceptance rates. Schools that also perform well in terms of graduation rates and postgraduate education serve as clear evidence that students can comfortably pursue a finance degree in an environment filled with successful alumni.
The demand for people with finance degrees is projected to grow by ten percent through 2026. Students with a serious interest in a career in finance must do their research and choose and are of focus or interest that will help them to attain the type of job they hope to secure after graduation. This is one of the many reasons why where you get your degree, as well as the programs offered at a particular school or university, should be carefully considered and explored.
Tuition cost, accreditation, and graduation rate should all be serious considerations when selecting a school. Each of these areas provides insight into the type of experience, support, and experience a particular university may provide.
Interested in Learning More About Our Rankings?
If you work at one of these schools and want to update some of your school’s information, we’re here to help correct that data. If you would like to have your school considered for one of our lists, let us know, and we’ll let you know what information we need.
What Courses Will I Take in a Bachelor’s in Finance Program?
Financial reporting
This course covers both U.S. GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) and IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards). Students learn the conceptual framework underlying financial reporting and the specific rules and regulations governing financial statements in the United States and around the world. The course also covers the preparation of various types of financial statements, including the balance sheet, income statement, and statement of cash flows.
Investment strategy
This course covers the basics of investment strategy, including asset allocation, portfolio construction, capital markets, and risk management. Students learn about the different types of investments available, such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and how to choose the right mix of investments for their goals. The course also covers the different stages of the investment process, from goal setting to choosing an investment mix to monitoring and rebalancing a portfolio.
Asset Valuation
This course covers the principles of valuation, including both intrinsic and relative valuation methods. Students learn to value stocks, bonds, real estate, and other assets using both fundamental and technical analysis. The course also covers the use of valuation in financial decision-making, such as capital budgeting and mergers and acquisitions.
Financial Markets and Institutions
This course covers the structure and function of financial institutions such as banks, insurance companies, and venture capital firms. Students learn about the role of these institutions in the economy and how they impact the financial decisions of businesses and individuals. The course also covers the regulation of financial markets and institutions, including the role of central banks in the economy.
Management Consultant
Management analysts, also known as management consultants, help businesses identify ways to cut costs and boost revenue. The course prepares students on how to identify and understand the competitive landscape that the firm operates in, understand the client’s business goals and objectives, and finally recommend ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The main purpose of management consultants is to help the company focus its resources on markets that have a better potential of achieving more profits.
Bank Management
Bank management focuses on the principles and practices of banking, with a particular emphasis on risk management. The course covers topics such as the role of central banks, commercial banks, and investment banks in the economy, the regulation of banks, and the management of bank assets and liabilities. Students also learn about the different types of risks faced by banks, such as credit risk, interest rate risk, and liquidity risk.
Financial Modeling
Financial modeling is a course that teaches students how to build financial models to forecast financial performance. Students learn to use Excel and other software to create models that can be used for decision-making in areas such as investment strategy, capital budgeting, and risk management. The course also covers the interpretation of financial models, as well as the limitations of financial modeling.
Advanced Corporate Finance
Advanced corporate finance is a course that builds on the concepts learned in introductory corporate finance. The course covers topics such as capital structure, dividend policy, and mergers and acquisitions. Students also learn about advanced financial analysis techniques, such as discounted cash flow analysis and EVA analysis. The course culminates with a project in which students apply their knowledge of corporate finance to a real-world business problem.
Capstone Project
Students can expect to complete a capstone project in their final year of study. In the capstone project, students apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the program to real-world business problems. Students work in teams to analyze data, identify trends, and make recommendations to solve the problem. The capstone project is designed to give students experience working on a team and applying their skills to a real-world situation.
Career Outlook
The finance industry is one of the most important sectors in the global economy. From banks and insurance companies to hedge funds and investment firms, finance plays a vital role in keeping the wheels of commerce moving. A career in finance offers tremendous opportunities for personal and professional growth.
A finance degree can lead to an exciting and varied career path in many different industries. With the right education and training, you can launch a successful career in any number of financial accounting specialties.
From corporate management to consulting to data analysis, the options are endless with a finance degree. You could become a financial analyst, working in a bank or other financial institution to help make investment decisions. Or, you could become a financial planner, working with individuals and families to help them make sound financial decisions.
No matter what career path you choose, a major in finance can give you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the finance industry.
Accreditation for Online Finance Degrees
Accreditation helps ensure that online finance programs offer high-quality education. Employers and graduate schools often prefer or require applicants to have a degree from an accredited institution. Studying in an accredited school gives students a better chance of getting employment, education, and financial aid opportunities.
The most well-known accrediting agency for business programs is the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (AACSB International) and the U.S. Department of Education’s AACSB-accredited degrees.
Others include:
· Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP),
· International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
When comparing the best online finance degree options, students may wish to learn which accreditation the school has. Below are some of the most common for finance schools online.
AACSB
AACSB is one of the most recognized accreditations for business schools throughout the world. It is noted for its rigorous review of the school’s mission statements, qualifications of faculty members, and curricula value to the working world. Schools with this accreditation have earned specific recognition for their curriculum development, research, teaching, and learner success rates.
ACBSP
The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) provides accreditation to nearly 3,000 programs spread across 430 campuses around the world, focusing heavily on ensuring students receive an education with a strong focus on strategic planning, leadership, and academic advancement. It offers associate, baccalaureate, and graduate designations for programs across 11 regions.
IACBE
The International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) works to ensure students receive a high quality education focused on the current competitive marketplace. It has some of the highest standards in academic performance for programs and faculty while also looking forward to the needs students have to meet modern world challenges.
What Can I Do With an Online Business Finance Degree?
Personal Financial Analysts/Advisors
Personal financial advisors provide people and organizations with investment advice, insurance solutions, mortgages, college savings, estate planning, taxes, and more. Many personal financial analysts have a bachelor’s degree in finance or a related field, such as accounting or economics.
According to the BLS, as of 2021, a personal financial advisor had a median pay of $94,170 per year. The field also has a projected growth rate of 15% through 2031.
Impact Investing Analyst
Impact investing is a type of investment that aims to generate positive, social, or environmental impact alongside a financial return. Impact investing analysts research socially responsible investing (SRI) projects to identify those that align with the investor’s goals and make recommendations accordingly.
The median wage for a financial analyst was $95,570 for 2021, according to the BLS. Financial analysts have a growth rate of 9% through 2031, according to the BLS, as well.
Hedge Fund Manager
A hedge fund is an investment fund that pools capital from different sources, such as accredited or institutional investors, with a purpose to invest the funds in a variety of assets, often with complex strategies. Hedge fund managers are financial specialists who monitor and manage these funds.
A hedge fund manager is a type of financial manager who, according to the BLS, had a median pay of $131,710 per year in 2021 with a growth rate in the field of 17% through 2031.
Commercial Banker
Commercial bankers manage the day-to-day operations of a bank, including approving loans, opening and closing accounts, processing transactions, and providing customer service. The position has a lot of potential for growth; many commercial bankers start as tellers and eventually move up to branch manager roles.
Commercial bankers had a median pay of $63,380 per year as of 2021, per the BLS. This field also has a projected growth rate of 4% through 2031.
Treasury Management Analyst
Treasury management is the process of managing an organization’s finances, including cash flow, investments, financing, and risk management. Treasury managers are responsible for ensuring that an organization has the resources it needs to meet its financial obligations and manage its risks effectively. The position requires excellent analytical and communication skills, as well as knowledge of financial software applications.
According to the BLS, management analysts earned $93,000 per year on average in 2021. This field also has a projected growth rate of 11% through 2031.
Investment Banking Analyst
An investment banking analyst provides research and analysis to support the activities of an investment banker, including underwriting and issuing securities, providing merger and acquisition advice, and acting as a broker in the sale of securities. Investment banking analysts typically have a bachelor’s degree in business, economics, or finance.
The BLS says that an investment banking analyst had a median wage of $65,570 per year in 2021. This field had a projected growth rate of 9% through 2031.
Certified Financial Planner
A certified financial planner (CFP) is a professional who helps interpret financial statements and applies respective financial decision-making for their client’s future. Financial planners are required to complete rigorous education and training to pass the certified financial planner exam and receive recognition from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards. They must also adhere to a strict code of ethics.
A certified financial planner had a median salary of $131,710 in 2021, according to the BLS. The field also has a projected growth rate of 17% through 2031.
Are Finance Majors in Demand?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates there is substantial demand for people who earn finance majors, though the specific demand depends on the specific career field. Data shows that, overall, the business and financial occupations will see a growth of about 7% from 2021 to 2031, which is considered about as fast as average across all countrywide occupations.
Specifically, business and finance careers are likely to see the need for 715,100 new jobs over that 10-year period. The BLS also reports that, in addition to these added positions, it is likely that the industry will need to add new talent to replace talent that is retiring. In total, in that 10-year period, the industry will need 980,200 people to meet existing and new demands for positions.
What Finance Certifications Are There?
Online finance schools may prepare students to meet the needs and requirements of various careers in the field. There may be the need to obtain certifications in some areas of the industry. Finance schools online can help prepare students for certifications such as the following:
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
A CFP is a professional that has earned a certification in all areas of financial planning, studying topics such as stock, insurance, retirement planning, estate planning, and more. They earn their certification after completing their education from the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
A CPA has a destination indicating they have completed examinations related to tax preparation and accounting, though this does not mean they have financial planning experience specifically. The CPA award certificate is provided by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
A CFA must complete three exams and have three years of working experience to obtain this destination including in topics such as portfolio management, ethical and professional standards, and accounting. The designation is provided by the CFA Institute.
Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
A person with an FRM designation completed their education and gained the necessary skills in managing financial risk. This designation comes from the Global Association of Risk Professionals.
What are the advantages of a career in finance?
One of the most appealing aspects of this field is the potential for high earnings. Finance professionals are often among the highest-paid workers in any industry. Additionally, jobs in finance are often highly coveted and can lead to other opportunities in management and leadership.
Entry-level positions in finance are also quite lucrative. Many financial institutions offer a starting salary that is well above the national average. This, combined with the potential for rapid career advancement, makes finance an attractive option for many job seekers.
Additional certifications and licenses may be required for some finance careers. For example, stockbrokers and investment bankers must obtain a license from the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA). However, the extra effort required to obtain these credentials is often worth it, as they can lead to even higher earnings and more job opportunities.
A career in finance can offer opportunities in a number of industries. Many financial professionals work in the banking or insurance industries. Others may find employment in the accounting, real estate, or investment sectors. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment in finance and insurance will grow 8 percent from 2020 to 2030, adding about 750,800 new jobs.
Job seekers with a background in finance should have plenty of opportunities to find employment in their chosen field. And with the ever-changing landscape of the economy, there will always be a need for financial professionals who can adapt and provide innovative solutions.
Best Online Business Finance Degrees: FAQs
What is the Average Salary for Finance Degree Graduates?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports, most finance managers earn a median salary of 130,000, with the highest-paid 10% of earners making more than $208,000 annually.
Some of the top industries in which financial managers and graduates worked in include$:
- Management of companies and enterprises – $158,820
- Professional, scientific, and technical services – 158,770
- Manufacturing – $131,710
- Finance and insurance – $131,710
- Government – $123,010
How Fast Can You Earn a Finance Degree?
It will take you four years to earn a bachelor’s degree in finance if you enroll in the traditional on-campus program. However, if you decide to enroll in an online finance degree program, you may be able to complete your studies faster. Some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to complete their degrees in as little as 18 months. You can also transfer general education credits from prior college degrees to further condense the program.
How Much Does a Finance Degree Cost?
For most in-state students, an online bachelor’s degree in finance will cost between $15,000 to $40,000. Out-of-state students can expect to pay slightly more in general. The total cost for the program will also depend on the school you choose to attend and the number of credits you need to complete the degree.
Should I Get My Finance Degree Online?
Whether or not you should get your finance degree online depends on a variety of factors. For example, if you need the flexibility of an online program to accommodate your work schedule, then getting your degree online may be the best option. Plus, online finance degree programs are also generally more affordable than traditional on-campus programs.
How Hard Is a Finance Major?
A finance major is not considered easy, but it is also not the most difficult degree to obtain either. The coursework will require you to complete classes in accounting, economics, and statistics, which means there will be a little bit of complex math.
What Pays More Finance Or Accounting?
Both finance and accounting careers offer opportunities for high earnings. However, finance jobs tend to be more lucrative than accounting jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, financial managers earn a median salary of $130,000 per year, while accountants earn a median salary of $75,280 annually.
What Can You Do With A Finance Degree?
There are many different career options available to those with a finance degree. Some popular choices include working as a financial analyst, investment banker, or financial planner. With the right experience and credentials, you could also work as a stockbroker, loan officer, or insurance agent.
Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Personal Financial Advisors
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Financial Analysts
U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics. Financial Managers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Loan Officers
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Management Analysts
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Business, and Financial Occupations
