Edited By Julian Palacio
Review & Contribution By David Smith
Finance is at the heart of any business. Every transaction usually has a financial connotation to it, making it necessary for people to keep track of numbers, trends, inflows, outflows, etc. An online bachelors degree in finance program is designed to give students the knowledge and abilities they will need to work in the accounting field and financial world and further their careers. Finance graduates can apply financial concepts to a wide range of financial circumstances, particularly those involving enterprises. They compile, evaluate, analyze, and transmit critical information on financial operations using several tools and skills. Students of a bachelor of finance will study business law, finance, management, and economics in addition to accounting concepts, theories, and practice. Communication, computer applications, financial analysis, portfolio management, risk management, strategic planning, critical thinking abilities, and ethics are all areas where related skills can be cultivated and used. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for business and financial occupations was $72,250 in May 2020, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, and business and finance jobs are projected to grow 8% between 2020 & 2030. This indicates that finance-related jobs are well-paying, making a finance degree worthwhile. This page lists complete information on an online bachelor’s degree in finance. It provides vital information on what the degree entails, how to fund it, specializations available, the best colleges for finance, career options, types of finance degrees, and more.
Featured Online Programs
Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Courses
Students who want to pursue an online bachelor’s in finance will find that many top finance schools offer a finance undergraduate program. The best undergraduate finance schools, however, must have experienced and qualified teachers, decent infrastructure, be inexpensive, provide excellent student services, have high graduation rates, and provide assistance with job placement. Furthermore, they must also have a finance major ranking or feature in reputable undergraduate finance program rankings. Here are some of the best online finance bachelor degree programs in the United States, based on all of these characteristics plus numerous more parameters: *
Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
University of Minnesota, Twin Cities | 100 Church Street SE, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455 | $15,027 | 84% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
Find Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Near Me
For many students considering an online bachelor’s degree program in finance, the location of the college might be a major deciding factor. In-state tuition is typically less expensive than out-of-state tuition, which is why prospective students should consider the state in which they plan to pursue their finance bachelor’s degree. Fortunately, most online institutions and programs charge a standard tuition fee regardless of the student’s domicile. Nonetheless, there may be other important variables for a student to consider when deciding whether or not to pursue a bachelor’s degree in finance in a different state or closer to home. To assist students in their quest for the best and most affordable ‘finance degree near me’, several teams at FBD have compiled the following list:
What to expect from the Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance?
A bachelor’s in finance is typically a 4-year program. The program’s curriculum is designed for students to acquire finance abilities and prepare them for finance employment or graduate school. Classes will generally highlight practical applications of contemporary financial decision-making theory and cover basic financial skills such as cash flow analysis and financial risk estimation as well. Assignments and internships give students more exposure and hands-on experience to better prepare them for the job market.
The coursework in an online bachelor’s in finance degree will vary by program and school. Students can often choose from a wide range of courses and tailor their programs to suit their needs and professional goals. Here is a list of typical finance degree online courses students can expect:
Some of the other core courses in an online sports management bachelor’s degree are:
Some examples of electives students can choose from include but are not limited to:
Some bachelor’s degree in finance programs may also require incoming students to take up general education courses that may include:
Types of Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
What types of finance degrees are there for students to pursue? There are several ways to earn a finance bachelor’s degree. And is finance bachelor of arts or science? In addition to a variety of degree programs through which students can major in finance, the typical finance bachelor’s degrees are the Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees.
Bachelor of Arts in Finance (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts or Finance BA degree is based on the departments of liberal arts and humanities and takes a multidisciplinary approach towards finance. This degree type is better suited for those who wish to continue their education with an MA and/or enter the teaching profession.
Bachelor of Science in Finance (BS)
The Bachelor of Science or BS Finance degree leans more on math and science and takes a technical and scientific approach towards finance. This degree type better prepares those who want to enter the job market immediately or wish to continue their education with an MS.
As an alternative, many schools offer a finance majors degree or business degrees with a concentration in finance. These include but are not limited to:
BA in Finance Vs BS in Finance
Quite often, students ask the question, “is a finance degree a BA or BS”? Some students try to find out the difference between a BA in finance vs. BS in finance. To address these queries – the bachelor’s in finance degree can be earned in both a BA or BS. Although both provide the required knowledge and skill for a future in finance and both offer similar career prospects, pay, and growth, there are distinct dissimilarities between the two.
BA Finance Degree
The bachelor of arts in finance online is based on the liberal arts and humanities and offers a more well-rounded and diverse curriculum. Students take classes in the arts, social sciences, foreign languages, and other subjects in addition to business studies and finance. Courses in a BA finance program can range from Accounting, American History and American Government, and College-Level Mathematics to English Composition and Research, Micro/Macroeconomics, and Finance.
BS Finance Degree
The bachelor of science in finance online is based on STEM fields like math and science. This degree is more focused on finance and takes a technical approach towards the subject, making it a preferred choice for those wanting to start their careers straight out of college. Courses in a BS finance program can range from Academic Writing and Research, Communication, and College Calculus to Financial Statements, Investment Management, and Corporate Finance.
Areas of Specialisation for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Specializations provide students with the exposure they will require to enter specific roles in the financial world. They not only widen one’s knowledge and perspective, but they also improve one’s career prospects and pay and growth potential. Here are a few concentrations and focus areas in finance for bachelor degree students:
Specialization | Description | Careers |
---|---|---|
Bachelor of Finance and Investment | This specialization is a popular choice among many finance students and emphasizes the study of alternative opportunities and the evaluation of an investment’s expected return and risk. Students learn how businesses can invest excess cash, how banks can invest deposits, how insurance firms can invest premium payments, and how individuals can invest their savings. | Investment Management Specialists can work in banks, insurance companies, businesses, portfolio managers, or independent consultants. |
Bachelor’s Degree in Finance & Risk Management | This specialization deals with identifying, assessing, and mitigating pure risk situations for businesses and individuals. Students learn how to minimize investment risks, hedge funds, and deploy various solutions to manage risk. | Risk Management Specialists can work in businesses, insurance companies, government agencies, wealth management companies, or independent consultants. |
Bachelor’s Degree in Finance – Financial Institutions Specialization | This specialization prepares students to deal with the management of and functions performed by employees of financial firms. Students can choose from two tracks – a corporate track that has to do with the management of financial institutions, international finance, financial modeling, etc., and a personal finance track that has to do with individual income taxation, personal finance planning, retirement, and employee benefit planning, etc. | Financial Institutions Specialists can work in credit unions, insurance companies, commercial banks, or as savings and loans advisors and independent consultants. |
Bachelor Degree in Corporate Finance | This specialization focuses on the management of financial resources of non-financial firms and business houses. It involves the planning, acquisition, and financing of resources for businesses. | Corporate Finance Specialists can work in businesses, non-banking financial corporations, or as independent consultants. |
Online Personal Finance Degree | This specialization prepares students to deal with the development of comprehensive financial plans in the combined areas of investments, tax, insurance, retirement, and estate planning, for oneself or other individuals, families, or trusts. | Person Finance Specialists can work as independent consultants or portfolio managers or in wealth management firms. |
Some examples of other concentrations/specializations include:
Business Finance Degree
There are several iterations of a finance degree in addition to the standard Bachelor of Arts in finance and Bachelor of Science in finance. For example, a bachelor’s in business and finance degree will cover business topics such as commerce and trade, business law, marketing, etc., and also touch upon topics in finance, such as the principles of accounting, cost analysis, personal finance, capital markets, etc. It is worth noting that most colleges title this degree as the bachelor’s in business administration (BBA) with a concentration in finance or a bachelor of science in business administration (BSBA) with a concentration in finance. Freno State and the University of Alaska Anchorage offer such programs.
Another example is a bachelor’s in economics and finance that will combine economics-related courses such as micro and macroeconomics, international markets, industry, trade, etc., with finance courses such as investment analysis, financial modeling, and financial accounting. Universities such as the University of Dallas, Constantin College of Liberal Arts, and the Bay Atlantic University offer a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Finance
Why should I do an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance?
Is an online finance degree worth it? An online bachelor’s degree in finance educates students in all aspects of financial management, including forecasting and budgeting, money and banking, financial analysis, and technology management. This comprehensive 4-year degree program is designed to help students grasp the complexity of corporate finance and money management while also providing them with a skill set that will impress employers from large corporations to small businesses.
With communications, people are often presented with the opportunity to reach out to others, build trust and goodwill, resolve conflict and issues and express themselves better to different people under varying situations. An online bachelor’s in communications can lead to rich and rewarding experiences and careers in a wide range of settings, spanning advertising, visual communications, film, and broadcasting, to education, human resources, journalism, law, and advocacy.
The job market for communications also looks promising. For example, O*Net OnLine reports that Public Relations Specialists earn a median annual wage of $62,810, with a growth estimate of 10% to 15% (faster than the average). Media and Communication Equipment Workers (all other) earn a median annual wage of $70,980, with a growth estimate of 15% or higher (much faster than the average).
Among the many skills graduates of a bachelor’s in finance will acquire during their degree program are:
To understand and use basic accounting principles.
To evaluate financial assets such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives.
To demonstrate the capacity to examine information and situations independently and objectively in order to come up with distinctive solutions.
To effectively analyze and interpret financial data and employ various tools, techniques, and methods to do so.
To demonstrate professional abilities, actions, and conduct that are in line with industry standards.
To apply financial theory that aids business decision-making and corporate financial decision-making.
To design an optimal portfolio of financial investments and assets.
Free Courses for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance who want to learn more while keeping their educational costs low might take advantage of free courses. Even though many of these free courses do not lead to a certificate, they provide enough knowledge and information to broaden one’s horizons and study beyond the textbook. The following are some examples of free courses and websites that provide free courses:
Course | Description | Offered by |
---|---|---|
Finance and Finance-related Topics | EdX, a leading study portal, offers a host of finance and finance-related topics across different learning levels. Topics include ‘Essential Career Skills for Investment Banking and Finance’, ‘Fundamentals of Financial Mathematics and Capital Budgeting’, ‘Financial Accounting Made Fun: Eliminating Your Fears’, etc. | EdX |
Finance and Finance-related Topics | Coursera is home to a variety of courses on finance topics connected with the Accelerated Introduction to Managerial & Financial Accounting, the Fintech Revolution, Finance & Economics, Quantitative Finance, Investment Management Practices and Trends, Financial Literacy for Informed Decisions, and more. | Coursera |
Finance and Finance-related Topics | Udemy has some 93 courses under the label of finance. Some of them include ‘Business Finance Essentials’, ‘Capital Budgeting and Project Evaluation Techniques’, ‘Learn Financial Statement Basics: A beginner’s journey’, and ‘Introduction to Corporate Finance (Mergers & Acquisitions)’, among others. | Udemy |
How to get into the Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance program?
How to get a finance degree? To get into an online bachelor’s in finance degree program, students should hold at least a High School Diploma or GED with a minimal GPA, ACT, or SAT scores that vary by college. Some programs may also require students to take some courses as prerequisites for finance degree before formal admission to the finance program, especially if they do not have any prior employment experience in the field. Because admission requirements can differ depending on the school and program one chooses, it is always advisable for students getting a degree in finance to get exact information on admission requirements from the school’s admissions office.
Here are some of the primary finance degree requirements for admission into a bachelor’s program:
How long does it take to complete the Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance?
A typical bachelor’s in finance degree program requires about 120 credit hours and 4 Years to complete. Duration of a program will, of course, vary by factors such as part-time or full-time study, coursework load, electives chosen, the specialization, internship and projects, program delivery (offline, online, or hybrid), and credit transfers. Some colleges offer fast-track or accelerated programs that can reduce the time to graduate from the bachelor’s in finance degree.
Accreditation For Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Accreditation is a vital requirement for any credible school. Accrediting agencies examine the administrative support and policies, instructor hiring and evaluation, quality of programs, infrastructure, and curriculum requirements of accredited institutions and programs to ensure that they satisfy the demands of students and employers. Accreditation from one of the six major regional accrediting bodies recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the U.S Department of Education is essential for both legitimacy and transferability. The following are the six regional accrediting bodies:
- New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Community and Junior Colleges Accrediting Commission (WSCUC)
Accreditation can also be awarded by specialty accreditors, who examine the same characteristics as general accreditors but with a focus on the expert capabilities expected from students. They verify that programs have appropriate business acumen, that instructor standards are based on real-world experience, and that the curriculum is in accordance with current business practices. Moreover, a specialist-certified degree implies that the program has adhered to subject-specific criteria established by the business community, such as the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). The three foremost CHEA-recognized specialty accreditors in the United States, which are:
Accelerated Programs for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Accelerated and fast-track finance degree programs are great options for students who want to finish their studies as early as possible and join the workforce. An accelerated online degree program in finance may begin at any time of the year, providing flexibility to students when enrolling. In addition, accelerated classes have a distinct edge over regular classes in that they are twice as quick. Students can finish a standard 16-week semester in as little as eight weeks and complete a typical 4-year degree in about 2 to 3 years (depending on transfer credits and course load per term). However, one must bear in mind that the fastest online finance degree programs can be pretty rigorous and hectic.
Here are a few examples of accelerated online bachelor’s in finance:
How to Pay for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Programs?
Many students will find the tuition at a decent college prohibitively pricey. Furthermore, tuition for out-of-state students might be thousands of dollars higher than for in-state students. Fortunately, tuition for online bachelor’s degree in finance programs is often unaffected by the student’s residence state. It also does away with other educational fees such as transportation, food plans, on-campus clubs and activities, boarding and accommodation, etc. Those who find the tuition fee for a finance bachelor’s degree online program to be too expensive to cover on their own might explore financial aid options such as:
Individual contributors, private organizations, alumnae bodies, cultural, religious, or commercial organizations grant scholarships to students. Merit is the most critical criterion for receiving a scholarship; academic performance and achievements are considered. Scholarships are also given out based on a variety of other characteristics, including community service, cultural background, religious membership, and so on. (Note: To avoid being defrauded, read about Scholarship Scams.)
Those who excel academically yet come from low-income families are more likely to receive grants. Grants, unlike scholarships, are typically provided depending on the family’s financial standing, making them need-based rather than merit-based.
Student Loans
If eligible, students can take out federal, bank, or private loans, requiring interest payments. However, loans paid back late will attract additional interest and penalties that will almost certainly increase student debt.
The FAFSA, or Free Application for Federal Student Aid, is a form students can fill in and submit to check their eligibility for financial aid. More FAFSA-related information is available here.
To know more about various types of financial aid, read the best Financial Guide.
Scholarships for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Students who have always maintained a strong academic track record should explore the many undergraduate scholarships available to study finance. Universities, as well as other organizations and associations, offer scholarships to deserving students each year or for a particular program. Here are a few examples:
Scholarship | Description | Amount/Award | Deadline |
---|---|---|---|
Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA) Finance and Accounting Scholarship | The Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA) Finance and Accounting Scholarship is primarily for women in accounting and finance to ensure that they have the tools and resources to achieve every career success they desire. The scholarship supports the costs of attending 3rd, 4th, or 5th year when pursuing an accounting or finance degree. | Varies | TBA |
Lincoln Financial Scholars Program | The Lincoln Financial Scholars Program, in partnership with the Lincoln Financial Foundation, provides a select group of African American students scholarship assistance, internships with Lincoln Financial Group, and early-career readiness support to help prepare them for rewarding careers in the insurance and asset management industries. | $5,000 | January 17, 2024 |
Collaratory.org Scholarships | Collaratory.org, by the Southwest Florida Community Foundation, offers scholarships for students and adult learners seeking or continuing education at vocational/technical colleges, community colleges, state colleges, and universities. | Varies | January 12, 2024 |
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship | The Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship, awarded by the Government Finance Officers Association, recognizes and encourages outstanding minority students enrolled in a course of study preparing for a career in state or local government finance. | $10,000 | January 14, 2024 |
FAQs about Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Programs
What is a finance degree?
A bachelor’s degree in finance is a four-year program that prepares students for a job in the financial industry. Financial bachelor’s degrees include courses in statistics, mathematics, business, and economics, as well as financial analysis, investment strategy, and reporting. With this degree, graduates will be prepared to enter many occupations such as financial analyst, portfolio manager, financial manager, stockbroker, financial examiner, personal financial advisor, and more.
How to get a bachelor’s degree in finance?
How long is a bachelor’s degree in finance?
Can I do a bachelor’s in finance online?
Is an online finance degree worth it?
What are the best colleges to do a finance degree?
What is the difference between a BS in finance and BBA in finance?
Career Opportunities and Salaries Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
Armed with a bachelor’s degree in finance, graduates can enter a wide range of industries and businesses in various roles. They will use their analytic, strategic, critical, and communications skills to analyze financial data, determine the value of assets and the return on risk, manage investments, and do much more, making them readily employable. Career opportunities can typically be found in small and large businesses, manufacturing houses, hospitals, schools, governmental agencies, stock-broking firms, insurance companies, start-ups, real-estate establishments, and more. Here are some typical job titles online bachelor’s in finance graduates can expect:
The salary a finance bachelor graduate gets is primarily based on the specialization, the years of experience, certification, location, etc. Nevertheless, salary and growth potential in finance careers are relatively good. This is evident in the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics (BLS) report that, as an example, jobs as Financial Examiners is set to grow 18% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations, and the median annual wage of a Financial Examiner is $81,430.
Here is a quick run-down of jobs online bachelor’s degree finance graduates can explore, and their salaries and growth potential, as reported by the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2030) | Job Description |
---|---|---|---|---|
Financial Analyst | A Financial Analyst advises organizations and people on how to spend money to make money. | $83,660 | 6% (as fast as average) | Computer skills, analytical skills, detail-oriented, communication skills, math skills, decision-making skills |
Financial Manager | Detail-oriented, communication skills, organizational skills, analytical skills, math skills. | $134,180 | 17% (much faster than average) | A Financial Manager creates financial reports, directs investment activities, and develops plans for the long-term financial goals of an organization. |
Personal Financial Advisor | A Personal Financial Advisor advises to help individuals manage their money and plan for their financial future. | $89,330 | 5% (slower than average) | Math skills, analytical skills, speaking skills, interpersonal skills, sales skills. |
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agent | A Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agent connect buyers and sellers in financial markets. | $64,770 | 4% (slower than average) | Customer-service skills, initiative, math skills, decision-making skills, analytical skills, detail-oriented. |
Budget Analyst | Communication skills, writing skills, analytical skills, detail-oriented, communication skills, math skills. | $78,970 | 5% (slower than average) | A Budget analyst helps public and private organizations plan their finances. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
For specific jobs in the financial world, a bachelor’s degree by itself may be inadequate for employment. Adding one or more certifications to one’s arsenal will demonstrate one’s ability to manage complex financial situations and resolve real-world issues in finance and accounting. Finance certifications provide students with the information and skills needed to pursue careers in a variety of niche unique financial domains. Depending on the career path, there are several finance certifications to choose from, such as:
Here are some certifications for bachelor’s degree in marketing graduates to explore:
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Certification
The Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, administered by the CFA Institute, is designed to provide individuals with the kind of investment analysis expertise and practical skills that can help them enhance their careers and develop a competitive edge in a highly completive industry.
Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) Designation
The Certified Fund Specialist (CFS) designation, administered by the Institute of Business & Finance (IBF), provides individuals with the expertise and knowledge explicitly required in mutual funds and the mutual fund industry. CFS professionals advise clients on which funds to invest in and, depending on whether they have their license, will buy and sell funds on their behalf.
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification is provided by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) to applicants who complete an undergraduate degree. Applicants must have work experience in management accounting, pass an exam, meet continuing education requirements, and comply with standards of professional conduct.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Certification
The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) qualification, administered by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA), distinguishes licensed accounting professionals dedicated to public service. CPAs provide financial statement audits and other attestation services to help investors understand a company’s financial health. They give individuals and families vital tax and financial planning information and assistance.
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM)
The Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM) credential is offered by the Association of Government Accountants (AGA) to accountants or auditors working with the federal, state, or local government. To earn this certification, candidates must have at least an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university, pass examinations, and have professional-level experience in government financial management.
Here are a few more certifications online bachelor’s in finance graduates can explore and consider:
- Certified Public Accountant and Personal Financial Specialist (CPA and PFS)
- Certified Healthcare Financial Professional (CHFP)
- Certified International Investment Analyst (CIIA)
- Certified Chartered Economist (ChE)
- Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC)
- Certified Financial Risk Manager (FRM)
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Note: Some certifications may require additional education, training, experience, or a combination of them.
Additional Resources for Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
The corporate world, and with it, the financial world, is constantly changing. Because money is the driving force behind industry, trade, and commerce, staying up to date on financial events and keeping an eye on government policies and the overall economic climate is essential. As a result, students and professionals must take advantage of the different tools available to obtain information, network with peers and industry professionals, and broaden their horizons. Here are some resources that may be useful to online bachelor’s degree in finance students and graduates:
Investment Advisor Association (IAA)
The Investment Advisor Association (IAA) is a not-for-profit organization that exclusively represents the interests of fiduciary investment adviser firms. The site is host to several conferences, workshops, and publications and also has many resources on issues and advocacy.
Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF)
Next Gen Personal Finance (NGPF) has everything one would need for their personal finance class and management, from lessons and resources to professional development and community and advocacy.
Business Professionals of America (BPA)
The Business Professionals of America (BPA) is the nation’s premier CTSO (Career Technical Student Organization), offering skill development and the chance to create personal connections to students and members. Through a variety of exciting study programs, membership provides the opportunity to expand one’s knowledge and prepare for a profession.
CFA Institute
The CFA Institute is a gold mine of information and resources for finance students and professionals on learning and events, ethics and standards, advocacy, research and analysis, and more. The CFA Institute also administers the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification program.
360 Degrees of Financial Literacy
360 Degrees of Financial Literacy, sponsored by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), is a free program designed to assist Americans in understanding their own finances at every stage of life. The site includes calculators and videos, as well as information on a variety of financial topics.
Mishtalk
Mishtalk is a blog hosted by Mike Shedlock, a registered investment advisor for Sitka Pacific Capital Management. The blog is updated almost every day with articles on the global economy, interest rates, central bank policy, gold and precious metals, jobs, and economic reports, all from an Austrian Economic perspective.