Best Finance Degrees Online
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Credit: JLco - Ana Suanes / iStock / Getty Images PlusA finance degree can lead to high-paying careers. In fact, financial analysts and personal financial advisors earn a median annual salary in the six figures, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
As a finance major, you’ll explore investment strategies, risk mitigation, and financial decision-making. Earning a bachelor’s in finance degree online can give you the flexibility to advance your education and increase your earning potential while working.
Our guide to the best online bachelor’s in finance programs can help you find the right fit for your budget, schedule, and career goals.
Top Finance Programs Online
The University of West Florida
Pensacola, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $219
Out-of-State | $342
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
UWF's BSBA in finance provides theoretical frameworks and career-focused data to help prepare graduates for roles like financial analyst or planner. In addition to 60 credits of general education, the degree requires a 30-credit business core and 30 credits of finance coursework.
These finance classes include investments, problems in corporate finance, and financial statement analysis. Each course lasts 15 weeks. Prospective students submit transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and a $30 application fee. The entire program takes 24-48 months.
- In-State$3,735
- Out-of-state$16,004
- In-State$7,088
- Out-of-state$22,166
- Retention Rate84%
- Acceptance Rate53%
- Students Enrolled13,288
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment88%
- AccreditationYes
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $236
Out-of-State | $649
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
Offered through the R. Kirk Landon Undergraduate School of Business, FIU's BBA in finance covers banking, investments, portfolio management, risk, and international finance. Courses include securities analysis, intermediate finance, and commercial bank management.
For admission to the university, prospective learners send an application; a $30 fee; high school transcripts; and SAT, ACT, or CLT scores. The finance BBA maintains a separate set of admission requirements, including an associate degree or 60 credits in general education with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
- In-State$4,721
- Out-of-state$16,529
- In-State$8,912
- Out-of-state$21,393
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled56,664
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
University of Minnesota Crookston
- Crookston, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $442
Out-of-State | $442
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
UMN Crookston's online BS in finance helps prepare graduates for careers like actuary, investment banker, financial analyst, and personal finance planner. The curriculum requires a 40-credit finance core and a 19-credit business core. Courses include corporate finance, estate planning, and business ethics.
Applicants submit transcripts or GED certificates. Online learners can qualify for federal financial aid. Transfer students must complete at least 30 credits of the degree at UMN Crookston.
- In-State$10,822
- Out-of-state$10,822
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled2,304
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
LeTourneau University
- Longview, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP)
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $380-$410
Out-of-State | $380-$410
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
Infused with Christian ethics and built around a hands-on approach to learning, LETU's bachelor of business administration in finance can prepare graduates for careers in wealth management, corporate finance, and financial risk analysis. Learners complete 42 credits of business coursework in topics like micro- and macroeconomics, information systems, and organizational behavior.
The degree also requires a 12-credit finance core. These classes include investments, risk management and insurance, and financial statement analysis. Online learners can enroll with six annual start dates. Applicants send transcripts demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA. ACT, SAT, or CLT scores are optional.
- In-State$32,690
- Out-of-state$32,690
- In-State$16,875
- Out-of-state$16,875
- Retention Rate77%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled3,209
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment63%
- AccreditationYes
Johnson & Wales University
- Providence, RI
- 4 year
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International and Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $495
Out-of-State | $495
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
JWU's bachelor of science in finance provides students with career-focused knowledge in economics, financial management, capital management, and financial institutions. Courses include financial accounting, financial markets and institutions, and investments. Students also complete an internship or experiential education course.
Most classes last eight weeks, though some courses run in a 16-week format. JWU enrolls new students at four annual start dates. Applications only require prospective students to send official transcripts. The school does not charge an application fee.
- In-State$13,365
- Out-of-state$13,365
- In-State$14,706
- Out-of-state$14,706
- Retention Rate0%
- Acceptance Rate45%
- Students Enrolled2,349
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
- Mount Vernon, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $397
Out-of-State | $397
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
MVNU's BBA in finance prepares moral, ethical leaders for the financial world. This leadership-driven degree includes 40 credits of business coursework, including classes about marketing, ethics and law, and statistics in business contexts.
The program also requires a 15-credit core of finance coursework, including classes such as investments, financial markets and institutions, risk and insurance, and personal financial planning. Applicants send transcripts and evidence of nontraditional prior learning for credit evaluation. The school does not charge an application fee.
- In-State$23,483
- Out-of-state$23,483
- In-State$10,674
- Out-of-state$10,674
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance Rate87%
- Students Enrolled2,064
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
Oregon State University
- Corvallis, OR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $375
Out-of-State | $375
Credits to Graduate: 180 quarter credits
Oregon State University's BA or BS in finance helps students become finance leaders who can recognize viable entrepreneurial ventures, assess corporate risk, and understand global financial environments. Courses explore topics such as investments, money and banking, and business information systems. Enrollees can pursue a financial planning concentration to specialize their degree.
The school offers four annual start dates. Attendees can pursue accelerated MS and MBA business programs, taking graduate-level courses while finishing their finance bachelor's degree. Online students can also pursue an honors degree version of the program, which allows them to collaborate with faculty on research and complete a thesis.
- In-State$10,065
- Out-of-state$29,456
- In-State$13,446
- Out-of-state$27,297
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled33,193
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $432
Out-of-State | $950
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
Offered through the Spears School of Business, OK State's BSBA in finance equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for managing finances in personal, corporate, and banking environments. Courses include money and banking, advanced accounting tools and technologies, and financial management.
Learners enter the program as pre-finance majors until they complete prerequisite courses and maintain a minimum 2.7 GPA. Though OK State does not require standardized test scores, applicants can receive assured admission by satisfying a combination of minimum GPA, test scores, and class rank. Multiple institutional scholarships also require ACT/SAT scores.
- In-State$5,417
- Out-of-state$20,937
- In-State$5,611
- Out-of-state$21,114
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled24,577
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment52%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Texas Permian Basin
- Odessa, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $362
Out-of-State | $362
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
UTPB's BBA in finance requires a 24-credit business core with classes like principles of finance, production operations management, and information systems fundamentals. The program also includes 21 credits of finance coursework covering topics such as principles of investments, international finance, and accounting for business decision-makers. Students complete a strategic management capstone.
First-year applicants submit a high school transcript or GED certificate. Transfer students with 24 or more college credits also send transcripts from prior institutions. ACT or SAT scores are optional. The finance BBA program offers nine application deadlines per year.
- In-State$6,577
- Out-of-state$18,817
- In-State$4,948
- Out-of-state$12,292
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled5,534
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment81%
- AccreditationYes
Ottawa University
- Ottawa, KS
- 4 year
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $499
Out-of-State | $499
Credits to Graduate: 120 semester credits
Ottawa University's bachelor of science in finance equips learners with analytical skills and theoretical knowledge they can apply to real-world situations in banking or corporate finance. Courses include finance and investing activities, behavioral finance, futures and options, and crypto assets.
The curriculum concludes with a capstone about applied finance. Alongside the online application, prospective learners submit transcripts and a $50 application fee.
- In-State$11,976
- Out-of-state$11,976
- In-State$11,253
- Out-of-state$11,253
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled218
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Finance?
A bachelor’s in finance prepares graduates for careers in financial services, business, government, and many other sectors. Many work in analyst or financial planning roles, applying their analytical and forecasting skills. Finance majors can specialize in areas such as portfolio management, risk management, compliance, or financial management.
Professional experience or a master’s degree can help finance majors advance their careers. Common graduate paths include a master’s in finance or an MBA in finance. Advanced roles, such as financial managers, have a significantly higher earning potential.
How Much Money Can You Make With a Finance Degree?
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts evaluate financial data and recommend investment strategies. In corporate settings, they assess economic trends to help companies increase profits. They also research investment performance and trends to forecast economic conditions. These roles require a bachelor’s degree.
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +9%
- Median Annual Salary (May 2024): $101,910
Source: BLS
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts evaluate spending and prepare reports to help organizations manage their finances. They evaluate budget proposals to ensure they align with organizational goals and comply with financial regulations. Budget analysts may also forecast future financial needs and assess their organization’s financial health. They work in both public and private settings.
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +4%
- Median Annual Salary (May 2024): $87,930
Source: BLS
Financial Planner
Financial planners advise clients on saving and investment strategies. They recommend investments, educate clients on financial services and savings vehicles, and often help implement the investment plan. Planners may specialize in estate planning, taxation, retirement, or another area.
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +17%
- Median Annual Salary (May 2024): $102,140
Source: BLS
Financial Examiner
Financial examiners evaluate financial documents to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. They review balance sheets, loan reports, and other documents from banks and financial institutions to assess their financial health and safety. Financial examiners may also enforce compliance guidelines set by regulatory authorities. They typically focus on risk assessment or consumer compliance.
- Job Outlook (2023-33): +21%
- Median Annual Salary (May 2024): $90,400
Source: BLS
How Much Do Finance Bachelor’s Programs Cost?
Public colleges charged an average of $9,800 in tuition and fees for the 2022-23 school year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics, while private colleges cost $40,700. However, costs can vary significantly depending on the school.
Earning a finance degree online can also help lower costs. Online programs may offer flat tuition rates for distance learners regardless of their residency.
How to Get a Finance Degree
Before declaring a finance major, prospective students need to get into college. While the admission requirements and process vary depending on the school, most require:
A high school diploma or the equivalent- High school transcripts
- College transcripts
- A minimum 2.0 GPA
- Personal statement
Colleges also typically ask for letters of recommendation, a resume, and an admission essay. SAT or ACT scores are typically optional. Applicants can strengthen their admission chances by submitting a strong personal statement and emphasizing extracurricular experience.
After gaining admission, undergrads may need to take finance and business prerequisites to declare a finance major.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Finance Degree?
Earning a bachelor’s degree in finance generally takes four years for full-time students. Undergraduates must complete a minimum of 120 credits or 180 quarter credits to graduate. In addition to finance and business classes, students must also complete general education requirements and electives. They can also add a minor to complement their major.
Finance majors can speed up the timeline by enrolling in an accelerated program or applying transfer credits toward graduation requirements.
How to Choose a Finance Program
What’s the best way to choose a finance program? Researching key topics, from total cost to course requirements, can help you find the right fit for you. First, consider the school’s academic track record. Look for high retention rates and graduation rates to identify colleges that perform well and support students.
Next, review the program’s course requirements and internship opportunities. Make sure that the program’s concentrations or electives match your interests. Reach out to programs to learn where graduates find job opportunities, recent graduate employment rates, and placements in graduate programs.
Finally, consider factors such as the location, career services support, alumni network, and school size to make sure the school aligns with your professional goals.
Is It Accredited?
Students should choose an accredited college to earn their degree. Accredited institutions meet standards for academic quality, and enrolled students qualify to apply for federal financial aid. An accredited degree also meets the requirements for more professional certifications and licenses. Employers also prefer hiring graduates from accredited schools.
Prospective students can also look for business schools that hold programmatic accreditation. Independent organizations such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs evaluate business schools and grant accreditation to programs that meet industry standards. These programs also report strong student learning outcomes and faculty qualifications.
Those earning a finance degree online can also check whether the school holds state authorization to award degrees in their state.
What Are Finance Concentrations?
Many finance programs offer concentrations to strengthen specialized skills. A concentration can prepare graduates for focused career paths. Even programs that do not offer concentrations often let majors customize their studies through electives.
Some common finance concentrations include:
- Corporate Finance
- Financial Planning
- FinTech
- Real Estate
- Financial Management
Most finance programs award a BA or BS degree, and some may offer a BBA in finance. When researching programs, review the general education requirements, which can differ depending on the degree type.
What Are Its Courses?
Finance students may complete core courses, electives, internships, and capstone projects as part of their major. They also typically complete core business classes to strengthen accounting, management, and business analytics skills. While the curriculum depends on the program, many offer the following courses.
- Corporate Finance: Students evaluate corporate financial decision-making and investment strategies. Topics may include capital budgeting, financial modeling, mergers and acquisitions, and capital financing. The class also applies risk management principles to corporate investing and financial management. Finance majors interested in becoming financial analysts or financial examiners may benefit from the course.
- Risk Management: Learners analyze different tools and strategies to quantify and manage risk. The course covers asset allocation models, portfolio management, and evaluation methods for assessing risk. Students develop investment management and risk management skills to optimize returns and mitigate risk.
- Portfolio Management: Majors learn how to manage an investment portfolio that contains stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and other investments. By focusing on evaluating and selecting assets, the course trains finance professionals to implement diversification strategies. These skills help graduates manage balanced portfolios that maximize returns while minimizing risk.
- Real Estate Finance: Courses in real estate finance introduce learners to real estate transactions and regulations. Students explore credit instruments, international real estate, and funding sources.
What Is the Format of the Program?
Colleges and universities offer finance degrees in several formats. In-person programs follow a traditional learning approach where students attend on-campus lectures. Degree-seekers can also consider earning a finance degree online.
Online finance programs offer flexible schedules, making this option ideal for working students with busy schedules.
- 100% Online: All courses in the program meet virtually, with no required on-campus meetings. However, finance students may complete in-person internships in their local area.
- Hybrid: Students take both online and in-person classes to earn their finance degree. Depending on the school, undergraduates may take mostly online or mostly in-person courses.
- Synchronous: A synchronous class meets at a set time, using video conferencing technology to encourage interactions between classmates and faculty.
- Asynchronous: An asynchronous class does not require live class sessions, giving distance learners the greatest flexibility when completing course requirements.
Prospective online learners can choose a format that best matches their learning style and schedule.
Common Questions About Finance Degrees Online
Yes, you can earn a finance degree online. Many accredited colleges and universities offer online finance degrees, including top-ranked institutions that offer identical programs in an online and in-person format.
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