Best Online Bachelor’s in Finance
An online bachelor’s degree in finance prepares students for careers in the financial industry and for graduate study.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that roles for financial advisors — a popular job for graduates with a bachelor of finance — will grow by 13% from 2022-2032. Financial advisors enjoy lucrative careers, earning a median annual salary of $95,390.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Finance Degree Programs
Bachelors in Finance
2024
Online Bachelor’s in Finance Degrees Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyChoosing an Online Bachelor of Finance Degree Program
When researching the best finance schools, students should consider several factors, such as cost, transfer policies, and on-campus requirements. We cover several important program considerations for prospective bachelor of finance students below.
Program Cost
Students can typically save money by attending a public institution rather than a private institution. Additionally, some online programs offer tuition discounts to in-state students, while others charge all distance students the same tuition rate, regardless of residency.
Transfer Policies
Transfer policies vary by school. Students who already hold some college credits should look for schools with generous transfer policies to ensure they can receive credit for prior academic work. Some schools also offer transfer credit for professional, military, and volunteer experience.
School Size and Type
Some students prefer to attend larger schools, which typically provide more diverse course offerings and programs than small schools. Alternatively, some learners prefer the more individualized attention often found at smaller schools.
Program Length
A bachelor of finance program typically takes four years of full-time study to complete, but some programs offer accelerated timelines that may allow students to graduate in less time.
On-campus Requirements
Some online programs may offer or require on-campus requirements. Students should ensure they can meet all of a program’s requirements before committing to a school.
Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements
Students planning to pursue graduate school benefit from attending a program with a thesis requirement, while students planning to work immediately after graduation may benefit more from a program with a fellowship or internship requirement.
Accreditation for Online Finance Degrees
Accreditation indicates that a school meets high academic standards with respect to faculty qualifications, student learning outcomes, and academic rigor. Attending an accredited school expands a student’s employment, education, and financial aid opportunities. Schools may hold national or regional accreditation, with regional accreditation generally considered the more prestigious of the two. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation and the U.S. Department of Education oversee six independent regional accrediting bodies that accredit schools based on where a school is located.
Certain programs within a school may also receive specialized accreditation. Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in finance should look for programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance?
An online bachelor’s degree in finance typically takes four years of full-time study to earn. However, some programs offer accelerated timelines, allowing students to expedite graduation. Additionally, students seeking to balance their studies with work and family obligations may prefer to study part time, which extends the length of a program.
Online Finance Degree Curriculum
Courses vary by program, but online bachelor’s degree in finance programs typically cover topics like investments, bank management, and financial statements. We cover several common courses for bachelor of finance students below.
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Investments
Investment courses cover common investment terminology and models. Topics include trade mechanics, security markets organization, security classification, financial intermediation, and the application of general asset principles. Students learn how to apply financial principles to various types of investments, including real estate, variable-returns, futures, and brokerage operations. -
Bank Management
This class covers basic bank management topics, like loan type classifications, asset-liability management, domestic and international banking laws, and the role of the Federal Reserve system. These courses often incorporate guest lectures from banking professionals that allow students to ask questions about standard bank management offerings and operations. -
Introduction to Financial Management
This introductory course covers basic financial management principles and how to use them to stabilize and increase company valuations. The course examines principles of accounting, economics, and statistical methods to help students understand concepts such as cash flow, risk analysis, capital budgeting, and capital management. -
Applications for Managerial Finance
With a focus on corporate financial principles, this class examines how to maximize company value. Learners study topics like corporate finance theories, value-based capital management, payout policies, capital structure, and ongoing trends and challenges in managerial finance.
Finance Jobs
Graduates of top finance schools can pursue many positions in corporate and personal finance, such as financial advisor, budget analyst, and financial analyst. We cover several common jobs for graduates below.
Financial Advisor
Financial advisors provide professional money management advice to clients. They meet with clients to assess financial goals and help clients make informed decisions about their finances. Financial advisors may offer information and recommendations on topics such as estate planning, taxes, retirement savings, and investments. They also regularly monitor clients’ financial accounts and make adjustments as needed.
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts help individuals and businesses make important investment decisions. They assess financial records, create investment portfolios aligned with clients’ goals, and monitor the economy to predict investment performance. These professionals typically form long-term relationships with clients, working with them to meet investment goals and advising them on proper risk management. They frequently provide written reports on investment activities and recommend changes as needed.
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts work with corporations, nonprofits, government agencies, and other types of organizations to assist with budget management. They often work with other finance professionals to develop comprehensive budgets and review proposed departmental budgets to ensure they meet regulations and compliance standards. These professionals also ensure a budget is followed throughout the calendar year, make recommendations for adjustments, and use various budgeting tools and methodologies to project spending needs and goals.
Top Executive
Chief financial officers (CFOs) are top company executives that manage other financial professionals, develop organizational policies, and set strategic company goals around income and losses. They may negotiate with vendors, contractors, and other providers to lower spending while liaising with sales and marketing staff to set goals for increased earnings. CFOs often need to make high-level decisions in the face of budgetary constraints, including cutting costs associated with staffing when necessary.
Common Questions About Bachelor’s in Finance Degrees
What can you do with a major in finance?
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in finance can work in roles such as financial planner, financial analyst, and actuary.
What is the best degree in finance?
The best bachelor’s degree in finance is one that aligns with a student’s academic abilities, career aspirations, and financial needs.
How long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in finance?
Full-time students can typically earn an online bachelor’s degree in finance in four years.
Is a degree in finance a BS or a BA?
Typically, schools offer a bachelor of business administration in finance or a BS in finance.
What types of finance degrees exist?
Aside from generalist finance studies, some programs offer concentrations in areas such as financial accounting, risk management, and corporate finance.