Best Online Accelerated Finance Degrees

Are you considering a finance degree but want to join the workforce as quickly as possible? An online accelerated finance degree might be right for you. Whether you want to go into investment banking, real estate, or financial planning, you can apply the knowledge you gain in your finance degree to a variety of roles in the finance world.

Not sure which finance degree to earn? Not to worry. We dive into the various types of finance degrees, common careers, and what jobs pay the big bucks.

Continue reading to review the different types of accelerated finance degrees to help you determine what path is right for you.

Types of Accelerated Degree Programs Available for Finance

In addition to providing core business and finance topics, many of the standout finance degrees allow you to choose a specialization that mirrors your academic and career goals.

Keep in mind: Degree requirements can vary significantly by degree level, so make sure to do your research beforehand to choose the right degree for you.

• Bachelor's in Finance, General Finance
• Bachelor's in Finance, Investments Concentration
• Bachelor's in Finance, Wealth Management Concentration
• Bachelor's in Finance, Real Estate Concentration

Accelerated Finance Degree Overview

What you can expect from your accelerated finance degree varies by program, specialization, and degree level. Still, you can expect a blend of core business and finance classes. Plus, many programs offer specializations in areas like financial accounting, international finance, and risk management.

Associate Degree in Finance

If you're interested in jumpstarting your finance career as quickly as possible, consider earning a two-year associate degree in finance. These programs offer an accelerated pathway to develop foundational finance skills while preparing you for entry-level positions.

Some common careers for associate degree graduates include financial clerks, tax examiners, claims adjusters, and bank tellers.

Bachelor's Degree in Finance

A bachelor's in finance can open up a long list of growing careers that often come with relatively high-paying careers. Throughout your bachelor's in finance, you'll tackle foundational finance topics with supplemental coursework in financial accounting, international finance, and risk management.

Common careers for finance grads include financial analyst, market research analyst, and financial planner.

Master's Degree in Finance

If you hold a bachelor's degree and want to expand your earning potential, a master's in finance can help. You'll take advanced classes in business, communications, financial accounting, and international financial management. It's also common for programs to offer academic concentrations in areas like real estate finance and risk management. Some schools also offer an MBA in finance concentration.

Graduates often go on to start careers as personal financial advisors, financial managers, and budget analysts.

Doctorate Degree in Finance

After completing a doctorate in business administration, you'll qualify for top executive positions as well as teaching and research opportunities. If you pursue a concentration in finance, you'll develop leadership and practical skills while covering topics like investment management and long-term financial planning.

Common careers for graduates include various executive roles, finance director, and management consultant.

Careers With an Accelerated Degree in Finance

The finance-based careers available to you can vary depending on which degree you complete. So your earning potential inevitably varies as well.

Still, an accelerated degree — regardless of degree level — allows you to enter the workforce earlier, so you can start earning sooner. We spotlight some finance careers and their accompanying salaries below.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Fastest Finance Degrees

What are the best-paying jobs with a degree in finance?

The best-paying job for finance graduates depends on various factors, including education, experience, and professional specialization. As a general rule, roles in leadership and management tend to make the most, with chief executives earning a median annual salary of more than $200,000 in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

How fast can I get a bachelor's in finance online?

The time it takes to complete your online bachelor's in finance can vary. A traditional bachelor's degree has you completing about 120 credits over four years of full-time enrollment. That said, some schools offer accelerated programs that allow you to graduate in 2-3 years.

Is an accelerated degree in finance worth it?

Yes. If you want to expand your earning potential and career options as quickly as possible, an accelerated degree in finance is probably a solid choice. Throughout your degree, you'll complete core classes while choosing from concentrations like financial accounting, investments, corporate finance, and risk management.

Still, an accelerated program is not for everyone. Because you're completing coursework on a condensed schedule, be prepared to spend a lot of time studying. If you're not sure that you can balance academic requirements with personal and professional obligations, a standard or part-time schedule might be a better fit.