Best Online Finance Degree Programs of 2026
Considering a degree in finance? Here’s what you can expect when it comes to cost, requirements, and job outlook.
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2026Business might be one of the most popular majors, but among business degrees, finance stands out.
A finance degree will teach you skills in financial analysis, investment, risk management, and budgeting to help businesses and individuals make strategic economic decisions. These skills can open doors to careers such as financial manager or investment banker.
Also, note that finance majors benefit from higher starting salaries and employment rates compared to other business majors, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers.
If you’re considering earning a finance degree, check out our list of the best online finance degree programs that offer a flexible schedule and lower tuition costs.
Top Online Finance Degree Programs
How We Rank Schools
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: You can enroll in the school's Honors College, a unique opportunity for online students.
As a program at a major public research university and the nation's largest Hispanic-Serving Institution, FIU's online BBA in finance provides distinct institutional visibility. The 120-credit program is offered through the AACSB-accredited R. Kirk Landon Undergraduate School of Business, and its curriculum includes a business core, finance coursework, and required professional development in communication and career management.
FIU is one of the few schools on our list that allows online finance students to apply to its Honors College. If admitted, you can complete honors-level coursework and access additional academic resources, including individualized advising, undergraduate research opportunities, select competitive scholarships, and study abroad programs, with a notation on your transcript upon degree completion.
What We Like About FIU
- Florida residents pay the lowest in-state tuition on our list at $236 per credit.
- The program offers fall, spring, and summer start dates for maximum enrollment flexibility.
- Select FIU master's programs offer accelerated pathways.
What We Don't Like
- Out-of-state students pay $649 per credit, making the program significantly more expensive for nonresidents.
- The online program page provides limited details on curriculum, expected course sequencing, and electives.
66%
$ 6,168
93%
$18,566
- Acceptance Rate
- 55%
- Students Enrolled
- 54,817
- Institution Type
- Public
Oklahoma State University
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Spears School of Business undergrads receive over $2 million in scholarships every year.
OSU's online BSBA in finance stands out on our list for the volume of scholarship funding available to business students. OSU's Spears School of Business distributes more than $2.2 million annually through donor-funded awards, program-specific scholarships, and opportunities for new and continuing students. Students studying in OSU's finance department can access major-specific scholarships, giving you multiple ways to reduce your overall costs.
Additionally, OSU participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program at the full funding level for qualifying veterans and dependents.
What We Like About OSU
- The Student Managed Investment Fund gives students experience managing a real $1 million portfolio.
- The program's fully asynchronous format allows you to complete coursework without scheduled class sessions.
- The Spears School of Business holds AACSB accreditation.
What We Don't Like
- Out-of-state tuition may exceed $100,000 in total, although scholarships may help offset some of the cost.
- The university does not clearly state a maximum number of transfer credits that can be applied to this program.
- Start dates and part-time enrollment expectations are not detailed on the online program page.
55%
$ 5,417
85%
$20,937
- Acceptance Rate
- 75%
- Students Enrolled
- 27,241
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Arkansas
- Fayetteville, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Both in-state and out-of-state students pay the same tuition of $270 per credit.
U of A's online BSBA in finance is the most affordable option on our list because all online students pay the same tuition rate of $270 per credit, regardless of their residency status. This uniform pricing results in a total cost of approximately $32,370 for the full 120-credit degree, making it less expensive than any of our other picks for both in-state and out-of-state learners.
Affordability is further supported through several institutional policies. U of A participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which can reduce costs for eligible veterans. The university also accepts application fee waivers for students with documented financial need and offers transfer scholarships that may help offset expenses for qualifying applicants.
What We Like About U of A
- This finance BSBA program offers a concentration in financial management and investment.
- You can also pursue a minor in accounting or supply chain management.
- The Sam M. Walton College of Business is accredited by the AACSB.
What We Don't Like
- Start dates and part-time options are not clearly detailed on the program page.
- Opportunities for internships or career preparation resources are unclear.
33%
$ 8,092
86%
$29,146
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 33,610
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Houston
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Double-major in accounting, management, marketing, MIS, or supply chain management, and select from seven minors.
UH's online BBA in finance offers more ways to shape your degree than any other program on our list. Once you choose finance as your major, you can add a second major in accounting, management, marketing, management information systems (MIS), or supply chain management if you meet the eligibility requirements. You can also add one of seven business minors, including accounting, entrepreneurship, human resource management, management and leadership, MIS, marketing, or supply chain management.
As part of the curriculum, you will complete Connecting Bauer to Business, a three-credit asynchronous career development course that includes virtual employer-sponsored projects.
What We Like About UH
- You can choose between real-time and asynchronous online course formats.
- Online students have access to advising, career services, and leadership development opportunities.
- You can switch from the online BBA to the in-person BBA if you later prefer campus learning.
What We Don't Like
- Out-of-state tuition is $14,297 per semester, more than double the in-state cost of $6,308.
- A reduced number of electives is available for online students.
- The entrepreneurship minor will no longer be available to online BBA students after the fall 2026 semester.
68%
$10,856
87%
$26,894
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 47,980
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Minnesota
- Crookston, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Transfer students comprise more than half of the population and bring in an average of 72 credits.
If you are returning to college after a break or bringing in previous coursework, UMN Crookston's online BS in finance is the most transfer-friendly option on our list. According to the institution, more than 50% of its students enroll with prior credits, typically transferring about 72 credits. This can help you reduce the number of courses required to earn your 120-credit online finance degree and lower overall costs.
UMN Crookston does not specify a transfer-credit maximum on their page; however, before applying, you can request a free unofficial transcript evaluation to determine how your coursework may transfer. After you enroll, an advisor works with you to determine which requirements you still need to complete and how many classes you have remaining.
What We Like About UMN
- Transfer scholarships are available for eligible students.
- You can enroll in an asynchronous program on a full-time or part-time basis.
- The program has three annual start dates: fall, spring, and summer.
What We Don't Like
- Unlike other programs on our list, UMN does not offer specialized tracks, minors, double majors, or accelerated options.
- The program page does not describe internship placement assistance or structured real-world learning options for online students.
56%
$11,478
80%
$11,478
- Acceptance Rate
- 88%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,518
- Institution Type
- Public
How We Highlight What Schools Do Best
We analyzed each school’s program to identify qualities that set it apart from others on this list, prioritizing factors like financial aid, diverse curricula, and support for transfer students. Based on these strengths, we assigned each school a superlative category.
Since many programs share similar offerings and outcomes, our goal is to simplify your college decision-making by highlighting the features most relevant to your needs.
We verified these schools’ facts in December 2025.
Why You Should Get a Finance Degree
- Access Varied Career Paths: A finance degree can open the door to careers in finance, insurance, business, tech, healthcare, and many other growing industries.
- Build Important Skills: While studying finance, you’ll strengthen analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
- Prepare for Grad School: You can prepare for an MBA program or another business degree with a bachelor’s in finance.
Benefits of Getting a Finance Degree Online
- 94% of online business students and grads say their degree has a positive ROI.
- 98% of online students would recommend online education.
- Accredited online programs meet the same high academic standards as in-person programs.
How to Choose the Best Online Finance Degree Program for You
Consider the total cost, program length, application requirements, and job outlook when researching online finance programs to find the best fit for you.
How Much Does an Online Finance Degree Cost?
In-State Median Tuition and Fees (2020)
$8,235
In-State Median Net Price (2020)
$4,219
Out-of-State Avg. Tuition & Fees (2019-2020)
$21,129
Out-of-State Avg. Net Price (2019-2020)
$12,392
Source: NCES PowerStats
Tuition costs vary widely between public and private schools. According to 2022-23 data from the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition at an in-state public institution can cost around $10,000 per year. On the other hand, private nonprofit institutions may charge as much as $40,000 per year.
On top of tuition, you’ll need to factor in textbooks and living expenses.
Fortunately, financial aid can significantly lower the sticker price of college. Make sure to complete the FAFSA, apply for scholarships, and look into grants or other tuitions assistance programs to lower your expenses. If you need any help determining your options, contact your school’s financial aid department.
Find Financial Aid for Your Online Finance Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor’s in Finance Degree?
Typical # of Credits
120 Credits
Typical Program Length
4 Years
Earning a bachelor’s in finance as a full-time student usually takes around four years. You can shorten that timeframe by transferring credits or gaining credit for experience. Also, consider an accelerated online program, as these allow you to complete courses in less time by offering condensed schedules or year-round classes.
Bachelor of Science in Finance Application Requirements
Official transcripts- Standardized test scores
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
What Can You Do With a Finance Degree?
A bachelor’s in finance prepares you for many high-paying, in-demand roles. Financial analysts, for example, earn a median pay of $101,910 per year, with a projected job growth of 6% from 2024-34, according to BLS data.
Learn more about other popular finance jobs in the table below.
| Job | 2024 Median Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Analysts | $87,930 | Create budget reports, track spending, and ensure budget proposals follow regulations |
| Financial Managers | $161,700 | Develop investment strategies, evaluate financial risks, oversee financial analysts |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $102,140 | Recommend saving and investing strategies, manage portfolios |
| Financial Services Sales Agents | $78,140 | Consult on financial services for businesses and clients, manage investments |
| Financial Risk Specialists | $106,000 | Evaluate investment strategies to limit loss and minimize financial damage |
Learn More About Finance Jobs
Is an Online Finance Degree Worth It?
Earning your finance degree online can pay off. Adult learners benefit from the flexibility of an online learning format, which makes it easier to work while advancing your education. And with a bachelor’s in finance, you can increase your earning potential and move into higher-paying roles.
Recent finance majors reported a starting salary of over $72,000, according to 2023 NACE data. And finance professionals can increase their salaries with experience, specialized skills, or a master’s degree.
Frequently Asked Questions About Finance Degrees
Earning a bachelor’s degree in finance provides the best preparation for finance careers, including as a financial analyst. You can also consider related business majors or a finance minor to pursue careers in this high-paying field.
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