Guide to an Online Finance Degree
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Commonly defined as the science and discipline of money management, finance is a broad field with many specializations. The most well-known of these specializations are personal finance, corporate finance (e.g., accounting, risk management, and investment), nonprofit finance, and government and public finance (e.g., the financial health of states, counties, and departmental entities). These subfields encompass a variety of occupations (e.g., financial planning experts and loan officers) as well as institutions (e.g., banks and investment firms). Finance is a stable and lucrative field that is witnessing rapid job growth in many specialized areas. Earning an online finance degree is a convenient and affordable way to enhance your job prospects and marketability.
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What is an Online Finance Degree?
The Bureau of Labor statistics predicts that finance-related occupations will see rapid expansion in the coming decade; projections suggest an overall job growth rate of 10% for areas such as accounting, financial analysis, portfolio management, and auditing. As the demand for finance professionals grows, a greater number of individuals have turned to online finance degrees as a cost-effective way to enter into or advance within this industry.
Unlike accounting or business administration programs, a finance degree imparts broader skills in statement analysis, bookkeeping, investing, and other areas, which makes it an ideal choice for people interested in multiple areas of finance. Rather than focusing specifically on management theory or accounting skills, the curriculum of an online finance degree program prepares students for a variety of career paths.
projections suggest an overall job growth rate of 10% for areas such as accounting, financial analysis, portfolio management, and auditing
Many finance degree programs also offer areas of concentration, independent study options, and elective courses that present far-ranging opportunities for graduate and postgraduate study. The material covered in the curricula of most finance degree programs also prepare students for a number of certification exams; these certifications may be required to work in certain higher-ranking positions or to offer services to the public. For example, many programs address material covered on the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) test.
How to Earn an Online Finance Degree
The first step in earning an online finance degree is finding a program that matches your academic and career goals. Prospective students should consider many variables. For example, how much time and money can you spend earning your degree? And do you have any previous college experience or transferable credits? It is also important to select an accredited college with a strong reputation for academic quality and value.
Depending on the degree you decide to pursue, you may need to complete general education coursework in addition to major-specific courses. Most undergraduate and master's programs also include a certain number of required elective courses, and some have an internship or experiential learning component.
Types of Finance Degrees
As in most fields, a finance professional's salary correlates with how advanced their degree is. However, although the differences between levels of education and associated earnings can be sharp, each type of degree has its own benefits and presents different career paths. Many entry-level finance positions demand a bachelor's degree, but some require only a two-year degree.
An associate degree takes half the time to earn and can lead to job opportunities in areas such as claims adjustment, accounting, and management. The cost of earning an associate finance degree online is also considerably lower than that of a bachelor's degree.
Some students may benefit from a master's in finance, while others complete up to eight years of study to earn a doctoral degree in finance; these professionals take home considerably higher wages. The type of online finance degree you choose to pursue should align with your career and personal goals as well as your budgetary and time constraints.
| Associate Degree in Finance | Finance Clerk | $33,350 |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor's Degree in Finance | Finance Associate | $59,015 |
| Master's Degree in Finance | Senior Financial Analyst | $79,052 |
| Doctoral Degree in Finance | Hedge Fund Manager | $103,646 |
Associate Degree in Finance
An online finance associate degree is a relatively affordable, time-efficient way to acquire an understanding of foundational financial principles. Most associate degrees combine general education coursework with introductory classes in accounting, investing, and basic financial analysis. Students gain familiarity with some of the computer programs and software commonly used in accounting, statement analysis, and taxation. The majority of associate degree programs consist of around 60 credits and take two years to complete, although the accelerated nature of some web-based degrees may significantly reduce a program's duration. Cohort-based programs generally take longer to complete.
Because a bachelor's degree is the minimum credential required for many entry-level finance jobs, many students earn an associate degree as a step toward completing a four-year undergraduate program. Some institutions allow students to transfer general education and core course credits towards bachelor's programs; this can help learners save on tuition. In some instances, associate degree holders can find employment in investment or brokerage firms, banks, or marketing departments.
To apply to an associate program, prospective students usually need to provide a copy of their high school diploma or GED certificate. Some schools have certain GPA requirements, while others maintain open-door policies.
Example Courses:
Microeconomics
This course introduces the basic economic principles needed to understand a variety of financial concepts, including supply and demand, wealth distribution, market structure, and elasticity. Learners also gain a broad understanding of consumer behavior.
Introduction to Accounting
Using industry-standard accounting computer programs, students examine each step of the accounting cycle and its implications for business owners and investors.
Investments
This course provides a basic overview of fundamental investment concepts and strategies, such as risks and returns, portfolio selection, and stock analysis. Coursework also introduces investment alternatives, like mutual funds and bonds.
Financial Statement Analysis
Students learn to analyze and interpret financial data to determine an organization's financial health. Coursework covering fraud detection and competitor analysis may also be included.
Marketing
Presenting major principles of marketing, this course identifies the business strategies used to determine target demographics, drive sales, and build brand loyalty. Students also learn how to ethically apply these strategies in the corporate sphere.
Bachelor's Degree in Finance
Many high school graduates seeking the best online finance degree program to help them secure entry-level employment choose to enroll in a bachelor's program. Consisting of around 120 credit hours, the curriculum of a bachelor's degree in finance combines general education and liberal arts coursework with an in-depth look at important concepts in business and finance. While traditional bachelor's programs take four years to complete, online degree tracks may be shorter depending on the program format.
In an online bachelor's program, students gain the analytical and strategic skills needed to assume a variety of positions in the financial sector, from investment banking to estate planning. Undergraduate finance curricula vary considerably, and some programs offer concentrations or specialized tracks in areas such as supply chain management and portfolio management. Additionally, some schools offer a bachelor's in business administration with a concentration in finance; these programs focus on administrative skills and managerial theory within the field. A bachelor's degree in finance prepares graduates for a variety of roles in the arenas of business, management, and finance, and many graduates go on to pursue lucrative careers.
Although admissions requirements differ widely between schools, most programs expect applicants to hold a high school diploma or GED certificate, and most require students to submit their SAT or ACT scores.
Example Courses:
Corporate Finance
Students learn to analyze financial information and make business decisions based on their understanding of profit planning, financial risk and planning, dividend policies, and working capital.
Supply Chain Management
Coursework explores the principles and methodologies used by corporations to streamline operations across the supply chain from materials sourcing strategies and warehousing to distribution procedures.
Money and Banking
Taking a broad look at the role of financial institutions and money in society, this course offers foundational knowledge in areas such as money supply creation, monetary policies, and interest rates.
Investment and Portfolio Analysis
By examining case studies, learners gain the skills needed to evaluate assets, sources of investment information, and risks. They also learn to perform simple portfolio management tasks.
International Finance
This course introduces the structure and functions of foreign exchange and international capital markets, as well as the foreign trade financing methods and globalization strategies adopted by multinational corporations.
Master's Degree in Finance
Some bachelor's degree holders choose to further improve their marketability and gain a specialty by earning a master's degree in finance online. While most financial careers require a bachelor's degree, a master's can help job candidates stand out from their peers and acquire higher-level positions. Like many undergraduate programs, students can choose from a traditional master's in finance or a master's in business administration with a concentration in finance, which emphasizes managerial theories and skills. Both expand on a student's prior knowledge, introducing advanced concepts and allowing for a more in-depth exploration of specialized areas of study.
Students seeking a master's in finance degree online have numerous online program options to choose from, and each program has different admission and graduation requirements. While it usually takes between two and three years to complete a traditional graduate program, distance learners can finish web-based degrees in as little as one year. In addition to a bachelor's degree in finance or a related area, program applicants may need to hold some professional experience in the field. GRE or GMAT scores and professional letters of recommendation may also be required.
Example Courses:
Financial Market Analysis
Using financial theories, empirical evidence, and equilibrium models, students taking this class learn to analyze risk factors and the effects of government policies on market price determination.
Corporate Finance
Building on foundational concepts in finance, this course develops the competencies needed to make strategic financial decisions in a corporate context, including forecasting, advanced budgeting, and working capital management.
Mergers and Acquisitions
Exploring the strategic decision making involved in acquiring, evaluating, and funding new firms, coursework uses real examples to present a broad overview of the complicated acquisition and valuation process.
Risk Management
Students learn to quantify and manage large-scale financial risks as well as the relationship between risk, regulation, and insurance policies.
Options and Futures Markets
This course covers topics related to speculative markets, including the trading, valuation, computer analysis, and hedging procedures involved with investing in options and futures.
Doctoral Degree in Finance
Graduates of master's programs interested in teaching in postsecondary settings or pursuing high-level research positions may opt to earn a doctoral-level finance degree online. Learners choose from two types of doctoral degrees in finance: a Ph.D, which is research-based, and a DBA, which is a vocationally-focused professional degree. Both programs feature similar curricula and a dissertation or thesis component. Candidates must also pass a comprehensive exam before graduating. While details vary from school to school, most doctoral-level finance programs take four or five years to complete. Prospective doctoral candidates should have an extensive educational background in business or finance, including a master's degree earned with a competitive GPA.
Professionals who earn a doctoral degree in finance qualify to take on challenging executive roles, including those of controllers, financial managers, and chief financial officers. A Ph.D is typically required to teach in colleges and universities, and many graduates become professors or work in research-oriented fields or assume advanced consulting positions.
Example Courses:
Research Methods and Theories
Degree candidates explore a range of research and data collection methodologies used to conduct academic and business research at the doctoral level.
Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
Introducing common statistical tests and their role in research design, this course provides the tools needed to analyze and interpret quantitative data in an accurate and ethical manner.
Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
This course explores the theoretical and conceptual frameworks representative of qualitative research. Students learn about ethical data collection procedures and strategies for organizing and interpreting data. The class also features a qualitative study on a research topic.
Dissertation Proposal Seminar
Throughout the course of this seminar, doctoral candidates prepare to conduct independent research, develop a dissertation proposal, and create a progress plan as they exchange ideas with faculty and advisers.
Economic Analysis
Exploring advanced topics in microeconomics, such as consumer choice and equilibria in various types of markets, coursework equips students with the analytical tools needed to assess cost functions and supply curves.
Finance Concentrations and Specialties
Some online finance degrees feature concentrations or specialized academic tracks that allow students to explore a particular aspect of business or finance in depth. Many graduates choose to pursue one of the following specialized finance careers, often seeking a master's degree in finance online to acquire a deeper understanding of their focus area.
Actuarial Science
These professionals apply mathematical and statistical analysis methods to different areas of finance, such as risk assessment and insurance. Using stochastic modeling and probability theory, they measure variables to determine insurance premiums and high-risk financial areas.
Banking and Financial Services
Encompassing numerous areas such as accounting, personal financial advising, and stock brokerages, the financial services sector includes most jobs that involve money management and banking.
Financial Management
Financial managers develop organizational financial strategies that maximize profits while remaining within budget constraints. They analyze cash flow and help determine and realize a company's long-term financial goals.
International Finance
Relying heavily on economic principles, including foreign exchange and global financial systems, international finance experts examine political risks and market imperfections that affect international investments and trade agreements between multinational corporations.
Investment Management
These managers handle securities and assets in a way that meets investors' financial goals. They work with corporations and individuals to evaluate financial plans and manage portfolios to benefit their clients.
Personal Wealth Management
Personal wealth advisers work with private, high-net-worth clients to achieve financial goals and direct investments. Taking a holistic approach to financial management, they incorporate techniques from many subfields of finance, such as tax preparation and estate planning.
| Actuary | $83,641 |
|---|---|
| Product Manager - Financial Services | $91,132 |
| Finance Manager | $87,912 |
| Investment Manager | $93,273 |
| Financial Adviser | $58,636 |
Finance Licenses and Certifications
Earning a finance degree online is a good first step toward securing employment. However, most individuals need to hold multiple licenses or certifications to find lucrative work in the field. While these credentials vary considerably according to a worker's position and state of employment, they typically involve additional continuing education coursework, successful completion of one or more exams, and registration with a regulatory agency. More information about licensure can be found at the websites of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) and North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA).
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This credential qualifies its holders to offer accounting and tax preparation services to the public. Candidates must have one year of professional accounting experience and 150 semesters of college-level credits. They must also pass an exam. Licensure is granted by individual states, and additional requirements vary. Continuing education is necessary to retain licensure.
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP): Centering on the "four E's" -- education, examination, experience, and ethics -- this standard-setting certification is intended for professionals with at least three years of work experience. Applicants who pass a comprehensive 10-hour exam must meet ongoing continuing education specifications to remain licensed.
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA): This highly respected credential requires four years of work experience, membership in the CFA institute, and successful completion of the CFA program. The three-part qualification exam covers numerous topics, including ethics, economics, and quantitative methods.
- Chartered Financial Consultant (ChFC): The ChFC certification process is unusual in that candidates do not need to pass a board-certified exam to earn certification. Instead, individuals complete an eight-course educational program that centers upon comprehensive financial planning topics that emphasize personal financial services. The core curriculum of this program is similar to that of the CFP program.
- Registered Investment Adviser (RIA): An RIA is a firm or adviser registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission. These firms/individuals operate according to certain fiduciary standards, adhere to certain principles regarding the disclosure of information to clients, and retain detailed documentation related to advising and investment practices.
- Series 6 License: Individuals with a Series 6 license can sell insurance premiums, annuities, and mutual funds. Applicants must pass a four-part exam covering a range of topics in personal finance and industry regulations. Those who successfully pass the exam must register with the FINRA through a sponsoring firm.
- Series 7 License: Like a Series 6 license, Series 7 licenses can be earned by FINRA members who pass a comprehensive exam. This standard-setting credential is a basic requirement for stockbrokers and registered representatives working in the securities industry. Holders may trade stocks, funds, and options.
- Series 3 License: Awarded to those who complete the FINRA's National Commodities Futures Examination, this license allows holders to sell commodity futures contracts and options. Test takers have two hours and 30 minutes to complete the 120-question exam, which assesses a candidate's knowledge of regulations and market principles.
Standards of Care in the Finance Industry
Financial advisers and firms typically operate under either a suitability standard or a fiduciary standard. Under the suitability standard, advisers select products and plans that they determine are suitable for their clients. This allows advisers to promote their company's products, provide proprietary investment options, and earn higher commissions on sales. Alternatively, the fiduciary standard is determined by the Financial Planning Coalition and requires that advisers offer unbiased advice, only presenting options in the client's best interests, even if this leads to lower profits.
Career and Salary Outlook for Finance Graduates
Demanding strong analytical skills and an eye for detail, jobs in finance can be rewarding and lucrative. Nearly every organization and individual requires the services of a financial professional at some point, and graduates with online finance degrees can take on a variety of roles. From jobs in fraud examination and portfolio management to academia, an online finance degree can lead to diverse career opportunities.
Financial Careers
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts help corporations and individuals evaluate investment opportunities, recommending decisions based on a client's preferences and recent economic trends. Many of these professionals specialize in hedge funds, portfolio management, or risk analysis.
Personal Financial Adviser
Working with individuals instead of businesses, these advisers assist clients in developing long- and short-term financial plans, selecting investments, and saving for retirement. Some hold licenses enabling them to sell stocks, bonds, and insurance.
Financial Manager
The duties of a financial manager center on maintaining an organization's financial health. Responsibilities include investment activities, budgeting, and data analysis. These workers may also supervise senior managers.
Loan Officer
Loan officers evaluate applications and approve loans for businesses and individuals. Utilizing a process called underwriting, these professionals analyze applicants' financial information to determine their eligibility status.
Budget Analyst
Working in conjunction with project managers, these analysts review proposals and monitor spending to develop an appropriate budget for an organization. Some work in government settings and aid in passing budget-related laws.
| Entry Level | Mid-Career | Experienced | Late-Career | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vice President of Finance | $116,000 | $140,000 | $159,000 | $167,000 |
| Director of Finance and Administration | $73,000 | $85,000 | $96,000 | $97,000 |
| Chief Financial Officer (CFO) | $94,000 | $112,000 | $144,000 | $155,000 |
| Senior Financial Analyst | $76,000 | $83,000 | $86,000 | $89,000 |
| Investment Banker | $93,000 | $146,000 | $148,000 | $228,000 |
Click Here to View The Full List of States
| State | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 1,420 | $39.68 | $82,530 |
| Alaska | 350 | $47.17 | $98,120 |
| Arizona | 6,380 | $35.98 | $74,840 |
| Arkansas | 910 | $32.98 | $68,590 |
| California | 34,100 | $52.72 | $109,650 |
| Colorado | 3,570 | $53.84 | $112,000 |
| Connecticut | 6,040 | $50.43 | $104,880 |
| Delaware | 3,570 | $41.12 | $85,530 |
| Florida | 10,990 | $36.63 | $76,190 |
| Georgia | 6,900 | $38.08 | $79,210 |
| Hawaii | 390 | $34.90 | $72,590 |
| Idaho | 420 | $35.73 | $74,320 |
| Illinois | 13,840 | $46.32 | $96,350 |
| Indiana | 2,530 | $35.83 | $74,530 |
| Iowa | 1,850 | $37.86 | $78,740 |
| Kansas | 1,180 | $36.20 | $75,290 |
| Kentucky | 1,300 | $35.88 | $74,620 |
| Lousiana | 820 | $40.66 | $84,580 |
| Maine | 420 | $36.30 | $75,510 |
| Maryland | 5,970 | $47.17 | $98,110 |
| Massachusetts | 13,700 | $46.49 | $96,700 |
| Michigan | 5,800 | $38.58 | $80,240 |
| Minnesota | 6,480 | $42.38 | $88,150 |
| Mississippi | 530 | $37.05 | $77,070 |
| Missouri | 3,730 | $44.11 | $91,740 |
| Montana | 160 | $42.25 | $87,890 |
| Nebraska | 2,050 | $35.30 | $73,420 |
| Nevada | 770 | $32.70 | $68,020 |
| New Hampshire | No Data | $37.46 | $77,930 |
| New Jersey | 7,960 | $48.29 | $100,430 |
| New Mexico | 580 | $38.15 | $79,350 |
| New York | 49,050 | $62.33 | $129,640 |
| North Carolina | 7,720 | $42.17 | $87,710 |
| North Dakota | 280 | $36.10 | $75,090 |
| Ohio | 8,850 | $37.53 | $78,060 |
| Oklahoma | 1,510 | $35.94 | $74,760 |
| Oregon | 2,380 | $43.19 | $89,840 |
| Pennsylvania | 10,830 | $40.81 | $84,880 |
| Rhode Island | 1,070 | $37.37 | $77,730 |
| South Carolina | 1,650 | $34.35 | $71,450 |
| South Dakota | 500 | $33.81 | $70,330 |
| Tennessee | 3,690 | $36.14 | $75,170 |
| Texas | 23,710 | $44.67 | $92,920 |
| Utah | 2,170 | $38.22 | $79,490 |
| Vermont | 170 | $44.60 | $92,780 |
| Virginia | No Data | $44.50 | $92,570 |
| Washington | 5,740 | $39.11 | $81,340 |
| West Virginia | 370 | $31.57 | $65,660 |
| Wisconsin | 4,460 | $37.52 | $78,050 |
| Wyoming | 90 | No Data | No Data |
One Financial Advisor to Another
Dean Myerow Las Olas Wealth Management, NatAlliance Securities LLCDean Myerow of Las Olas Wealth Management of NatAlliance Securities LLC has been a municipal bond portfolio manager for 25 years. Dean earned a BBA in Finance from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and his Juris Doctor from the University Of Miami School Of Law. Dean started his own broker dealer in 1998, grew the firm into a national footprint and sold it to BBT Bank, one of the largest US banks. He spent nearly a decade running the bond trading and portfolio management for BBT's Private Client Group. Today, Dean manages money for high net worth individuals, institutional clients, and family offices from South Florida. He is the father of 3 teenagers and enjoys walking his goldendoodles on Fort Lauderdale Beach with his wife of 23 years.
Describe the range of services you provide to your clients.
I specialize in wealth preservation through high quality municipal bond investments.
What is your investment philosophy?
Our investment strategy is value oriented and seeks to uncover undervalued bonds to enhance client portfolio yields and maintain asset quality. I seek to invest client assets in stable bonds that provide consistent income that is generally tax exempt at the Federal level.
Are you a fiduciary? How important is the fiduciary duty for financial advisers and their clients?
I am not a fiduciary, however I make certain that the recommendations that I make are always in my client's best interest. I am not selling complicated products or strategies.
What skills are essential to financial advising?
A good understanding of financial markets is a must. You must also be able to obtain the information you need about your clients, which they may not be so comfortable disclosing. So it is your job to make them comfortable, because without that information your can't do your job, which is all about making suitable recommendations for each and every client.
How much contact do you have with your clients?
I am in continuous contact with our organization's clients, and by being proactive we are able to present investment opportunities as they arise and also confer with our clients if their investment needs and parameters have changed.
Is it important to choose a finance specialty? What tips do you have for students who aren't sure which focus they would like best?
It is not essential to pick a specialty within finance, a general finance education is helpful. I do also believe that an accounting background is important to aid in the understanding of financial statements behind company's stocks or issuer's bonds that one recommends to his or her client.
What makes financial advising an exciting career opportunity right now?
Being a financial advisor can be a gratifying career. Just knowing that you are helping clients reach their financial goals whether that is retirement or sending children off to college, makes it exciting. And using the newest technologies combined with learned skills makes it fun.
What does continuing education look like for you?
Continuing education could be looked at as only a FINRA requirement. For me it is more; it is a constant quest for information that will keep me on top of changes - structural, political, technological or other - that affect the municipal bond market.
What software do you think every finance adviser should learn?
Most veterans in the industry depending on their role should have familiarity with Bloomberg. Knowing Excel is a must-it has been around for a long time and used properly it can help solve lots of quantitative questions.
How important is networking and what are some easy ways to stay connected to other financial advisers in your community?
Networking is extremely important. It is a way to keep up on what your peers in the industry are doing. What practices they are adopting, how they are adjusting to changes in investor thinking, how they are adjusting to changes in the industry as a whole. It is very important to have connections throughout the industry to see others views on how changes are affecting advisors. These men and women are your competition, but they can also be an asset and source of information. Join as many professional organizations as you can, and participate as much as your schedule will allow. The thing about networking is you may not leave a dinner with a new piece of business, but the payoff may come further down the road when you least expect it.
How do you stay up to date with the latest advancements and technology in the finance world?
Read, Read, Read. I spend an enormous amount of my free time reading any source of news I can get my hands on. Also, do not curate your news sources so specific to what we do that you miss broader indications of change. You never know when something Google (or others) is working on will have an implication on financial advice. So keep your reach broad.
What are some practical tips to prepare for an interview?
Be yourself, don't pretend that you know more than you do, and show a willingness to learn and demonstrate to an interviewer that you possess those learning skills.
Scholarships for Finance Majors
Scholarships represent one of the best ways to help pay for an online finance degree, and finance majors at every stage of their education have many scholarship opportunities from which to choose. The list below contains a few of the major-specific scholarships available to students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability or financial need.
Finance Scholarships for Associate Degree Students
Horatio Alger Fund Career & Technical Scholarship
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens under the age of 30 who intend to pursue a two-year degree at an accredited institution. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and have proof of a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Amount: $2,500
NSA Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Accounting majors attending an accredited two- or four-year program. Students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.0.
Amount: $500-2,000
Finance Scholarships for Bachelor's Degree Students
Paul S. Mills Scholarship
Who Can Apply: U.S. citizens enrolled as full- or part-time students in a university program related to financial services. Applicants must also demonstrate financial need.
Amount: $1,000
TD Ameritrade NextGen Scholarship
Who Can Apply: College freshmen, sophomores, or juniors enrolled in a four-year financial planning degree program. Students must maintain good academic standing.
Amount: $5,000
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
Who Can Apply: Full-time undergraduates seeking a degree in business, accounting, finance, or criminal justice. Applicants should be interested in a career related to fraud examination.
Amount: $1,000-10,000
Rick Guggolz Memorial Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Sophomores enrolled full time in a business or finance-related degree program with a GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants must intend to pursue a career in the insurance field.
Amount: $1,500
Finance Scholarships for Master's Degree Students
Government Finance Professional Development Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Part-time graduate students with two or more years of employment experience in a state or local government setting. Applicants must obtain a recommendation from their employer.
Amount: $10,000
Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Minority students enrolled in a business, finance, political science, or related graduate program who have been recommended by an academic adviser.
Amount: $8,000
Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Full-time graduate students preparing for careers in government finance.
Amount: $15,000
AICPA John L. Carey Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Individuals who hold a bachelor's degree in a non-business field and intend to pursue a graduate degree in finance. Applicants must also intended to obtain CPA certification.
Amount: $5,000
Finance Scholarships for Doctoral Degree Students
HIckman Scholars Program
Who Can Apply: Full-time students enrolled in or applying to a doctoral program in actuarial science or a related field. Applicants must hold a fellowship-level actuarial credential or be members of an actuarial organization. They must also have passed at least two actuarial exams.
Amount: $80,000
NBMBAA Doctoral Scholarship
Who Can Apply: African-American doctoral candidates enrolled full time in an Atlanta-area AACSB-accredited institution. Applicants should hold a 3.0 GPA or better and be a member of NBMBAA Atlanta. They must also complete an essay and an interview.
Amount: $2,500
AICPA Fellowship for Minority Doctoral Students
Who Can Apply: Minority students enrolled in or preparing to enter a full-time doctoral program. Candidates must be pursuing a CPA credential, hold a master's degree or three years of work experience in accounting, and agree to refrain from working full time during the school year while pursuing their degree.
Amount: $12,000
EFWA Postgraduate Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Women pursuing a Ph.D in accounting who demonstrate exceptional scholarship abilities, community engagement, or financial need.
Amount: $1,000-5,000
Resources for Finance Students
General Guides
- Careers for Finance Majors: Learn more about your career options when you earn a degree in finance. Our guide covers the job skills you will develop, the minimum requirements for the most common jobs in finance, and alternative careers for those with an educational background in the field.
- Finance Resources: We have compiled a collection of the best academic journals, websites, and open courses available to those in finance.
Finance Software for Students
Many fields rely on industry-standard software to increase efficiency and maximize profits, and the finance sector is no exception. Finance professionals use the following software packages during day-to-day operations. Students pursuing an education in finance will likely encounter one or more of these while earning their degrees.
- MoneyGuidePro: This web-based financial planning program allows financial advisers and their clients to collaborate remotely on risk assessments, budgets, retirement goals, and other financial plans.
- emX Pro: Featuring a client portal, analytics, an interactive cash flow planner, and a digital advice platform, this wealth management program is one of the most comprehensive financial tech packages.
- TOTAL (Money Tree): Money Tree Software is a simple and intuitive financial planning program that lets clients upload information, ask questions through an interactive platform, and compare their adviser's suggestions on side-by-side charts.
- NaviPlan: Known for its versatility and ability to meet the needs of ultra-high-net-worth clients, NaviPlan is used for everything from tax analysis and estate planning to creating complex modeling scenarios.
- Advizr: This financial planning platform comes in versions developed for both independent advisers and large firms. Both versions feature budgeting tools, progress tracking, and advanced planning technologies.
Professional Finance Organizations
Membership in a professional finance organization can boost your resume and make it easier to fund an online finance degree, earn certifications, and develop a worldwide professional network. Many professional associations offer student members exclusive scholarship opportunities, educational resources, and mentoring programs. These organizations also provide the chance to connect with other finance students, employers, and industry leaders through conferences and seminars, discussion forums, and local chapter meetings. The following list contains three respected professional finance organizations that offer several benefits to members at any stage of their careers.
- Association for Finance Professionals: Committed to the advancement of finance professionals, this organization offers its members access to an extensive digital library, virtual seminars, exclusive job boards, and certification opportunities.
- American Finance Association: AFA members can expand their professional network by attending conferences and seminars, publish papers in the association's Journal of Finance, and explore global career opportunities in finance and academia.
- National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors: Promoting ethical conduct and high professional standards, this association provides members with several continuing education and professional development resources in the form of webinars, workshops, and online courses.
2018 Accredited Programs
Top Graduate Certificate in Finance
| Rank | School | State | Degree | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harvard University | MA | Graduate Certificate in Corporate Finance | $14,376 |
| 2 | Boston University | MA | Graduate Certificate in Financial Management | $30,047 |
| 3 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | CO | Graduate Certificate in Finance | $15,747 |
| 4 | Stony Brook University | NY | Advanced Graduate Certificate in Finance | $14,860 |
| 5 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | PA | Graduate Certificate in Public Budgeting and Financial Management | $24,329 |
| 6 | Golden Gate University-San Francisco | CA | Graduate Certificate in Finance | $32,178 |
| 7 | City University of Seattle | WA | Graduate Certificate in Finance | $15,000 |
| 8 | Arizona State University-West | AZ | Graduate Certificate in Global Finance | $10,124 |
| 9 | Southern New Hampshire University | NH | Graduate Certificate in Finance | $29,195 |
| 10 | SUNY Empire State College | NY | Graduate Certificate in Global Finance and Investment | $15,470 |
Top Associate in Finance
| Rank | School | State | Degree | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Davenport University | MI | Associate of Business Administration - Finance | $15,914 |
| 2 | North Hennepin Community College | MN | Associate of Applied Science in Finance Management | $14,986 |
| 3 | Franklin University | OH | Associate of Science in Financial Management | $21,927 |
| 4 | Columbus State Community College | OH | Finance Associate of Applied Science | $5,168 |
| 5 | Northwest Arkansas Community College | AR | Associate of Applied Science in Business Management - Banking and Finance | $5,239 |
Top Bachelor's in Finance
| Rank | School | State | Degree | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northeastern University Global Network | MA | B.S. in in Finance and Accounting Management | $27,107 |
| 2 | Florida International University | FL | BBA in Finance | $12,543 |
| 3 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | PA | B.S. in Finance | $25,498 |
| 4 | Old Dominion University | VA | B.B.S. in Finance | $12,925 |
| 5 | Thomas Edison State University | NJ | BSBA in Finance | $13,155 |
| 6 | Southern New Hampshire University | NH | B.S. in Finance | $29,195 |
| 7 | University of Maryland-University College | MD | Bachelor's in Finance | $10,558 |
| 8 | Regis University | CO | B.S. in Finance | $23,390 |
| 9 | Missouri State University-Springfield | MO | B.S. in Finance | $14,585 |
| 10 | Dallas Baptist University | TX | B.B.S. in Finance | $23,019 |
| 11 | Dickinson State University | ND | B.S. in Finance | $10,592 |
| 12 | University of Alabama at Birmingham | AL | B.S. in Finance | $15,296 |
| 13 | Columbia College | MO | B.B.A and B.B.S in Finance | $10,626 |
| 14 | Northwood University-Michigan | MI | BBA in Finance | $19,137 |
| 15 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | TX | B.S. in Finance | $12,270 |
| 16 | National University | CA | B.S. in Financial Management | $24,924 |
| 17 | Davenport University | MI | BBA in Finance | $18,186 |
| 18 | University of Houston-Downtown | TX | BBA in Finance | $10,302 |
| 19 | DeSales University | PA | B.S. in Finance | $25,466 |
| 20 | University of Minnesota-Crookston | MN | B.S. in Finance | $13,472 |
| 21 | Granite State College | NH | B.S. in Finance/ Accounting | $14,681 |
| 22 | Franklin University | OH | Bachelors in Financial Planning or Financial Management | $21,927 |
| 23 | Upper Iowa University | IA | B.S. in Financial Management | $18,993 |
| 24 | Metropolitan State University | MN | B.S. in Finance | $15,722 |
| 25 | SUNY College of Technology at Canton | NY | BBA in Finance | $14,313 |
Top MBA in Finance
| Rank | School | State | Degree | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | NC | MBA in Corproate Finance | $10,077 |
| 2 | University of Florida | FL | MBA in Finance | $14,761 |
| 3 | Babson College | MA | MBA in Finance | $27,453 |
| 4 | Touro University Worldwide | CA | MBA in Finance | $10,572 |
| 5 | Lehigh University | PA | MBA in Finance | $27,478 |
| 6 | Johns Hopkins University | MD | MBA in Financial Businesses | $27,352 |
| 7 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | NC | MBA with Finance Certificate | $13,066 |
| 8 | University of Maryland-College Park | MD | MBA in Finance | $15,757 |
| 9 | George Washington University | DC | MBA in Finance | $39,562 |
| 10 | Carnegie Mellon University | PA | MBA in Finance | $35,250 |
| 11 | The University of Texas at Dallas | TX | MBA in Finance | $10,254 |
| 12 | Northeastern University | MA | MBA in Finance | $29,998 |
| 13 | Golden Gate University-San Francisco | CA | MBA in Finance | $15,184 |
| 14 | Villanova University | PA | MBA in Finance | $33,270 |
| 15 | Johnson & Wales University-Online | RI | MBA in Finance | $8,871 |
| 16 | Stevens Institute of Technology | NJ | MBA in Finance | $37,168 |
| 17 | Mississippi College | MS | MBA in Finance | $16,804 |
| 18 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | TX | MBA in Finance | $11,628 |
| 19 | Webster University | MO | MBA in Finance | $24,717 |
| 20 | University of Miami | FL | MBA in Corporate Finance | $37,424 |
| 21 | Colorado State University-Fort Collins | CO | MBA in Finance | $16,232 |
| 22 | American University | DC | MBA in Finance | $31,758 |
| 23 | New Jersey Institute of Technology | NJ | MBA in Finance | $15,406 |
| 24 | Syracuse University | NY | MBA in Finance | $31,823 |
| 25 | University of Alabama at Birmingham | AL | MBA in Finance | $16,092 |
| 26 | Nova Southeastern University | FL | MBA in Finance | $25,344 |
| 27 | University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus | CO | MBA in Finance | $13,751 |
| 28 | Pepperdine University | CA | MBA in Finance | $39,637 |
| 29 | University of St Francis | IL | MBA in Finance | $17,968 |
| 30 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | PA | MBA in Finance | $25,055 |
| 31 | University of Delaware | DE | MBA in Finance | $15,894 |
| 32 | University of Dallas | TX | MBA in Finance | $25,197 |
| 33 | Azusa Pacific University | CA | MBA in Finance | $28,506 |
| 34 | East Carolina University | NC | MBA with Financial Certificate | $12,817 |
| 35 | Mercer University | GA | MBA in Finance | $20,692 |
| 36 | Regis University | CO | MBA in Finance | $26,505 |
| 37 | Temple University | PA | MBA in Finance | $21,237 |
| 38 | Brandman University | CA | MBA in Finance | $20,087 |
| 39 | California State University-Dominguez Hills | CA | MBA in Finance | $3,297 |
| 40 | Dallas Baptist University | TX | MBA in Finance | $24,669 |
| 41 | University of Kansas | KS | MBA in Finance | $18,014 |
| 42 | Missouri State University-Springfield | MO | MBA in Finance | $14,862 |
| 43 | University of Nebraska-Lincoln | NE | MBA in Finance | $16,462 |
| 44 | Lindenwood University | MO | MBA in Finance | $22,183 |
| 45 | Samford University | AL | MBA in Finance | $29,544 |
| 46 | California Lutheran University | CA | MBA in Finance | $29,038 |
| 47 | University of North Texas | TX | MBA in Finance | $10,424 |
| 48 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | OH | MBA in Finance | $19,978 |
| 49 | University of Saint Mary | KS | MBA in Finance | $19,455 |
| 50 | Saint Joseph's University | PA | MBA in Finance | $36,058 |
Top Master's in Finance
| Rank | School | State | Degree | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harvard University | MA | Master in Finance | $16,205 |
| 2 | Georgetown University | DC | Master of Science in Finance | $35,147 |
| 3 | Colorado State University-Global Campus | CO | Master of Finance | $27,453 |
| 4 | Columbia University in the City of New York | NY | Master of Science in Operations Research - Methods in Finance | $11,628 |
| 5 | Boston University | MA | Master of Science in Financial Management | $13,066 |
| 6 | Northeastern University | MA | Master of Science in Finance | $12,817 |
| 7 | University of Miami | FL | Master of Science in Finance | $11,693 |
| 8 | Auburn University | AL | Master of Science in Finance | $10,077 |
| 9 | Golden Gate University-San Francisco | CA | MBA, Finance & Master of Science in Finance | $15,757 |
| 10 | Brenau University | GA | Master of Business Administration in Finance | $15,945 |
| 11 | University of Maryland-College Park | MD | Master of Business Administration in Finance | $24,669 |
| 12 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | PA | Master of Finance | $39,637 |
| 13 | Saint Joseph's University | PA | Master of Science in Financial Services | $15,406 |
| 14 | University of Delaware | DE | Master of Business Administration with Concentration in Finance | $16,804 |
| 15 | Texas A & M International University | TX | Master in Business Administration with a concentration in International Banking and Finance | $31,823 |
| 16 | University of Houston-Clear Lake | TX | Master of Science in Finance | $25,197 |
| 17 | Drexel University | CA | Master of Science In Finance | $16,010 |
| 18 | Loyola University Chicago | IL | Master of Science in Finance | $10,254 |
| 19 | Dallas Baptist University | TX | Master of Business Administration in Finance Concentration | $16,683 |
| 20 | Indiana University-Bloomington | IN | Master of Science in Finance | $27,478 |
| 21 | Virginia International University | VA | Master of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in International Finance | $17,550 |
| 22 | University of San Francisco | CA | Master of Science in Financial Analysis | $15,411 |
| 23 | California Lutheran University | CA | MBA in Financial Planning | $29,038 |
| 24 | Texas A&M University-Commerce | TX | Master of Science in Finance | $15,095 |
| 25 | Webster University | MO | Master of Science in Finance | $24,717 |
| 26 | Florida Institute of Technology-Online | FL | MBA Accounting & Finance | $16,128 |
| 27 | Bellevue University | NE | Master of Science in Strategic Finance | $14,761 |
| 28 | Mercy College | NY | Master of Business Administration with concentration in Finance | $33,270 |
| 29 | The University of Texas of the Permian Basin | FL | Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance | $18,032 |
| 30 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | MA | Master in Business Administration with concentration in Finance | $15,894 |
| 31 | Mississippi College | MS | Master of Business Administration Finance Focus | $16,804 |
| 32 | Northwood University | MI | Master of Science in Finance | $16,506 |
| 33 | Middle Tennessee State University | TN | Master of Science in Finance | $31,758 |
| 34 | Suffolk University | MA | MBA (Finance Focus) | $12,621 |
| 35 | University of Scranton | PA | Master of Science in Finance | $16,232 |
| 36 | West Texas A&M University | TX | Master of Science in Finance and Economics | $28,506 |
| 37 | Southern New Hampshire University | NH | MS Corporate Finance & MS Finance - Investment and Securities | $19,913 |
| 38 | University of Louisiana at Lafayette | LA | Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance | $31,539 |
| 39 | National University | CA | MBA (specialization in Financial Management) | $22,377 |
| 40 | Loyola University Maryland | MD | Master of Science in Finance | $24,717 |
| 41 | University of Michigan-Dearborn | MI | Master of Science in Finance | $20,133 |
| 42 | University of Saint Mary | KS | Master of Business Administration (Finance Concentration) | $19,455 |
| 43 | Pace University-New York | NY | Master of Science in Finance for Professionals | $16,242 |
| 44 | Louisiana State University-Shreveport | LA | Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance | $11,160 |
| 45 | SUNY Empire State College | NY | Master of Science in Finance | $35,250 |
| 46 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | WI | MBA in Finance | $25,764 |
| 47 | Clarion University of Pennsylvania | PA | Master of Business Administration with Concentration in Finance | $27,352 |
| 48 | Upper Iowa University | IA | MBA (emphasis in Corporate Financial Management) | $23,405 |
| 49 | Charleston Southern University | SC | MBA, Finance | $15,709 |
| 50 | Davenport University | MI | MBA, with Finance Certificate | $16,742 |
