Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
MBA in Finance Online
An MBA Finance Online degree provides a foundation of business administration and financial skills that can enable you to manage financial planning, monitor investments, and evaluate real estate transactions. Earning this degree can lead to increased earning potential and supervisory roles. Employers respect professionals who possess expertise in finance because they know they can boost their own company’s growth.
If you are hoping to work in a professional environment where numbers play a prominent role, or you want to emerge as a business leader, consider pursuing an MBA in finance. This versatile degree covers advanced business courses with a financial emphasis. A graduate can work as a financial analyst. A new report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that the demand for financial analysts is expected to grow by 6.8 percent from 2018 to 2028.
Online MBA in Finance
An MBA Finance Online degree provides a foundation of business administration and financial skills that can enable you to manage financial planning, monitor investments, and evaluate real estate transactions. Earning this degree can lead to increased earning potential and supervisory roles. Employers respect professionals who possess expertise in finance because they know they can boost their own company’s growth. This guide ranks the best online MBA programs in finance.
30 Best MBA in Finance Online Programs in 2022
1. Saint Francis University
St. Francis University offers one of the most affordable online MBA finance programs thanks to its low tuition and quick completion time.
The program recently underwent a curriculum overhaul designed to reflect the rapidly changing business environment where globalization and technology are more relevant than ever. It is practitioner-based, allowing students to put what they learn in the classroom to immediate use in their careers. They can transfer up to 9 credits and complete the program in as little as 12-18 months if they desire. Saint Francis University ranked #28 in regional Midwest universities by U.S. News and World Report.
Tuition: $25,550
Location: Loretto, Pennsylvania
2. Northeastern University
Northeastern University has one of the best ranked and most affordable online MBA degrees in finance for students seeking to achieve upward career mobility with a graduate degree.
Accreditation for the program comes from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and an institutional accreditation comes from the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). You can complete the program in as little as two years, and you’ll earn both a degree in finance and business administration. Students can choose from a total of eight concentration areas that are in demand right now, based on labor trends. It is administered through the Northeastern University’s D’Amore-McKim School of Business and ranks #77 in U.S. News & World Report’s list of best online MBA programs, #59 in best business schools, and #44 in the best national universities.
Tuition: $23,688
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
3. New Jersey Institute of Technology
An MBA in finance through New Jersey Institute of Technology consists of a total of 48 credits distributed over eight 15-week semesters.
The usual course load is two classes per term. Students can choose from a variety of options, including the finance option. A finance concentration entails courses such as corporate finance II, derivatives markets, financial investment institutions, and investment analysis and portfolio theory. The program is accredited by the top accreditation agency for business schools, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). U.S. News & World Report ranks NJIT #106 in national universities.
Tuition: $22,690
Location: Newark, New Jersey
4. Pennsylvania State University
One of the most flexible and inexpensive online MBA finance programs from a top-ranked institution is offered by Penn State University for working professionals who desire a rigorous graduate degree.
The program is offered by the Penn State Smeal College of Business and is taught by the same faculty who teach on-campus courses. AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accredits the program. The curriculum combines practical elements with theory to produce business and finance executives who possess the knowledge and know-how to thrive in today’s competitive global business environment. U.S. News and World Report ranks PSU #59 in national universities.
Tuition: $21,752
Location: University Park, Pennsylvania
5. Nova Southeastern University
A cheap online MBA in Finance from Nova Southeastern combines a cutting edge curriculum with the flexibility of online delivery so that students can continue working while earning an advanced business degree from an accredited and ranked institution.
The program consists of 40-49 credits which include classes like advanced corporate finance, banking, financial engineering, investments, and real world finance for managers. It is expected that students meet prerequisite courses. The prerequisite courses include courses which are conveniently embedded within the curriculum and include introductory accounting, business finance, and foundations of business statistics. Students may choose to transfer credits or take a proficiency exam to fulfill the prerequisites. US News and World Report ranked Nova as the #191 national university.
Tuition: $20,419
Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
6. Samford University
The Samford University online MBA in finance is designed to take current managers to a new level of understanding and leadership.
Throughout the program, students learn core business functions through practical problem solving and innovation, as well as finance-related topics. The degree consists of 36 to 48 credits and includes classes such as accounting for decision making, financial accounting for managers, foundations of economics and statistics, and communication analysis for managers. Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, 480 minimum GMAT score, application, and transcripts. U.S. News and World Report ranked Samford University #4 among regional universities in the South and #90 among the best online MBA programs.
Tuition: $19,608
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
7. Villanova University
The Villanova University MBA in finance online program is designed for individuals seeking a flexible yet rigorous graduate degree in finance from a world-renowned institution.
This program is the same as the campus-based program, and the same faculty teaches it. All courses are delivered online, with the exception of the weekend campus immersion experience, where students network with peers and professors. The program includes 21 courses worth 48 credits, and it is spread out over six semesters. This allows students to complete the program in as little as two years. Students complete core courses in analyzing and leveraging data, 21st century business operations, and leadership and team dynamics. US News and World Report ranks Villanova University as the 49th-best national university.
Tuition: $18,473
Location: Villanova, Pennsylvania
8. Golden Gate University
Golden Gate University’s online MBA finance degree program is one of the most affordable for working adults who need the flexibility of an online degree.
The program consists of 54 credits divided into theoretical and hands-on learning, resulting in well-rounded executives having both global and hands-on knowledge. Courses may include accounting for managers, data analysis for managers, management and leadership, strategic analysis and design, and teams in organizations. Applicants must have the GMAT or GRE (if they have fewer than 5 years’ experience), transcripts, a bachelor’s degree, their application, and a personal statement (if they wish to). Golden Gate University is recognized by U.S. News and World Report rated it as one of the best regional universities in the West.
Tuition: $18,355
Location: San Francisco, California
9. California Lutheran University
A cheap online MBA in finance from California Lutheran University is ideal for students with tight budgets who want an advanced degree that will get them into high-paying positions within a variety of organizations.
Because resources are limited, organizations are seeking talented finance graduates who can help them maximize revenue and profit while reducing overhead costs. Financial concentration courses include buyout and acquisitions, investment and portfolio management, real estate investments, and strategic financial analysis. The average program duration is just 12-24 months for the 45-credit program. Among regional universities West, California Lutheran is ranked #15 by U.S. News and World Report.
Tuition: $18,150
Location: Thousand Oaks, California
10. Azusa Pacific University
The Azusa Pacific University offers an online MBA in finance to individuals seeking to assume positions of leadership in the financial analysis area of a variety of organizations.
The program consists of flexible coursework delivered online, with an average time commitment of 6-10 hours per week per unit. With full time enrollment across fall, spring, and summer terms, students can complete the program in just 15 months. The term is eight weeks long. Students take core classes in global business management, high performance people management, quantitative analysis and research, and strategic digital marketing. U.S. News and World Report ranks APU #205 in national universities.
Tuition: $17,692
Location: Azusa, California
11. St. Thomas Aquinas College
St. Thomas Aquinas College offers one of the most affordable online MBA programs that focuses on finance.
It is completely online and available to both those with a business background and those without. Non-business majors must take nine core foundational courses versus seven for those with an undergraduate business degree. An accredited bachelor’s degree, a minimal GPA of 2.8, three letters of recommendation, and transcripts are required for admission. This degree is designed for working professionals and provides a mix of core business classes with advanced finance classes. U.S. News and World Report ranked STAC #126 in regional universities North.
Tuition: $17,450
Location: Sparkill, New York
12. Dallas Baptist University
DBU offers one of the most convenient and affordable MBA in finance online programs that are designed for working professionals seeking to advance their careers with the necessary fundamental business skills and advanced financial planning.
This program at Dallas Baptist University takes great pride in offering advanced business and finance courses with a Christ-centered approach. These classes may include capital markets and institutions, creative problem solving for marketing decisions, operations and quality management, and project execution and control methods. U.S. News and World Report ranks DBU #221 out of national universities.
Tuition: $17,208
Location: Dallas, Texas
13. Lindenwood University
Working professionals seeking to enhance their career options and trajectory with a graduate degree from a nationally ranked institution can earn a cheap online MBA in finance from Lindenwood University.
The program focuses on providing students with a broad-based curriculum combined with specific finance related material. These pedagogical approaches ensure students gain both the depth and breadth necessary to effectively function in today’s complex and fast-paced business environment. Finance courses may include topics such as managerial finance, financial markets and institutions, financial statement analysis, and fixed income securities. U.S. News and World Report ranks Lindenwood University #230 among national universities.
Tuition: $16,960
Location: Saint Charles, Missouri
14. Saint Joseph’s University
One of the top ranked and affordable online MBA programs in finance is offered by Saint Joseph’s University.
The program is run out of the institution’s Haub School of Business and admits students on a rolling basis. Admissions requirements include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, two letters of recommendation, a resume, an application, transcripts, and GMAT/GRE scores taken within the last seven years. A finance course may cover advanced financial management, financial institutions and capital markets, pensions and benefits administration, personal insurance planning and security analysis and investment. U.S. News & World Report ranks Saint Joseph’s University as #12 in Regional Universities North.
Tuition: $16,401
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
15. Florida Institute of Technology
One of the most affordable online MBA programs is available from the Florida Institute of Technology.
It offers small classes and 100% online delivery to students seeking a finance-driven MBA. The program offers both core and specialty courses, which provide depth and breadth to the education. Specialty courses include finance markets and institutions, financial management policy, investment management, and portfolio analysis. Admission requirements include an application and transcripts. GRE or GMAT scores are not required to apply. The program consists of 12 courses that are delivered during eight-week terms. Students can earn the degree in two years. U.S. News and World Report ranked Florida Tech #177 in national universities.
Tuition: $16,128
Location: Melbourne, Florida
16. University of Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts at Amherst offers one of the best online MBA programs for students seeking a master’s degree in business with a finance emphasis.
The degree combines core business functions and knowledge with advanced finance courses.
Admission requirements include GMAT/GRE scores, transcripts, recommendation letters, an essay, and an application. Test score waivers can be granted to some students. A typical test score for GMAT is 570, and the average GRE score is 155 quant/155 verbal. Financial courses can include data management, investment decisions and strategies, private wealth management, and Six Sigma for management practices. UMass is ranked #17 in U.S. News and World Report’s ranking of top online MBA programs.
Tuition: $15,367
Location: Amherst, Massachusetts
17. Mercer University
Mercer University offers an online MBA in Finance for students seeking a 100% distance degree with flexible course delivery options. Mercer’s Eugene W. Stetson School of Business and Economics is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, which only accredits 5% of the world’s business schools.
GMAT/GRE scores, transcripts, and a resume are required for admission. Students will study applied business statistics, topics in business law and corporate responsibility, marketing concepts and practices, and operations management science. For the 2019 year, U.S. News & World Report ranks Mercer University #170 in best national universities and #70 in the top online MBA programs.
Tuition: $14,670
Location: Macon, Georgia
18. University of Cincinnati
Those interested in healthcare finance can obtain an affordable online MBA from the University of Cincinnati.
This unique degree is offered through the University of Colorado’s College of Allied Health Sciences and Lindner College of Business. The 38-credit program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make well-informed financial decisions within the healthcare industry. These courses include accounting for managerial decisions, health care finance analysis, health care finance decision-making, and health systems administration organization and delivery. Admission includes a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, two letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, CV/resume, and transcripts. GMAT/GRE waivers are available. U.S. News and World Report ranks UC #147 in national universities.
Tuition: $14,468
Location: Cincinnati, Ohio
19. University of Maryland
The Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland offers a cheap online MBA in finance that can be completed in as few as 24 months.
The program provides the same rigorous curriculum as the campus course and is taught by the same faculty. There is only a small number of synchronous courses offered in the program, but they provide superb opportunities for interaction between the students and faculty. There are 54 credits in this program that include courses such as action learning projects, introduction to financial accounting, leadership and collaborative teamwork, managerial economics and public policy, and the world economic environment. U.S. News and World Report ranks UM #63 in national universities.
Tuition: $13,884
Location: College Park, Maryland
20. Colorado Technical University
Colorado Technical University offers one of the most affordable online MBA finance programs accredited by the ACBSP that focuses on the core competencies for financial systems analysts.
Among the core courses are applied managerial accounting, applied managerial decision making, strategic human capital management, and strategic management and dynamic environments. The online courses are offered every eight weeks and take 5.5 weeks to complete. All courses are built in a technology that’s compatible with desktops and mobile devices. Colorado Technical University is ranked #187 in the best online masters in business administration program and #114 in the best online graduate business programs by U.S. News and World Report.
Tuition: $13,803
Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
21. Johnson & Wales University
With its cheap online MBA in finance, Johnson & Wales University combines flexible delivery with a career-focused curriculum that emphasizes the skills and knowledge necessary for financial decision-making within many organizational and business contexts.
The program includes eight-week courses on business information and decision making, effective leadership, ethics of corporate social responsibility and the law, financial management, and strategic financial planning. Admission requirements include transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a 500-word statement of purpose, and a 2.85 GPA. Applicants with a GPA of 2.85 are exempt from the GMAT/GRE test. U.S. News and World Report ranks JWU #74 in regional universities in the North.
Tuition: $13,008
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
22. Regis University
An accredited online MBA program in finance from Regis University includes career-focused coursework to help working professionals with the skills and knowledge they need for today’s fast-paced work environments.
The program includes 8-week courses in financial decision-making, financial institutions management, investments and portfolio management, international financial management, and mergers and acquisitions. The admission criteria include transcripts, a resume, and an admission essay. Test scores may be requested by the admission committee. Applications are considered holistically, with no one component ensuring admission. U.S. News & World Report ranked Regis #26 out of all regional universities in the West.
Tuition: $12,852
Location: Denver, Colorado
23. University of Florida
The University of Florida offers an MBA in finance online through its Warrington College of Business.
One of the first institutions to offer a fully online accredited MBA, the program was launched in 1999. You can complete the program in 24 months, with classes lasting only five weeks. There are no differences between online and on-campus students academic calendars. Admission criteria include a current resume, two professional letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and GMAT/GRE scores. In the 2019 U.S. News and World Report rankings, the University of Florida was ranked #25 in national universities, #8 in top public schools, and #4 in best online MBA programs.
Tuition: $12,737
Location: Gainesville, Florida
24. University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an affordable online Masters in Business Administration in Finance for working professionals seeking a top ranking from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.
It is accredited by the Association of Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and can be completed in just 18 months. You don’t need to submit GRE/GMAT scores when you’re applying if you’ve had six years of full-time continuous professional experience. Test scores are required for applicants with less than six years of full-time professional experience. Admission requirements include transcripts, two letters of recommendation, three essays, a webcam interview, and a personal admission interview. U.S. New and World Report ranks UNC #1 in best online MBA programs.
Tuition: $11,929
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
25. University of Saint Mary
University of Saint Mary offers working professionals a cheap online MBA in finance which features rigorous coursework and flexible timelines.
The program has been accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education. Focus areas include mergers and acquisitions, capital and financial topics, and advanced financial concepts. Financial concentration classes include advanced financial topics, financial and capital issues, and financial decisions. Additionally, students can join financial associations such as the Society of Financial Services Professionals and the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors. U.S. News and World Report ranked USM #128 in the regional Midwest universities.
Tuition: $11,070
Location: Leavenworth, Kansas
26. University of Kansas
The University of Kansas provides working professionals with an affordable online MBA in finance that increases the new graduate’s earning potential and career trajectory.
MBA in finance at KU consists of ten core business classes and four advanced finance classes. Some core classes include business law and ethics, managerial economics, and operations and supply chain management. Finance courses may cover corporate finance, financial institutions and markets, and investments. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Kansas #129 in national universities, #98 in best value schools, and #26 in the best online MBA programs.
Tuition: $10,704
Location: Lawrence, Kansas
27. Touro University Worldwide
Touro University offers affordable online MBA programs in Finance that allow you to balance your Graduate education with your career and family responsibilities.
Students can adjust their enrollment level from semester to semester to suit their scheduling needs. Students can matriculate at six different points throughout the year, and the program can be completed in 12 months by taking two courses per semester for six consecutive semesters. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a 2.5 minimum GPA and transcripts. No test scores are required. This concentration includes core courses along with advanced finance courses. US News and World Report ranks Touro #142 in regional universities North.
Tuition: $9,000
Location: Los Alamitos, California
28. University of Houston
The University of Houston at Clear Lake offers one of the most affordable online MBA in finance programs in the country.
With no residency requirement, the degree can be completed entirely online. By taking two courses per 8-week term for three consecutive semesters, students can finish in just 14 months. This curriculum is based on practice and equip students with skills and knowledge that will enable them to be successful leaders in business and finance in a wide variety of contexts and career fields. The courses may include financial statement analysis, personal wealth management, quantitative methods in finance, and treasury management practices. U.S. News and World Report, UHCL is ranked #61 in regional universities in the West.
Tuition: $8,710
Location: Houston, Texas
29. University of Alabama
The University of Alabama Birmingham offers a Master of Business Administration in Finance online for working adults looking for a graduate business education from a regionally accredited institution.
This program is housed within UAB’s Collat School of Business, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). It is possible for students to complete the program in as little as two years. Some courses may include financial accounting and economics for managers, management and organizations, and quantitative analysis for business managers. U.S. News and World Report has ranked the University of Alabama at Birmingham #129 in national universities and #10 in best online graduate business programs.
Tuition: $7,866
Location: Birmingham, Alabama
30. University of Colorado
University of Colorado at Denver offers an MBA in Finance online that can be completed in as few as 16 months or as long as 5 years.
With the degree’s flexible online delivery, students can attend graduate school and maintain their current responsibilities. A core curriculum includes courses in data analysis, financial management, information systems, law & ethics, as well as strategic management. The finance concentration delves into advanced financial topics like forecasting, risk management, derivatives, and firm evaluation and assessment. U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Colorado at Denver as #205 among national universities in its 2019 rankings.
Tuition: $7,866
Location: Denver, Colorado
Similar Programs
Curriculum in Online MBA in Finance Programs
The curriculum of a finance program is very different from that of an accounting program and even the requirements will vary from school to school. No matter what your decision, make sure you understand what is expected of you. The curriculum for a MBA in Finance varies depending on the program you choose. However, there are many common topics that appear in most programs. Each finance program has its own curriculum, but there are many classes that pop up frequently in literature. Many students have expressed interest in learning about the most common courses offered by finance programs.
1. Corporate Finance
The field of corporate finance covers several topics with a broad focus on assets, liabilities and equity. Corporate finance courses are designed to introduce students to the basics of financial management within a company or corporation. Corporate Finance courses are often used to prepare students for careers in business administration or financial planning. In a corporate finance course, students learn to work with corporate The purpose of boards of directors is to identify investment opportunities and maximize profitability. Learners discover the basics of the time value of money, interests rates, and risk-return tradeoff. During this course, participants learn how to create corporate budgets and communicate with program directors on budget requirements. Corporate financial managers discuss capital budgeting processes, sources of capital, and measurement principles that correlate performance with shareholder value. Much of the course deals with cash flow analysis and how to increase profitability.
2. Financial Markets
A financial markets course helps students develop their understanding of risk management and fundamental analysis skills. Learners learn how to identify opportunities for advanced finance students and make recommendations for insurance companies, banks and other financial institutions. Students also learn how to use current and historical data to make recommendations for investors and monitor the stock market. Financial markets and government regulations are also explored since they have a symbiotic relationship.
3. Investment Management
This course provides a foundational understanding of how to use financial data to advise investors and borrowers. Learners will learn about financial market trends and policies, as well as monitoring and analysis of pension and sovereign wealth funds. This class also covers active and passive investments, benchmarks, and features of equity.
Cost of Online MBA in Finance Programs
The cost of earning a masters degree is significantly lower at an online program than a traditional campus-based program. Additionally, public universities tend to be less expensive than private universities. Increasingly, colleges have begun opening online versions of their brick-and-mortar schools. These programs typically cost less than traditional universities. In some cases, public institutions offer lower tuition rates than private universities. During the budgeting process for college, students should also budget for living expenses as well as text book and learning materials.
The time commitment of a masters in finance program depends on many factors, including the length of the program, the number of credits required to graduate and whether a student is employed. If a student is employed when enrolling in an MBA in finance program, it usually takes less time to complete the degree than if she enrolls while unemployed.
One of the biggest challenges for busy working professionals is finding time to attend on-campus classes. This isn’t a problem with online master’s degrees in business administration (MBAs), which make it possible to complete coursework around a work schedule, particularly if the program offers asynchronous courses. Also, check out our guide on scholarship for business majors.
Career & Outlooks of MBA in Finance Programs
There is no doubt that having an MBA degree in Finance can be of tremendous assistance when it comes to getting a job in the corporate world. But what is the average salary of an MBA in Finance graduate? Let’s look at it below.
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts review and revise budgets for governments, businesses, and nonprofits. They may suggest changes based on economic factors or other influences. Budget analysts work for companies and government agencies that oversee finances for departments of their organization as well as for public institutions. These professionals earned an average salary of $77,290 as of April 27, 2021, but the salary range typically falls between $69,409 and $86,349.
Financial Analyst
Business professionals working in this role utilize their knowledge of finance to make businesses and individuals more money. Using historical and current market data, they advise their clients on when and where to invest. According to the BLS, this career will grow by 6% between 2018 and 2028, and the median salary for these professionals in 2018 was $85,660. And according to salary.com, The average Financial Analyst salary in the United States is $60,179 as of April 27, 2021, but the salary range typically falls between $54,780 and $66,443.
Financial Manager
A financial manager oversees a firm’s finances long-term in order to help the company generate the highest return on investment. These professionals most often have an undergraduate business degree, and they may be required to pass a certification exam to obtain state licenses. BLS projects that the demand for these professionals will grow by 16% between 2018 and 2028, with a median pay of $127,990 in 2018. And, according to salary.com, The average Finance Manager salary in the United States is $119,429 as of April 27, 2021, but the range typically falls between $107,713 and $134,540.
Loan Officer
Loan officers work for banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Their job is to evaluate risk when it comes to loaning money to individuals, small businesses, and corporations. For individuals or start-ups, loan officers look at how their personal and business debts impact the borrower’s ability to pay back loans. Loan officers also monitor the credit history and debt of small businesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for these professionals is expected to grow by 8% between 2018 and 2028, and their median pay in 2018 was $63,040 per year.
Personal Financial Advisor
Personal financial advisors work one-on-one with clients to help them meet their financial goals. They may help clients plan for the future by creating an investment portfolio. They also may educate clients on how to use financial information to make better decisions. According to the BLS, the demand for these professionals is expected to grow by 7% between 2018 and 2028, and the median annual pay was $88,890 in 2018.
Comparison and Specializations
Universities and colleges may offer a variety of graduate finance degrees. As an example, the best degree depends on an individual’s career goals. Students can earn an MBA in finance, a master’s in finance, or a master’s in accounting or taxation. Generally, students who wish to work as a chief financial officer should earn an MBA in finance, while those who wish to work as an accountant can earn a master’s degree in accounting or taxation.
| Degree Type | Description | Potential Career Paths |
|---|---|---|
| MBA in Finance | An MBA with a concentration in finance blends knowledge and skills in business and finance. Students explore concepts like operations management and business regulations. Students also learn about financial institutions and capital markets and how they relate to corporations and other businesses. | Chief Finance Officer |
| Master of Science in Finance | Unlike an MBA in finance, which blends business and finance courses, this program focuses solely on the finance industry and financial analysis skills. Students who pursue a master’s degree in finance often pursue roles like financial planner, helping individuals with investments. | Financial Planner, Financial Analyst, Budget Analyst |
| Master’s in Accounting or Taxation | As the name suggests, this master’s degree focuses more on accounting and tax skills than trading and investments. The degree prepares learners to advise individuals and organizations on taxation and accounting matters. Graduates can apply for accountant certification. | Accountant, Tax Accountant, Tax Preparer |
How To Choose Best Online MBA In Finance Programs
When choosing the best MBA for you, it’s important to consider all factors. If you are considering a finance MBA , there are many programs available, which makes the decision process easier. Most programs will list required classes and discuss selectivity on their websites. The admissions office at each school can also provide further information. Always take time to contact the admissions office to get answers to your specific questions.
Estimate your expected program costs
Students with budget constraints should consider schools in their home state. However, there are some programs that offer online degrees where students pay in-state tuition regardless of residency. Also, degree programs with more credit requirements may cost more since most schools charge tuition on a per-credit basis. Individuals on a budget may consider attending schools in their home state, as colleges and universities often offer reduced tuition rates for in-state students. There are some programs that allow all online students to pay in-state tuition rates regardless of residency.
Ensure the school’s admission requirements align with your expectations
The M.B.A. degree is a highly sought after credential, and programs often receive thousands of applications for admission. Because of this, many business schools have strict requirements for admittance into their programs. In general, most schools require applicants to submit transcripts, an admission essay, and recommendation letters prior to acceptance. Some schools also feature minimum GPA or GMAT score requirements, which students should ensure they can meet prior to applying. By setting realistic expectations, students can avoid applying to programs that are out of their reach. In order to regain credit for previous courses or entrance exams, individuals may retake them.
Compare student outcomes data
In addition to data about student outcomes, figure out which financial and accounting firms are most active in recruiting at the business school you’re interested in. These are the companies where your classmates will be most likely working after graduation. Although some institutions do not post this information on their websites, most admissions offices will provide it upon request.
Ask for information on how lessons are delivered in the program
A program’s level of support is important because it can impact a student’s success at a school, and affect their reasons for returning for future classes. A small school counts the number of students who continue on to graduate school as well as those who obtain full-time employment in the field they were studying. A program’s level of support can be impacted by several factors including tutoring services, database libraries, and 24-hour tech support. Some schools provide financial assistance in the form of academic scholarships and paid graduate positions.
Make sure the program is accredited
Prospective MBA for students should always consider accreditation status when researching schools. Third-party agencies are permitted to oversee the accreditation process by the U.S. Department of Education. A college or university can either earn regional accreditation or national accreditation. Regional accreditation is more prestigious than national accreditation. Programmatic accreditation can be more important than regional accreditation for doctorate programs. Programmatic Accreditation is when the university as a whole is accredited to offer business degrees.
Speak with current students and alumni
Once you’ve found a school and program of interest, the next step is the application process. There are quite a few application requirements to consider, including essays, prerequisites, entrance tests and interviews. Applicants should take the time to speak with the admissions office as well as current students and alumni about their experiences.
Look for partnerships with local businesses and communities
Business administration programs often have formal partnerships with local businesses and other community institutions. These partnerships are intended to provide students with real-world experience through internships, capstone projects, and other unique opportunities. Several programs provide proctored exams so students don’t have to travel long distances to a college campus to give their exams.
Scholarships For Online MBA in Finance Students
1. Minorities in Government Finance Scholarship
The Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) awards this scholarship to business majors graduates who identify as African American, Hispanic American, Native American, Native Hawaiian, or Asian American. Students applying for the $10,000 scholarship must be studying finance and planning to work for a government branch. Participants have the option of taking either full-time or part-time classes.
2. Financial Women of San Francisco Scholarship
The Financial Women of San Francisco Scholarship is open to women pursuing careers in finance in the San Francisco Bay Area. Undergraduate students can receive up to a $2,500 grant and graduate students can receive up to a $15,000 grant.
3. Greater Washington Society of Certified Public Accountants Educational Fund Scholarships
A scholarship of $4,000 is awarded by the Greater Society of CPAs each year to students pursuing a career in accounting. The application is open to students who attend certain schools in the Washington, DC-area. Applicants must carry a minimum grade point average of 3.2, submit a recommendation letter, and write an essay on the value of earning a CPA license.
4. Goldberg-Miller Public Finance Scholarship
A full-time graduate student planning to work in a finance-related role for the state or national government is eligible for this $15,000 scholarship from the Government Finance Officers Association. The applicant must declare an accounting-related major and submit official transcripts along with the application.
5. American Institute of Certified Public Accountants Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students
The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants offers two full-time scholarships for minority graduate students, up to $5,000 each year for their studies. Candidates must hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and have completed at least 30 credits with an accounting major. The scholarship provider accepts applications from December through March.
FAQs About Online MBA in Finance
Is an MBA in finance difficult?
An MBA in finance is an intensive program that requires dedication and time. The level of difficulty can vary from program to program, but you should expect to spend several hours per week studying outside of class. By talking with former students and admissions counselors, you can get a good idea of the difficulty level of the program.
What jobs can I get with an MBA in Finance ?
Graduates with an MBA in finance are qualified to apply for an array of leadership positions. They can use their education to oversee finances for an entire organization as a chief finance officer, work as a lead accountant, or even open their own consulting firm.
Does an MBA in finance require math?
Finance MBA programs require a significant amount of mathematical content. The courses may include topics like statistics, linear algebra, and differential calculus. If succeeding at math is not your forte, this doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in a finance role or earn a Master of Business Administration in Finance.