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Masters In Finance Online
The financial sector is always looking for professionals who understand the need for graduate education; this is why accelerated online Master’s in Finance programs are in such high demand. With cryptocurrency making its way to the mainstream as well as traditional financial transactions getting a technology makeover, professionals in this sector need to be able to keep up with industry changes.
The best way to do that is to earn a master’s degree in the field. But for those who are working and can’t afford to take a few years off to complete a degree, choices can be limited. Fortunately, a set of accelerated programs, each of which can be completed in two years or less, have been designed specifically to be affordable and flexible. These programs are the focus of this ranking.
The financial sector is always looking for professionals who understand the need for graduate education; this is why accelerated online Master’s in Finance programs are in such high demand. With cryptocurrency making its way to the mainstream as well as traditional financial transactions getting a technology makeover, professionals in this sector need to be able to keep up with industry changes. The best way to do that is to earn a master’s degree in the field.
But for those who are working and can’t afford to take a few years off to complete a degree, choices can be limited. Fortunately, a set of accelerated programs, each of which can be completed in two years or less, have been designed specifically to be affordable and flexible. These programs are the focus of this ranking.
Methodology
A lot of research was conducted in order to create this ranking. With the use of the National Center for Education Statistics and its public College Navigator database, an initial pool of 65 schools was identified; this was done by searching specifically for accelerated online master’s degrees in finance. From there, several factors were considered, including program tuition rates, online program options, and accelerated program formats. The final 25 programs, which are listed below, were chosen based on their in-state graduate tuition rate.
Ranking Low-Cost Accelerated Master’s in Finance
25. Florida Institute of Technology
Melbourne, Florida
Online Master of Business Administration in Accounting and Finance
Tuition: $32,256
Florida Institute of Technology offers an accelerated master’s online in finance degree that is housed within the popular and in-demand Master of Business Administration. This degree is accredited by the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education and is available 100 percent online. The degree combines the accounting and finance fields together, providing students with the necessary education in order to become qualified managers in the workplace. The plan of study can all be found online through the school’s virtual portal; courses are delivered through asynchronous and synchronous formats. Terms follow the traditional academic format, meaning that full-time students who take advantage of summer intensives can reasonably complete all the requirements in two years. This degree requires 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Financial Management Policy, Strategic Cost Management, and Advanced Problems and Current Topics in Accounting and Finance.
24. Penn State World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Finance
Tuition: $30,750
The accelerated online Master’s in Finance conferred by Penn State World Campus is a program designed for students who are interested in becoming certified professionals. This degree is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and provides a pathway for students who are pursuing the Chartered Financial Analyst® certification. This is a hybrid cohort model; students will take 95 percent of their courses online through asynchronous sessions and must complete a four-day residency on campus after completing their fourth course in the curriculum. Terms are held to the traditional academic format and all students will complete the program requirements in two years. The capstone project for the program focuses on the research of a real-world case study. Other degree requirements include 30 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Current Issues in Corporate Finance, Multinational Managerial Finance, and Financial Accounting Theory and Reporting Problems.
23. Walden University
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $29,875
Walden University provides working professionals with an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that provides pathways forward to earning certification in the field. This degree has three specializations: Chartered Financial Analyst, which prepares students for this certification; Certified Financial Planner, which qualifies students for this exam; and Finance for the Professional, a self-designed program for students who already hold certification or who have different interests. It is also possible to design a program to sit for the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority qualification exam. Each specialization can be completed in as little as 20 months, provided that students choose to study full-time and during each term available through the school. Courses are delivered 100 percent online and through live and on-demand sessions; terms follow the traditional academic structure. The degree requires 30 semester credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Advanced Managerial Finance, Legal and Ethical Issues in Accounting and Finance, and Investment Theory and Portfolio Management.
22. California Lutheran University
Thousand Oaks, California
Online Master of Science in Financial Planning
Tuition: $29,520
The one year Master’s in Finance online program available through California Lutheran University is a great opportunity for professionals who are interested in qualifying for the Certified Financial Planner exam; there is also a track for those who hold this qualification. This degree was built to provide students with a 100 percent online curriculum that can be accessed at any time; nearly all of the courses are delivered asynchronously. Students will also benefit from multiple start dates throughout the year as well as eight-week terms, making it possible for full-time learners to complete the degree in just one year. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone course, and a comprehensive written exam to apply for graduation. Sample courses include Risk Management and Insurance, Principles of Estate Planning, and Applied Research in Financial Planning.
21. The University of Scranton
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $28,950
The University of Scranton offers students a one year online Master’s in Finance program that is held 100 percent online. This program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Students will find that this degree is perfect to meet the requirements to sit for the Chartered Financial Analyst or Certified Financial Planner qualifying exams. Courses are delivered asynchronously and synchronously online through the traditional 16-week academic term. Full-time students who take on a full course load each term, including the summer term, can complete this degree in 12 months; part-time students can finish this degree in two years. This degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Financial Reporting and Research, Quantitative Analysis of Finance, and Advanced Financial Management.
20. The University of St. Francis
Joliet, Illinois
Online Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Finance
Tuition: $28,728
The 12 month online Master’s in Finance program conferred by the University of St. Francis is a great choice for students interested in a fast-paced curriculum that results in an in-demand degree. This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Program, providing professionals with a degree that is preferred by most employers in the financial industry. One of the unique aspects of this plan of study is the ability for students to start on their concentration area right away; the program is also built to provide students with as much flexibility as possible when it comes to their course choices. This is a 100 percent online program that delivers asynchronous and synchronous courses in eight-week and 12-week sessions. Full-time students will be able to complete this degree in 12 months; part-time students can complete the degree in 18 months. This degree requires 36 credit hours of coursework, an experiential learning project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Entrepreneurship Small Business Finance, Advanced Financial Management, and International Finance.
19. Webster University
St. Louis, Missouri
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $28,080
Webster University offers students the chance to earn an affordable accelerated online Master’s in Finance that will meet their needs. This degree is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and is available 100 percent online or in a hybrid format for those who live close to campus. The program makes it possible for students to become eligible to sit for the Chartered Financial Analyst or Certified Financial Planner qualifying exams; students who hold certification or have other interests can create their own cognate area with free electives. Additionally, ambitious students can opt to earn the Master of Science in Finance and the Master of Business Administration as a dual degree, enabling them to earn both degrees concurrently. Courses are delivered asynchronously and synchronously; sessions follow the traditional academic term schedule. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework as well as a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Capital Budgeting and Corporate Investments, Institutions and Financial Markets, and Advanced Corporate Finance.
18. Creighton University
Omaha, Nebraska
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $28,050
The accelerated online Master’s in Finance that is available from Creighton University provides students with an exceptional degree that is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This program is 100 percent online and extremely flexible; students can apply at any time during the year and are met with asynchronous and synchronous courses. The program also allows students who begin with a Master’s in Finance to transition to another business degree within the first year, so there’s always the possibility to move into another program. It is possible to earn a dual degree in Finance and Business Administration; while the MS in Finance can be completed in two years, the dual degree can be completed in just three years and offers students more chances to be employed in the sector. This degree requires 33 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Leadership and Organizational Behavior, Economics of Investment Management, and Ethical and Professional Standards.
17. Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, Indiana
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $27,160
Purdue University confers an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Students can choose from two concentrations: Financial Analysis and Financial Planning. This is a 100 percent online degree that comes with three start dates, the choice between asynchronous and synchronous courses, and six-week or 10-week courses; it is possible to complete this degree in 12 months if a student decides to study full-time and year-round while part-time students take up to two years to complete all the requirements. The curriculum is comprehensive and there are no free electives; however, this is a great choice for pre-service professionals who are interested in changing careers. Students can expect to complete 56 quarter credit hours, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Investment and Securities Analysis, Fixed-Income and Futures Investing, and Financial Statement Analysis.
16. Baker College
Flint, Michigan
Online Master of Business Administration in Finance
Tuition: $26,410
The accelerated online Master’s in Finance program provided by Baker College is fully accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education and was built for working professionals who need a flexible curriculum that works around their schedule. This is a 100 percent online program that combines lectures with real-world case studies, online labs and team projects to build a strong set of skills that prepare professionals to be leaders in the finance industry. Courses for this plan of study are delivered as live or on-demand offerings; labs and team projects are generally held live while lectures are offered asynchronously. The term format follows the traditional academic structure, meaning that full-time students who study year-round can complete this plan of study in two years. This degree requires 38 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Strategy in a Global Environment, International Business Finance, and The Financial Environment.
15. Walsh College
Troy, Michigan
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $25,410
Walsh College confers an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that was built to prepare financial professionals for leadership positions in the sector. This program comes with three concentrations: Financial Investments, Financial Management, and Financial Services. Students can also opt to complete the Master of Business Administration concurrently with the Master of Science in Finance, providing them with two degrees; this option can be completed in three years while earning the MSF alone can be completed in less than 18 months. This is a 100 percent online program that offers asynchronous and synchronous courses delivered on the traditional 16-week term schedule. Students can expect to complete 33 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Markets and Institutions and Advanced Managerial Accounting.
14. Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $22,572
Students at Southern New Hampshire University can earn an accelerated Master’s in Finance that comes with two concentrations: Corporate Finance as well as Investments and Securities. This program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. This is one of the best programs for working professionals; courses are all delivered on-demand, there are no residency requirements, and courses are held on 10-week terms. It is possible for students to complete this degree in 15 months just by taking two courses every 10-week term. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and real-world case studies for a comprehensive plan of study. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Short-Term Financial Management, Options Analysis and Financial Derivatives, and Investment Analysis and Portfolio Management.
13. The University of the Southwest
Highway Hobbs, New Mexico
Online Master of Business Administration in Finance
Tuition: $22,000
The University of the Southwest offers a 12-month master’s online in finance that was designed specifically for working professionals. This is a 100 percent online program that includes the cost of books and a laptop into its tuition, making it one of the most affordable programs on this list. Students will find that this program incorporates small class sizes, asynchronous and synchronous courses, and eight-week terms to make it possible for students to complete their requirements in as little as 12 months when they choose to study full-time. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam prior to graduation. Sample courses include Marketing Concepts and Strategies, Financial Planning and Investment Analysis, and Multinational Financial Management.
12. Johnson and Wales University
Providence, Rhode Island
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $21,060
The affordable accelerated online Master’s in Finance that is available from Johnson and Wales University is built to provide professionals with the chance to sit for the Certified Financial Planner qualifying exam. This program is currently registered with the CFP Board and has been approved to offer the CFP Certification Professional Education Board. The program also offers a specialization that focuses on preparing students to become Chartered Financial Analysts. This is a 100 percent online program that features asynchronous and synchronous courses that are taught in 11-week sessions; students who study full-time will be eligible to graduate in just 15 months. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Principles of Risk and Insurance, Fundamentals of Investment and Portfolio Management, and Bond Market Analysis.
11. Auburn University
Auburn, Alabama
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $20,904
Auburn University offers students the chance to enroll in an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that can be completed 100 percent online. This degree was built to provide in-service and pre-service professionals with the education and skills needed in order to become managers and leaders in the financial sector. Courses are delivered live or on-demand and follow the traditional 16-week academic term structure. This degree comes with the option to pursue a thesis or coursework-only plan of study; both options can be completed in just two years when students study full-time. Students can expect to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, a thesis, and a comprehensive written exam for graduation. Sample courses include Applied Financial Management, Financial Analysis, and Cost Analysis and Systems.
10. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Online Master of Science in Strategic Finance
Tuition: $20,700
Students can enroll in an accelerated online Master’s in Finance at Bellevue University that will provide them with the necessary skills needed to become mid-level or senior managers in the finance industry. It is possible to earn a concurrent graduate degree with this program; students are advised that a call to graduate admissions will be required to learn more. The plan of study is held 100 percent online through the use of asynchronous and synchronous courses; terms are held in 16-week sessions. It is possible to complete this degree in two years when students pursue part-time study. This degree requires a minimum of 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Business Conditions in Global Markets, Advanced Cost Accounting, and Financial Markets: Capital Sources, Liquidity and Risk.
9. The University of Michigan at Dearborn
Dearborn, Michigan
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $20,490
The University of Michigan at Dearborn provides a 12 month accelerated online Master’s in Finance that can be completed 100 percent online or in a hybrid format. This program has been consistently ranked by U.S. News and World Report and is designed to provide working professionals with a flexible and affordable curriculum that can be completed anywhere. This degree comes with two concentrations: Corporate Finance and Investments. The department employs rolling admissions; full-time students will be admitted in September or January while part-time students may be admitted in both months or, in some cases, in May. Students who take the program 100 percent online will be able to access their curriculum via the school’s virtual portal; all courses are offered either live or on-demand and follow a 10-week term format. Candidates can expect to complete a minimum of 30 credit hours, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Financial Statement Analysis, Corporate Valuation and Strategy, and Investment Process, Analysis and Management.
8. The University of Massachusetts at Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $19,650
Professionals interested in an accelerated online Master’s in Finance will find a great program available at the University of Massachusetts at Lowell. This program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and is currently ranked by U.S. News and World Report. This degree is perfect for both in-service and pre-service professionals; those without a background may be required to take foundational courses prior to admittance into the full program. This plan of study is delivered 100 percent online and there are no campus residency requirements. Courses are delivered asynchronously or synchronously and are held on the traditional 16-week academic format. This degree requires 30 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Advanced Portfolio Management, Global Financial Markets and Monetary Policy, and Security Analysis and Portfolio Management.
7. Ottawa University
Ottawa, Kansas
Online Master of Business Administration: Concentration in Finance
Tuition: $19,470
Ottawa University confers an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that is built to provide students with an exceptional advanced background in business while focusing on this field. This degree is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. Students will find that this degree can be conferred 100 percent online or in a hybrid model. Courses are delivered asynchronously and synchronously through the school’s virtual portal and are held in 16-week sessions. This is a Master of Business Administration curriculum, so the major course requirements follow in that vein; however, the finance concentration is quite comprehensive and will provide students with an advanced understanding of the field. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Money and Capital Markets, International Finance, and Financial Modeling Methodologies.
6. Mississippi College
Clinton, Mississippi
Online Master of Business Administration with Finance Concentration
Tuition: $18,270
Students at Mississippi College who are interested in an accelerated online Master’s in Finance will find a great program at Mississippi College. This program is offered 100 percent online and can be completed in two years when students decide to pursue the curriculum as a full-time plan of study. Students who study part-time may finish their degree in around three years. There are five concentrations available for this degree, including Policy Formulation and Administration, Accounting Issues in Business Decisions, and Financial Management. Courses are available in either asynchronous or synchronous formats and are held in 16-week sessions. This degree requires 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Advanced Financial Planning, Investments and Securities in the Global Market, and Financial Analysis and Business Planning.
5. The University of Houston at Clear Lake
Houston, Texas
Online Master of Science in Finance
Tuition: $17,390
The University of Houston at Clear Lake offers an accelerated online master’s that can be completed in as little as 18 months. This program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business and comes with an optional concentration in Health Care Administration. This school is one of the only ones on this ranking that states that part-time students, or those who take just two courses per term, will be able to complete the degree in less than two years. As a 100 percent online curriculum, students can expect that all courses are delivered as live or on-demand offerings; the school follows the traditional 16-week academic term format. Students without a background in finance are strongly encouraged, but not required, to take on a finance internship. This degree requires a minimum of 30 credit hours, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include International Finance, Personal Wealth Management, and Options and Futures.
4. Tiffin University
Tiffin, Ohio
Online Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Finance
Tuition: $16,000
Students interested in a highly accelerated online Master’s in Finance will find the perfect fit for them at Tiffin University. This program is offered 100 percent online and can be completed in as little as 14 months provided that a student study full-time and have an accredited undergraduate degree in finance. This school offers flexible start dates, transfer credit options, fee-free applications, and the ability to pursue this course of study totally online or as part of the hybrid model. Courses are offered asynchronously and synchronously in seven-week sessions. Students can expect to complete 121 quarter credit hours, a capstone project, and a comprehensive written and oral exam. Sample courses include Issues and Trends in the Financial Sector, Personal Wealth and Financial Planning, and Investments and Securities.
3. The University of Maryland University College
Largo, Maryland
Online Accounting and Financial Management Master’s Degree
Tuition: $13,740
The University of Maryland University College offers an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that was built to provide working professionals with the chance to advance in their field while continuing in their current position. This degree is available wholly online or as a hybrid degree. Students from all backgrounds are welcome to apply for this degree; however, those with no experience may be required to take some foundational courses prior to moving into this curriculum. This degree is held 100 percent online, with asynchronous and synchronous courses following the 16-week traditional term format. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone project, and a comprehensive exam prior to graduation. Sample courses include Fraud Examination, International Accounting, and Long-Term Financial Management.
2. West Texas A&M University
Canyon, Texas
Online Master of Science in Finance and Economics
Tuition: $12,670
The online accelerated Master’s in Finance from West Texas A&M University is a reputable affordable program that is a great choice for working professionals. This program is currently ranked by U.S. News and World Report. The program was devised as a 100 percent online program that can be completed in two years; however, full-time students who pursue the curriculum year-round can complete the degree in just one year. This degree features on-demand and live courses, skills labs, and real-world case studies, all of which are held in 12-week sessions. Students can expect to complete 36 credit hours of coursework and a comprehensive written exam. Sample courses include Corporate Governance and Ethics, Quantitative Analysis in Business, and Problems in Government Finance and Fiscal Policy.
1. Aspen University
Online Master of Business Administration, Concentration in Finance
Denver, Colorado
Tuition: $11,700
Aspen University confers an accelerated online Master’s in Finance that is housed within the school’s Master of Business Administration degree. This plan of study focuses on how finance informs business, providing students with a macro view of the business sector as a whole. This is a 100 percent online course of study; students will engage in asynchronous and synchronous courses that are held in the traditional 16-week session. It is possible to complete this degree in as little as two years. This degree requires 36 credit hours of coursework, a capstone course, and two comprehensive proctored exams. Sample courses include Innovative Finance and Venture Capital, Corporate Financial Management, and Marketing Management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Affordable Accelerated Online Master’s in Finance?
- Bank Manager
- Chief Financial Officer
- Private Equity Manager
- Certified Financial Planner
- Chartered Financial Analyst
- Credit Analyst
- Financial Services Representative
- Stock Broker
- Government Treasurer
- Loan Underwriter
- Mutual Fund Manager
- Commercial Lender
How Much Can You Earn in this Field?
The median annual salary for an individual working in finance is $86,299. The median annual salary for C-level financial executives is $103,950. These salaries do not take into account bonus forms of compensation, such as stocks, bonds, annual bonuses, or commissions, all of which may be applicable to different positions held within the financial sector.
What are the Various Disciplines of Finance?
Finance is a broad field that encompasses various disciplines within it. The most obvious of these are business, economics, government, accounting, statistics, analysis, and law. Other disciplines, which may only come into play for specialized positions, include policy, investments, securities, venture capital, personal wealth, estate planning, and more.
The finance industry is going through many changes, especially in the way financial transactions are affected as technology continues to evolve. Now more than ever, these professionals need a graduate degree in order to keep up with the new financial standards, both for personal and professional reasons. An accelerated online Master’s in Finance can help planners, advisors, consultants, and even C-level executives stay on track to meet their professional goals.
We’ve ranked the 60 Best Accelerated Finance Degree Online Programs for 2020. Compare top schools & accelerated programs.
Finance is a burgeoning field with an expected job market increase of 8% in the next 7 years. The employment world of finance is as varied as the ways you earn money. From analysts, managers, and advisors, there is a niche for you if you are ambitious and love numbers and computing figures. After graduation, you can expect to make an average of $66,500 per year.
Jumpstart your career by earning an online degree in finance as quickly as possible.
Online Bachelor’s in Finance Degrees
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Accelerated Finance Degree Courses
Finance is the cornerstone of most businesses. It makes sense that a finance degree is typically a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration with a major in Finance. An online finance degree prepares you for both working in business and in finance.
You’ll take classes like:
- Ethics in Contemporary Organizations
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Markets and Institutions
- Managerial Accounting
- Principles of Investments
- Social-Ethical-Regulatory Issues in Business
- Strategic Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Sustainable Enterprise
These classes will prepare you for a myriad of jobs in the financial sector. You can also take an accelerated finance degree with different concentrations:
- Bachelor’s in Finance – General Finance
- Bachelor’s in Finance – Investments
- Bachelor’s in Finance – Wealth Management
- Bachelor’s in Finance – Real Estate
Your choice of concentration will depend on your career goals.
Careers with an Accelerated Finance Degree
The Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates that there will be an additional 632, 400 jobs in the next 7 years in finance and business. The average yearly wage for all those new jobs is estimated at $66,530. That is almost double the average wage of a typical North American employee.
| Career | Salary |
| Financial Manager | $117,900 |
| Personal Financial Advisor | $89,160 |
| Financial Analyst | $81,760 |
| Management Analyst | $81,330 |
| Financial Examiner | $79,280 |
| Budget Analyst | $73,840 |
| Financial Services Sales Agent | $71,550 |
| Appraiser | $68,150 |
| Purchasing Agent | $60,700 |
| Real Estate Assessor | $51, 850 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
You might have noticed that a degree in finance holds many similarities to a degree in accounting. So, the question often comes up: What’s the difference between finance and accounting?
In actuality, many of the careers you could pursue would be satisfied with either degree.
A key difference is a degree in Finance will prepare you for the science of planning and distributing the assets of a business. Accounting is more geared toward the recording and reporting of financial transactions.
Both degrees deal with money, and both can make you good money. For these reasons, you can be rest assured that finance is a good major along with accounting.
The Advantages of Accelerated Finance Degree Programs
A key skill in the world of finance is good timing when it comes to investments. The same principle applies to starting your degree in finance.
An accelerated online degree in finance can be started at any time of the year. That means that you can choose to start your degree when it works for your life. In a traditional program, you might feel like you are trapped by the September–April schedule. But you don’t have to be.
An online degree offers you the benefit of planning your start for when it works for you, whether that is the middle of the summer or right before Christmas.
Accelerated also classes have a distinct advantage over the traditional classes you could take. They are twice as fast. A typical class will run for a 16 week semester. If you sign up for an online finance class, you can complete the class in 8 weeks.
You could also take another class right after the first and end up with twice as many credits in the same time frame as a regular class. That is a good investment!
How to Accelerate Your Finance Degree Even More
Here are the three ways to get your degree as quickly as possible:
1. Take CLEP Tests. Most universities have a Credit by Exam program in place where you can earn 30 credits toward your degree by taking the exams for the classes. If the material is not familiar to you, you can buy a study guide and study for a couple of weeks. When you take the exam, you only have to get 50% of the questions right to receive credit.
2. Take Credit for Your Real-Life Experiences. Do you have experience in the areas of business or finance? You can earn college credit for what you have accomplished at work. This is called Credit for Prior Learning, and most universities have a program in place where your previous life, work, and military experience can be evaluated for credit.
The maximum number of credits that you can typically earn through Credit for Prior Learning is 15.
3. Take the Max Number of Classes. Colleges recommend taking 12-15 credits per semester, but most universities will allow you to take 18 credit hours per semester, including the summer semester. Doing so will help you shave even more time off your degree.
And don’t forget to transfer your credits from previous colleges. As long as the classes you took were from an accredited university and you received a C or better, you can apply those credits toward your degree.
Financial Aid for Finance Students
What is the best way to save money on a finance degree? Answer: take fewer classes. Not only does this save you time, but it can save you a lot of money. The way to take fewer classes is by taking advantage of the College Level Examination Program and submitting a portfolio for Credit for Prior Learning.
Each CLEP test you take costs $85, much less than it would cost to take the class.
To help cover the rest of your tuition, start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. You’ll see what grants and loans you qualify for. You can then look for scholarship opportunities from private organizations and universities. If you’re already working, you can ask your employer about tuition assistance programs.
You should always look for financial aid no matter what degree level you pursue, even if it is an online master’s in finance or online PhD in finance.
Finance Degree Accreditation
An accredited degree is a valid degree. Accreditation is not just a fancy designation; it can mean the difference between your future employer recognizing your degree or not.
Most regional colleges will be regionally accredited. That is good enough, but you can also aim for a higher level of accreditation by looking for colleges that have earned accreditation through one of these boards:
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
Make sure your school has that stamp of accreditation before you start a degree program. You are not saving money or time if your degree ends up being discredited by more reputable universities or employers.
Accelerated Finance Degree Online Programs
Rankings Methodology
Each of these universities is fully accredited and offers online finance degree programs at an accelerated pace.#1 Baker College
- BBA in Finance
Baker is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#2 Bemidji State University
- BBA in Finance
Bemidji is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#3 Brandman University
- BBA in Accounting
Brandman is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.#4 California State University – East Bay
- BSBA in Finance
CSU – East Bay is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.#5 Capella University
- BS in Business – Accounting
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#6 Central Methodist University
- Bachelor’s in Accounting
CMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#7 Colorado State University – Global Campus
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Colorado State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#8 Colorado Technical University
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
Colorado Tech is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#9 Columbia College
- Bachelor of Arts in Finance
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
Columbia has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1918.#10 Columbia Southern University
- BSBA in Finance
CSU is an accredited member of the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.#11 Dallas Baptist University
- Bachelor of Business Studies in Finance
DBU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.#12 Davenport University
- Bachelor of Business Administration – Finance
Davenport is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#13 DeSales University
- BS in Finance
DeSales is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#14 Dickinson State University
- BBA in Accounting
- BBA in Finance
Dickinson State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#15 Excelsior College
- Bachelor of Science in Business – Finance
Excelsior is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#16 Florida International University
- BBA in Finance
FIU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.#17 Fort Hays State University
- BBA in Accounting
- BBA in Accounting & Finance
- BBA in Finance
- BBA in Finance – Banking
- BBA in Finance – Economics
- BBA in Finance – Financial Planning
FHSU is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#18 Franklin Pierce University
- Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance
Franklin Pierce is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.#19 Franklin University
- Bachelor of Science in Financial Management
Franklin is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#20 Golden Gate University
- Bachelor of Science in Business – Finance
GGU has been accredited on an institution-wide basis by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges since 1959.#21 Granite State College
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Granite State is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.#22 Grantham University
- Bachelor’s in Accounting
Grantham is nationally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.#23 Huntington University
- Bachelor’s in Accounting
Huntington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#24 Indiana University – East
- BSBA – Accounting
- BSBA – Finance
IU East is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#25 Indiana Wesleyan University
- Bachelor of Arts in Accounting
- Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration – Accounting and Finance
- BS in Business Administration – Personal Financial Planning
IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#26 Kansas State University
- Bachelor’s in Personal Financial Planning
Kansas State has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools since 1916.#27 Liberty University
- BS in Business Administration – Finance
Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.#28 Limestone College
- Bachelors in Business Administration – Accounting
Limestone is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#29 Metropolitan State University
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
Metro State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#30 Missouri State University – Springfield
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
MO State has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1915.#31 National University
- Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
- Bachelor of Science in Financial Management
NU is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC).#32 New England College of Business
- BSBA – Banking and Finance
NECB is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.#33 Northeastern University
- Bachelor of Science in Finance and Accounting Management
Northeastern is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.#34 Northern State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Northern State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#35 Northwestern State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
NSULA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.#36 Northwood University
- BBA in Accounting
- BBA in Finance
NU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#37 Northwood University
- BSBA in Finance
ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#38 Pennsylvania State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#39 Purdue University – Global
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#40 Rasmussen College
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Rasmussen is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#41 Regent University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Regent is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#42 Regis University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
Regis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#43 Saint Leo University
- BA in Accounting
Saint Leo is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#44 Southern Illinois University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
SIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#45 Southern New Hampshire University
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.#46 SUNY Canton
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
SUNY Canton is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and was reaccredited in June 2013.#47 Thomas Edison State University
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
TESU is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#48 Thomas Jefferson University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Jefferson is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#49 University of Alabama – Birmingham
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.#50 University of Houston – Clear Lake
- Master of Science in Finance
UHCL is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#51 University of Houston – Victoria
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
UHV is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).#52 University of Maryland – University College
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
UMUC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.#53 University of Memphis
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
U of M is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#54 University of Minnesota – Crookston
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Finance
UMC has secured continued accreditation status from the Higher Learning Commission.#55 University of North Carolina – Pembroke
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
UNCP is fully accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.#56 Upper Iowa University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Finance
Upper Iowa is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#57 Walden University
- BS in Business Administration – Finance
Walden has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1990.#58 Walsh College
- Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
Walsh is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.#59 Washington State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.#60 Western Governors University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting
WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Is a Degree in Finance Worth It?
Yes, a degree in finance is worth it. With a projected 8% growth in the next 7 years and an average wage of $66,530 per year, earning your degree is certainly worth the time, effort, and funding. Especially since you can fast-track your degree by taking accelerated classes and using the other strategies we mentioned.
Start investing your future by narrowing down your choice of schools and researching financial aid opportunities. There’s so much you can do with a degree in finance!
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