Top 25 Online Bachelor's in Finance Programs for 2019

As globalization continues to alter the world economy, the field of finance has become increasingly complex. In addition to the emergence of new global markets, more products are being created. In the wake of these changes, there exists a growing need for skilled finance professionals.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 12% increase in financial analyst positions between 2014 and 2024. This is almost twice as high as the national average for all occupations. Selecting a finance degree online may seem like a daunting task, but this page discusses a variety of topics to help you pick the best online finance degree for your specific needs.

What are the Best Online Bachelor's in Finance Programs?

1

Regis University Denver, CO

ADMISSIONS RATE 66%
GRADUATION RATE 73%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 36%
RETENTION RATE 79%
DEFAULT RATE 5%

Founded as a Jesuit college in 1877 and located in Denver, Colorado, Regis University offers an online bachelor's in finance that gives students a solid grounding in financial management. The 128-credit degree explores topics such as financial analysis, forecasting and planning, money and banking, and managing business strategic technology. To participate in the program, an applicant must have a high school diploma or GED, transferable credit from an accredited university, and evidence of work experience. International applicants must meet additional requirements. The school allows students to combine a bachelor's and master's degree in finance, and also administers certain online degree courses to non-degree-seeking students.

2

East Carolina University Greenville, NC

ADMISSIONS RATE 69%
GRADUATION RATE 62%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 22%
RETENTION RATE 80%
DEFAULT RATE 5%

East Carolina University was founded in 1907 as a teacher's school and has since become the educational hub of Greenville, South Carolina. The school's online finance degree ranks highly among its peers and includes 36 core business courses and 18 concentration credits. Concentrations are available in financial services, managerial finance, risk management finance, and general business finance. Core courses cover subjects such as the legal environment of business, international finance, and strategic management. ECU's online classes are offered in a synchronous format. The finance degree is an online degree completion program in which students take their first two years at a different college and then transfer to ECU.

3

Florida International University Miami, FL

ADMISSIONS RATE 50%
GRADUATION RATE 58%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 14%
RETENTION RATE 88%
DEFAULT RATE 10%

Florida International University was established in an abandoned airfield. Despite its odd beginning, the university now serves nearly 54,000 students, making it Miami's largest college. The school has offered online courses since 1998, including the 120-credit online bachelor's in finance. Topics covered in the major include banking, corporate finance, portfolio management, and financial engineering. To apply, students must fill out the school's online application, send official SAT or ACT scores, and submit official high school transcripts or high school equivalencies. High school graduates, transfer students, and international students are all eligible for admission. Additional courses a student may pursue in this program include calculus for business, commercial bank management, and securities analysis.

4

DeSales University Center Valley, PA

ADMISSIONS RATE 78%
GRADUATION RATE 70%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 14%
RETENTION RATE 78%
DEFAULT RATE 4%

Desales University is a Catholic college in Center Valley, Pennsylvania. The university now offers an online finance degree in fully online or hybrid formats. The coursework is highly flexible and can be taken synchronously or asynchronously. Example courses include principles of macroeconomics, quantitative business analysis, and investments and portfolio management. Language courses are also recommended because of the global diversity of the business field. A student can earn credits from applicable experience, depending on college approval, and the university accepts up to 75 transfer credits. Additional courses are available in financial accounting, principles of marketing, and the legal environment of business.

5

University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham, AL

ADMISSIONS RATE 60%
GRADUATION RATE 55%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 20%
RETENTION RATE 79%
DEFAULT RATE 7%

Spanning nearly 83 blocks of Birmingham's southside, the University of Alabama at Birmingham is one of the extension universities in the University of Alabama system. A standout program at the university is its online bachelor's in finance, which consists of over 50 core classes in areas such as equity portfolio management, information systems, and advanced financial management. Students can transfer credits into the program and, like on-campus students, qualify for a variety of scholarships. The program also offers a 24/7 help desk for students in need of technical assistance. Graduates of the program can go on to become budget analysts, financial managers, real estate brokers, and personal finance advisors.

6

Dallas Baptist University Dallas, TX

ADMISSIONS RATE 42%
GRADUATION RATE 58%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 17%
RETENTION RATE 72%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

Dallas Baptist University is a Christian college founded in 1898 near Dallas, with two additional campuses in Plano and Hurst. DBU boasts a variety of web-based programs, including an online finance degree. This transfer-friendly degree requires the completion of 120 credit hours, with a minimum of 30 credit hours taken at DBU. To graduate, the college also requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 in all subjects. The school's online programs are available to students all over the United States, Panama, Mexico, and China. Example courses in the major include international finance, business and public law, corporate financial management, and securities analysis.

7

Old Dominion University Norfolk, VA

ADMISSIONS RATE 83%
GRADUATION RATE 53%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 19%
RETENTION RATE 82%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

Old Dominion University was established in 1930 and is one of the largest colleges in Virginia. The online bachelor's in finance is one of the best in its field and consists of 120 credits, at least 30 of which must be completed at ODU. Courses are offered in both synchronous and asynchronous formats. While assignments can generally be completed at an individual pace, instructors may require live, regular online meetings or scheduled exam times. Courses in this degree include principles of finance, operations management, and investments. ODU's program encourages students to enter careers in entrepreneurship or bank management. Students also have the option to earn graduate-level credits while completing their undergraduate degree.

8

Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus University Park, PA

ADMISSIONS RATE 51%
GRADUATION RATE 86%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 0%
RETENTION RATE 93%
DEFAULT RATE 7%

Pennsylvania State University was founded in 1855 and offers a 120-credit online finance degree. Students in the program can take courses in subjects such as security analysis, banking, and corporate finance. Graduates of the program commonly pursue careers as loan officers, bank branch managers, credit counselors, and financial sales agents. Online students at Penn State pay the same tuition rate as in-state residents. Additional courses are available in business writing, strategic business, and management policies. Credit requirements vary depending on transfer status. Penn State's finance program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

9

Northwood University-Michigan Midland, MI

ADMISSIONS RATE 69%
GRADUATION RATE 57%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 28%
RETENTION RATE 78%
DEFAULT RATE 12%

Originally established in a 19th-century mansion in Alma, Northwood University moved to Midland in 1961 and has recently expanded its catalog of online programs. The online bachelor's in finance consists of 123 credit hours and teaches students finance and business management principles from an entrepreneurial point of view. Courses cover topics such as international finance, real estate finance and analysis, and business law. Qualified students can enroll in the the four-year, dual BBA/MBA program, which blends undergraduate and graduate courses. Students who complete the undergraduate program can go on to become financial analysts, investment bankers, and risk managers.

10

Southern New Hampshire University Manchester, NH

ADMISSIONS RATE 92%
GRADUATION RATE 58%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 88%
RETENTION RATE 61%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

Southern New Hampshire University was founded in 1932 and currently runs a successful online finance degree for undergraduates. The program teaches students about the art and science of money, and how to analyze the fundamentals of investment vehicles, bonds, and commodities. The degree requires a total of 120 credits, 15 of which are electives. Students can take courses in corporate finance, wealth management, and financial regulations and ethics. There is also the option to earn an accelerated BS and MS in finance. Transfer students can apply up to 90 credits toward the degree. SNHU offers a flat rate tuition for both in-state and out-of-state online students. Service members and spouses of active duty military members receive a 30% tuition discount.

11

University of Minnesota-Crookston Crookston, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 77%
GRADUATION RATE 45%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 35%
RETENTION RATE 65%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

The University of Minnesota at Crookston teaches students from 29 different countries, yet manages to maintain its small-campus feel. To reach distance learners, the school offers a suite of online programs, including an online bachelor's in finance. The degree requires 120 credits to graduate, 65 of which are in the business major. Courses available to students include business analytics, income tax, and managerial finance. UMC offers this transfer-friendly degree on-campus, online, and in a hybrid format. Online classes are small and instructors provide individualized attention. All online students are charged a flat tuition rate, regardless of residency. Graduates of the program are qualified to become asset managers, money market analysts, and actuaries. The university also offers a separate finance minor online.

12

Franklin Pierce University Rindge, NH

ADMISSIONS RATE 80%
GRADUATION RATE 43%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 24%
RETENTION RATE 67%
DEFAULT RATE 7%

Franklin Pierce University is located in Rindge, New Hampshire, and was named after the state's only U.S president. The school offers one of the best online finance degrees in the nation for nontraditional students. Class sizes are small to give every student individualized attention. Example courses include individual income taxes, cost accounting, problems in finance, and statistics. The degree consists of two tracks, one in finance and the other accounting. The finance track involves 21 core credits and the accounting track requires 15. To apply, a student must fill out a free online application and submit high school or GED transcripts.

13

Davenport University Grand Rapids, MI

ADMISSIONS RATE 89%
GRADUATION RATE 39%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 41%
RETENTION RATE 74%
DEFAULT RATE 12%

Davenport University was founded in Grand Rapids, Michigan in 1866, and is now known for its catalog of online programs. The school's online bachelor's in finance is one of the top bachelor's degrees in the field. The degree consists of 120 credit hours, 32 of which are business core courses and 43 of which count toward the finance major. Courses within the major include corporate finance, federal taxation, accounting foundations, and professional ethics. Many courses at Davenport focus on the rules and processes of corporate and federal finance. Graduates of the program can find careers as financial planners, auditors, and financial analysts. The degree, while online, does require an internship or documented field experience in order to graduate.

14

Missouri State University-Springfield Springfield, MO

ADMISSIONS RATE 86%
GRADUATION RATE 52%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 6%
RETENTION RATE 78%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

Missouri State University was founded in 1905 and offers a stellar online finance degree. The degree consists of 32 to 33 credit hours of major core requirements. Courses train students to be money managers capable of handling the monetary and real estate affairs of companies and individuals. Students can take classes in investments, financial markets and intermediaries, and readings in finance. Because the program comes with prerequisites, it is recommended that students possess a certain number of transfer credits. Graduates of the program are qualified to work in banking, credit management, and real estate. Additional courses are available in insurance, corporate and public finance, and personal financial planning.

15

National University La Jolla, CA

GRADUATION RATE 33% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 60% RETENTION RATE 64% DEFAULT RATE 7%

National University was founded in California in 1971 and has since expanded to include online programs, including an online bachelor's in finance. The undergraduate degree consists of 180 credits, at least 45 of which must be taken at National University. NU's finance program gives students a broad perspective on the global financial environment, and also teaches them about the theories behind financial decision making The school delivers courses in a mix of synchronous and asynchronous formats. Some timed instruction may be involved, but assignments and discussions generally conform to a student's schedule. Available courses in the program include capital management, financial planning, valuation of a corporation, and risk management and insurance. All online course materials and resources are available 24/7.

16

SUNY College of Technology at Canton Canton, NY

ADMISSIONS RATE 85%
GRADUATION RATE 30%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 23%
RETENTION RATE 83%
DEFAULT RATE 17%

SUNY College of Technology at Canton was established in 1906 in New York and now offers a number of online programs, including an online finance degree. In addition to covering areas such as stock bond valuation and efficient diversification, the undergraduate curriculum teaches students to perform loan, mortgage, and risk assessment. Online students can take advantage of an investments club and independent study options. Example courses include introduction to finance, the global economy, and financial derivatives. Incoming students must be prepared to complete an internship and expository writing class in order to graduate. Graduates of the program can find jobs in banking, tax services, and insurance.

17

Metropolitan State University Saint Paul, MN

ADMISSIONS RATE 100%
GRADUATION RATE 30%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 18%
RETENTION RATE 72%
DEFAULT RATE 8%

Founded as a school for working professionals, Metropolitan State University's courses are taught mostly at nights or on weekends. The school also administers several online programs, including an online bachelor's in finance that consists of 120 credits. Transfer students are encouraged to apply, although a minimum of 30 credits must be completed at MSU. Students enrolled in the program take classes in economic research and forecasting, corporate finance, and microeconomics. Courses throughout the program can be taken online or on-campus. Through the Business Transfer Pathway, students with an associate degree from one of the school's partner institutions can transfer into MSU with junior-year status.

18

Upper Iowa University Fayette, IA

ADMISSIONS RATE 66%
GRADUATION RATE 41%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 37%
RETENTION RATE 42%
DEFAULT RATE 9%

In 1857, Upper Iowa University was established in the small town of Fayette. The school's online bachelor's in finance is taught in five eight-week sessions and in an accelerated six-week summer session. UIU maintains articulation agreements with many two-year colleges in Iowa. The program is flexible, allowing up to 90 transfer credits for incoming students, only 78 of which can be lower-division classes. Courses are taught in a mostly asynchronous format, allowing students to work at an individual pace. Example classes include small business management, investments, and international finance. The program encourages students to enter fields such as personal finance consultation and analysis.

19

Dickinson State University Dickinson, ND

ADMISSIONS RATE 93%
GRADUATION RATE 32%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 21%
RETENTION RATE 57%
DEFAULT RATE 6%

Since North Dakota is the fourth least populous state in the U.S., online programs have helped Dickinson State University grow in recent years. The 120-credit online finance degree includes courses in business policy, financial institutions and markets, and probability and statistics. To graduate, students must be capable of applying the theories of financial management to real-world decision making. They must also be capable of solving problems in areas such as capital budgeting, working capital management, and financial statement analysis. To apply, students must submit ACT and SAT scores, high school transcripts, and a college preparatory report form. Online students have full access to the on-campus tutoring center.

20

Columbia College Columbia, MO

GRADUATION RATE 46% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 57% RETENTION RATE 49% DEFAULT RATE 12%

Columbia College, established in 1851, was the first women's college west of the Mississippi and now focuses on liberal arts and Christianity. The school offers several online programs, including an online bachelor's in finance. The program consists of 120 credit hours and includes courses in business finance, business ethics, macroeconomics, and accounting. Students in the program learn how to evaluate financial statements and investment decisions, develop personal financial plans, and manage the financial operations of businesses. During the last 30 credit hours of the major, students are evaluated for their degree progress. There are certain restrictions on where the online degree is offered; however, the major is available all over the country at other Columbia College locations, including campuses in Denver, Orlando, and Kansas City.

21

University of Houston-Clear Lake Houston, TX

ADMISSIONS RATE 65%
GRADUATION RATE 0%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 9%
RETENTION RATE 71%
DEFAULT RATE 9%

The University of Houston at Clear Lake is one of four universities in the University of Houston system. A relatively new college, the school quickly adapted to the online environment and now hosts several programs, including an online bachelor's in finance. This degree requires 120 credit hours, 48 of which are in the business core and 24 of which are in the finance major. The school is transfer friendly, but at least 30 credits must be completed at UHCL. Classes can be completed at an individual pace, and example courses include accounting, international finance, financial markets, and statistics. The school encourages students to pursue careers in money management and corporate finance.

22

Granite State College Concord, NH

GRADUATION RATE 18% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 71% RETENTION RATE 56% DEFAULT RATE 12%

One of the four members of the University System of New Hampshire, Granite State College was established in 1972. The school's main mission is to supply affordable education for nontraditional students. To best suit the needs of its students, the college expanded into online programs, which includes its online finance degree. The degree is fully online, but select courses are available on-campus. Students can take classes in managerial accounting, financial management, and modeling and decision making. The program trains students for management careers in finance. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and prospective students must submit high school or GED transcripts. The schools is transfer friendly, and all students and alumni have access to career counseling.

23

University of Houston-Downtown Houston, TX

ADMISSIONS RATE 78%
GRADUATION RATE 13%
ONLINE ENROLLMENT 15%
RETENTION RATE 66%
DEFAULT RATE 14%

UHD was founded in 1974 and remained an open admissions college until 2012. The school is one of the four colleges in the University of Houston system. The school's online finance degree includes courses in treasury risk management, real estate finance, and derivative securities. The program produces graduates who can help businesses and individuals increase productivity through innovative financial solutions. UHD offers scholarship and financial aid opportunities for all students and encourages transfer students to apply. The university also suggests a minor in accounting, marketing, or economics for finance students. Graduates of the program go on to have successful careers as financial examiners, investment managers, security analysts, and real estate appraisers.

24

Northeastern University Global Network Boston, MA

GRADUATION RATE 0% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 48% RETENTION RATE 0% DEFAULT RATE 4%

Northeastern University Global Network boasts 22 alumni chapters in the United States and educates students from over 80 countries. To connect globally, the university invests heavily in online programs. The online bachelor's in finance consists of 120 credit hours and includes courses in data analysis tools, cost accounting, and financial statement analysis. The program teaches students to manage budgets and investments, increase financial efficiency, and leverage assets so that businesses can make wise economic decisions. To be admitted into the program, a student needs to submit high school and GED transcripts. The program also recommends that students complete certifications in accounting or financial analysis alongside the degree.

25

Thomas Edison State University Trenton, NJ

GRADUATION RATE 0% ONLINE ENROLLMENT 99% RETENTION RATE 0% DEFAULT RATE 6%

Thomas Edison State University was founded as a college for working professionals in Trenton, New Jersey. The college's online finance degree requires 120 credits overall, 36 of which are in professional business development and 18 of which are in the finance major. The curriculum covers subjects such as investments, financial markets and institutions, and financial management of organizations. The program is intended for students who are employed by, or who intend to be employed by, financial institutions, stock brokerage firms, or the financial divisions of major companies. In order to graduate, each student much complete the program's capstone in strategic management. Additional courses are available in business law, capital budgeting, and derivatives.

What Will I Learn in an Online Finance Program?

The following examples represent courses students commonly take to meet their online finance degree requirements. Classes differ slightly depending on the program so students should check with their school to determine which specific courses are required. Additionally, most online finance degrees offer electives that allow students to gain skills in specific areas such as entrepreneurial finance or microeconomics.

  • Business Finance

    This course teaches students the financial management fundamentals needed to pursue analyst and management careers in finance. Learners receive an overview of financial management theories and practices, including asset management, valuations of securities, and financial risk.

  • International Finance

    With a focus on global enterprise, this course prepares students to work for international corporations as financial counselors, supervisors, and managers. Students cover international trade markets, exchange rates, and foreign trade policies.

  • Investments

    This class introduces distance learners to portfolio management and asset valuation. Students learn how to evaluate and select assets while acquiring the skills needed to work as investment planners and portfolio managers.

  • Risk Management

    Financial analysts and planners rely on their risk management skills to reduce potential threats to cost control. Topics covered in this course include risk measurements, catastrophic event insurance, and transfer of risk.

What Can I do with an Online Finance Degree?

The following table highlights five careers that graduates of online finance degree programs frequently seek. In addition to foundational skills in business and finance, these competitive careers may require expertise in specific areas such as insurance policy renewal, investment risks, and strategies for increasing capital. Earning a finance degree online prepares students to meet these occupational tasks. This degree gives students the opportunity to pursue a variety of finance careers, helping them enter a workforce that offers salaries significantly higher than the national average.

Financial Analyst

Employed by corporations and individuals, job duties of financial analysts include evaluating financial data, examining financial statements, and studying business trends. Financial analysts often specialize in a global location or a type of analysis, such as portfolio management, fund management, or risk analysis.

Median Salary: $58,903

Personal Financial Advisor

A personal financial advisor helps clients manage their finances. They may provide advice on topics including investments, insurance, and retirement. They assess clients’ financial needs, identify investment opportunities, and invest money under the directives of their clients. Personal financial advisors often pursue licensure that allows them to directly buy and sell stocks, bonds, and insurance.

Median Salary: $59,712

Financial Manager

Financial managers ensure the financial health of organizations by preparing financial statements, supervising finance employees, and assisting management in financial decision making. They frequently assess company finance reports to find ways to reduce operating costs. There are several types of financial managers, such as controllers, treasurers, and credit managers.

Median Salary: $71,420

Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agent

Comprised of brokers, investment bankers, and financial services sales agents, this occupational cluster’s job duties include contacting and providing information to potential clients, buying and selling securities or commodities, and analyzing client finances. Brokers typically spend large amounts of time securing clients by networking.

Median Salary: $58,926

Insurance Sales Agent

Employed by an insurance company or insurance broker, insurance sales agents sell numerous types of insurance (e.g., health, life, and property). They work with clients to select insurance plans that best fit their needs. Job tasks include gathering client information, explaining policies to clients, and creating client bases.

Median Salary: $36,163

Job Outlook and Salary

Individuals interested in an online finance degree can rest assured that the field of finance is growingly rapidly. The BLS projects that the number of finance occupations will grow by as much as 30% between 2014 and 2024. The following table features BLS data, accentuating the ample employment opportunities in the field of finance; more than 32,000 new financial analyst positions are predicted to be added over the next several years.

In addition to job security, earning a finance degree online prepares students for careers with high earning potentials. Certain variables, such as your specific industry type and location, can have a large impact on your annual salary, but most workers in this field receive relatively generous compensation.

Employment Growth for Finance
Employment, 2014 Projected Employment, 2024
277,600 310,000

Salary Growth by Experience

Careers in finance reflect salary trends that positively correlate with increased work experience. The following table displays data from Payscale. Many entry-level positions offer salaries in excess of $50,000, and professionals in the field of finance who stick with their careers can earn significantly higher salaries as they acquire increased work experience; this trend is especially true for personal financial advisors.


To determine the best online bachelor's in finance programs, we looked at the most important factors prospective students, mainly common predictors of future success and a school's commitment to online programs. This boils down to admissions rate, student loan default rate, retention rate, graduation rate, and the percent of students enrolled in online classes. All data points are taken from information provided by colleges and universities to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Each factor is weighted evenly in order to give an objective view and determine the best online bachelor's in finance programs. To calculate our rankings, we looked at a school's ranking when organized by a single factor, and then averaged each category's ranking to find an overall score: Admissions Rate (20%) + Default Rate (20%) + Retention Rate (20%) + Graduation Rate (20%) + Percent of Students Enrolled in Online Classes (20%) = Final score.