Online Master’s In Finance
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Online master’s in finance programs prepare students for many in-demand, lucrative roles, including financial manager. Companies and organizations of all sizes hire financial managers to prepare financial statements, make recommendations to senior management, and supervise employees.
Employers often prefer to hire financial managers with professional experience and a master’s degree. In addition to financial manager roles, graduates with a master’s in finance can pursue related finance jobs, such as accountant, budget analyst, and cost estimator.
This guide ranks the best online master’s in finance programs. It also covers other important information for prospective students, such as common courses and scholarship opportunities for graduates.
What’s the ROI of a Master’s in Finance?
Is a master’s in finance degree worth it?
Graduates with a master’s in finance degree can pursue lucrative, in-demand roles in diverse industries, making the degree a worthwhile investment for many students.
Is a finance degree hard?
Master’s in finance degree programs are challenging, but learners with strong analytical and communication skills typically do well in these programs.
What kinds of jobs can I get with a master’s in finance?
Potential careers for graduates with a master’s in finance include personal financial advisor, budget analyst, financial manager, and training and development specialist.
What’s the difference between finance and accounting?
Finance experts typically focus on planning and directing financial transactions for individuals and companies, while accountants focus more on recording and reporting transactions.
Why Get a Degree in Finance?
A master’s degree in finance leads to lucrative, in-demand careers. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills that prepare them for roles like financial manager, accountant, and budget analyst.
Earning a master’s in finance degree online can often save students money. For example, online students save on some of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs. Online learning also gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional and personal obligations.
How Much Does a Finance Degree Cost?
The cost of an online master’s in finance varies by factors like school, location, and delivery format. For instance, public universities typically cost less than private universities. Additionally, in-state students at public schools often pay lower tuition rates than out-of-state students.
Attending a master’s in finance program online can potentially save students money. For example, many schools offer in-state tuition rates to all online students regardless of where they live. Plus, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as commuting costs. The online learning format also allows many students to continue working while they earn their degree.
How Much Do Finance Majors Make?
According to the BLS, business and financial professionals earn a median annual salary of $77,050. However, salaries vary significantly by factors like role, industry, and location. For example, personal financial advisors make a median annual salary of around $99,580. However, personal financial advisors in Alaska earn an average of $226,000 annually.
Additionally, personal financial advisors working in securities, real estate, and legal services earn approximately $20,000 more than their peers specializing in enterprise and company management.
Graduates with a master’s in finance can demonstrate specialized expertise and increase their salary potential by earning relevant certifications.
Courses in Finance
Master’s in finance programs train students to analyze financial information, recognize and respond to risks, and follow relevant laws and regulations. Some programs feature concentrations that allow students to specialize in a particular finance area. Common concentrations include financial analysis, economics, and financial planning.
Courses vary by program, but the following list outlines classes commonly found in online master’s in finance programs.
This class introduces students to credit markets and how they affect relationships among companies. Students also learn about the Federal Reserve System’s role in maintaining a healthy economy. Some online finance degree programs require students to complete a course in corporate financial management before taking this class.
Money and Capital Markets
Risk management involves preparing a company or organization for economic downturns and other negative events. Students in this course learn how to analyze potential investments, diversify portfolios, and use industry-leading software to analyze trends. Degree-seekers explore these topics by reviewing case studies and performing simulations. Risk Management
Students may complete a graduate finance capstone in their program’s final semester. The capstone often requires students to apply new knowledge and skills through an independent research project. The final product may involve an essay and/or a presentation. Graduate Finance Capstone
Certifications and Licensure for Finance
Finance certifications demonstrate mastery of one or more topics and help job-seekers stand out from other applicants. Typical eligibility requirements include a finance degree and relevant experience. Most certifications also require continuing education for renewal purposes.
Certified Public Accountant
Finance professionals interested in accounting can pursue CPA credentials. Licensure requirements vary by state, but they typically include 150 college credits, which the combination of a bachelor’s and master’s degree typically meets, and passing scores on an examination.
Chartered Financial Analyst
Financial investors can earn the CFA credential to demonstrate their skills. Candidates must possess at least three years’ experience and join the CFA Institute. They must also pass an exam that covers professional standards, economics, and equity investments.
Financial Risk Manager
The FRM credential can help risk managers advance their careers. Candidates must possess a master’s degree and pass a two-part exam. FRMs maintain the certification by completing 40 continuing education credits every two years.
Scholarships for Finance
Finance students can pursue financial aid opportunities to help lower the cost of their degree, such as loans, scholarships, and grants. Unlike loans, scholarships do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship opportunities for online master’s in finance students.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Maryland Association of CPAs Educational Foundation Scholarship | Varies | Undergraduate and graduate students in Maryland preparing to take the Uniform CPA Examination qualify for this opportunity. Applicants must possess a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate financial need. |
National Aircraft Finance Association Scholarships | $1,000-$5,000 | Undergraduate and graduate finance students pursuing careers in corporate aviation qualify for this opportunity. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA. |
PCPS George Willie Ethnically Diverse Student Scholarship and Internship | Up to $10,000 | Minority graduate students can apply for this competitive scholarship. Applicants must be studying full time. The scholarship does not renew. |
Best Online Master’s in Finance
Texas A&M University-Commerce
Commerce, TX- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners in any location can earn respected graduate degrees from Texas A&M University-Commerce in an online format. The public institution offers 39 online programs, along with in-person programs at its campus. Degree-seekers can enroll in a variety of master's programs, including a master of science in finance. Busy students balancing work and school can benefit from the online finance program's scheduling flexibility.
Along with core classes, the master's program requires advanced finance coursework. The rigorous curriculum blends theoretical and practical knowledge, with an emphasis on industry-specific skills. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate. For details about application deadlines and requirements, prospective learners can review the institution's website.
The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution's graduate tuition rates average $3,630 for in-state students, while students who do not reside in Texas pay an average of $11,232 for graduate tuition. Enrollees with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. To pay for their degree, 91% of the school's students receive financial aid.
- In-State$4,790
- Out-of-state$17,460
- In-State$3,630
- Out-of-state$11,232
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate43%
- Students Enrolled12,109
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
West Texas A&M University
- Canyon, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
West Texas A&M University offers an online finance program for distance learners. The school reports that 2,491 students take online classes. Graduate students can earn their master's degree in finance and economics online at the school. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The program builds advanced knowledge and skills for finance careers. The university maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of 18-to-1, which gives learners one-on-one attention from faculty.
Students can learn more about online support services at the university's website. The college offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This makes the master's degree in finance an affordable option for learners on a budget. Students can expect a graduation rate of 45% for this program.
West Texas A&M University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 5,886
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 5
Graduate Tuition: $4,823/year in-state; $5,668/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,099
Average Net Price: $12,982
The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$5,554
- Out-of-state$6,960
- In-State$4,823
- Out-of-state$5,668
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate69%
- Students Enrolled9,970
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
Distance learners can enroll at Colorado State University Global Campus to pursue a master's in finance. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations.
The master's degree in finance features a rigorous curriculum that fosters specialized and transferable skills, which degree-seekers refine while fulfilling major requirements. Specialized electives allow master's students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. While pursuing the online master's degree, learners complete a flexible curriculum and develop industry-specific skills. Learners currently employed in the finance field often qualify for career advancement after graduation. Current and former students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
Learners enrolled in the school's master's programs can access support services including career advising and financial aid counseling. The school supports online learners through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Degree-seekers may also qualify for scholarships, fellowships, or other forms of financial aid. The average cost per credit for online master's programs at the school is $408.
- In-State$8,400
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention RateNot provided
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled12,670
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Saint Louis, Missouri, Webster University educates graduate degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The private institution's master's programs include an online finance program for distance learners. Ideal for working professionals, the affordable, accessible MS in finance program qualifies graduates for high-level roles.
Faculty advisors provide graduate students with professional advice and insights into the finance field. The program's rigorous curriculum provides foundational knowledge through core coursework. In addition to gaining core finance knowledge, master's students develop and hone important analytical and leadership skills.
The school charges online learners affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. The institution's financial aid counselors help graduate degree-seekers secure funding through scholarship and fellowship programs.
Webster University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 59
Total Online Programs: 96
Number of Online Students: 4,741
Graduate Tuition In-State: $13,500
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $13,500
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$28,500
- Out-of-state$28,500
- In-State$13,500
- Out-of-state$13,500
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate57%
- Students Enrolled9,860
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
University of Houston-Clear Lake
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The graduate programs at the University of Houston-Clear Lake help professionals move into new careers or advance in their current field. With a rigorous curriculum and faculty experts, the master's degree in finance ranks among the top programs in the field. Students can use test scores to bolster their application. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners complete a master's degree. In online courses, learners interact with faculty and peers in a virtual classroom setting.
To fund their education, 64% of the institution's learners obtain financial aid and 37% take out loans. In addition to this online finance program, the University of Houston-Clear Lake offers seven other master's degrees.
University of Houston-Clear Lake Fast Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 3,781
Number of Online Master's Options: 8
Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,920 in-state; $17,568 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Student: $13,184
Average Cost With Aid: $9,215
The school holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
- In-State$5,740
- Out-of-state$19,176
- In-State$7,920
- Out-of-state$17,568
- Retention Rate80%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled9,082
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment42%
- AccreditationYes
University of Miami
- Coral Gables, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from the University of Miami. Busy learners can pursue online master's programs from the private institution. The flexible master of science in finance prepares students for a variety of opportunities in the finance field.
The online finance program features core classes that help students develop foundational knowledge in the field. Degree-seekers take advanced finance courses and customize the program through electives. Graduate students can receive practical training through experiential learning opportunities and faculty mentorship.
A master's in finance often leads to leadership roles and increased earning potential. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni identify career opportunities.
At the accredited institution, degree-seekers can qualify for federal financial aid programs. Distance learners can apply for scholarships and fellowships to reduce the cost of earning a master's degree. According to the school, 74% of students fund their education through financial aid.
- In-State$50,400
- Out-of-state$50,400
- In-State$37,800
- Out-of-state$37,800
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate27%
- Students Enrolled17,811
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment22%
- AccreditationYes
Georgetown University
- Washington, DC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
From its campus in the District of Columbia, Georgetown University offers in-person and online graduate programs. Busy learners can enroll in online master's programs from the private institution. Students interested in finance can pursue the school's flexible master of science in finance.
Students in the online MSF program complete core finance coursework to develop foundational knowledge. After finishing core requirements, degree-seekers take advanced finance courses and customize the program through electives. Faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities allow graduate students to customize learning outcomes based on their career goals.
A master's in finance often leads to advanced positions and raises for current professionals in the field. Faculty advisors and career counselors help master's students and alumni identify career opportunities.
Learners in the school's online programs pay an average of $1,885 per credit. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution can receive federal financial aid. Learners may qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. The school reports that 55% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$55,440
- Out-of-state$55,440
- In-State$51,336
- Out-of-state$51,336
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate14%
- Students Enrolled19,593
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
University of Michigan-Dearborn
- Dearborn, MI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers can pursue the University of Michigan-Dearborn's programs online or in person. The public institution delivers online graduate programs for busy learners, including a master's in finance. Ideal for working professionals, the affordable, accessible finance program qualifies graduates for high-level roles.
Faculty advisors help master's students examine complex issues and develop a strong overall understanding of the field. The program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the finance field. Master's students develop analytical and leadership skills they can apply to positions in the industry.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding. Graduate learners also qualify for federal student loan programs.
University of Michigan-Dearborn at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 43
Total Online Programs: 25
Number of Online Students: 3,115
Graduate Tuition In-State: $12,770
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $22,750
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
- In-State$12,729
- Out-of-state$25,845
- In-State$12,770
- Out-of-state$22,750
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate62%
- Students Enrolled9,191
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment34%
- AccreditationYes
Johnson & Wales University
- Providence, RI
- 4 year
- Online
Johnson & Wales University provides online options for graduate-level learners interested in pursuing degrees remotely. The private institution enrolls students in 25 online programs, including eight online master's programs. At the school, graduate degree-seekers can enroll in a master of science in finance program. The online finance program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners gain foundational knowledge during core classes and complete advanced finance coursework to develop specialized skills. Students prepare for specialized careers and gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their finance degree in 1-2 years. Admissions advisors help individuals understand the application requirements for their prospective program.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for learners to pursue graduate degrees. The institution charges the same graduate tuition rates for Rhode Island residents and out-of-state learners, charging an average of $13,734. Enrollees with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. The school reports that 50% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
- In-State$13,365
- Out-of-state$13,365
- In-State$13,734
- Out-of-state$13,734
- Retention Rate25%
- Acceptance Rate41%
- Students Enrolled1,752
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentNot provided
- AccreditationYes
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Manchester, Southern New Hampshire University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. The school delivers online master's programs, which provide scheduling flexibility for busy learners.
The institution's online master's in finance is ideal for degree-seekers interested in finance careers. Learners currently employed in the finance field often qualify for career advancement after graduation. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally.
Online enrollees benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Students with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans. Scholarships and fellowships can also help learners fund their master's studies. Degree-seekers can transfer previous graduate credits into their master's program to earn the degree in less time.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Per-Credit Fee: $465
Students Receiving Aid: 77%
Students Receiving Loans: 68%
Total Master's Programs: 33
Total Online Master's Programs: 33
Transfer Credits Allowed: Yes
- In-State$30,756
- Out-of-state$30,756
- In-State$18,810
- Out-of-state$18,810
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate88%
- Students Enrolled113,514
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment94%
- AccreditationYes
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Lowell, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell delivers graduate programs in various fields. The public institution's offerings include online master's programs. The master of science in finance offers a flexible format for students seeking an affordable finance degree.
Master's students in the online finance program take core classes in their first year. In addition to completing advanced finance courses, degree-seekers can customize the program through electives. Master's students can prepare for careers in the field through faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities.
After earning the master's in finance, graduates often qualify for raises and promotions. Faculty advisors and career counselors support master's students and alumni through career resources.
Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Learners may qualify for scholarships, fellowships, and employer-sponsored tuition plans. Of the school's students, 90% receive financial aid.
- In-State$15,078
- Out-of-state$33,004
- In-State$14,590
- Out-of-state$26,370
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate73%
- Students Enrolled18,352
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
Creighton University
- Omaha, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Learners at Creighton University can pursue a variety of top-ranked academic programs, including an online master's program. In addition to on-campus students, 3,328 students enroll in the private institution's online programs. Working professionals often benefit from online programs' flexible scheduling options.
The master of finance curriculum emphasizes career skills and field-specific knowledge. Graduate students consult with faculty mentors to select classes aligning with their interests and career goals. While pursuing the online master's degree, learners complete a flexible curriculum and develop industry-specific skills. Graduates of the program often land competitive roles in their field. The institution offers career services, which can benefit current master's students and alumni.
Student support services, including career advising and financial aid counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally. Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
- In-State$39,630
- Out-of-state$39,630
- In-State$16,128
- Out-of-state$16,128
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled8,821
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment38%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Joseph's University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With a main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Saint Joseph's University delivers graduate programs in various fields. Busy learners can enroll in online master's programs from the private institution. The school's graduate options include a flexible and affordable MS in finance.
During the first year of the online program, master's students take core classes to gain foundational finance knowledge. In addition to taking finance classes, degree-seekers can choose electives based on their career goals. Faculty members provide mentorship, and graduate students can pursue internships to prepare for careers in the field.
A master's in finance can lead to leadership roles, which often pay higher salaries. During their master's studies and after graduation, individuals can access professional assistance from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Current professionals can research tuition reimbursement programs to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. The school reports that 98% of its student body receives financial aid to fund their education.
- In-State$46,350
- Out-of-state$46,350
- In-State$17,334
- Out-of-state$17,334
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled7,362
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
University of Scranton
- Scranton, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Scranton ranks among the top online master's programs for finance. A private institution located in Pennsylvania, the university enrolls 901 students in its distance learning programs. Many online programs feature flexible scheduling options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations.
Degree-seekers enrolled in the master of science in finance program develop transferable career skills and gain advanced finance knowledge. Specialized electives allow students to customize the program based on their goals and interests. The program's flexible scheduling options make earning a master's more convenient for busy learners. Graduates often benefit from increased finance career opportunities after earning their master's degree. Current and former students can leverage the institution's career services and alumni network.
The school delivers support services including career advising and financial aid counseling for graduate learners. The university supports online students through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships. The school charges an average of $890 per credit for online graduate programs.
- In-State$45,390
- Out-of-state$45,390
- In-State$11,580
- Out-of-state$11,580
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate76%
- Students Enrolled5,253
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment17%
- AccreditationYes
Bellevue University
- Bellevue, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Bellevue University educates graduate degree-seekers online and in person. Distance learners can earn an online master's in strategic finance from the private institution. Finance professionals often maintain employment while enrolled in the flexible program.
Faculty advisors support finance students during the course of their master's studies. The advanced curriculum builds a graduate-level understanding of challenges in the finance field. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to oversee teams in finance settings.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many learners. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding.
Bellevue University at a Glance:
Online Master's Programs: 25
Total Online Programs: 79
Number of Online Students: 11,008
Graduate Tuition In-State: $10,530
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $10,530
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$7,176
- In-State$10,530
- Out-of-state$10,530
- Retention Rate78%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled11,637
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment95%
- AccreditationYes
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