Finance entails various money-related activities such as investing, borrowing, risk management, and forecasting. To ensure positive financial outcomes for their organizations, financial professionals apply finance principles and knowledge of markets and systems in the field.
Working professionals often pursue online MBA degrees to learn new skills, secure leadership roles, and make higher salaries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) indicates that financial managers earn a median annual salary of $134,180. BLS data also projects jobs for these professionals to grow 15% during 2019-2029.
This guide ranks the best online MBA finance degrees. It also covers other important information for prospective students, including common courses and scholarship opportunities for finance students.
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Finance MBA Questions
Is an MBA in finance worth it?
PayScale salary data from March 2021 suggests that MBA in finance degree-holders make an average salary of $99,770 annually, making the degree a worthwhile investment for many students.
What can I do with an MBA in finance?
An MBA in finance can support high-level careers such as financial analyst, financial director, and financial manager.
What can I do with an MBA in finance?
An MBA in finance can support high-level careers such as financial analyst, financial director, and financial manager.
How long does it take to get an MBA in finance?
Traditional MBA in finance programs take 2-3 years to finish. Some accelerated programs may offer year-round, intensive coursework that takes only 12-15 months to complete.
What is the difference between an MBA and a master's in finance?
MBA in finance programs feature a more interdisciplinary business curriculum. MS in finance programs often focus more on specialized finance topics.
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Why Get a Degree in Finance?
MBA in finance degrees offer many potential benefits, including career advancement, transferable skills, and specialization. Graduates can pursue high-paying jobs, such as financial manager or top executive. These professionals make median annual salaries between $107,000-$134,000.
MBA programs build advanced skills in business, management, communication, and leadership. These versatile skills can benefit professionals in many roles, organizations, industries, and sectors. Additionally, online finance degrees often cost less than on-campus programs, and they give students the flexibility to continue working while earning their degree.
How Much Does a Finance Degree Cost?
MBA programs typically cost more than other master's programs. According to the U.S. News & World Report, prestigious MBA programs typically cost between $100,000-$200,000. However, online finance degrees often cost significantly less than on-campus equivalents.
For example, many public schools allow out-of-state distance learners to pay in-state tuition rates. The College Board's Trends in College Pricing 2020 report suggests that annual in-state tuition costs less than half of out-of-state tuition rates at the same schools.
Additionally, many online programs feature flexible attendance options that accommodate working professionals, so MBA students can maintain an income while going to school. Plus, online students often save on many of the expenses that on-campus students incur, such as housing and commuting costs.
Finance MBA Cost Survey
| Type of MBA |
Number of MBA Students |
Average MBA Cost |
MBA Cost vs Total Average |
| Finance |
73 |
$36,808.22 |
+$3,111.43 |
| Fully on-campus |
8 |
$58,875.00 |
+$25,178.21 |
| Fully online |
16 |
$34,062.50 |
+$365.71 |
| Hybrid |
23 |
$44,521.74 |
+$10,824.95 |
| Online with a few on-campus visits required |
26 |
$24,884.62 |
-$8,812.17 |
*Average cost of an MBA used from survey: $33,696.79
Break down your current financial situation, and receive a college tuition estimate you can afford to pay.
How Much Do Finance Majors Make?
MBA in finance graduates often work in lucrative business and finance occupations. According to the BLS, these occupations garner a median annual wage of $72,250. However, MBA in finance graduates can pursue specialized finance roles that offer higher salaries, like financial analyst, financial examiner, and personal financial advisor. Median annual salaries for these professions fall into the $80,000-$90,000 range. Financial managers also earn a very high median annual salary of $134,180.
MBA in finance graduates may also seek positions such as financial controllers or directors. April 2021 PayScale data indicates that financial controllers earn average salaries of $85,110 annually and that financial directors make an average of $114,360 per year.
Courses in Finance
Online MBA in finance curricula usually include core coursework in financial management, leadership, and communication. Students learn how to analyze financial data, draw conclusions, make projections, and present findings to executives. Finance graduate programs typically include capstone research projects and internships that cultivate advanced skills in finance research, analysis, and management.
Courses vary by program, but the following three sample courses appear in many finance MBA programs.
Corporate Finance
Often a core course, corporate finance courses build investing and financing skills. Participants also cultivate skills in data analysis, financial valuation, and risk management. The course proves essential for aspiring corporate financial analysts and managers.Financial Ethics and Legal Compliance
The class familiarizes enrollees with contemporary financial regulations, laws, and professional ethics. Core topics include policies, activities, and laws regarding financial reporting and compliance. The course also covers investment regulations, agency relationships, and fiduciary responsibility.Financial Forecasting
The course focuses on using financial analysis and planning to guide organizational decisions. Learners build skills in variance analysis, which helps finance professionals compare actual and budgeted expenses.
Certifications and Licensure for Finance
Online MBA in finance degrees meet or exceed educational requirements for many finance-related jobs. However, some employers prefer or require additional training and expertise. The following list outlines several common professional credentials for graduates with an online MBA in finance degree.
The Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) grants this certification to aspiring corporate financial managers and accountants. Candidates need a bachelor's degree or certification in accounting, IMA membership, and two years of relevant professional experience. They must also pass a two-part exam.
The CFA credential serves aspiring investment professionals. Candidates need a related bachelor's degree or 4,000 hours of combined professional experience and higher education.
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority awards this certification to candidates who pass the Series 7 exam. United States stockbrokers and general securities representatives must pass this exam to practice their trade. The exam covers topics such as equity, securities, taxation, and investments.
Scholarships and Fellowships for Finance
Online MBA in finance students can pursue scholarship and fellowship opportunities to lower the cost of their degree. Unlike loans, these awards do not require repayment, making them ideal forms of financial aid. The following list outlines several scholarship and fellowship opportunities for finance MBA students.
Scholarships and Fellowships for Finance
| Scholarship |
Amount |
Who Can Apply |
Rising Farmworker Dream Fund MBA Fellowship |
$250-$10,000 |
This RFDF MBA fellowship considers applicants planning to apply to MBA programs in the next three years. Awards may cover the costs of tuition, GMAT/GRE test preparation, MBA application fees, and school and career planning. |
Forte Foundation MBA Fellowships |
Varies |
This fellowship program supports women MBA students who receive nomination from a participating school. Applicants with diverse backgrounds and career goals may receive preference. Candidates must demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to women's advancement in the business world. |
Online MBA in Finance Programs 2022
#1 Online MBA In Finance
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. The school has a total of 14 online master's programs.
The institution delivers an online MBA in finance that is ideal for busy degree-seekers interested in advancing their finance skills. The program prepares learners to enter the job market or advance their current finance career. Master's students can access support services such as academic advising, career-planning resources, and faculty mentorship.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Learners often apply for fellowships to pay for their graduate education.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Facts:
Average Per-Credit Cost: $1,767
Students Receiving Aid: 65%
Students Receiving Loans: 25%
Total Master's Programs: 84
Total Online Master's Programs: 84
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online MBA In Finance
Texas A&M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A great option for distance learners, Texas A&M International University offers an e-learning program for MBA students. The school reports that 2,918 students take online classes. Graduate students can earn their online MBA in international banking and finance at the college. The accredited curriculum provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills for finance careers. Learners benefit from a student-to-faculty ratio of 24-to-1, which means one-on-one attention from faculty.
The school’s website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The college charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This makes it easier for students to cover their educational expenses. The school reports a 47% graduation rate for its programs.
Texas A&M International University Fast Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 3,780
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 8
Graduate Tuition: $3,350/year in-state, $10,946/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,806
Average Net Price: $3,323
Texas A & M International University has been accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online MBA In Finance
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can enroll in Florida Atlantic University's undergraduate and graduate programs online or on campus in Boca Raton. The school offers master's programs in an online format that is ideal for busy learners.
Degree-seekers at the institution can pursue an online MBA in finance. After earning the master's degree in finance, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate students.
The school's affordable tuition rates make it easier for enrollees to pursue graduate degrees. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Learners also pay for their degree through scholarships, institutional aid, and other forms of financial aid.
Florida Atlantic University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 82%
Students Receiving Loans: 32%
Total Master's Programs: 72
Total Online Master's Programs: 72
Allows Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
49%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online MBA In Finance
University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Amherst, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Massachusetts Amherst delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Learners across the country can pursue the school's eight online master's programs without relocating.
The institution's MBA in finance prepares online degree-seekers to succeed in finance careers. Graduates can transition to a career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree. The university offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
The school charges online enrollees affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible. At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
University of Massachusetts Amherst Numbers:
Students Receiving Aid: 90%
Students Receiving Loans: 54%
Total Master's Programs: 78
Total Online Master's Programs: 78
Grants Transfer Credits: No
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Online MBA In Finance
Ohio University
- Athens, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Athens-based Ohio University provides academic programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. In addition to in-person graduate programs, the school offers virtual learning options. The institution's online MBA in finance provides a flexible option for students interested in finance careers.
The rigorous curriculum, combined with academic and career advising, prepares enrollees for careers. Busy learners often benefit from the online program's enrollment options and complete academic requirements around their schedule. Degree-seekers enrolled full time typically require 1-2 years to complete the master's program.
At the accredited institution, students who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid. To help cover the cost of their education, 51% of enrollees take out student loans. In addition, 94% of the institution's learners qualify for financial aid.
Ohio University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 350
Number of Online Programs: 48
Online Master's Programs: 94
Number of Online Students: 13,063
Tuition Per Credit: $820
Religious Affiliation: Non-affiliated
Transfer Credits Accepted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Survey Methodology
All data was collected between 6/14/21 and 7/3/21. Respondents were fielded by Lucid LLC. All 343 respondents in the study were screened by multiple quality checks, including systems like Relevant ID, and responses were manually reviewed to ensure consistency and accuracy. Survey participants include 169 currently enrolled MBA students and 174 graduates from MBA programs within the past 6 years. Respondents are between 21 and 78 years of age and identified as 45% Female, 54% Male, and 1% non-binary.
Student testimonials have generally been obtained with the offer of compensation for completion of a survey (e.g., entrance into a gift card drawing). Such testimonials are the opinions of such students and surveys are designed to avoid influencing such testimonials either positively or negatively. All student respondents were supplied by Lucid LLC.
