Best online finance degrees 2021: Top picks

A finance degree equips graduates with the expertise and credentials to pursue positions including financial advisory, examiner, and analyst careers. 

The ever-increasing complexities of the financial world has created a demand that can only be satisfied by trained financial professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the addition of more than 750,000 business and financial occupations 2020-30. 

Here, we take a look at the best online finance degrees that could help meet the growing demand in the field.

The best online bachelor’s in finance degrees

To provide the most relevant rankings for readers, we pull publicly available data from the most reputable sources. Read ZDnet’s ranking methodology to find out what information we used to create the below ranking of the best online bachelor’s in finance degrees. 

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.

What to expect in an online bachelor’s in finance degree program

Though bachelor’s in finance programs vary by specialization and teaching methods,most feature training in taxation, investments, and financial decision-making. 

Completing an online finance degree requires independent work, though classroom collaborations, practical assignments, and internships may still play a significant role. Online learners need to be self-motivated, proactive, and detail oriented. 

Finance degrees often combine theoretical and practical training, along with traditional instruction, group projects, presentations, and exams. 

In addition to electives, which allow learners to customize their training, many programs offer specialization paths such as international finance, financial management, and capital markets. 

Finance courses

The following list highlights common courses found in finance degrees at the bachelor’s level.

Financial accounting

This course covers basic operations and processes involved in the typical accounting cycle. Students learn about financial statements, transactions, and general financial and accounting concepts.

Income taxes

In this course, students learn tax policies for individuals and organizations. They master preparing tax returns, analyzing taxes, and making adjustments.

Financial planning principles

This course teaches how to help individuals and organizations arrange their finances and plan for the future. The training delves into savings and investment strategies, asset management, and taxation.

Investments

In this course, learners look at investment strategies for individuals and corporations. The training examines portfolio management, diversification, security trading, and international investments.

Finance degree levels

Prospective students should set their sights on the degree that best fits their goals.

Below, we provide details on various finance degree levels, highlighting what they offer and where they might lead.

Associate in finance

Length: Two years

Cost: $11,389 per year

Post-grad careers: Claims adjuster, accounting clerk, and insurance sales agent

An associate finance degree usually covers the field’s fundamentals, preparing graduates for entry-level careers and further education. Students learn how to complete many basic financial duties within an organization and how to use finances to improve businesses’ operations and decision-making. 

Associate degrees often emphasize business foundations and general education, widely applicable training that can provide transfer credits if needed. 

Bachelor’s in finance

Length: Four years

Cost: $28,123 per year

Post-grad careers: Accountant, financial examiner, and financial manager

A finance bachelor’s degree prepares graduates for many entry-level business and financial occupations. The training at this level often explores business fundamentals so learners can apply their financial expertise to business operations.

In addition to traditional instruction, these programs typically feature practical components, such as internships and simulations. Many bachelor’s programs also offer specialization options, allowing learners to channel their training toward a certain field or career. 

Master’s in finance

Length: Two years

Cost: $19,792 per year

Post-grad careers: Budget analyst, financial analyst, and management analyst

A finance degree at the master’s level delves into advanced financial theory, financial reporting, mathematics, and analysis. Students learn to support businesses through investing, financial decision-making, and different forms of analysis. 

A finance master’s usually incorporates research and practical components. Learners can typically choose a specialization. Graduates can pursue leadership positions, certifications, or further training.

Doctorate in finance

Length: 4-6 years

Cost: $19,792 per year

Post-grad careers: Postsecondary teacher, top executive, and compensation and benefits manager

A doctoral finance degree focuses on theoretical and empirical research. Students search for new theories, approaches, and practical applications. Graduates can pursue teaching or research positions in academia, and leadership positions in business and regulatory environments. 

Ph.D. students usually concentrate their efforts and research on a specialization.

In conclusion

A finance degree offers flexibility in curricula, teaching methods, specializations, and career paths. 

Graduates can pursue professions in business, healthcare, or the government. Their knowledge can improve decisions, operations, and financial outcomes.