Page Content
Online MBA Finance Programs
While earning an online MBA, many students choose ƒato select a specialization, such as finance. An online MBA in finance functions as a normal MBA, only with a heavier emphasis on finance, investing, accounting, and similar topics. Graduates with an MBA in finance end up in leadership roles, ranging from financial manager to chief financial officer.
A finance specialization also leads to high-growth and well-paying positions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), all business and finance occupations are projected to grow by 7% from 2018-2028, good for an addition of 591,000. This page explores the reasons why you should pursue an online MBA in finance and what you can expect to study during an online MBA in finance program.
Featured Online Programs
Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
From affordability to flexibility, students choose different programs for various reasons. Our rankings focus on the quality of online MBA in finance programs, taking into account other factors. These are the top online MBA in finance programs.
Link to this Page
| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 University Of Florida Warrington Tigert Hall, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | $10,770 | 97% |
| #2 The University Of North Carolina, Chapel Hill 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599 | $10,552 | 91% |
| #3 Villanova University 800 Lancaster Avenue, Villanova, Pennsylvania 19085 | $20,506 | 90% |
| #4 University Of Maryland, College Park College Park, Maryland 20742 | $13,158 | 87% |
| #5 Northeastern University 360 Huntington Ave, Boston, Massachusetts 02115 | $24,793 | 89% |
| #6 University Of Massachusetts 374 Whitmore Building 181 Presidents Drive, Amherst, Massachusetts 01003 | $14,014 | 82% |
| #7 North Carolina State University 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 | $9,095 | 82% |
| #8 Lehigh University 27 Memorial Drive West, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18015 | $27,000 | 90% |
| #9 Colorado State University 102 Administration Building, Fort Collins, Colorado 80523 | $10,520 | 70% |
| #10 University Of Texas At Dallas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080 | $13,874 | 70% |
| #11 Johns Hopkins University 3400 N Charles St, Baltimore, Maryland 21218 | $55,350 | 93% |
| #12 Babson College 231 Forest Street, Wellesley, Massachusetts 02457 | $89,550 | 93% |
| #13 Carnegie Mellon University 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 | $45,037 | 90% |
| #14 Boston University One Silber Way, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 | $54,720 | 88% |
| #15 Syracuse University 900 South Crouse Ave., Syracuse, New York 13244 | $38,880 | 83% |
| #16 George Washington University 1918 F Street, NW, Washington, District of Columbia 20052 | $31,770 | 82% |
| #17 Benedictine University 5700 College Rd, Lisle, Illinois 60532 | $18,273 | 69% |
| #18 Ball State University 2000 University Ave, Muncie, Indiana 47306 | $8,850 | 67% |
| #19 University Of Nebraska 14th and R St, Lincoln, Nebraska 68588 | $5,976 | 66% |
| #20 Arizona State University, Tempe Arizona State University, Tempe | $11,720 | 63% |
| #21 Drexel University 3141 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104 | $35,181 | 69% |
| #22 Washington State University French Administration Building, Pullman, Washington 99164 | $11,493 | 60% |
| #23 University Of North Texas 1501 W.Chestnut Ave., Denton, Texas 76203 | $5,900 | 56% |
| #24 Touro University 1310 Club Drive, Vallejo, California 94592 | $30,140 | NA |
| #25 New Mexico Highlands University 803 University Ave, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701 | $5,112 | 22% |
Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available
Most Affordable MBA in Finance Programs Online
All accredited online MBA in finance programs meet a high standard for quality. But some programs come at a much lower cost to students, and online programs usually offer lower tuition rates. These are the best affordable MBA in finance programs.
Link to this Page| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Fort Hays State University 600 Park St, Hays, Kansas 67601 | $3,582 | 43% |
| #2 Southeastern Oklahoma State University 425 W University Blvd, Durant, Oklahoma 74701- | $4,716 | 35% |
| #3 New Mexico Highlands University 803 University Ave, Las Vegas, New Mexico 87701 | $5,112 | 22% |
| #4 Missouri State University 901 S National Avenue, Springfield, Missouri 65897 | $5,202 | 78% |
| #5 The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 1201 W University Dr, Edinburg, Texas 78539 | $5,959 | 46% |
| #6 Culver-Stockton College One College Hill, Canton, Missouri 63435 | $6,000 | 52% |
| #7 Park University 8700 NW River Park Dr, Parkville, Missouri 64152 | $6,012 | 62% |
| #8 California State University-Stanislaus One University Circle, Turlock, California 95382 | $7,176 | 83% |
| #9 Charleston Southern University 9200 University Blvd, Charleston, South Carolina 29406 | $7,500 | 65% |
| #10 University of Kansas Administration Bldg 425, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701 | $7,752 | 66% |
| #11 Spring Arbor University 106 E. Main St, Spring Arbor, Michigan 49283 | $7,886 | 78% |
| #12 University of Houston 212 E. Cullen Building, Houston, Texas 77204 | $8.370 | 61% |
| #13 Wilmington University 320 Dupont Hwy, New Castle, Delaware 19720 | $8,784 | 21% |
| #14 Touro University Worldwide 10601 Calle Lee #179, Los Alamitos, California 90720 | $9,000 | 100% |
| #15 Gardner-Webb University Main St, Boiling Springs, North Carolina 28017 | $9,000 | 56% |
| #16 North Carolina State University 2101 Hillsborough Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695 | $9,095 | 82% |
| #17 University of North Carolina 103 South Bldg Cb 9100, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599 | $10,552 | 91% |
| #18 Ohio Christian University 1476 Lancaster Pike, Circleville, Ohio 43113 | $10,765 | 32% |
| #19 University of Florida Tigert Hall, Gainesville, Florida 32611 | $10,770 | 88% |
| #20 University of Alabama 739 University Blvd, Tuscaloosa, Alabama 35487 | $10,780 | 71% |
| #21 University of Saint Mary 4100 S 4th St, Leavenworth, Kansas 66048 | $11,124 | 52% |
| #22 University of Colorado Regent Drive at Broadway, Boulder, Colorado 80309 | $11,826 | 69% |
| #23 Johnson & Wales University 8 Abbott Park Pl, Providence, RI 02903 | $13,734 | 65% |
| #24 Regis University 3333 Regis Blvd, Denver, Colorado 80221 | $14,441 | 64% |
| #25 University of North Dakota 264 Centennial Drive, Stop 8193, Grand Forks, North Dakota 58202 $10,534 | $10,534 | 61% |
Understanding an Online MBA in Finance Program
An online MBA in finance combines the traditional MBA curriculum, including courses in management, leadership, and human resources, with financial courses, such as financial accounting, banking, and investment analysis. Students interested in the broad financial field earn this degree, and some look for specific specializations and courses to learn new skills.
Common Specializations for an Online MBA in Finance
Some schools allow students to specialize in their online MBA in finance, leading to niche positions in high-paying industries. Pursuing one of these focuses could lead to a specific job outcome.
| Area of Focus | Description | Careers This Concentration Prepares For |
|---|---|---|
| Banking and Finance | With a combined focus on banking and finance, students prepare for a career in the investing and banking fields. Courses in this specialization focus on concepts like commercial banking, capital markets, and international financial management. Students also cover broad MBA topics like marketing and accounting. | Financial managerBanking managerFinancial consultant |
| Corporate Finance | Best for those who plan on working for a large business or organization, corporate finance focuses on a range of topics, including private equity, global markets, real estate, and portfolio management. Earning a corporate finance MBA could lead to careers at some of the largest corporations in the world. | Financial analystReal estate investorFinancial consultant |
| Finance and Accounting | An online MBA in finance and accounting blends two of the most popular MBA concentrations. Finance and accounting see students take financial statements, analyze financial data, and assess the risk of portfolios. This concentration mixes theoretical finance with advanced accounting topics. | Financial analystFinance operations directorDirector of accounting |
| International Finance | Specializations in international finance prepares students to work for international businesses. The curriculum includes risk assessment, international regulations, and negotiation. Courses typically focus on financial topics for large businesses and corporations. Some online programs encourage students to complete an internship abroad to gain real-world experience. | Finance managerDirector of financeInvestment manager |
Online MBA in Finance Admission Requirements
Each college and university sets its own online MBA in finance admission requirements. However, most accredited online schools use many of the same criteria, including the following:
- GMAT: Many online MBA programs require applicants to submit GMAT test scores. Created specifically for graduate-level business programs, applicants who submit scores often must earn a minimum score.
- Bachelor’s Degree: All MBA concentrations cover graduate-level concepts, so applicants must earn a bachelor’s degree before starting the program. While preferred, students are not always required to complete their bachelor’s degree in business.
- Professional Experience: Some of the top MBA in finance programs only accept candidates with 1-2 years of business experience related to finance. Even if not required, earning professional experience improves your application.
- Letters of Recommendation: Online MBA programs often require applicants to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation. Schools use the letters of recommendation to determine whether the applicant is a good fit for the program.
- Official Transcripts: Every online MBA in finance requires applicants to submit official transcripts. If you attended more than one school to complete your bachelor’s degree, then you must send in transcripts from each school you attended.
Curriculum for an Online Master of MBA in Finance Program
- Corporate Finance Management: Ideal for anyone who wants to become a financial manager, corporate finance management looks at finance, including investing, budgeting, and portfolio management, at the corporate level. This course usually provides students with real-world portfolios and teaches them to evaluate potential risks.
- Marketing and Strategy: A mixture of finance and marketing topics, marketing and strategy teaches students to look at a business’s brand and determine how to market products. Learners then perform market analysis and determine the most strategic financial move to accomplish marketing goals.
- Ethics and Social Responsibility: Usually required in all MBA in finance programs, ethics and social responsibility teach students to conduct finances to grow business while following corporate values and ethics. Students also cover laws and regulations associated with investing and create investment strategies that remain compliant with local, state, and national laws.
- Interest Rates and Financial Markets: Building off topics covered in banking courses, interest rates and financial markets analyzes interest rate theory, the pricing of bonds, and risk associated with different interest rates. Students determine the best investment opportunities using short and long term interest rates and apply them to real-world scenarios.
- International Finance: Often taken as an introductory course to broader international topics, international finance looks at how corporate finance professionals create investment decisions in international markets. This course introduces various international markets and teaches students to analyze potential risks with each market.
Skills Gained in an Online MBA in Finance Program
MBA in finance graduates become leaders in the workplace. To function at a high level, graduates learn a set of skills while completing an MBA. Students obtain these skills through lectures, coursework, collaboration, and sometimes internships. Some skills students obtain during an online MBA in finance include:
- Analytics: Many positions that graduates earn after completing their MBA require a significant analysis of data and information. Students develop analytical skills through meticulous practice during courses.
- Decision Making: Whether leading a team or determining the best positions for a portfolio, MBA in finance graduates must make important decisions. Class projects and internships help develop decision-making skills.
- Communication: Finance professionals regularly communicate with clients, coworkers, and other financial professionals. Expect to develop these skills through group projects.
- Mathematics: While not required for all career outcomes, many finance professionals use mathematics to determine the risk of assets, analyze financial statements, and find effective investment strategies.
- Attention to Detail: Many financial experts work with reports and complex portfolios. Graduates learn to pay special attention to important documents and decisions, ensuring no mistakes are made.
FAQs about Online MBA in Finance Programs
Q: What is MBA in finance all about?
A: MBA finance is all about taking a deeper dive into the financial fields like investments, accounting, portfolio maintenance, capital markets, banking, etc.
Q: What do we study in MBA finance?
A: In MBA finance, you will study how capital markets work, foreign currencies, investments, fundamentals of accounting, etc.
Q: How to become MBA in finance?
A: Read through this guide to find the best online MBA finance programs, understand the programs, apply for a program, fulfill admission requirements, go through the program, and graduate.
Q: Why choose finance specialization in MBA?
A: Financial field is a very vast field with immense growth opportunities. Students signing up for finance specialization will see faster career growth. If you want to take advantage of this vast field, which is very crucial in any organization, you should choose finance as a specialization.
Q: Who should do MBA in finance?
A: Students that are interested in macro-level financial topics should be doing an MBA in finance.
How to Pay for an MBA in Finance Degree
The cost of an online MBA in finance may seem steep, but most students use various methods to reduce, or completely cover, the cost of a graduate degree.
Techniques for Paying for Your Online MBA
Internships
Not only can students help cover tuition costs with a paid internship, but many programs also allow students to count the internship toward class credit.
Tuition Assistance
Schools like Harvard University provide tuition assistance to students who demonstrate financial need or academic merit. Many schools offer similar programs.
Student Loans
After reducing the cost of an MBA, students who prefer not to pay out-of-pocket take advantage of student loans. Various types of student loans exist, including friendlier loans offered by the government.
Scholarships for Online MBA in Finance Students
Scholarships remain one of the best ways to help finance an online MBA degree. Some scholarships, including the following options, only apply to students that plan on pursuing an MBA.
- AICP Scholarship Who Can Apply: Both part- and full-time MBA students may apply for this scholarship. Applicants must plan on pursuing a degree related to finance, mathematics, or a business-related field. Amount: $1,500
- Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Who Can Apply: Only full-time students currently enrolled in a program may apply. Applicants must be pursuing a degree related to business administration or finance and should plan on beginning a career in fraud examination. Amount: $1,000 – $10,000
- Forte MBA Fellowship Who Can Apply: Created for women, the Forte MBA Fellowship works more like a scholarship, awarding hard-working women with funds to help finance their MBA. Applicants must be studying full-time. Amount: Varies
- Military MBA Scholarship Who Can Apply: Only U.S. residents who both served in the military and earned a bachelor’s degree can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must submit official transcripts and two letters of recommendation, one of which must come from a supervising officer. Amount: Varies
- GFOA Scholarships Who Can Apply: The Government Finance Officers Association awards four different scholarships to graduate-level students, and both part- and full-time students may apply. Applicants should demonstrate an interest in working in public administration. Amount: Varies
Career and Salary Outlook for Online Finance MBA Graduates
Online MBA in finance graduates end up working in an array of industries. Those that specialize in international business might find work outside of the country, and corporate finance specialists often work for large corporations. An MBA graduate could even decide to start their own business or join a startup. While no amount of education guarantees any specific career outcome or salary, MBA in finance graduates often end up in these roles.
| Occupation | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (2016-2026) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Financial Advisor | $87,850 | 7% | Personal financial advisors work with individuals to plan taxes, create savings strategies, and discuss short and long term financial goals. Most work with large securities companies though some enjoy self-employment. |
| Financial Analyst | $85,660 | 6% | A financial analyst looks over financial statements and investment to evaluate portfolio strength and risk. Financial analysts work either on buy-side, who buy investments, or sell-side, who sell investments. |
| Financial Manager | $129,890 | 16% | Financial managers monitor a business’s financial health. These professionals prepare financial statements, create financial forecasts, and find new ways to reduce expenditures. |
(Source: BLS)
Resources for Online MBA in Finance Students
Those interested in or currently pursuing an online MBA in finance can take advantage of professional organizations and networking sites. These resources help students connect with current professionals, learn new skills, and find careers in finance.
- American Association of Finance & Accounting: With locations across the United States and Canada, AAFA primarily works to connect finance and accounting professionals with career opportunities, particularly for those looking to advance their careers.
- Association for Financial Professionals: Based in Washington, D.C., AFP supports finance and treasury professionals and administers the Certified Treasury Professional and Certified Corporate FP&A certifications. Members receive industry data, online training, and career counseling.
- LinkedIn: The social media site LinkedIn hosts millions of professionals, many of whom actively seek qualified finance candidates. Current students should begin networking via LinkedIn, look for job opportunities, and learn from seasoned professionals.
- National Association for Personal Financial Advisors: The top organization for fee-only financial advisors, NAPFA offers several levels of membership, including options for current professionals and students. Members receive access to career listings, podcasts, virtual learning, and various member discounts.
- National Black MBA Association: Created to empower a historically underrepresented community, the National Black MBA Association connects Black MBA graduates across the nation. NBMBAA hosts an annual conference, provides members with digital learning and certifications, and advocates for Black MBA graduates.
