People with strong quantitative skills and an interest in economic and financial systems often excel in finance programs. An online bachelor's degree in finance meets the educational requirement for many lucrative careers in diverse industries.
Graduates with a finance degree can pursue a variety of business and financial occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), business and finance professionals earn a median salary of $80,920 per year. Many finance positions pay even higher median salaries. For example, financial managers earn a median annual salary of $161,700, and the BLS projects employment for these managers to increase 15% from 2024-2034.
Applicants to the best online finance degrees often need a minimum 2.5-3.0 GPA and strong ACT or SAT scores. To apply to the major, applicants may need to complete prerequisite coursework and provide recommendations from professors. This guide explores common online finance degree requirements and benefits, along with career paths for graduates.
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Best Online Bachelor's in Finance Degrees
What Are the Goals of a Finance Degree?
Prospective online bachelor's degree in finance students usually pursue a BS in finance, a BA in finance, or a bachelor of finance (BFin). They can also pursue a bachelor of business administration (BBA) in finance. Generally, these programs require core coursework in statistics, banking, quantitative methods, and economics.
BA and BBA programs in the field offer various courses. However, BBA curricula emphasize management skills and topics. Both a BA and a BBA can lead to a variety of business careers, and they prepare learners for graduate studies.
Ideal for aspiring financial analysts and advisors, BS and BFin programs usually feature more technical classes. These degrees also qualify holders for graduate programs. Many BS and BFin programs offer specialization options in niche fields such as risk management, investments, and asset management.
Why Get a Finance Degree?
Earning a finance online degree can lead to many professional and personal benefits. In addition to obtaining specialized skills, graduates may access lucrative careers, promotions, and salary increases.
Lucrative Career Paths
A bachelor's degree in finance meets the minimum degree requirements for many high-paying careers. Graduates often become personal financial advisors, financial analysts, and financial managers.
Promotions
Entry-level professionals often pursue a bachelor's degree to qualify for promotions. A bachelor's degree can also help professionals transition to a field with better job prospects.
Salary Increases
Working professionals can earn a bachelor's degree to increase their earning potential. Many companies set pay scales that award higher salaries to employees with higher levels of education.
Specializations
Some finance programs allow learners to specialize in niche fields. Common specialization options include hedge funds, private equity and venture capital, and investment banking.
Networking
Online programs often attract working professionals who need flexible scheduling options. Degree-seekers often receive opportunities to network with peers and create connections that can lead to employment opportunities.
What Are the Requirements for a Finance Degree?
The best finance programs typically require applicants to hold a minimum 3.0 GPA. Some programs require above-average ACT or SAT scores. Candidates usually submit an application essay. To enter the finance major, students may need recommendation letters and a sufficient GPA in prerequisite coursework.
Finance bachelor's programs usually require 120 credits, including about 60 credits of core and elective coursework in the field. Seniors typically complete an internship to develop practical skills. Some programs also require a capstone research project.
Finance Degree Frequently Asked Questions
Online finance degree holders can pursue various business and financial occupations. Graduates often become financial examiners, financial analysts, and market research analysts. They can also work as personal financial advisors.