Best Online MBA in Finance

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Updated October 25, 2023

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During an MBA in finance, graduate students strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills.

Earning a master of business administration (MBA) in finance can position you for work overseeing an organization's finances, navigating complex regulations and financial instruments, or providing advice on critical decision-making and risk-taking measures. In these programs, enrollees learn to analyze financial statements, evaluate investment opportunities, and develop long-term financial strategies.

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An MBA in finance prepares graduates for high-paying careers in growing fields. For example, many financial managers hold MBAs in finance. Financial managers earn a median income of nearly $139,000 per year, with a much faster-than-average projected job growth rate for 2022-2032.

By researching the best MBA in finance online programs, prospective students can find the right fit to help them reach their professional goals. This article introduces common MBA in finance courses, explains the difference between a master's in finance vs. MBA in finance, and provides data on finance careers.

The Best Online MBA in Finance Programs

#1 Best Online MBA in Finance

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers an online master's in finance. The master of business administration in finance program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. After completing a master's degree, candidates pursue career advancement in their current field or a new one.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on finance. Learners specialize their course of study to prepare for the job market. Applicants who majored in finance or a related field for their bachelor's typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees complete internship requirements at approved sites in their own community. Internships and other practicum activities build both hands-on experience and professional connections.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 23%

Total Online Master's Programs: 14

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $10,552

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $28,278

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online MBA in Finance

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

  • Lafayette, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduate students seeking an online finance degree can enroll in the master's program at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. The master of business administration in finance program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. Earning a master's degree can also help candidates pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in finance. Learners prepare for focused career paths by choosing electives and concentrations. The master's program recommends a background in finance or a related field when applying.

Online enrollees can often complete professional internships at approved locations in their own community. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 68%

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,511

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,239

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,407
Out-of-state
$19,135
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,511
Out-of-state
$19,239
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
16,933
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online MBA in Finance

The University of North Carolina Wilmington

  • Wilmington, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of North Carolina Wilmington offers an online master's in finance. The master of business administration in finance program emphasizes advanced practice skills, training graduates for leadership roles and an increased earning potential. A master's degree can also lead candidates to new career paths.

The master's curriculum examines theoretical and practical perspectives on finance. Learners choose electives and concentrations to prepare for focused career paths. Applicants without a finance background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees coordinate with the program to complete internships at approved sites in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to attend networking events to expand their professional connections.

The University of North Carolina Wilmington at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 65%

Total Online Master's Programs: 16

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $4,719

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,548

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,443
Out-of-state
$18,508
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,719
Out-of-state
$18,548
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
17,499
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online MBA in Finance

Texas A&M International University

  • Laredo, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Laredo, Texas A&M International University hosts a top-rated online master's in finance. The master of business administration in international banking and finance program uses a rigorous curriculum to prepare graduates for advanced roles in the field. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum emphasizes the best practices in finance. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. The admission requirements include a background in finance or a related field.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to participate in hands-on experiences and networking events to grow their professional connections.

Texas A&M International University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 54%

Total Online Master's Programs: 8

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in International Banking and Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $3,350

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $10,946

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,946
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,946
Retention Rate
79%
Acceptance Rate
54%
Students Enrolled
8,305
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online MBA in Finance

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's in finance program, offered by The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley from its Edinburg campus, ranks as a top program. The master of business administration in financial planning program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. Earning a master's degree helps candidates move into a new career path or advance in their current field.

The master's curriculum covers methodological and research perspectives. Learners choose electives or a specialization to gain focused career training. Applicants without a finance background may need to complete prerequisite courses to enroll in the program.

Online enrollees work with the program to arrange professional internships at approved locations in their local area. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 80%

Total Online Master's Programs: 17

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Financial Planning

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,959

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $13,555

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,664
Out-of-state
$16,792
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,959
Out-of-state
$13,555
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
29,113
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online MBA in Finance

Florida Atlantic University

  • Boca Raton, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University hosts a top-rated online master's in finance. The master of business administration in finance program emphasizes industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing graduates for decision-making responsibilities. A master's degree allows candidates to move up the career ladder or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners individualize the course of study by selecting electives and concentrations. Applicants with prior experience in finance or a related field often meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees complete internships in their local community to gain real-world experience. The program encourages graduate students to expand their professional connections through internships and networking events.

Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 63%

Total Online Master's Programs: 13

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $5,467

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,695

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
30,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online MBA in Finance

The University of Massachusetts Amherst

  • Amherst, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The online master's degree in finance at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers high academic quality. The master of business administration in finance program strengthens specialized skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles with a higher earning potential. A master's degree can also prepare candidates for opportunities in new fields.

The master's curriculum emphasizes both practical and theoretical approaches to finance. Learners focus their training by choosing electives based on their interests and career goals. Applicants who majored in finance or a related field for their bachelor's degree typically meet the admission requirements.

Online enrollees work with the program to identify internship opportunities at approved sites in their local communities. Graduate students expand their professional connections by attending virtual networking events.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 64%

Total Online Master's Programs: 8

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $14,014

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,529

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,014
Out-of-state
$29,529
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
31,350
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online MBA in Finance

Marist College

  • Poughkeepsie, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Based in Poughkeepsie, New York, Marist College hosts a top-rated online master's in finance. The master of business administration in financial management program encourages career training throughout its curriculum, preparing graduates for leadership positions. With a master's degree, candidates advance their current career or move into new career paths.

The master's curriculum explores theoretical and practical perspectives in the field. Learners take electives and other specialized courses to gain career-specific training. The master's program recommends that applicants bring a background in finance or a related field.

Online enrollees gain real-world experience through internships offered in their local area. The program encourages professional development activities, including networking events, so graduate students can expand their professional connections.

Marist College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private 

Admission Rate: 49%

Total Online Master's Programs: 6

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Financial Management

Graduate Tuition In State: $15,300

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $15,300

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,925
Out-of-state
$39,925
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,300
Out-of-state
$15,300
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
6,738
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online MBA in Finance

Bethel University

  • Saint Paul, MN
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its campus in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Bethel University hosts a top-ranked master's in finance program. The master of business administration in finance program emphasizes specialized skills, preparing graduates for increased responsibilities and a higher earning potential. A master's degree helps candidates advance in their current field or pursue a new career path.

The master's curriculum blends theory and practice to provide an advanced understanding of finance. Learners individualize the program to prepare for focused careers. The master's program recommends a background in finance before applying to the program.

Online enrollees complete internship programs in their local area to gain hands-on experience. Graduate students also build professional connections through virtual networking events and other activities.

Bethel University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private 

Admission Rate: 79%

Total Online Master's Programs: 12

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $11,700

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $11,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,300
Out-of-state
$38,300
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,700
Out-of-state
$11,700
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
4,005
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
39% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#10 Best Online MBA in Finance

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside

  • Kenosha, WI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside, located in Kenosha, offers a flexible online master's in finance. The master of business administration in finance program helps graduates increase their salary potential and take on more professional responsibilities. With a master's degree, candidates also pursue new career opportunities.

The master's curriculum incorporates theoretical and applied approaches. Learners take specialized courses to stand out in a competitive job market. The master's program builds on prior finance experience during a bachelor's program.

Online enrollees meet any in-person requirements, such as internships, at approved sites in their local area. Graduate students expand their professional network through internships and online events.

The University of Wisconsin-Parkside at a Glance:

Type of School: Public

Admission Rate: 66%

Total Online Master's Programs: 3

Program Name: Master of Business Administration in Finance

Graduate Tuition In State: $8,028

Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,622

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,298
Out-of-state
$14,568
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,028
Out-of-state
$17,622
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
4,388
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
Best Online MBA in Finance badge

Online MBA in Finance Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

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What Is an Online MBA in Finance?

An online MBA in finance trains students in portfolio management, strategic corporate finance, and financial analysis. By blending business administration and finance coursework, an MBA prepares graduates for roles as decision-makers within organizations, including roles like financial manager or chief financial officer.

Earning an online MBA in finance generally takes around two years for full-time students, although some programs offer accelerated or part-time programs, which have different timelines. In addition to coursework, MBA students can gain practical experience through real-world projects and internships.

An online learning format is well suited to professionals seeking career advancement while still working. It also helps non-business professionals transition to finance careers without disrupting their work history.

Choosing and Online MBA in Finance Program

When researching online MBA programs, prospective students should consider factors like cost, program length, and specialization options. For example, some MBA programs offer an accelerated one-year option, which can cost less in the long run, while others use a more traditional two-year timeline, while is less strenuous.

Schools that offer MBAs in finance may use a set curriculum or they may allow students to customize the degree through concentrations or electives. Online learners should also look for tuition discounts or in-state tuition rates for distance learners.

Finally, prospective students should consider internship requirements and networking opportunities. Most MBA programs incorporate internships to help their graduates transition to the workforce, and online students should ensure that they can meet those requirements locally before applying.

Master's in Finance vs. MBA in Finance: What's the Difference?

When choosing between a master's in finance vs. MBA in finance, prospective students should consider specialization options, intended career path, and general coursework.

MBA programs offer more practical business training, which can lead to more broad career opportunities. Within MBA programs, finance is a specialization, so graduate students in these programs may have fewer options for finance-specific electives.

By contrast, a master's in finance usually offers more elective and specialization options for finance. It also has more of an academic focus, training students to become professors or pursue Ph.D. programs in finance.

Accreditation for Online MBA in Finance

Prospective applicants should always look for accreditation when researching MBA in finance online programs. Regionally accredited schools meet the requirements for professional certifications and licenses, and many employers will only hire graduates with accredited degrees.

Three independent, nonprofit organizations grant programmatic accreditation specifically for MBA programs: AACSB International, the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

What Can I Expect When Pursuing an MBA in Finance Online?

An MBA in finance builds strong analytical and decision-making skills. While earning an MBA in finance online, learners take courses in business valuation, corporate finance, and data analytics. Many programs also incorporate internships to help enrollees build practical experience and professional networks.

Common Courses in an Online MBA in Finance Program

Business Valuation

Business valuation courses teach students how to determine the value of organizations. The coursework covers growth projection, capital asset pricing, and financial forecasting. Other topics may include equity valuation, relative valuation, and cash flow, preparing graduates to evaluate financial statements and determine a business valuation.

Corporate Finance

This course strengthens analytical skills and explores investment strategies. Students also learn how to conduct a risk analysis and measure opportunity costs. Additional topics may include valuation techniques, long-term financial management, and capital budgeting.

Data Analytics in Finance

Finance professionals increasingly rely on analytics to assess financial strategies and evaluate financial data. Data analytics courses introduce students to financial technology or "FinTech," including programming tools like Python and statistical methods in big data. Students also examine the role of analytics in corporate finance, investment management, and venture capital.

International Banking

International banking courses examine the international financial market and global banks. Learners study the global financial system, the role of international banks in financial markets, and current issues in international banking. The course also considers public policy and its relationship to international banking.

Investment Management

Coursework covers areas like asset allocation, risk management, and portfolio optimization. Learners also explore passive vs. active investment strategies, long-term investments, and performance evaluation. The course prepares graduates for careers as investment managers or financial advisors.

Real Estate Finance

Learners examine how financing works in the real estate industry, particularly real estate investment strategies. Coursework covers project evaluation, investment analysis, and real estate financing. This course may also include case studies to help learners understand real estate markets and bring an analytical eye to financing strategies.

Featured MBA Programs

Finance Careers

An MBA in finance prepares graduates for careers as financial managers, chief financial officers, and personal financial advisors. Graduates can also pursue opportunities in healthcare administration, securities trading, and other finance sectors. After completing an MBA, some professionals also pursue professional certifications to help them stand out in the job market.

This section explores common career paths for individuals with MBAs in finance, including earning potential and projected job growth for each career.

Financial Manager

Financial managers oversee an organization's financial health. They prepare financial documents, make decisions about investments, and create policies to help companies reach long-term goals. These managers may work as controllers, treasurers, risk managers, or insurance managers. They also analyze financial trends, advise executives on strategies, and help assess financial risk of potential plans.

Most financial managers have bachelor's degrees and several years of work experience. Some employers prefer to hire candidates with MBAs in finance or master's degrees in finance. Financial managers can also demonstrate specialized skills by pursuing professional certifications.

Median Annual Salary

$139,790

Job Outlook (2022-2032)

16%

Top Executives

Top executives -- including chief executive officers, chief financial officers, and general managers -- set long-term goals and strategies for their organizations. They work with managers to oversee departments and create effective policies. Top executives also meet with board members and collaborators outside of their organizations to review company progress and set new goals.

Chief financial officers manage the financial health of their organizations. They use financial statements to measure the organization's performance and identify ways to increase profits. Many top executives hold master's degrees.

Median Annual Salary

$100,090

Job Outlook (2022-2032)

3%

Medical and Health Services Managers

Medical and health services managers, also known as healthcare administrators, oversee the business side of medical departments and offices. They analyze data on the quality of patient care, design and implement policies to improve efficiency, and ensure that healthcare laws and regulations are followed and enforced. Medical and health services managers may also supervise staff and oversee department finances.

Careers in healthcare administration typically require at least a bachelor's degree and significant professional experience. Many employers prefer candidates with MBAs in finance, and coursework in health administration, health information systems, or medical terminology can also offer an advantage in the job market.

Median Annual Salary

$104,830

Job Outlook (2022-2032)

28%

Personal Financial Advisors

Personal financial advisors design investment and savings strategies for their clients, including strategies for retirement, college savings, and estate planning. They may also recommend insurance policies. Personal financial advisors explain investment options and associated risks, and some personal financial advisors even make trades for their clients. They may also actively monitor accounts to respond to changing market conditions.

Many personal financial advisors hold master's degrees in fields like finance or business administration. Training in estate planning, risk management, and financial planning can also benefit personal financial advisors. An MBA in finance prepares personal financial advisors for career advancement.

Median Annual Salary

$95,390

Job Outlook (2022-2032)

14%

Securities, Commodities, and Financial Sales Agents

Securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents trade stocks and bonds on behalf of their clients. They update clients about the performance of different investments, including commodities like gold or soybeans. They may also monitor financial markets and analyze finances for companies undergoing public offerings or mergers.

There are a variety of job titles for this profession, including broker, investment banker, trader, and sales agent. Entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree with classes in finance, business, and economics. Professionals can advance their careers with MBAs in finance. Some higher-level roles even require an MBA.

Median Annual Salary

$67,480

Job Outlook (2022-2032)

7%

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA Online?

An online MBA generally takes two years. However, some MBA in finance online programs offer accelerated options in which enrollees can complete their degrees in as little as one year.

Is an Online MBA Respected?

An online MBA from an accredited business school meets the same standards as an on-campus MBA. Most online MBA graduates receive the same diploma as traditional graduates.

What Can I Do With an MBA in Finance?

MBAs in finance prepare graduates for supervisory positions, like financial manager or chief financial officer. MBA graduates can also work as personal financial advisors, consultants, and entrepreneurs.

Do Employers Care About MBA Accreditation?

Yes. Most employers prefer to hire candidates who attended accredited MBA programs.

Which is Better: An MBA or a Master's in Finance?

When comparing a master's in finance vs. an MBA degree, prospective applicants should first consider their career goals. An MBA offers more practical business training, while a master's in finance covers more theoretical and academic topics. Aspiring professors might prefer a master's in finance, while aspiring executives would likely prefer an MBA.

What Is the Difference Between an MBA and an MS in Finance?

An MBA with a finance concentration includes core courses in marketing, organizational behavior, and leadership, while a master's in finance focuses primarily on finance-specific topics.

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