Best Online MBA in Finance
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.
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 $161,700 per year as of May 2023, with a much faster-than-average projected job growth rate for 2023-2033.
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
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$7,019
- Out-of-state$34,198
- In-State$10,552
- Out-of-state$28,278
- Retention Rate96%
- Acceptance Rate23%
- Students Enrolled29,877
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$5,407
- Out-of-state$19,135
- In-State$5,511
- Out-of-state$19,239
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled16,933
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
The University of North Carolina Wilmington
- Wilmington, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$4,443
- Out-of-state$18,508
- In-State$4,719
- Out-of-state$18,548
- Retention Rate86%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled17,499
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Texas A&M International University
- Laredo, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$3,818
- Out-of-state$13,946
- In-State$3,350
- Out-of-state$10,946
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled8,305
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$6,664
- Out-of-state$16,792
- In-State$5,959
- Out-of-state$13,555
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled29,113
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Florida Atlantic University
- Boca Raton, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$2,522
- Out-of-state$14,374
- In-State$5,467
- Out-of-state$16,695
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled30,061
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Amherst, MA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$15,791
- Out-of-state$35,112
- In-State$14,014
- Out-of-state$29,529
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled31,350
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment15%
- AccreditationYes
Marist College
- Poughkeepsie, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$39,925
- Out-of-state$39,925
- In-State$15,300
- Out-of-state$15,300
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate49%
- Students Enrolled6,738
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Bethel University
- Saint Paul, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$38,300
- Out-of-state$38,300
- In-State$11,700
- Out-of-state$11,700
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled4,005
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside
- Kenosha, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
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
- In-State$6,298
- Out-of-state$14,568
- In-State$8,028
- Out-of-state$17,622
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate66%
- Students Enrolled4,388
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
MBA in Finance
2023
Online MBA in Finance Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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