What exactly is an MBA in finance? Take a look at common courses and careers in this field and learn what to expect from an MBA in finance program.
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Charlotte Cornbrooks spent five years working in student affairs. During that time, she supervised, coached, and mentored student leaders. Now Charlotte writes about tech bootcamps, education, and culture. Charlotte earned her MA in higher education ...
Updated on April 18, 2024
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Valerie Black has over 12 years of experience as a professor and 10 years in journalism. She empowers students to leverage the resources that are available but not easily accessible. Her focus is in online education, rich content, and digital storyte...
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Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez is an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University who has been recognized as one of the "World's Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professors" by Poets&Quants. Her research explores the impact of imposter...
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By
Contributing Writer
Charlotte Cornbrooks spent five years working in student affairs. During that time, she supervised, coached, and mentored student leaders. Now Charlotte writes about tech bootcamps, education, and culture. Charlotte earned her MA in higher education ...
Edited by
Editor, Business Education
Valerie Black has over 12 years of experience as a professor and 10 years in journalism. She empowers students to leverage the resources that are available but not easily accessible. Her focus is in online education, rich content, and digital storyte...
•
Reviewed by
Reviewer & Writer
Dr. Angélica S. Gutiérrez is an associate professor of management at Loyola Marymount University who has been recognized as one of the "World's Best 40 Under 40 Business School Professors" by Poets&Quants. Her research explores the impact of imposter...
Updated on April 18, 2024
Learn more about our editorial process
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If you're interested in finance — a fast-paced environment, high salaries, maybe even a job on Wall Street — earning an MBA in finance could be an important step toward your dream career.
A finance MBA is a concentration option offered by many MBA programs. In addition to the basic financial management courses offered in standard MBA programs, finance students study more advanced concepts like business analytics and portfolio management. And online program options provide increased flexibility, letting you balance work or other responsibilities with school.
Once you complete an in-person or online MBA in finance, you're prepared to pursue careers like financial manager, financial analyst, and maybe even chief financial officer. With many starting salaries around $95,000, this field often provides a good return on investment.
Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average growth for financial analysts and management analysts from 2022-2032.
Depending on whether you're a young professional or midway through your career, you can find an MBA program that meets your needs online, in person, or in a hybrid format.
Still unsure about which MBA type of program to choose? Check out our ranking of the best online MBA programs.
Related MBA in Finance Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Accredited Online MBA in Finance Programs
We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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#1 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UNC-Chapel Hill's 62-credit MBA in finance focuses on financial strategy and analytics. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the program boasts about 42,000 alumni, including almost 2,000 online graduates.
The online MBA in finance starts four times a year, and students can graduate in less than 18 months. Working professionals benefit from accommodating online schedules, although all learners must participate in two weekend summits — either at an international location or on campus. Applicants with more than five years of relevant experience may qualify for a GMAT waiver.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $2,025.63
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 62 credits
- Program Length: 18-36 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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
95%
Acceptance Rate
25%
Students Enrolled
30,092
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Accreditation
Yes
#2 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Villanova University
Villanova, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
In Villanova's 48-credit online MBA in finance program, students complete courses that emphasize management, leadership, and collaboration. In addition to flexible online classes, the program begins with a weekend residence and features two practica. Students can also complete an optional week-long immersion capstone project.
Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the program typically takes two years to complete. Classes usually run asynchronously throughout 16-week terms, although various synchronous components may be available.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,409
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Both
- School Status: Private
Villanova University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$56,730
Out-of-state
$56,730
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$20,619
Out-of-state
$20,619
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
31%
Students Enrolled
11,032
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Accreditation
Yes
#3 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Campus
Penn State World Campus offers an online MBA in finance that provides in-depth training in business analytics, integration, and problem-solving. One of 20 nine-credit concentrations available, the finance specialization features courses in multinational finance and portfolio management, plus a three-day virtual or on-campus residency.
Degree-seekers can start at the beginning of any semester and graduate within two years. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, this MBA in finance program offers the same tuition rates to in-state and out-of-state learners.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $1,236
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 48 credits
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
Pennsylvania State University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
Not provided
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
#4 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Babson College
Wellesley, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Through Babson's part-time MBA in finance, students join a network of more than 42,000 alumni from around the world. Learners can choose between general finance and STEM-integrated quantitative finance concentrations. Degree-seekers can participate in on-campus weekend intensives for additional networking and collaborative experiences.
Babson offers students fully online, hybrid, and evening classes, along with the ability to complete the program in 18 months or extend it beyond three years. Fully online study may not be available to California residents.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Cost-per-credit: $1,990
- Program Length: 18 months - 3 years
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Private
Babson College is accredited by New England Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,144
Out-of-state
$54,144
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$89,550
Out-of-state
$89,550
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
27%
Students Enrolled
3,340
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
79%
Accreditation
Yes
#5 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Online students at UMD can choose between six MBA tracks, including finance, which focuses on investing, restructuring, and managing finances using data-informed strategies. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredits this program, which boasts an alumni network of more than 65,000 professionals.
Distance learners can choose from three start dates annually, and they pay the same tuition rates regardless of where they live. Students typically complete the 54 required credits within two years. Participants can also access career development activities, seminars, and coaches.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,644
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 54 credit hours
- Program Length: 24 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of Maryland - College Park is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,824
Out-of-state
$34,936
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,158
Out-of-state
$29,250
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
40,709
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Accreditation
Yes
#6 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Purdue students can take a 60-credit general MBA or add a 16-credit concentration in one of six areas, including project management, healthcare management, and finance. Learners pursuing the 76-credit MBA in finance cover topics like international business and investment strategies.
Online classes typically run through six-week terms, and students can choose from multiple start dates each year. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this MBA in finance program also gives experienced applicants the option to enroll in an accelerated pathway that may reduce study time and costs.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $485
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 76 credits
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
Purdue University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,208
Out-of-state
$28,010
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
46,655
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Accreditation
Yes
#7 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Laredo, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
TAMIU's online MBA in finance prepares graduates for careers in international banking and finance, teaching them about important systems and practices and how to perform accurate analysis, measurements, and forecasts. The program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Distance learners pursuing their 30-credit MBA in finance can choose from six annual start dates. They can complete the program in less than 15 months, with courses running throughout seven-week sessions. Texas residents pay reduced tuition, and inexperienced applicants can access prep-module courses.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $335.81
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credit hours
- Program Length: 15 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
Texas A&M International University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,818
Out-of-state
$13,634
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,350
Out-of-state
$10,712
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
8,525
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Accreditation
Yes
#8 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Webster University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Webster's MBA in corporate finance teaches learners to create value for organizations in various ways. One of 10 available emphases, this 45-credit track provides training in modeling, analysis, and budgeting for large organizations.
Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the program's online courses run primarily asynchronously, with the exception of two-hour synchronous sessions each week. Participants must also complete a capstone project where they work directly with an organization.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $780
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 39-45 credit hours
- Format: Online
- School Status: Private
Webster University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$28,500
Out-of-state
$28,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,500
Out-of-state
$13,500
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
53%
Students Enrolled
8,197
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Accreditation
Yes
#9 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
University of North Carolina Wilmington
Wilmington, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UNCW's online MBA in finance program focuses on investment and real estate markets, and it teaches students how to use quantitative and financial analysis to improve organizational health. Students can complete the 36-credit program in 12 months, choosing from six entry dates annually.
The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Online classes run throughout seven-week sessions, and applicants need a 3.0 minimum GPA and at least two years of experience to earn admission.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $414.72 for in-state students; $1,092.62 for out-of-state students
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 36 credit hours
- Program Length: 12 months
- Format: Online
- School Status: Public
University of North Carolina - Wilmington is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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
84%
Acceptance Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
17,915
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Accreditation
Yes
#10 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
University of Delaware
Newark, DE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UD's online students can choose from five MBA specializations, including an MBA in finance. The finance program emphasizes international, corporate, and investment finance. Learners take asynchronous classes in seven-week terms and can graduate within 16 months.
To be admitted, applicants need a minimum GPA of 2.8 and two years of work experience. Prospective students with at least four years of experience may receive a GMAT waiver. Students enjoy access to a career coach, career fairs, and professional development workshops.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $950
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 44 credits
- Program Length: 16 months
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
University of Delaware is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,730
Out-of-state
$34,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$34,164
Out-of-state
$34,164
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
23,613
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Accreditation
Yes
#11 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Bethel University
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Featuring eight concentrations, including one in finance, Bethel's online MBA program holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The MBA in finance focuses on global finance strategies, effective financial decision-making, and ethical leadership. The program culminates in a team leadership and collaboration capstone project.
Classes run throughout six-week sessions, and learners can start at the beginning of any session throughout the year. Students usually complete the 42-credit online program in 19-24 months.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
- Cost-per-credit: $650
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 42 credits
- Program Length: 18-24 months
- Format: Online or hybrid
- School Status: Private
Bethel University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,870
Out-of-state
$38,870
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,700
Out-of-state
$11,700
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
3,814
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Accreditation
Yes
#12 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Ball State University
Muncie, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ball State's online MBA in finance provides students with the analytical tools needed to make and save money for organizations. Students complete 30-43 credits, depending on their prior business training. The program features fall, spring, and summer start dates.
Most students take two courses per semester and graduate within 24 months. The program delivers coursework both synchronously and asynchronously and does not include on-campus requirements. This MBA in finance program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $549 for in-state students; $771 for out-of-state students
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 30-43 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Both
- School Status: Public
Ball State University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,482
Out-of-state
$26,470
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,328
Out-of-state
$25,542
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
21,597
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Accreditation
Yes
#13 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
UMass Amherst's MBA students can choose from multiple concentrations, including business analytics, healthcare administration, and finance. The school's online MBA in finance covers advanced financial management, along with e-commerce logistics, new venture finance, and healthcare finance.
Applicants typically need three years of professional experience. The program requires 37-39 credits and offers start dates every spring, summer, and fall. The program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $2,081 for in-state students; $4,043 for out-of-state students
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credits
- Format: Online or hybrid
- Instruction Style: Synchronous
- School Status: Public
University of Massachusetts - Amherst is accredited by New England Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,791
Out-of-state
$35,779
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,014
Out-of-state
$30,120
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
31,642
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Accreditation
Yes
#14 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Distance learners at FAU can choose from 10 MBA concentrations, including a finance option that prepares professionals to protect an organization's long-term financial health. The program requires 40-46 credits of coursework in specialized topics like advanced monetary economics and multinational finance.
Students can begin during one of three annual start dates and graduate within 16-23 months, taking classes in eight-week terms. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, this MBA in finance features entirely asynchronous online courses and no on-campus requirements.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $800
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 40-46 credits
- Program Length: 16-23 months
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Asynchronous
- School Status: Public
Florida Atlantic University is accredited by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
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
82%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
30,805
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Accreditation
Yes
#15 Best Online MBA in Finance Programs
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Syracuse's MBA students can choose from six concentrations, including finance. In this 54-credit specialization, learners take courses in global economics and quantitative analysis. They can graduate within 24 months and join an alumni network of over 30,000 professionals.
In addition to advanced business training, learners develop modeling, statistical, and portfolio management skills. MBA students must attend three residencies throughout the two-year program. The program holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Program Snapshot
- Program URL: Visit Program
- Program Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
- Cost-per-credit: $1,734
- Total Credits Required to Graduate: 54 credits
- Program Length: 24 months
- Format: Online
- Instruction Style: Synchronous
- School Status: Private
Syracuse University is accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$53,432
Out-of-state
$53,432
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$40,392
Out-of-state
$40,392
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,322
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15%
Accreditation
Yes
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We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2022. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies.
What Is an MBA in Finance?
Programs can vary considerably, but an MBA in finance often focuses on one or more subdisciplines, such as corporate or international finance. MBA programs often feature the same two-year commitment as a standard master's program, although some MBA pathways offer flexible study options to better accommodate working professionals.
These programs can be demanding, emphasizing experience-driven and practical training, and students often complete internships. In online programs, degree-seekers may need to satisfy residency requirements — distance learners should keep those in mind when choosing a school.
What Can I Expect From an Online MBA in Finance Program?
Like a standard MBA program, an online MBA in finance covers general business topics. However, these programs place additional emphasis and provide training specifically in finance. Graduates can manage finance teams, provide consulting and analytical services, and help organizations make more informed financial decisions.
Online programs often offer students improved flexibility and accessibility. An online degree may pay off for students in many ways, with some programs offering asynchronous classes, innovative online technologies, and flat tuition rates for all learners.
-
Corporate Finance
Many of these finance courses are upper-level or elective classes in traditional MBA programs. However, a finance concentration offers a more comprehensive overview of the topic than a single course. -
Financial Management
A financial management course covers topics related to investment portfolio management, including asset allocation, portfolio optimization, trading, and more. -
Supply Chain Management
This course focuses on analytical tools to help with business operations, specifically risk mitigation, efficiency, and strategic management, among other things. -
Business Analytics
This class is tech-heavy, focusing on data analysis through predictive modeling. Some universities classify business analytics as a STEM course. -
Portfolio Management
This course builds on basic financial concepts and includes topics such as hedge funds, index funds, socially responsible investments, and more.
What Can I Do With a Finance MBA?
An MBA in finance can position you well for a rewarding, high-paying career. The BLS projects 16% job growth for financial managers between 2022 and 2032, which is more than five times faster than the average projected growth rate for all occupations. In addition to opening up numerous job opportunities, an MBA in finance qualifies professionals for some of the most lucrative positions in the business sector.
Degree-seekers can also boost their employability even more by specializing in a subdiscipline. Choosing a specialization like corporate finance, portfolio management, risk management, or financial management can help learners focus their training and strengthen their chances of finding meaningful employment in those fields.
Financial Manager
Financial managers supervise major financial activities for organizations. They manage staff, optimize financial processes, and look for investment opportunities. These professionals need a bachelor's degree at minimum, although many employers prefer hiring candidates with a graduate degree.
Median Annual Salary (2022): $139,790
Financial Analyst
These professionals provide financial analysis for organizations in various areas, looking at investments and risks, market trends, and overall financial health. They combine research, analytical tools, and financial insight to identify opportunities for savings and growth. These positions require a bachelor's degree at minimum, with many employers looking to hire workers with a graduate degree.
Median Annual Salary (2022): $96,220
Financial Examiner
Financial examiners review and assess the operations and activities of various financial institutions. They may protect organizations against risk and losses or individuals against unfair and unethical lending practices. For management and senior-level positions, many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree.
Median Annual Salary (2022): $82,210
Top Executive
Top executives help organizations meet goals. These professionals perform tasks like analyzing finances and performance, changing processes, and realigning staff and departmental priorities. They may supervise a variety of departments or manage all financial activities as a chief financial officer. In large corporations, these professionals often hold an MBA.
Median Annual Salary (2022): $100,090
Management Analyst
Management analysts work internally or contractually and look at leadership processes within an organization. They assess finances, employees, and processes and suggest ways to maximize potential. Most employers require candidates to have a bachelor's degree at minimum, although master's degree-holders may receive preference.
Median Annual Salary (2022): $95,290
Finance Not for You? Check Out These Related Careers
Accounting Careers Link
Business Administration Careers Link
Business Intelligence Careers Link
Is an MBA in Finance Worth It?
An MBA in finance can help graduates gain access to specialized industries, careers, and projects. These advanced degrees can provide graduates with a competitive advantage over their peers.
All MBA applicants should consider the possible return on investment for their degree, comparing tuition rates and average salaries of potential careers. MBA in finance graduates may qualify for positions like financial manager, financial analyst, and financial examiner. The top 10% of earners in each of these professions make $160,000 per year or higher.
However, an MBA does not automatically qualify all graduates for the same positions, nor does every student meet admission requirements for these oftentimes competitive programs. As an alternative, aspiring or current finance professionals may consider pursuing a graduate certificate in a specific finance discipline, an industry certification, and/or a standard master's degree in finance.
Find the Tools You Need to Get Started on Your Degree
Graduate Admissions Guide Link
College Accreditation Guide Link
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Online College Students Link
Your Guide to the FAFSA Link
Why Get an MBA in Finance Instead of a Master's in Finance?
Prospective finance students can choose between an MBA in finance and a master of science in finance. While both degrees can lead to similar career paths, MBA programs typically feature more leadership training and may better equip graduates for management positions.
While many of the best online master's in finance programs offer similarly in-depth finance education, MBA programs may better connect the theory covered in coursework to broader organizational activities.
Aspiring learners might also decide to enroll in a dual MBA and master's in finance program, which features an interdisciplinary approach. For more information on these types of programs, check out our dual-degree program guide.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Programs.
Top Online MBA Degree Programs Link
Best Online MBA in Information Technology Programs Link
Best Online MBA in Entrepreneurship Programs Link
Frequently Asked Questions About MBA in Finance Programs
How hard is an MBA in finance program?
Like any degree program, the difficulty will depend largely on the specific program and your preparation going into it. Generally, an MBA in finance is not harder than an MBA with a different concentration.
Is a CPA more valuable than an MBA?
In many ways, this is like comparing apples and oranges. A CPA is a professional certification for accountants, whereas an MBA is an academic degree program that focuses on leadership, accounting, and other components.
What do people do with an MBA in finance?
Common careers for graduates with an MBA in finance include financial analysts, investment managers, and chief financial officers.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed April 6, 2024.
