Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Program Guide

Finance majors can see a major return on their investment. That’s because a finance degree prepares you for high-paying, in-demand careers. If you’re ready for the fast-paced world of finance, keep reading to learn more about earning a bachelor’s degree in finance.

Business is the most popular college major, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). In fact, business majors make up 19% of all bachelor’s degrees conferred. But what is finance, and is a finance degree right for you?

Finance is all about money management. Personal finance focuses on individual savings and investments, while corporate finance manages risk while maximizing investment returns. During a finance degree, you’ll explore core topics like financial institutions, cash flow, and capital structure. You’ll also learn how to manage financial investments, forecast economic trends, and allocate assets.

When it comes to finance degree careers, you’ll have options. Some of the best jobs to get with a finance degree include financial analyst and financial advisor. These are some of the highest-paying careers in business and finance, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

During your bachelor’s degree in finance, you’ll explore financial and accounting concepts. After completing foundational business classes, you can take upper-division courses in financial economics, investment strategy, real estate, and other specialized topics.

Common finance courses include:

Many finance programs incorporate case studies, group projects, and hands-on learning opportunities to strengthen career-ready skills. You may also complete an internship.

Before declaring your finance major, you’ll need to apply to colleges that fit your budget, schedule, and timeline. Here’s what you need to know to start the process.

Earning a bachelor’s degree in finance generally takes around four years for full-time students. During that time, you’ll complete a minimum of 120 credits, including general education requirements and finance coursework.

If you have transfer credits or enroll in an accelerated program, you can complete your degree in less time. For example, incoming students with an associate degree typically only need two years to complete a bachelor’s degree.

At most colleges, you’ll need to submit an application to the school before declaring your finance major. The good news is that there aren’t prerequisites at most colleges. As long as you have a high school diploma or the equivalent, you’ll likely meet the requirements.

Your college applications will likely require the following:

You’ll also need to pay an application fee. Some schools do not charge application fees; you can also apply for an application fee waiver if you meet income eligibility requirements. Submitting your applications through a system such as the Common App can streamline the process.

What are the best jobs to get with a finance degree? Finance majors pursue high-paying, in-demand careers in a variety of fields.

A bachelor’s degree in finance prepares students for roles in corporations, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and institutional investors, such as insurance companies and hedge funds. They may also pursue careers in banking and other financial services. Almost every industry requires professionals who can advise clients and businesses on growing wealth, making investments, and diversifying portfolios.

Career paths with a finance degree include accountants, financial analysts, and financial planners. Some careers require certification. Additionally, some employers prefer candidates with graduate degrees for management and leadership roles. Students looking for advancement opportunities can consider schools that offer dual-degree tracks that lead to a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years.

How much do finance majors earn? Digging into finance degree salary data reveals how this degree can pay off. The highest-paying jobs with a finance degree report median salaries of around $100,000 per year. Learn more about demand and salary data in the table below.

After earning a bachelor’s degree in finance, you can apply for entry-level jobs and gain work experience. Professional certifications like the certified financial planner (CFP) or chartered financial analyst (CFA) can help showcase your expertise. You’ll typically need several years of professional experience to meet certification requirements.

A finance degree also offers a strong foundation for graduate school. For example, you can earn an MBA or a master’s in finance. A graduate degree strengthens management and finance skills, and many employers prefer to hire candidates with a master’s degree for roles such as financial manager.

Hundreds of colleges offer finance degrees. How can you find the right program for you? Here are some factors to consider when comparing finance programs.

The total cost of a finance degree can vary by tens of thousands of dollars per year. Consider your budget and your financial aid options when researching programs, and look beyond tuition rates to consider fees, textbooks, and other expenses. Comparing costs can help you boost the ROI of your degree.

While bachelor’s programs require a minimum of 120 credits, program length can vary depending on your transfer credits, the program format, and program requirements. Reputable programs will provide data on the average time to get a degree for recent graduates. You can also request a transfer credit evaluation to get the most out of your prior college experience.

Always choose an accredited institution for your finance degree. You can also look for a business school with programmatic accreditation to make sure your finance program follows the best practices in the field. Confirm your program’s accreditation status by using the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs from the Department of Education.

Is an online or in-person program better for your schedule and learning style? With many program format options, including hybrid, self-paced, and accelerated programs, you’ve got options. If you’re considering online programs, research their accreditation status and online student services to find a reputable option.