Best Online MBA in Finance
Updated October 25, 2023
thebestschools.org 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.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
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.
Featured Online Schools
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
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
#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
Online MBA in Finance Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Featured Online Schools
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Header Image Credit: | Getty Images
Featured Economics Programs
Learn more, do more.
More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.
Popular with our students.
Highly informative resources to keep your education journey on track.
Take the next step toward your future with online learning.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
