Most Affordable Online Finance Degrees of 2025

Q: What's the difference between a finance degree and an accounting degree?

An accounting degree focuses on properly tracking and reporting financial transactions. It involves following strict rules, laws, and procedures. A finance degree is more strategy-based. You're making decisions based on financial data to help a business or individual maintain healthy finances going forward.

Q: Do finance degree programs need to be accredited?

It’s ideal to choose an accredited university. Accredited institutions are held to higher standards in curriculum and faculty. Many employers don’t recognize unaccredited degrees, and you may not qualify for federal aid. Not all unaccredited programs are bad, but you’re more likely to benefit from [a finance program at] an accredited school.

Q: Do I need a master's degree to work in finance?

No, you don’t need a master’s to work in finance. There are many entry-level, well-paying jobs available with just a bachelor’s. Some careers, like financial advising, are performance-based. That said, a master’s can open more opportunities, especially in mid- or senior-level roles at larger companies.

Q: What certifications should I pursue if I study finance?

There are certifications in many specialized areas. Some, like the chartered financial analyst (CFA), are used in both personal and corporate finance. Others, like the chartered life underwriter (CLU), are more role-specific. A finance degree exposes you to different paths, so you can choose the one that fits your goals.

Interested in learning how to manage money — while also saving money yourself? Explore the most affordable online bachelor’s in finance programs.

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Updated May 13, 2025

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At a Glance: BestColleges’ Top Pick for an Affordable Online Finance Degree

#1: University of North Carolina at Greensboro — This reputable university’s low average net price and in-state graduate tuition rate make it a top choice for finance students on a budget.

Finance professionals are essential across every industry, from banking and investing to corporate strategy. Earning an online bachelor’s in finance can be a flexible way to break into this high-demand field.

To help you find the best option for you, we compiled a list of the most affordable online finance degree programs and ranked them using data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) and College Scorecard.

We prioritized programs based on factors such as cost, accreditation, and student outcomes so you can pursue a quality education without taking on unnecessary debt.

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In this Article

Best Affordable Online Finance Degrees

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

How We Rank Schools

At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.

We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online

$4,422

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$19,582

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

90%

Acceptance Rate

71%

Online Enrollment

Why UNCG Made Our List

UNCG's online bachelor's in finance focuses on the theory, organization, and operation of financial systems. The program does this from both a market and managerial perspective by immersing students in the local business community to ultimately help prepare them for the chartered financial analyst (CFA) certification exam.

Why Attend UNCG

Low Tuition Costs for Residents: Fully online students who live in North Carolina can expect to pay just $235 per credit — about 28% less than what on-campus students pay.
Low Net Price: After receiving financial aid, you can expect to pay roughly $11,000 a year on average.
High Retention Rate: 78% of first-year students are likely to re-enroll the following year, indicating high satisfaction among students across majors.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: Despite the program's low annual net price, nearly half of all students (45%) take out loans to attend.
Lower Graduation Rate: Just 57% of undergraduates complete their programs at UNCG, suggesting that the cost of attending might still be too high for some.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$5,375

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,505

Retention Rate

76%

Students Enrolled

17,743

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,422

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,582

University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,422

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,582

Acceptance Rate

90%

Online Enrollment

71%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$5,375

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,505

Retention Rate

76%

Students Enrolled

17,743

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why UNCG Made Our List

Why Attend UNCG

Low Tuition Costs for Residents: Fully online students who live in North Carolina can expect to pay just $235 per credit — about 28% less than what on-campus students pay.
Low Net Price: After receiving financial aid, you can expect to pay roughly $11,000 a year on average.
High Retention Rate: 78% of first-year students are likely to re-enroll the following year, indicating high satisfaction among students across majors.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: Despite the program's low annual net price, nearly half of all students (45%) take out loans to attend.
Lower Graduation Rate: Just 57% of undergraduates complete their programs at UNCG, suggesting that the cost of attending might still be too high for some.

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN4 yearCampus + Online

$14,496

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$34,410

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

77%

Acceptance Rate

36%

Online Enrollment

Why UMN Made Our List

UMN Online's bachelor's in finance program is designed to expand your understanding of financial performance and risk, consumer needs, and more. You'll learn to describe and apply financial concepts and prepare personal financial plans. We love that UMN boasts several student support services for online students, including disability resources, technology help, and career counseling.

Why Attend UMN Online

High Admission Rate: More than 3 in 4 UMN Online applicants are admitted each year.
Low Tuition Costs: UMN Online students pay just $448 per credit.
High Graduation Rate: Over 4 in 5 UMN students make it to graduation.

Know Before You Go

Higher Net Price: While UMN's average annual net price is under $17,000, it's still higher than that of most other schools on our list.
Online Student Resources: Fully online students who want to utilize mental health resources can only do so on one of UMN's five campuses.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,116

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$29,580

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

54,890

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,496

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,410

University of Minnesota-Twin Cities

Minneapolis, MN4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$14,496

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,410

Acceptance Rate

77%

Online Enrollment

36%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$19,116

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$29,580

Retention Rate

91%

Students Enrolled

54,890

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why UMN Made Our List

Why Attend UMN Online

High Admission Rate: More than 3 in 4 UMN Online applicants are admitted each year.
Low Tuition Costs: UMN Online students pay just $448 per credit.
High Graduation Rate: Over 4 in 5 UMN students make it to graduation.

Know Before You Go

Higher Net Price: While UMN's average annual net price is under $17,000, it's still higher than that of most other schools on our list.
Online Student Resources: Fully online students who want to utilize mental health resources can only do so on one of UMN's five campuses.

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater, WI4 yearCampus + Online

$6,582

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$16,247

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

94%

Acceptance Rate

58%

Online Enrollment

Why UW-Whitewater Made Our List

UW-Whitewater's fully online bachelor's in finance focuses on financial strategic management. It offers courses in security valuation, corporate financial management, banking, real estate, and insurance. Graduates often apply for jobs like analyst, financial planner, and investment manager.

Why Attend UW-Whitewater

Low Tuition Costs: For the 2024-2025 academic year, online tuition at UW-Whitewater runs at $412 per credit.
Lower Net Price: After receiving financial aid, the average student is responsible for just under $14,000 a year.
Expansive Online Resources: Fully online students have access to academic advising, library services, technical support, mentoring, and career services.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: Despite boasting a lower annual net price than most other schools on our list, 47% of students still need to take out loans to cover costs.
Limited Electives for Online Students: Though all required courses are offered to online students, not all electives are available online.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,441

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

11,522

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,582

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,247

University of Wisconsin-Whitewater

Whitewater, WI4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,582

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,247

Acceptance Rate

94%

Online Enrollment

58%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,858

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$19,441

Retention Rate

78%

Students Enrolled

11,522

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why UW-Whitewater Made Our List

Why Attend UW-Whitewater

Low Tuition Costs: For the 2024-2025 academic year, online tuition at UW-Whitewater runs at $412 per credit.
Lower Net Price: After receiving financial aid, the average student is responsible for just under $14,000 a year.
Expansive Online Resources: Fully online students have access to academic advising, library services, technical support, mentoring, and career services.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: Despite boasting a lower annual net price than most other schools on our list, 47% of students still need to take out loans to cover costs.
Limited Electives for Online Students: Though all required courses are offered to online students, not all electives are available online.

Missouri State University-Springfield

Springfield, MO4 yearCampus + Online

$7,812

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$16,716

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

91%

Acceptance Rate

51%

Online Enrollment

Why Missouri State Made Our List

Missouri State's fully online bachelor's in finance program aims to help students become investment and asset managers for individuals, companies, and public agencies. You'll develop key business skills that can help you secure a job as a budget analyst, loan officer, or broker.

Why Attend Missouri State

Low, Flat-Rate Tuition Costs: Whether you reside in Missouri or not, all online undergraduates enjoy a flat-rate tuition cost of $302 per credit.
Most Students Don't Need Loans: Fewer than 1 in 3 students (31%) take out federal or private loans to cover school costs.

Know Before You Go

Higher Average Net Price: Despite low tuition costs, the average annual net price after financial aid is over $17,000, which is higher than that of other schools on our list.
Lower Graduation Rates: Just 57% of Missouri State students complete their programs, suggesting that other factors may make it difficult for students to stay enrolled.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,264

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,492

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

23,418

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,812

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,716

Missouri State University-Springfield

Springfield, MO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,812

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$16,716

Acceptance Rate

91%

Online Enrollment

51%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,264

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,492

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

23,418

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why Missouri State Made Our List

Why Attend Missouri State

Low, Flat-Rate Tuition Costs: Whether you reside in Missouri or not, all online undergraduates enjoy a flat-rate tuition cost of $302 per credit.
Most Students Don't Need Loans: Fewer than 1 in 3 students (31%) take out federal or private loans to cover school costs.

Know Before You Go

Higher Average Net Price: Despite low tuition costs, the average annual net price after financial aid is over $17,000, which is higher than that of other schools on our list.
Lower Graduation Rates: Just 57% of Missouri State students complete their programs, suggesting that other factors may make it difficult for students to stay enrolled.

Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO4 yearCampus + Online

$6,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$12,884

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

86%

Acceptance Rate

47%

Online Enrollment

Why NW Missouri State Made Our List

NW Missouri State's online bachelor's in finance centers on money management. You'll learn the fundamentals of finance and develop financial expertise in risks, investments, planning, and budgeting. You'll also get to experience real-life learning scenarios that move teachings from theory to practice.

Why Attend NW Missouri State

Low Tuition Costs: Fully online students pay just $347 per credit for a BS in corporate finance.
Shorter Courses: You can take advantage of seven-week courses, which allow you to complete your degree at a faster pace.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: After receiving financial aid, 47% of students still need to take out loans to cover costs.
Lower Graduation Rate: Just 58% of NW Missouri State students complete their programs, a much lower graduation rate than those of other schools on our list.

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,704

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$6,704

Retention Rate

74%

Students Enrolled

9,664

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,884

Northwest Missouri State University

Maryville, MO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,442

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,884

Acceptance Rate

86%

Online Enrollment

47%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$6,704

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$6,704

Retention Rate

74%

Students Enrolled

9,664

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Why NW Missouri State Made Our List

Why Attend NW Missouri State

Low Tuition Costs: Fully online students pay just $347 per credit for a BS in corporate finance.
Shorter Courses: You can take advantage of seven-week courses, which allow you to complete your degree at a faster pace.

Know Before You Go

Many Students Take Out Loans: After receiving financial aid, 47% of students still need to take out loans to cover costs.
Lower Graduation Rate: Just 58% of NW Missouri State students complete their programs, a much lower graduation rate than those of other schools on our list.

Is an Online Finance Degree Right for You?

Pros

Qualify for In-Demand Roles: A bachelor’s in finance can help you qualify for several fast-growing careers like financial examiner and financial manager. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects these positions to grow by 21% and 17%, respectively, through 2033.
Diverse Career Options: A finance degree opens doors to jobs in a wide array of settings, including private companies, government agencies, and small businesses.
High Return on Investment: According to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report, 94% of online students and program graduates say their degree will have or has had a positive return on investment — and 97% would recommend online education to others.

Cons

Continuing Education: Certain positions may require you to pursue additional degrees or certifications, such as a master of business administration (MBA) or the certified financial planner (CFP) certification.
Balancing Cost and Value: While this list highlights affordable programs, 22% of online business students and graduates we surveyed say paying for tuition while minimizing student debt was the most significant challenge they faced in completing their online program.
Time Management: 1 in 5 online business students and graduates we surveyed say staying on track with classes to graduate on their planned timeline was their primary challenge.

How to Choose the Best Finance Degree Program for You

There are several factors to consider when comparing online finance degree programs, including cost, program length, and career outlook.

Cost of Online Finance Degrees

Online

$13,228 Avg. Tuition & Fees

$7,158 Avg. Net Price

On-Campus

$19,693 Avg. Tuition & Fees

$11,158 Avg. Net Price

Source: NCES PowerStats; latest available data is from 2019-2020 and is for all bachelor’s degrees in business

Business Scholarships: Finance students may qualify for national, industry-specific scholarships, such as the Women in Public Finance Scholarship and the CardRates Financial Futures Scholarship.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA): Submit the FAFSA to see if you qualify for federal aid, including grants, work-study opportunities, loans, and scholarships.
Student Loans: Federal and private loans are available to cover tuition and other expenses. Typically, you won’t have to repay them until after you graduate.
Online Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships exist for online students, such as the GetEducated.com Distance Learning Scholarship and the Study.com Online Undergraduate Degree Scholarship.

Bachelor’s in Finance Program Length

Typical # of Credits

120 Credits

Typical Program Length

4 Years

Finance Degree Application Requirements

Test Scores: Many institutions require applicants to submit SAT or ACT scores, while others may be test optional.
Letters of Recommendation: These can offer unique insight into your academic and professional potential. Strong letters often come from teachers, coaches, or supervisors.
Personal Essay: A personal statement helps admissions officials understand your goals, background, and challenges beyond what’s reported in your transcript.
Application Fee: Most schools charge a nonrefundable application fee, though some offer fee waivers based on financial need.

Jobs With a Degree in Finance

Popular Finance Jobs
Job	Median Annual Salary (May 2024)	Description
Budget Analyst	$87,930	Helps an organization plan its finances, including preparing annual reports and evaluating budget proposals
Financial Analyst	$101,910	Uses current and historical data to recommend investments, determine company value, or study business and economic trends
Financial Services Sales Agents	$78,140	Connects buyers and sellers in financial markets, such as selling stocks or advising companies on investors
Personal Financial Advisor	$102,140	Works directly with clients to help them meet financial goals, including advising on investments, budgeting, and taxes

Source: BLS

Education Beyond a Bachelor’s in Finance

Master’s in Finance: An advanced degree can deepen your finance knowledge and qualify you for higher-level leadership roles in finance, such as financial analyst, financial manager, and portfolio manager.
MBA in Finance: An MBA can offer a broader business education with a focus on finance. This degree is a popular choice for those looking to upskill and stay competitive. An MBA can also help you qualify for senior or managerial positions.
Finance Certifications: Professional credentials, such as the CFP certification awarded by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, can enhance your career prospects and credibility.

Ask an Expert: Frequently Asked Questions About Finance Degrees

R.J. Weiss

CFP

R.J. Weiss is a certified financial planner with a BA in finance from Eastern Illinois University. He’s the founder of The Ways to Wealth, a financial education company.

What can I expect to learn in a finance degree program?

A degree in finance covers both corporate and personal finance. You’ll learn a wide variety of topics, from how to structure a personal investment portfolio to managing financial risk in a corporate setting. Many core concepts overlap, making it a versatile degree with broad career options after graduation.