Online MBAs in Finance
In pursuing an online MBA in finance you will build in-depth specialized business skills and comprehensive financial knowledge. The degree can also help you land leadership roles in the field, including chief financial officer (CFO), a top-level executive position.
An online MBA can give you a competitive advantage in the job market and help you expand your professional network. The Graduate Management Admission Council’s 2024 Corporate Recruiters Survey projected that MBA graduates would earn a median starting salary of $120,000, which is 1.75 times higher than the estimated starting salary for bachelor’s degree-holders.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition and fees for one year of graduate school was $20,513 in 2021-2022. This cost varies based on degree type, state residency status, and whether the school is public or private. Many MBA programs cost much more than this NCES average, but there are MBA scholarships that can help offset the cost. Some schools offer online finance MBAs with tuition rates as low as $11,000.
Continue on to discover the types of courses in an MBA in finance program, as well as how long it takes to earn this degree. Also, explore career opportunities and earning potential within finance.
What Is an MBA in Finance?
An MBA in finance provides you with broad-based knowledge in finance and business. Instructors teach students about strategic business planning, operations, and management. You also learn about finance principles, such as investment strategies, corporate finance, and analyzing financial statements. Along the way, you’ll develop in-demand skills, such as analytical thinking and complex problem-solving.
These programs require you to complete 30-76 credits. Some of the core courses may include business analytics and leadership strategies. Programs may also require you to complete internships, which offer direct experience and can pave the way to full-time positions. Some online programs do not require internships, as many learners hold full-time jobs.
What Can You Do With an MBA in Finance?
Earning a master’s in finance or an MBA in finance can lead to lucrative and in-demand careers. MBA programs, however, provide more management training and business expertise than other master’s programs, leading to leadership roles.
Payscale reports that the average annual salary for those with an MBA in finance is $107,000, as of April 2025. In comparison, professionals with a master of finance degree earn an average salary of $84,000.
Financial management is a growing, in-demand field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 17% job growth for financial managers between 2023 and 2033. This amounts to an average of 75,100 job openings every year.
How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA in Finance?
Most online MBA in finance programs take about two years of full-time enrollment to complete. However, some schools offer accelerated programs or self-paced, competency-based programs. These programs let you control your workload and progress at your own pace. You may complete these programs in as few as 12 months.
Part-time students may take three years or longer to complete an online MBA in finance. This timeline varies based on the number of credits and the time available to commit to studies.
Graduate Coursework in Finance
Financial Accounting
This course teaches you how to analyze financial statements and corporate disclosures. It develops skills in predictive analytics and forecasting expenses and revenues. Students explore how to use financial statements to evaluate a company’s health.Corporate Finance
This class explores capital structure and management within an organization. You learn how to evaluate investment opportunities and the financial impact of different strategies. Covered topics include financial theory, corporate valuation, and mergers and acquisitions.Financial Statement Analysis
This course looks at analyzing a business’s financial statements. You learn fundamental theories and competencies needed by financial professionals in the corporate world. It also explores their impact on sound managerial decisions.Data Analysis
This class focuses on data analytics in relation to making managerial decisions. You explore techniques like regression, graphical analysis, and inferential statistics. Students discover how to use data to measure and improve productivity and quality.International Financial Markets
This class explores the differences between international and domestic financial markets. You learn about the different regulatory environments and types of securities. Discussions also include risks and opportunities in international investments.Real Estate Finance
This course focuses on the financial structuring of real estate investments. You learn about real estate as an investment strategy for individuals and corporations. Covered topics include equity vehicles and alternative-financing debt.Managing Portfolios
This class covers the statistical tools used to manage multiple securities. Students explore portfolio management and risk, client assessment, and security selection.
Careers in Finance for MBA Grads
Colleges That Offer Online MBAs in Finance
Below is a list of nonprofit, four-year institutions that each offer an online MBA in finance. Use the table below to compare locations, overall graduation rates, and business school accreditation.
| School | Location | Graduation Rate | Programmatic Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Chapel Hill, North Carolina | 92% | AACSB |
| Villanova University | Villanova, Pennsylvania | 92% | AACSB |
| Babson College | Wellesley, Massachusetts | 92% | AACSB |
| University of Maryland, College Park | College Park, Maryland | 89% | AACSB |
| Purdue University Global | West Lafayette, Indiana | 48% | ACBSP |
| Pennsylvania State University, World Campus | University Park, Pennsylvania | 34% | AACSB |
| Webster University | Saint Louis, Missouri | 61% | ACBSP |
| University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, North Carolina | 71% | AACSB |
| University of Delaware | Newark, Delaware | 79% | AACSB |
FAQ About Online MBAs in Finance
What kind of job can I get with an MBA in finance?
Earning an MBA in finance can lead to executive-level roles in business and finance. You may work as a financial analyst, financial manager, investment strategist, or financial business consultant. If your goal is landing a leadership position, you can aim for CFO.
Is an MBA worth it for finance?
Yes. If you’re interested in business and finance, an MBA in finance may be worth it. It’s best to consider the cost and your career goals when deciding if the degree is right for you. If your goal is to qualify for higher-level positions, an MBA in finance can take you there.
Do I need an MBA to be a financial advisor?
While an MBA is not required to be a financial advisor, it does add to your credentials. Additionally, while a bachelor’s may get you in the door, an MBA may offer greater advancement opportunities.
How long will it take me to get an MBA in finance?
Earning your MBA in finance may take anywhere from 1-5 years. Full-time students usually complete the program in about two years. Some online accelerated programs take less than one year to complete. Part-time students may take three or more years to finish the program.
