Online finance degrees are practical, affordable, and designed to teach you real-world skills. The good news is, you don’t need an Ivy League budget to earn a respected degree.
Top Affordable Online Finance Degree Programs
Check out these top, budget-friendly programs:
Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an affordable BS in Business – Finance degree. Completed at your own pace for under $7,000 per year, this competency-based program focuses on financial management fundamentals.
2. Southern New Hampshire University
SNHU’s BS in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning teaches you how to analyze investments and help clients achieve financial goals. At around $10,000 annually, it’s a solid, affordable choice for aspiring financial advisors.
3. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
UMass Lowell’s BS in Finance and Accounting degree provides broad knowledge of finance, accounting, economics and management. For in-state students, annual tuition is approximately $15,000. Scholarships and grants can help reduce the cost.
4. American Public University
APU’s BS in Finance prepares you for careers like financial analyst or manager. Self-paced and around $7,000 per year, this online program highlights areas like corporate finance, financial markets, and risk management.
Earning an affordable online finance degree is absolutely within your reach.
With flexible, budget-friendly programs from respected schools, you can gain the skills and knowledge to advance your career without breaking the bank.
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Tips for Saving Money While Earning Your Online Finance Degree
To earn an online finance degree without breaking the bank, follow these budget-friendly tips:
1. Find free or low-cost courses
Take advantage of massive open online courses (MOOCs) offered for free or at low cost from Coursera, EdX, Udacity, and Udemy. These platforms offer courses in finance, accounting, economics, and more. You can earn certificates to add to your resume or build foundational knowledge.
Check if your local community college offers intro finance classes online at a lower cost. You can then transfer credits to an online bachelor’s program.
2. Look for scholarships and grants
Search for scholarships for online or business students. Many are offered through schools, private organizations, and employers.
See if you qualify for need-based grants like a Pell Grant or subsidized federal student loans. These don’t need to be repaid.
Ask about tuition reimbursement programs through your workplace. Some companies offer full or partial reimbursement for job-related degree programs.
3. Compare program costs
Compare tuition and fees across online finance degrees at different schools. Costs can vary significantly. Look for programs accredited by the AACSB, which ensures a high-quality curriculum and education.
Consider public schools in your state which often charge lower in-state tuition. Private and for-profit schools usually cost more.
Make sure you understand all charges including per-credit rates, student service fees and additional program or lab fees. Some schools advertise a lower per-credit rate but have higher fees.
4. Ask about available resources
Inquire about resources and support services offered with the program like tutoring, advising, career counseling and job placement assistance. These extras can add value to the degree.
See if the school provides any technology tools, resources or software for students at no additional cost. Things like statistical analysis tools, presentation software or project collaboration platforms.
Keeping costs down while earning an in-demand finance degree online is absolutely possible by taking advantage of affordable course options, securing scholarships and choosing a reasonably-priced, high-value program.
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FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Online Finance Degrees
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about affordable online finance degrees.
1. What kind of jobs can I get with an online finance degree?
An online Bachelor’s or Master’s in Finance can prepare you for roles like financial analyst, financial advisor, budget analyst, auditor, and more.
2. How much does an online finance degree cost?
The cost of an online finance degree varies depending on the school. Public in-state schools typically charge between $5,000 to $30,000 per year. Private schools can cost $20,000-$50,000 or more per year. However, there are many ways to lower the cost:
3. How long does it take to complete an online finance degree?
The time it takes to earn an online finance degree depends on several factors like the specific program, course load, and if you study full or part time.
4. What skills will I learn?
An online finance degree provides many useful skills, including:
- Financial analysis and reporting
- Budgeting and cost management
- Investment and portfolio
- management Risk analysis and
- management Accounting and auditing Economic principles and theory
These technical and soft skills will prepare you for a successful career as a finance professional.