[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]During an MBA in finance, graduate students strengthen their analytical and critical thinking skills.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An MBA in finance prepares graduates for high-paying careers in growing fields. For example, many [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm/” target=”_blank”]financial managers[/hen-ui-link] hold MBAs in finance. Financial managers earn a median income of $161,700 per year as of May 2023, with a much faster-than-average projected job growth rate for 2023-2033.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]The Best Online MBA in Finance Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”what-is”]What Is an Online MBA in Finance?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] in finance trains students in portfolio management, strategic corporate finance, and financial analysis. By blending [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-business-administration/”]business administration[/hen-ui-link] and finance coursework, an MBA prepares graduates for roles as decision-makers within organizations, including roles like financial manager or chief financial officer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Earning an [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”choosing”]Choosing and Online MBA in Finance Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When researching [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-mba/”]online MBA[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Master’s in Finance vs. MBA in Finance: What’s the Difference?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When choosing between a master’s in finance vs. MBA in finance, prospective students should consider specialization options, intended career path, and general coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]By contrast, a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-finance/” target=”/"_blank"”]master’s in finance[/hen-ui-link] 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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”accreditation”]Accreditation for Online MBA in Finance[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective applicants should always look for accreditation when researching MBA in finance online programs. [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/” target=”/"_blank"”]Regionally accredited schools[/hen-ui-link] meet the requirements for professional certifications and licenses, and many employers will only hire graduates with accredited degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Three independent, nonprofit organizations grant programmatic accreditation specifically for MBA programs: [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.aacsb.edu/” target=”/"_blank"”]AACSB International[/hen-ui-link], the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, and the [hen-ui-link href=”https://iacbe.org/” target=”/"_blank"”]International Accreditation Council for Business Education[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”expect”]What Can I Expect When Pursuing an MBA in Finance Online?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”courses”]Common Courses in an Online MBA in Finance Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background” theme=”tertiary”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Business Valuation”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Corporate Finance”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Data Analytics in Finance”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”International Banking”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Investment Management”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Real Estate Finance”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Featured MBA Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″ id=”careers”]Finance Careers[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This section explores common career paths for individuals with MBAs in finance, including earning potential and projected job growth for each career.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Financial Manager”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most financial managers have bachelor’s degrees and several years of work experience. Some employers prefer to hire candidates with MBAs in finance or [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-finance/”]master’s degrees in finance[/hen-ui-link]. Financial managers can also demonstrate specialized skills by pursuing professional certifications.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Top Executives”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Medical and Health Services Managers”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Personal Financial Advisors”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Securities, Commodities, and Financial Sales Agents”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-grid columns-md=”2″ gap=”md”] [/hen-ui-grid] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Long Does It Take to Get an MBA Online?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is an Online MBA Respected?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Can I Do With an MBA in Finance?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do Employers Care About MBA Accreditation?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes. Most employers prefer to hire candidates who attended accredited MBA programs.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Which is Better: An MBA or a Master’s in Finance?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Is the Difference Between an MBA and an MS in Finance?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]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.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”text-xs”]Header Image Credit: | Getty Images[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Featured Economics Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”7262,1465,1217″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]