Colleges and universities chosen for our 2017 Best Value Online Master’s of Business in Finance must carry regional accreditation and are recognized by one or more national publications for the quality of their business education offerings. Our ranking has been built using our proprietary methodology which aggregates publicly available data and produces an overall score of 1 to 100. Data was drawn from sources such as U.S. News scores, tuition rates, return on investment according to Payscale.com, graduation rates, and cohort default rates. The top 50 scores that come out of this methodology have earned their place in this ranking.
The wave of baby boomers entering retirement is fueling demand for financial planning expertise. According to U.S. News & World Report, the financial planning profession is expected to be one of the nation’s fastest-growing fields during the next decade. Characterized by the potential for above-average salaries, upward mobility, and schedule flexibility, the financial industry has changed dramatically in recent years. Shifting regulatory regimes, the growing complexity of global trade, and the rise of mobile banking are just a few of the industry’s new realities. As the marketplace becomes increasingly complex, financial managers and analysts need an in-depth understanding of how to maximize global diversification of financial portfolios, shareholder value, and return on financial assets while managing the risk exposure to interest rate, exchange rate, and commodity fluctuation. Being able to adapt accordingly can propel your future in the field. A master’s degree in finance can help equip you with the skills needed to meet the demands of today’s marketplace.
#1. Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Pennsylvania State World Campus is the online campus of the Pennsylvania State University System. The online division was launched in 1998 and grew out of the University’s long history of offering distance education. The online campus caters to the needs of non-traditional students who are limited in their ability to attend a residential program due to geography or life factors. The World Campus offers over 120 online degree and certificate programs with more being added on a continual basis. U.S. News & World Report ranks Penn State University Park #50 in “National Universities,” #14 in “Top Public Schools,” and #7 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
Penn State’s Smeal College of Business is a vibrant intellectual community offering highly ranked undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and executive education opportunities to more than 6,000 students from across the country and around the world. The College is guided by the core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, discovery, excellence, and community in the conduct of its everyday activities. Penn State’s World Campus online Master of Finance program gives students a well-rounded understanding of finance by covering practical business applications that can be used to manage current financial challenges, as well as advanced financial theory that provides the tools needed to address future trends. The program follows a cohort model in which all students begin at the same time and progress through the coursework at the same time, allowing for a collaborative environment and content integration. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree. While the coursework can be completed online, a one-week residency at the Great Valley campus is required just after the start of the fourth course in the program sequence.
Accreditation: Pennsylvania State University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Business programs are recognized by the the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Tuition: $30,750
#2. Auburn University
Located in Auburn, Alabama, Auburn University is a public institution among few designated as land, sea, and space grant universities. The school is focused on research projects that benefit the local community. AU emphasizes international education and is a leader in fields including engineering, transportation tech, and veterinary medicine. AU emphasizes international education, is at the forefront of engineering, transportation technology and veterinary medicine, achieves global impact through modern agricultural, extension and forestry/wildlife programs, and fulfills critical research and national shortages through pharmaceutical, sciences, mathematics, education, nursing and human sciences offerings.Auburn is a reputable institution ranked #99 in “National Universities,” #43 in “Top Public Schools,” and #10 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
Auburn’s Raymond J. Harbert College of Business is dedicated to producing highly-desired graduates and generating knowledge that drives business thought and practice. Undergraduate programs at the college are designed to prepare students with business principles that every organization relies on for success With a solid business education students will be prepared with the practical skills to excel in a variety of positions in the industry of their choosing. The College offers an online Master of Science in Finance that provides specialized instruction for students who anticipate a career in finance or plan to pursue further graduate work. The College offers thesis and non-thesis options for this degree. The MS program in finance is a strong choice for students planning a career in finance or additional graduate study in business. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree. Eligible students may transfer up to 6 credits to accelerate their coursework.
Accreditation: Auburn University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition:
In-State: $24,368
Out-of-State: $54,608
#3. Bentley University
Located in Waltham, Massachusetts just outside Boston, Bentley University is private nonprofit and internationally recognized business university. Bentley offers a wide variety of majors and minors, as well as optional Liberal Studies and Business Studies majors designed to create a modern intersection of the arts and sciences and business that’s unique in higher education. Bentley students are highly sought after by today’s leading organizations because of their professionalism, exposure to state-of-the-art research tools, and diverse, real-world experience. Bentley is ranked #32 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The Master of Science in Financial Planning (MSFP) program is offered through fully online or hybrid formats and is the only master’s-level financial planning program in New England. The program is designed to impart expert and comprehensive preparation for professionals working in the financial planning industry and it gives students the opportunity to balance their studies with the pursuit of a professional career. All core coursework and most electives are available online. Students opting for the hybrid model can still fully participate in courses at a distance, but will participate in some classes through synchronous coursework which is administered through real time via video cameras, ceiling mounted student microphones, and wireless microphones for professors. This model provides the convenience of online learning with the benefit of active engagement that the traditional classroom provides. Students may choose to specialize in quantitative finance for 36 credits, or general finance for 30 credits of coursework.
Accreditation: Bentley University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition: $44,450 – $53,340
#4. Colorado State University
Colorado State University Global Campus is the online campus of the state-related public Colorado State University System. Headquartered in Greenwood Village, Colorado, the Global Campus offers online undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs designed specially for non-traditional, adult professional students and students who can not participate in traditional programs at the residential campus. U.S. News & World Report ranks CSU #129 in “National Universities,” #39 in “Best Civil Engineering Programs,” and #48 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
Colorado State University Global’s online Master of Finance program is designed to familiarize students with the latest technology and emerging business trends to create financial strategies, analyze financial risks and investments, and make effective decisions. In addition to sharpening financial skills and building upon a foundation of financial knowledge, students will also learn the necessary skills to become a leader in the field of finance. The program includes multiple options for completion including a year-round, 8-week-course accelerated option, or a slower schedule for working professionals. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Colorado State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $26,169
#5. Boston University
Boston University is a private nonprofit research university and one of the largest in the United States. The university features highly ranked schools in communication, engineering, business, medicine, law and belongs to the prestigious Association of American Universities. BU is a very reputable institution of higher learning ranked #39 in “National Universities,” and #10 “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The Questrom School of Business at Boston University is dedicated to the preparation of innovative and ethical leaders who understand the impact of business on society and creating value for the world. It’s online Master of Science in Banking & Financial Services Management program is designed to prepare students for success in the fast-paced, dynamic financial sector by combining a solid foundation in general management practices with expertise in corporate finance, global markets, and the financial services industry. Students explore investment analysis, mergers and acquisitions, securities markets, corporate finance, international economics, ecommerce practices, buyout transactions, financial statement analysis, and decision-making tools and strategies. The program consists of 48 quarter credits or 12 required online courses. Students may also choose to plan their degree such that two courses can apply towards an Administrative Sciences graduate certificate leaving only two addition courses for its completion.
Accreditation: Boston University is regionally accredited by the North Eastern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $39,840
#6. Indiana University
Established in 1820, Indiana University is a multi-campus university system with its flagship campus located in Bloomington, Indiana. IU Bloomington is the largest institution in the IU system with over 40,000 students, is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is considered a “Public Ivy”— a public institution of higher learning offering a quality of education commensurate with that of the Ivy Leagues. Overall IU is a highly reputable institution with U.S. News & World Report rankings at #86 in “National Universities,” #36 in “Top Public Schools,” and #1 in “Best Online Graduate Business Schools.”
The Kelley School of Business at IU utilizes an innovative curriculum built on personal development, teamwork and experiential learning with an emphasis on global and social responsibility. Additionally, Kelley curriculum incorporates international experiences. The school builds upon extensive existing collaborations with international partner schools and global businesses, providing students opportunities not just for a cultural exchange, but real leadership experience dealing with critical business issues on a worldwide scale. The school’s online Master of Finance develops the financially-sound reasoning students need to achieve the strategic goals of their organizations. Topics in the program include: financial management, quantitative analysis, value creation, risk management, capital markets, and more. The degree can be earned around students’ individual schedules and can be earned in as little as 15 months of full-time study. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Indiana University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Business programs are recognized by the the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Tuition: $39,000
#7. Florida Institute of Technology
Located in Melbourne, Florida, the Florida Institute of Technology is an independent technological university and the only of its kind in the Southeastern United States. FIT is an international center for innovation, high-caliber research and world-class education and is unique in its offering the depth of resources of a national research institution combined with the intimacy and personalized learning experiences of a small liberal arts college. U.S. News & World Report ranks the Florida Institute of Technology #171 in “National Universities,” and #80 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The online MBA in Finance program provides students with an understanding of core business principles, in addition to industry-specific knowledge of financial practices and theories. From risk and return to capital structure, stock and bond investment, and international financial concepts, this program explores a variety of subjects in commercial banking, corporate finance, investment banking and financial planning. Students are guided through the completion of a full business plan using business concepts they discover in class and modern theories of leadership and negotiation. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Florida Institute of Technology is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $32,256
#8. Northeastern University
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, Northeastern University is a private nonprofit research university with a reputation for offering a high quality “cooperative education” which integrates classroom learning with real-world experiences allowing students to combine intermittent periods of study with full-time employment with one of the university’s partners. U.S. News & World Report ranks Northeastern #47 in “National Universities,” #6 in “Most Innovative Schools,” and #37 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The D’Amore-McKim School of Business has forged a unified relationship between the worlds of rigorous academics and real-world application in which a purposefully designed ongoing exchange connects learning and practice more directing, creating an exponentially more powerful result. The school is committed to embedding a global mindset and orientation into all programs, research, and outreach activities. Northeastern University offers an online Master of Science in Finance designed around a highly immersive and comprehensive curriculum that expertly blends current financial theory with real-world business practice. The program can be completed in as little as 16 months and includes the option of obtaining an online dual MSF/MBA. Students choose from two possible emphases: Corporate Finance or Investment Finance. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Northeastern University is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Business programs are recognized by the the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Tuition: $45,390
#9. Concordia University Wisconsin
Concordia University Wisconsin is a private liberal arts college located in Mequon that enrolls over 8,000 students. Concordia University is a Lutheran school committed to helping students develop in mind, body, and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and in the world. Concordia provides a variety of educational opportunities for students who are preparing for vocations in the ministry of the church and for various professional and business careers in the community. Concordia is ranked #87 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The Batterman School of Business is dedicated to emboldening a global network of transformational and collaborative Christian leaders, dedicated faculty, entrepreneurial students, and active alumni who come together to create maximum social impact through ethical practice, innovation and service. The school offers an online Masters of Business Administration in Finance taught by current industry professionals who are dedicated to leading others in their field of expertise—finance, the language of business. Graduates glean the tools necessary to succeed in a wide variety of positions within business. Equipped with the knowledge and experience that today’s employers are looking for, students will be highly competitive candidates for a number of careers. Courses are available in asynchronous, cohort, and collaborative styles to meet student’s schedules and class preferences. The program culminates in a hands-on internship in any emphases with at least 120 hours of experience and requires 39 credits for completion.
Accreditation: Concordia University St. Paul is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $15,300
#10. University of Houston Clear Lake
The third largest university in Texas, the University of Houston is a public research institution located in Houston, Texas. The Clear Lake campus is an innovative, partnership-oriented institution that enriches the lives of its students through high-quality academic programs in the fields of business, education, human sciences and humanities, and science and computer engineering. U.S. News & World Report ranks UHCL #24 in “Top Public Schools,” and #75 in “Best Online Graduate Programs in Business.”
The College of Business at Houston Clear Lake provides the environment for developing real-world professional skills in a supportive, student-focused environment. Through a wide variety of program options, students develop the skills necessary for success. The college offers a Master of Science in Finance available entirely online or through online/on-campus hybrid study. Students specialize their degree with elective options in topics such as treasury management, personal wealth management, and real estate investment analysis and financing. Curriculum emphasizes hands-on case studies and projects to strengthen knowledge of ethics and global issues. Graduates will be prepared to work in corporate finance, commercial banking, money management, and other areas. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Houston is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition
In-State: $15,768
Out-of-State: $33,012
#11. St. Joseph’s University
Located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, St. Joseph’s University is a private Catholic Jesuit university founded in 1851. TSt. Joseph’s provides a rigorous Jesuit education demanding high achievement, expanding knowledge, deepening understanding, stressing effective reasoning and communication, developing moral and spiritual character, and imparting enduring pride. U.S. News & World Report ranks St. Joseph’s # 45 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The Erivan K. Haub School of Business is an internationally recognized business and accounting school offering programs at the bachelor’s, master’s, and executive master’s levels. The school has a distinguished tradition of preparing business leaders, professionals and entrepreneurs for successful careers. Today, it is the largest undergraduate Jesuit business school in the country with 3,400 students, 75 full-time faculty and more than 22,000 alumni. Saint The online Master of Financial Services program provides the unique offering of advanced credentials by building on students professional planning, analytical, and financial experience, balanced by ethical considerations and issues of social justice. The courses cover a variety of disciplines, including accounting, law and ethics, actuarial studies, security analysis, mergers and acquisitions, and estate. Students can finish their degrees in as little as 20 months. For those interested in on-campus educational experience, St. Joseph’s also provides evening classes. The program requires a minimum of 30 credits for completion.
Accreditation: St. Joseph’s University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $30,090
#12. Creighton University
Located in Omaha, Nebraska, Creighton University is a private, catholic university affiliated with the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities. The university was established in 1878 and today enrolls over 8,200 students. Creighton is committed to fostering intellectual challenge, critical thinking, and inspiring leadership and service to others. Creighton is ranked #1 in “Regional Universities Midwest,” and #20 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The Heider College of Business is a highly ranked business school for both undergraduate and graduate academic programs. The College is dedicated to providing service for and with others and strives to integrate the values of service as well as ethnic and cultural diversity into its business education. Creighton University’s online Master of Science in Investment Management and Financial Analysis program delivers a respected graduate degree plus preparation for the prestigious Chartered Financial Analyst exams. Students will study business ethics and professional standards, financial statement analysis, portfolio management, risk management, and security analysis. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Creighton University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Business programs are recognized by the the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Tuition: $35,370
#13. Bellevue University
Founded in Bellevue, Nebraska, Bellevue University is a private nonprofit university. Over 10,000 students are currently enrolled at Bellevue University, many of which are enrolled through the online program.
The mission of the College of Business is to inspire, enable, and actively engage learners to pursue a quality business education by introducing the knowledge, skills, and understanding critical to being a valuable contributor to modern business and society. To this end, the College of Business faculty use active learning processes that enable students to take part in their own education. The college’s Master of Science in Strategic Finance program presents financial management as a tactical discipline, networking with stakeholders in a dynamic international marketplace to allocate resources in a manner that maximizes economic, social and organizational value. The curriculum is designed to develop students’ enterprise-wide financial decision making skills by focusing on the application of value optimization, enterprise risk management and business strategy for real-world situations. Students will study a wide variety of financial and business issues, perspectives, and decisions that managers and executives face within organizations across diverse industries. The program requires a minimum of 36 credits for completion. Students may complete coursework entirely online or choose to pursue their study through a combination of online and in-class coursework.
Accreditation: Bellevue University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition: $19,620
#14. National University
National University is a private, nonprofit institution of higher education located in La Jolla, California. With a strong emphasis on serving nontraditional students, National University pursues the values of quality, access, relevance, accelerated pace, affordability and community. National University is a leader in online learning and offers 35 online degree programs and more than 300 courses through online delivery. National University is ranked #89 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The school of Business and Management at NU is a leader in online business schools offering an online Master of Business Administration with specialization in Financial Management. Students learn how to evaluate financial and capital conditions in a company, appraise securities portfolios, and evaluate foreign exchange risks and international payment methods. Courses are available online and on-campus. Core courses include global business, managerial accounting, statistics for business, and others. The program requires five finance courses on top of the MBA coursework, with a research project and presentation required at the end to show student progress. A minimum of 63 to 76 quarter credits or 16-19 courses are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: National University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition: $26,208-$31,616
#15. Georgetown University
Located in Washington D.C., Georgetown University is a private Catholic research university that was founded in 1789 and is the nation’s oldest Catholic university. Georgetown is internationally recognized for the quality of its educational programs and research activity and is ranked #20 in “National Universities,” and #7 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business explores the intersection of business, government, and international relations and works to develop principled leaders committed to serving both business and society. Through a global perspective, the school works to prepare students to compete in today’s international business environment. The online Master of Science in Finance develops graduates who understand valuation methods for stocks and bonds, evaluation of corporate investments, how markets work according to the efficient market hypothesis, and how to construct a portfolio by estimating returns and risks. While this is an online program, students will be required to be in residency during the month of October of the first year of the program. Students complete coursework through asynchronous online learning but are also engaged in collaboration through Georgetown’s “Anytime Media” platform, and each course requires one 90-minute, weekly, synchronous evening session, which can be also be attended online. A minimum of 32 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Georgetown University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $71,520
#16. New England College of Business and Finance
Located in Boston, Massachusetts, New England College of Business and Finance is a private, for-profit online college founded in 1909. All courses are delivered through an online distance learning platform. U.S. News & World Report ranks NECB # 55 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The Master of Science in Finance degree is designed to provide a comprehensive, contemporary perspective on financial theory and practice. Compared to an MBA, the MSF provides an exclusive focus on financial models, financial markets and investment strategies. The course curriculum along with the knowledge and skills acquired while obtaining the MSF degree offers excellent preparation for an individual to pursue entry or advancement in the financial services industry. Students may also choose to pursue a Global Finance Trading concentration. This is an accelerated graduate degree program that can be completed within 15 months of continuous enrollment. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: New England College of Business and Finance is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition: $28,900
#17. Webster University
Webster is a private, nonprofit university based in St. Louis, Missouri with campuses nationwide and abroad including in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Austria, Greece, Ghana, China and Thailand. Webster is strongly committed to providing an international perspective across its curriculum whenever possible to prepare students for global citizenship. Webster is known for its vast study abroad opportunities. Webster is ranked #92 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The George Herbert Walker School of Business & Technology at Webster University is a leading provider of business education worldwide and is committed to offering a business education that incorporates the latest theory with real-world practice. Webster’s online Master of Science in Finance degree is designed to provide a quantitative and comprehensive examination of the finance field. Students will advance through corporate finance, investments, and market instruments and institutions. Additionally, students will experience significant exposure to supporting coursework in the closely related fields of accounting and economics. Students complete electives to help prepare them for their careers in finance, with specific tracks offered for certification as a CFA or CFP. Graduates have the skills to determine the value of financial assets, analyze financial decisions of corporations, and evaluate credit and interest rate risks. The MS in finance program is available online, on-campus in St. Louis, and at other locations worldwide. A minimum of 37 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Webster University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $28,860
#18. Southern New Hampshire University
Located in Hooksett, New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit university founded in 1932. The university has garnered a reputation for innovation challenging the norms of how education should be delivered and is at the forefront of advancing online educational offerings. SNHU enrolls over 60,000 students, the vast majority of which are enrolled in online degree programs. U.S. News & World Report ranks SNHU #98 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
SNHU’s online Master of Science in Finance can be earned with several concentrations including accounting finance, finance with an emphasis in corporate finance or investment and securities. Course work for the online master’s in finance program provides a solid understanding of quantitative tools and analysis relative to financial markets, financial institutions, government and corporate applications. Experienced faculty bring a high level of real-world experience, integrating theory and practice. 36 credits at minimum are required for completion of the degree which can be completed in 15-months by taking two-courses per 10-week term. Students may also choose to add a test-prep course to prepare for the CFA exam.
Accreditation: Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $20,691
#19. University of Michigan Dearborn
The University of Michigan in Dearborn is a public university with ann interactive, student-centered commitment to excellence in teaching and learning. The university’s programs strive to be responsive to the changing needs of society and relevant to the goals of our students and community partners. U.S. News & World Report ranks UM Dearborn #6 in “Top Public Schools” and #55 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
University of Michigan-Dearborn’s College of Business strives to serve the diverse people of Southeast Michigan and beyond by providing innovative and experiential education that results in problem solving skills for responsibility and success in a dynamic marketplace. The online Master of Science in Finance provides specialized education for dynamic careers in corporate finance, financial institutions and investment management.
Students elect either the corporate finance or the investments concentration. The program is open to students with strong quantitative and analytical skills, regardless of their undergraduate major. The program can be completed in as little as one year, and Dearborn also offers a generous transfer policy for previous coursework, allowing students to further accelerate their coursework. A minimum of 30 credit are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: University of Michigan Dearborn is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition
In-State: 25,770
Out-of-State: $40,680
#20. West Texas A&M University
Located in the town of Canyon, Texas, West Texas A&M University is a public institution of higher learning and a member of the Texas A&M University System, one of the largest university systems in the United States. WATMU has been consistently recognized for its excellence in agriculture, business, teacher preparation, music, and nursing. The university is also a distance education leader. U.S. News & World Report ranks WTAMU #35 in “Top Public Schools,” and #26 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
West Texas A&M University’s College of Business is committed to teaching excellence in both undergraduate and graduate degree programs, preparing students for intelligent, active, and productive participation in business and community life. The Master of Science in Finance and Economics is available entirely online. The program is designed for students who want to improve their understanding of economics and finance, particularly those interested in or already working in finance institutions and finance departments in business and government and
policy-oriented and community service occupations in the private and public sectors. The MSFE program is designed for completion within a two-year period, although the degree can be completed in as soon as one year for some students. Upon completing the curriculum, students must pass a comprehensive examination, part of which may be taken remotely, but some of which requires an on-campus component. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation West Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition
In-State: $15,410
Out-of-State: $16,725
#21. University of Maryland University College
The University of Maryland in College Park is a public research university located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. It is the flagship campus of the University System of Maryland and the largest university in the state and Washington metro area. UMD is a highly ranked university by multiple national and international publications and is currently ranked #56 in “National Universities” and #19 in “Top Public Schools” according to U.S. News and World Report.
The Robert H. Smith School of Business is an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. One of 12 colleges and schools at the University of Maryland, College Park, the Smith School offers undergraduate; full-time, part-time, online, and executive MBA; specialty masters; PhD; and executive ed. The online Master of Science in Management with Specialization in Financial Management provides a strong foundation in management principles and specialized skills in financial decision making with a master’s degree in management with a specialization in financial management. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Maryland is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition: $16,488
#22. Charleston Southern University
Charleston Southern, a Christian, liberal arts university in Charleston, South Carolina. CSU was founded in 1964 and has grown to serve almost 3400 students today. The university is affiliated with the South Carolina Baptist Convention and has a mission of “Promoting Academic Excellence in a Christian Environment.” The university is ranked #101 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The School of Business at Charleston Southern prepares undergraduate students for the challenges of careers in businesses and work organizations of all kinds, in all industries and economic sectors. The school offers an online MBA program with Emphasis in Finance. Students can complete the MBA program in two years if no prerequisites are required. MBA courses include managing with excellence and integrity, business ethics from a Christian worldview, and advanced marketing management. Elective courses towards the finance emphasis include entrepreneurial finance and advanced investments; nine elective credit hours are required to earn the emphasis. The program requires 33 credits for completion, but students without a background in business will need additional prerequisite courses.
Accreditation: Charleston Southern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $20,625
#23. University of Miami
The University of Miami is a private institution of higher learning located in Coral Gables, Florida. The university is dedicated to educating leaders, problem-solvers, and agents of change who are passionate about learning, eager to contribute to their community, and free to color outside the lines. University of Miami is recognized as #44 in “National Universities” and #32 in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The University of Miami School of Business offers an online Master of Science in Finance that allows students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations with multiple options for degree completion. Students have the option to earn one of two certificates as part of the master’s program in: Corporate Finance, or Financial Decision Making. Throughout the course of study students will build advanced portfolios and become experts in the area of finance. Most students complete full degrees in just 16 months. A minimum of 32 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Miami is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $60,800
#24. Golden Gate University
Located in San Francisco, California, Golden Gate University is a private nonprofit institution of higher learning. Founded in 1901, GGU specializes in educating professionals through its schools of law, business, taxation, and accounting. The university offers two undergraduate degrees with eight concentrations and 15 graduate degrees with 24 concentrations.
Golden Gate University’s Edward S. Ageno School of Business has been educating working adult professionals for more than 110 years and offers an entirely online program leading to a Master of Science in Finance. This is a is a specialized, technical program providing in-depth exposure to the principles and practices of corporate finance and investment management. The main objective of the program is to provide the specialized knowledge needed to add immediate value to students’ organizations as financial managers or investment advisers. The curriculum emphasizes topics relevant for financial managers, corporate bankers, and other financial professions. Graduates understand how to analyze financial statements and evaluate risk, and they learn about the tradeoff between risk and return. Students can choose between taking all courses online, or supplementing with a few on-campus courses in San Francisco. Students choose between concentrations in corporate finance, investment management, or a general concentration. The program requires a minimum of 45 credits for completion.
Accreditation: Golden Gate University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Tuition: $45,675
#25. University of Washington
The University of Washington, located in Seattle, is one of the oldest universities on the West Coast and is dedicated to the education of a diverse student body and the development of responsible global citizens and future leaders. UW is known as one of the most successful public research universities in the nation and has a high reputation for offering a rigorous and academically challenging education. It is ranked #52 in “National Universities,” and #16 in “Top Public Schools” by U.S. News and World Report.
The Foster School of Business is dedicated to the creation, dissemination, and application of management knowledge. The school’s programs place special emphasis on leadership, strategic thinking, and entrepreneurship. The Foster school is currently working to expand faculty and curricula to build upon a legacy of entrepreneurial innovation, strategic research and business leadership. The University of Washington offers a Master of Science in Computational Finance and Risk Management designed for working professionals to pursue the MS-CFRM degree while maintaining their current job or other obligations. Within the program, there are three possible tracks: a 42 credit baseline, a 54 credit Risk Management option with extended internship, and a 54 credit Computing option with extended internship. UW also offers a part-time online option, with students taking under 10 credits per quarter. The program is administered through synchronous and asynchronous classes.
Accreditation: The University of Washington is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Business programs are recognized by the the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Tuition: $39,690
