What is Finance?
Getting a finance college degree is a great way to secure a lucrative career. With a degree in finance, you can work for banks and financial service firms, private companies, or even the government. Your financial career will depend on your abilities to analyze financial statements, predict the best future direction, and manage financial decisions.
Students interested in getting a finance college degree can choose to pursue a degree at any level, but a bachelor's degree is one of the most sought-after degrees in the field. These degrees can be completed on-campus or online. Typically, bachelor's degree programs take four years to complete.
Bachelor's programs in finance teach students about financial planning, investments, debt management, and stock market trends. Some finance degree programs also offer concentrations, which allow students to specialize in areas such as finance, risk management, and accounting. These specializations can prepare students for careers as financial managers, financial analysts, or financial advisors.
Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Arizona
University of Arizona
Score: 84.81
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,626
- Out-of-State:$41,095
- Net Price: $17,075
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 49,403
- Undergrad Students: 38,751
- Graduate Students: 10,652
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Arizona State University
Score: 83.51
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,051
- Out-of-State:$32,193
- Net Price: $14,808
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 80,065
- Undergrad Students: 65,492
- Graduate Students: 14,573
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Aspen University
Score: 81.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,264
- Out-of-State:$6,264
- Net Price: $13,781
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 7,386
- Undergrad Students: 4,086
- Graduate Students: 3,300
- Grads Salary: $88,000
- Student-to-faculty: 5:1
Northern Arizona University
Score: 75.71
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,652
- Out-of-State:$28,900
- Net Price: $17,115
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Total Enrollment: 28,086
- Undergrad Students: 23,204
- Graduate Students: 4,882
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Grand Canyon University
Score: 66.52
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $17,450
- Out-of-State:$17,450
- Net Price: $21,939
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
- Total Enrollment: 101,816
- Undergrad Students: 66,769
- Graduate Students: 35,047
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
Online Finance Education in Arizona
A finance professional is an individual who has expertise in the area of financial planning, budgeting, and investment. They specialize in analyzing and interpreting financial data to make informed decisions about how companies or organizations should allocate their resources.
Finance professionals typically hold a degree from a finance college or university and their degree will focus on topics such as economics, business law, accounting principles, and banking systems. The curriculum may also include topics like quantitative analysis, risk management, portfolio management, taxation laws, derivative instruments, and investments. Having knowledge of these topics can help finance professionals understand the complexities of the markets they are dealing with and develop effective strategies for making sound financial decisions.
In addition to having formal education in finance-related fields, finance professionals must also have strong analytical skills as well as an understanding of the current economic climate.
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in finance is a great option for those who want to pursue a career in financial planning and analysis but aren’t positive that they will enjoy the major in a four-year program. This type of degree provides individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills to manage their own finances or help others understand the basics of financial literacy and can help you to get a foot in the door of the industry, earning you access to entry-level degrees. However, it’s important to understand that many roles in finance will require at least a bachelor’s degree in the field. With an associate degree, students can develop the foundation for their future career by learning about budgeting, investing, debt management, banking, and more and they can prepare for their future educational endeavors.
The colleges that offer an associate degree in finance provide courses designed to give students an understanding of how money works in real-world situations. Students will be taught concepts such as stock market analysis and portfolio management while also learning important principles such as taxation rules and regulations. The program may also include elective courses that allow students to explore specialized topics related to finance and accounting. Additionally, many schools require students to complete a capstone project or internship before graduating from the program.
Online Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's degree in finance is an essential requirement for many entry-level and nearly all mid-level positions in the financial services industry. A finance degree provides students with a comprehensive understanding of financial principles and theories, as well as a broad knowledge of business operations. With a bachelor's degree in finance, graduates can qualify for roles such as financial analyst, investment banker, financial planner, and more.
There are numerous colleges and universities that offer finance degrees at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Students should research various schools to determine which program best fits their career goals. The curriculum typically includes topics such as corporate finance theory, global banking systems, risk management strategies, capital markets analysis, and investment management techniques. Additionally, many programs also provide hands-on experience through internships or other practical experiences related to the industry.
Online Masters (MS)
A master's degree in finance is the perfect way to gain an even more in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the financial markets and their implications. With the help of a master's degree in finance, students can learn about topics such as banking and investments, capital structure, corporate finance, derivatives markets, international finance, portfolio theory, and management theory. Not only does this type of program provide an extensive education in these areas but it can also position individuals for greater success within the industry, preparing them to take on high-level management positions, including roles in the C-suites.
There are many universities that offer master’s degrees in finance; however, choosing one can be difficult. It’s important to consider factors such as cost of tuition, duration of program, faculty credentials, and accreditation when selecting a school. That being said, it’s also important to look at what the particular program offers and its overall reputation with employers.
Online PhD Degree in Finance (PhD)
A PhD in finance can be an ideal path for individuals interested in a career related to economics and financial decision making. Finance is a broad field, and students enrolled in finance colleges or degree programs have the opportunity to become experts in various aspects of the profession, ranging from corporate finance to investments and international banking. With a PhD in this field, graduates may pursue careers as professors at universities or research organizations, or they may find employment with banks, investment firms, government agencies, and other financial institutions who need big picture thinkers to help them craft policy and the future of the financial world.
The courses offered while studying for a PhD will introduce students to advanced topics such as portfolio management strategies, risk management principles, and the quantitative methods used by professional investors. Students are also likely to develop strong analytical skills necessary to evaluate complex economic models and make informed decisions based on data analysis. Additional coursework might include options trading strategies, derivatives pricing models, and private equity investing fundamentals.
Online Certifications
Finance certifications are a great way to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the finance industry. With a variety of courses, you can earn certifications that help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your expertise. From entry-level programs, such as Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) and Chartered Financial Planning (CFP), to advanced certification like Chartered Alternative Investment Analysis (CAIA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), there is something for everyone looking to build their finance career.
These programs provide valuable education that covers a variety of topics such as financial analysis, investment management, portfolio management, taxation, risk assessment, and more. Each program offers its own set of benefits that can make it easier for aspiring finance professionals to land jobs or promotions within their field, so you’ll want to do some research before deciding that a certification is the one for you.
Become a Finance Professional in Arizona
Finance is a fast-moving, ever-changing field that requires an understanding of the global market and financial trends in order to succeed. Whether you're just starting out or have experience in finance, learning how to become a finance professional can help you take your career to the next level. Here are some steps to becoming a finance professional in Arizona.
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Step 1: Research what degree programs best fit your career goals
As part of your journey to securing a successful career in finance, it’s essential to research the degree programs that best match your goals. With the right college and degree program, you can set yourself up for success, both now and in the future. From traditional bachelor’s degrees to specialized master’s degrees, there are plenty of finance-related options out there. However, each program has its own unique set of requirements, so it’s important to do thorough research and find the one that best aligns with your interests and desired future career path. An accounting major may be a great fit for someone looking to work as an auditor or financial analyst but an economics major may be better suited for someone interested in banking or investments.
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Step 2: Pursuing additional certifications and training courses
For those looking to further their career in finance, pursuing additional certifications and training courses can be a great way to stay ahead of the competition. From Certified Public Accountant (CPA) to Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), there are a multitude of options available for those looking to enhance their qualifications and experience. These credentials can give job seekers an edge over other applicants by providing them with the expertise needed to enter a competitive field. Those interested in obtaining these highly sought-after certifications have many options available. Many organizations offer self-study programs or online classes that allow professionals to gain specific knowledge and skills without attending physical classes.
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Step 3: Gain experience through internships or volunteer work in the finance field
Gaining experience in the finance field is an important step for those interested in a career in the industry. Whether it's through internships or volunteer work, gaining hands-on experience can be invaluable to understanding the nuances of financial transactions and operations. Not only does this type of experience provide real-world applications to what is learned in college classrooms, but it often reveals particular fields within finance that may be of interest. For students considering enrolling in finance degree programs at colleges, there are many different types of opportunities available. Internships are one way to gain exposure to various aspects of the financial sector and get firsthand experiences with professionals who work there every day. Additionally, volunteer work allows students to gain additional skills while making their resumes stand out from other graduates looking for jobs upon graduation.
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Step 4: Network and build relationships with people in the industry
The world of finance is highly competitive and complex, which means that having a strong network of contacts, colleagues, and mentors can be essential for success. Building relationships with people in the industry can be very beneficial, both professionally and personally. Networking allows you to gain advice from experienced professionals about various topics related to finance, such as career development, job opportunities, advancement prospects and industry trends. It also helps expand your circle of acquaintances and build important connections that may lead to invaluable work opportunities down the road. No matter what type of degree program you are looking into or where you are currently studying finance at school or college, it’s never too early to start forming relationships that will help you in your career journey.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Finance?
A bachelor's degree in finance is the most common, and required, credential in the field, and it can open the door to a variety of career opportunities. Those who pursue an undergraduate degree in finance gain the skills and knowledge to work with money, investments, and analysis. From financial planning and banking services to business operations and management, those with a bachelor's in finance can take advantage of many job prospects. Students pursuing this field of study learn important concepts such as accounting principles, business communication strategies, budgeting practices, and more. With these skills, students can choose from a range of fields including corporate finance, public policy analysis, or risk management. Graduates also have the opportunity to pursue careers in government agencies, investment banking firms, or even to become financial advisors or consultants. No matter what path you take after graduation, a bachelor’s in finance can be the basis for your success.