What is Finance?
Finance colleges and degree programs offer students the opportunity to pursue a career in finance with all the education they could need to succeed. With these programs, students can gain the knowledge and skills needed to enter this growing field and gain promotions or forge their own business. In their educational programs, they will learn about accounting, economics, investments, banking, financial planning, business management, and more.
For those interested in finance careers, there are many options available for earning a degree. Undergraduate degrees include associate degrees and bachelor’s degrees in finance or accounting. Master's degrees are also available for those looking to further their education, as well as specialized master's programs such as an MBA with a focus on finance or real estate. Doctoral degrees are even offered to those who want to continue their studies at the highest level possible and either teach at the college level, start their own firm, or get into research.
Featured Online Programs
Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Colorado
Regis University
Score: 86.87
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,980
- Out-of-State:$43,980
- Net Price: $26,377
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,668
- Undergrad Students: 2,398
- Graduate Students: 2,270
- Grads Salary: $89,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Score: 82.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,896
- Out-of-State:$33,751
- Net Price: $16,926
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 33,403
- Undergrad Students: 25,777
- Graduate Students: 7,626
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of Denver
Score: 79.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $59,340
- Out-of-State:$59,340
- Net Price: $42,423
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
- Total Enrollment: 13,734
- Undergrad Students: 6,151
- Graduate Students: 7,583
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
University of Colorado Denver
Score: 77.41
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,017
- Out-of-State:$28,209
- Net Price: $16,079
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 23,744
- Undergrad Students: 14,055
- Graduate Students: 9,689
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Colorado Christian University
Score: 71.37
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $39,266
- Out-of-State:$39,266
- Net Price: $23,313
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
- Total Enrollment: 8,964
- Undergrad Students: 7,602
- Graduate Students: 1,362
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado Mesa University
Score: 71.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,712
- Out-of-State:$24,312
- Net Price: $15,085
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 8,905
- Undergrad Students: 8,681
- Graduate Students: 224
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Western Colorado University
Score: 67.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,083
- Out-of-State:$23,683
- Net Price: $16,672
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 3,548
- Undergrad Students: 3,095
- Graduate Students: 453
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Score: 67.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,780
- Out-of-State:$29,503
- Net Price: $14,805
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 29%
- Total Enrollment: 16,995
- Undergrad Students: 15,848
- Graduate Students: 1,147
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Colorado State University Pueblo
Score: 66.12
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,401
- Out-of-State:$17,242
- Net Price: $13,033
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,617
- Undergrad Students: 4,772
- Graduate Students: 1,845
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Colorado State University-Global
Score: 62.73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,400
- Out-of-State:$8,400
- Net Price: $14,826
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 33%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 9,565
- Undergrad Students: 6,433
- Graduate Students: 3,132
- Grads Salary: $68,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Online Finance Education in Colorado
A finance professional is an individual who specializes in the management of money. This includes investments, banking, budgeting, and any other activities related to managing financial resources. Finance professionals have a deep understanding of markets and understand how to maximize profits while minimizing risks.
Finance professionals may work in various sectors such as banking, insurance, accounting, or government. Their day-to-day tasks may include creating financial plans for clients, developing investment strategies, and analyzing markets for potential opportunities. They must stay up to date on economic trends in order to make informed decisions when it comes to investing their client's money. Finance professionals should also be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients alike in order to ensure successful outcomes.
In order to become finance professional, prospective students need a degree from an accredited college or university that offers a program focused on finance or economics.
Online Associate (AS)
An Associate of Science in Finance is a great way for aspiring financial professionals to get their start. Financial positions are highly sought after and often require a certain level of education in order to be successful. An associate degree can provide students with the foundation they need to pursue higher-level degrees and gain the skills necessary to get started in the field.
Specifically, an associate degree in finance usually focuses on topics such as accounting, economics, business law, personal financial planning, and investments. Students learn how to analyze trends and make informed decisions about investing or managing finances and can gain experience with technology related to the field such as financial software programs that enable them to monitor different market conditions and stay competitive in changing economic environments. The program typically takes two years to complete if studying full-time at an accredited college or university.
However, it’s important to note that finance is a complicated subject and employers may prefer to hire graduates that have a higher-level degree, such as a bachelor’s. An associate degree is best for those who aren’t sure if they want to get into the field or who are looking for an entry-level role and plan to work their way through further schooling.
Online Bachelors (BS or B.Fin)
Obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Finance (BFin) can provide you with a rewarding career and can prepare you for later graduate study. In addition to providing high-paying positions, a finance degree can lead to careers in banking and financial services, as well as tax preparation and personal financial planning.
Students pursuing a finance degree learn about the economics of finance and investments, as well as the evaluation of security markets. They are equipped with the analytical tools necessary to evaluate investment opportunities. Students in a bachelor's degree in finance program should develop an understanding of the principles of business management, financial analysis, and portfolio management. They may also have the opportunity to gain valuable experience through internships and a network of alumni. These industry connections can help them excel in financial management, investment banking, and treasury operations.
A bachelor's degree in finance is generally four years long. A typical curriculum includes courses in mathematics, economics, accounting, statistics, and finance. In addition to these core courses, there may be electives. Some electives focus on finance-related topics such as corporate finance, asset management, and risk management.
Online Masters (MS or M.Fin)
A Master of Science in Finance (M.Fin) is a great way to reach the next level in your career. If you have an interest in finance and a desire to gain advanced knowledge of business, economic and financial markets, then a master's degree in finance may be right for you. With this degree, you can pursue opportunities as a financial analyst or portfolio manager, or even start your own business.
By pursuing a master's degree in finance from an accredited college or university, students will develop analytical skills and technical expertise to understand financial markets and create strategic plans for businesses. They'll also be able to apply their knowledge of accounting principles, economic theory, statistical methods, and corporate finance theory when analyzing data for forecasting future trends.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
Pursuing a PhD in Finance is an excellent choice for those looking to be known as experts in the financial field and to move into either academia or research in this field. For students interested in furthering their education, there are many accredited universities that offer top-notch finance programs. With a PhD in finance, graduates can expect to have excellent job prospects and be well-prepared for a successful career in finance.
Students who pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program can specialize their studies by focusing on an area of interest, such as quantitative analysis or corporate finance. Generally, courses include economic theory, decision theory, advanced mathematics and statistics, and investment research methods. Additionally, some universities may require students to complete a dissertation project before graduation.
By gaining expertise in various areas of finance from this terminal degree program, individuals will be equipped with the essential knowledge they need to achieve success within the industry or academia.
Online Certifications
Finance certifications are a great way to demonstrate your financial knowledge and expertise. With the right credentials, you'll be better positioned to stand out in the competitive finance field and pursue higher salary opportunities. Many of these credentials can be gained through college degree programs, or you can earn them independently.
The most popular certificate programs include those for the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation, Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) program, Certified Public Accountant (CPA), and Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst (CAIA). Each credential has its own set of requirements and exams that must be completed in order to obtain it. Depending on which certification you're aiming for, it can take up to several years of hard work to become fully certified.
Become a Finance Professional in Colorado
Becoming a finance professional requires a combination of extensive knowledge, experience, and resources. Whether you are looking to become an accountant, financial advisor, or investment banker, the following steps will help you get started on your journey towards success.
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Step 1: Find the right college for your finance degree program
A college degree in finance can be the foundation for a successful career. From starting your own business to working as a financial analyst, it's important to find the right college and program to get you started. There are many colleges and universities that offer finance degree programs of varying lengths and concentrations. Depending on your interests, you might consider focusing on corporate finance or investments, or perhaps even banking or international finance. You should look into each program’s curriculum to see which one offers the coursework that best meets your needs and goals. Other factors such as cost, location, and class size are also important considerations when choosing a college for a degree in finance. With so many options out there, it's essential to research different schools thoroughly before making your final decision.
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Step 2: Earning certification from a professional organization
Earning certification from a professional organization can be an important step in your career. Professional certifications can provide credibility, demonstrate expertise, and give you a competitive edge in the job market. Many finance colleges and degree programs offer courses or entire certificates dedicated to professional certification preparation. The process for earning any certification will depend on the particular organization offering it. While some organizations require only an exam, others may also require that applicants have a college degree or work experience in their field of study. Finance colleges and degree programs are specifically designed to prepare students for these types of certifications by providing them with the necessary skills, knowledge base, and practice exams they need to succeed on the actual test. In addition, many schools offer support services, such as online tutorials and tutoring sessions, to help make sure their students achieve success when taking these tests.
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Step 3: Gaining experience in the field of marketing
Gaining experience in the field of marketing is essential to success in this competitive industry. While a finance degree can provide the necessary background knowledge, hands-on experience is key to becoming a successful marketer. There are many avenues to gain experience including internships, volunteering, and part-time jobs. Finance colleges offer students the opportunity to gain valuable skills and insight into financial markets and management, providing them with the foundation they need for success in marketing. Students learn how money works in all aspects of business, from understanding economic systems to developing strategic solutions on how best to use resources. They also develop strong problem-solving skills that are invaluable in marketing when it comes time to design campaigns or devise promotional offers that attract customers. With a finance degree from an accredited program, graduates will have the tools needed for success in their chosen career field.
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Step 4: Develop strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
For those interested in a career in finance, developing strong communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills is paramount. Financial services professionals need to be able to effectively explain complex financial concepts as well as develop relationships with clients and colleagues. Additionally, they must also be prepared to identify problems and work toward solutions that are tailored to the needs of their employer or client. The best way to cultivate these skills is through specialized education programs available at colleges and universities across the country. At higher learning institutions, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of personal finance while simultaneously developing their communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving abilities. With courses ranging from investments to economics and accounting, students will find themselves well equipped with the necessary skills for success in finance upon graduation.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Finance?
A Bachelor’s in Finance is an excellent option for individuals who are interested in pursuing a career in the financial industry. With this degree, graduates can explore a variety of job opportunities related to banking, accounting, finance, and economics. Aspiring financial professionals will gain a deep understanding of economic principles and techniques as well as the practical skills needed to succeed in the real world. Furthermore, obtaining a degree from one of the many accredited finance colleges will provide graduates with marketable credentials and insight into current trends that impact the economy. Finance college programs offer courses such as financial statement analysis, microeconomic theories, capital markets, and portfolio management. Students also have access to internships or research-based projects which allow them to gain hands-on experience in their chosen field and make valuable connections within the industry.
Graduates should have a huge number of roles and industries that they are well prepared for, though some employers will prefer to hire graduates who have experience in certain programs or a certification of some kind.