What is Finance?
Finance is a growing field that offers exciting career opportunities to those with the right education and training. With a degree in finance, students can pursue many different job paths, from investment banking to corporate financial analysis to financial planning. Finance colleges and degree programs provide the tools necessary for students to gain an understanding of the financial markets, develop analytical skills, and learn how to manage finances.
For students interested in pursuing a finance degree, there are numerous options available. Many universities offer undergraduate and graduate degrees in finance that cover topics like portfolio management, international economics, risk management, accounting principles, and more. Additionally, there are specialized institutions, such as business schools or online universities, that offer specific courses related to finance. Regardless of which type of program a student chooses, they will benefit from gaining knowledge on subjects such as stock market fundamentals or foreign exchange trading strategies.
Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Georgia
Emory University
Score: 85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $60,774
- Out-of-State:$60,774
- Net Price: $26,680
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 90%
- Total Enrollment: 14,841
- Undergrad Students: 7,101
- Graduate Students: 7,740
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
University of Georgia
Score: 81.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,180
- Out-of-State:$30,220
- Net Price: $17,180
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- Total Enrollment: 40,607
- Undergrad Students: 30,714
- Graduate Students: 9,893
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Georgia State University
Score: 66.55
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,478
- Out-of-State:$23,709
- Net Price: $17,589
- Acceptance Rate: 67%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 36,516
- Undergrad Students: 28,924
- Graduate Students: 7,592
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 26:1
Columbus State University
Score: 64.74
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,751
- Out-of-State:$16,805
- Net Price: $12,902
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 7,479
- Undergrad Students: 6,003
- Graduate Students: 1,476
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Georgia Southern University
Score: 63.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,905
- Out-of-State:$16,959
- Net Price: $15,352
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 25,481
- Undergrad Students: 21,979
- Graduate Students: 3,502
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
University of West Georgia
Score: 62.49
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,971
- Out-of-State:$17,024
- Net Price: $15,625
- Acceptance Rate: 80%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 11,893
- Undergrad Students: 8,666
- Graduate Students: 3,227
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Valdosta State University
Score: 61.83
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,007
- Out-of-State:$17,062
- Net Price: $12,836
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- Total Enrollment: 10,209
- Undergrad Students: 7,573
- Graduate Students: 2,636
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Brenau University
Score: 57.3
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $33,275
- Out-of-State:$33,275
- Net Price: $23,635
- Acceptance Rate: 87%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 2,704
- Undergrad Students: 1,368
- Graduate Students: 1,336
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Dalton State College
Score: 57.07
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,283
- Out-of-State:$10,189
- Net Price: $5,532
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 22%
- Total Enrollment: 4,527
- Undergrad Students: 4,527
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $57,000
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
University of North Georgia
Score: 55.35
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,009
- Out-of-State:$15,441
- Net Price: $11,721
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 18,029
- Undergrad Students: 17,240
- Graduate Students: 789
- Grads Salary: $46,800
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Online Finance Education in Georgia
Working in finance is a complex field with many different roles. The world of finance is always changing, and working in this field requires knowledge of current financial trends and regulations. It also involves having an analytical and problem solving mindset, along with strong communication skills.
Finance professionals are often employed in corporate or government settings. They help clients manage their money and develop their financial plans. Some examples of careers in finance include investment managers, portfolio managers, and chief financial executives. Depending on the organization, they may work for a single large client or multiple smaller companies.
Finance and accounting professionals need to have an understanding of industry technology. This includes using financial modeling tools to help make major decisions. Several software programs exist that simplify financial modeling and analysis.
In addition to having a strong knowledge of the financial industry, finance professionals must be knowledgeable about tax laws and regulations. Not only must they understand the laws, but they must be able to explain them to their clients. Financial analysts may use mathematical models to predict the likely outcome of proposed investments. They also must perform data analysis and report on their competitors. These financial professionals learn this knowledge through obtaining a finance degree and even potentially a finance concentration in a specific field of finance.
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in finance can provide students with an excellent base of skills to help them succeed in the workforce, though most will need to go on to earn a bachelor’s in order to have access to most of the careers in this field. Students at this level can learn how to analyze and understand financial data, which will help them identify potential risks and financial opportunities. In addition to learning the basics of business and economics, students will also develop their decision-making and communication skills. Associate degree programs in finance are typically geared toward entry-level career opportunities in financial and business organizations. The curriculum is focused on basic financial concepts, as well as business law.
Depending on the program, students can study a variety of topics. Some associate degrees include accounting, financial management, and financial analysis. Other programs focus on more specialized training, such as securities and investments or international business.
Online Bachelors (BS)
A bachelor's degree in finance can open up a world of opportunities for graduates. With the right training, those with a finance degree can enter into the financial services industry in various roles. They may be able to work as advisers, bankers, or analysts and find themselves dealing with investments, taxes, and banking regulations.
Colleges and universities offer programs that teach students the fundamentals of economics, accounting principles, and business law. Courses within these programs also focus on financial management techniques such as budgeting and forecasting as well as risk management practices. In addition to core courses related to finance topics like microeconomics and macroeconomics, students will also likely take classes related to mathematics, statistics, ethics in business practice, consumer behavior analysis, international trade systems, and capital markets.
Online Masters (MS)
A master's degree in finance is a great way to develop the technical, quantitative, and analytical skills necessary for success in today's highly competitive financial markets. With a graduate-level degree in finance, students can pursue a number of high-level career paths including roles as financial advisers, investment bankers, corporate financiers, and more.
Today, there are many colleges and universities offering excellent programs focusing on finance. These institutions offer courses that cover all aspects of the field such as accounting principles, international economics, investments, and risk management. Students will also learn how to interpret financial statements and comprehend capital markets. A master's degree in finance typically involves coursework focused on asset management strategies which prepare graduates for successful leadership positions within the industry, and these degrees can allow graduates to move into the highest levels of management, such as in the C-suites.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
A PhD in finance can open the door to a variety of exciting and rewarding career opportunities. With a PhD in finance, graduates gain an advanced understanding of finance theories and principles, as well as the ability to apply them in real-world settings. Earning this degree provides students with rigorous training that prepares them for high-level positions within the finance industry.
There are numerous colleges and universities that offer both on-campus and online PhD programs in finance. The courses included in these programs can cover topics such as financial modeling, forecasting, portfolio management, banking systems, and investments. In addition to classroom learning activities, most programs also require students to complete a dissertation that demonstrates their knowledge of financial practices and research methods. Upon graduation from such a program, students will have gained an extensive knowledge base enabling them to pursue careers in consulting firms or manage their own businesses.
Online Certifications
Finance and accounting certifications are becoming increasingly popular in today's job market. With the ever-evolving world of finance, professionals with a certification may have an edge over those without one. A finance certification indicates that the individual has taken extra steps to gain expertise in their chosen field and can be seen as a stamp of approval from employers.
The three most popular types of finance certifications are: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), Certified Financial Planner (CFP), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA). The CFA is for individuals who want to work with investments or securities, the CFP is for financial planning, and the CMA focuses on accounting, strategic management, budgeting, and more. Each requires passing an exam after completing prerequisite courses or qualifications and continuing education requirements to maintain a certification.
Become a Finance Professional in Georgia
Financial professionals are in high demand and have the potential to earn a high salary. Becoming a finance professional requires dedication, hard work, and the right educational background. If you’re looking to become a finance professional, here are some steps to get you started on your path.
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Step 1: Research what degree programs best fit your career goals:
Choosing the right degree program to fit your career goals is an important decision. Getting your degree in finance can open up many doors to a successful and rewarding career. But how do you know what colleges offer the best programs? Researching different finance colleges and comparing their degree options will help you discover which university is the right fit for you. Before deciding on a college or degree program, it’s important to consider what kind of job you wish to pursue after graduation. Whether it be investment banking, accounting, consulting or financial advising, each field requires specialized knowledge and skills. Depending on where your interests lie, certain colleges may offer more relevant courses than others. To get a better idea of which schools specialize in certain areas of finance, research online reviews from current students or graduates who have studied at these institutions.
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Step 2: Pursuing additional certifications and training courses
Pursuing additional certifications and training courses is a great way for finance professionals to stay competitive in their field and gain an edge on the competition. For those just starting out, there are many finance colleges and degree programs available to help them get off on the right foot. From entry-level accounting classes to specialized master's degrees, these finance colleges provide students with the skills and expertise necessary for a successful career in the financial sector. For more experienced finance professionals, certifications such as Certified Public Accountants (CPA) or Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA) can help demonstrate one’s expertise in their chosen field. In addition, taking courses related to specific financial sectors like accounting, banking, or investing can also provide extra knowledge that may be beneficial when pursuing job opportunities or promotions.
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Step 3: Gain experience through internships or volunteer work in the finance field
For those interested in pursuing a degree in finance, it’s important to gain experience through internships or volunteer work while in school. Doing so will give students the ability to gain knowledge of the actual workings and operations of the financial field. Not only do internships and volunteer positions provide the opportunity for educational growth, but they also provide students with valuable experiences that can be added to their resumes when searching for full-time employment after graduation. Internships with banking institutions or other financial organizations allow students to become familiar with a variety of opportunities within the finance industry such as investment banking, corporate financing, and risk management. This hands-on experience ensures students are well prepared for success upon completion of their degree program. Working on projects related to international investments, taxation laws, and economic trends allows interns an opportunity to apply what they have learned about finance principles at a professional level.
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Step 4: Network and build relationships with people in the industry
Networking is a key component to any successful career, and those interested in finance may find it especially important. With the right connections, individuals can gain access to valuable resources that can help their progression in this field. It is essential to network and build relationships with people in the industry who have expertise and experience. Reaching out to professionals who work in finance or related fields can be beneficial for gaining knowledge about potential job opportunities or internships, as well as learning more about the finance world. Connecting with industry experts also helps you develop meaningful and lasting relationships that could lead to long-term career prospects. Networking events are a great way to start building your network – they offer an ideal platform where you can meet new contacts and introduce yourself professionally. Additionally, online platforms, like LinkedIn, can provide an excellent avenue for expanding your professional circle by connecting with relevant people within the industry.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Finance?
A bachelor's degree in finance provides a solid foundation for a successful career in the banking, finance, and investment industries. Students who pursue this degree can expect to gain valuable insight into financial markets, global economic trends, and risk management. From analyzing investments and managing portfolios to providing guidance on financial regulations and policies, students who complete a bachelor's in this field are prepared to enter the workforce with specialized knowledge and skills. A top-tier college or university can provide students with access to world-class faculty members, hands-on learning opportunities and robust internship experiences that will give them an edge over other applicants vying for positions in finance-related fields. Courses typically cover topics such as accounting, economics, statistics, mathematics, corporate finance, and international business.