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What is Finance?
A finance professional is an individual who has specialized knowledge in the field of finance. They are responsible for managing financial resources, analyzing financial data, and making informed decisions in order to ensure the financial success of a business or organization or in personal financial planning. Finance professionals can work in a variety of industries such as banking, insurance, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
To become finance professional, individuals may pursue a college degree in finance or related fields, such as accounting or economics. Many colleges offer a undergraduate and/or graduate finance program that provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in this field. In these programs, students learn about financial management techniques, investment strategies, risk assessment methodologies, and more.
Graduates of a finance program may find employment opportunities as accountants, financial analysts, investment bankers, or portfolio managers. With their expertise in managing finances effectively and efficiently, they play an integral role in the success of any business venture by helping companies remain solvent while also maximizing their profits through sound investments. Overall, it can be concluded that becoming a finance professional is an excellent career choice for those interested in playing a vital part in shaping the future economic landscape of businesses around them.
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Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Louisiana
Tulane University of Louisiana
Score: 84.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $65,538
- Out-of-State:$65,538
- Net Price: $50,263
- Acceptance Rate: 11%
- Retention Rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- Total Enrollment: 14,027
- Undergrad Students: 8,785
- Graduate Students: 5,242
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
Louisiana Tech University
Score: 79.26
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,125
- Out-of-State:$16,866
- Net Price: $12,243
- Acceptance Rate: 62%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 10,839
- Undergrad Students: 9,924
- Graduate Students: 915
- Grads Salary: $76,000
- Student-to-faculty: 23:1
Loyola University New Orleans
Score: 78.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $47,240
- Out-of-State:$47,240
- Net Price: $23,808
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 4,397
- Undergrad Students: 3,289
- Graduate Students: 1,108
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Louisiana State University
Score: 78.3
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $11,954
- Out-of-State:$28,631
- Net Price: $21,296
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Total Enrollment: 37,348
- Undergrad Students: 30,952
- Graduate Students: 6,396
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
McNeese State University
Score: 74.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,460
- Out-of-State:$9,960
- Net Price: $10,154
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 6,230
- Undergrad Students: 5,696
- Graduate Students: 534
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Score: 72.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,418
- Out-of-State:$24,146
- Net Price: $13,036
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 15,219
- Undergrad Students: 12,950
- Graduate Students: 2,269
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Score: 72.11
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,190
- Out-of-State:$21,290
- Net Price: $11,353
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 8,398
- Undergrad Students: 6,552
- Graduate Students: 1,846
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Southern University and A&M College
Score: 71.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,848
- Out-of-State:$17,198
- Net Price: $16,959
- Acceptance Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- Total Enrollment: 8,226
- Undergrad Students: 6,470
- Graduate Students: 1,756
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Nicholls State University
Score: 69.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,173
- Out-of-State:$9,266
- Net Price: $12,365
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 5,883
- Undergrad Students: 5,314
- Graduate Students: 569
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
University of New Orleans
Score: 69.68
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,172
- Out-of-State:$14,008
- Net Price: $11,508
- Acceptance Rate: 70%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 7,111
- Undergrad Students: 5,804
- Graduate Students: 1,307
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Score: 67.77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,864
- Out-of-State:$19,652
- Net Price: $14,238
- Acceptance Rate: 98%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 9,389
- Undergrad Students: 8,405
- Graduate Students: 984
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Louisiana Christian University
Score: 67.32
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,740
- Out-of-State:$19,740
- Net Price: $14,566
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 36%
- Total Enrollment: 1,026
- Undergrad Students: 832
- Graduate Students: 194
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Southeastern Louisiana University
Score: 67.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,373
- Out-of-State:$20,851
- Net Price: $12,291
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 13,465
- Undergrad Students: 12,426
- Graduate Students: 1,039
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Louisiana State University-Shreveport
Score: 64.14
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,327
- Out-of-State:$20,481
- Net Price: $7,587
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 8,721
- Undergrad Students: 2,465
- Graduate Students: 6,256
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
Xavier University of Louisiana
Score: 62.03
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $27,868
- Out-of-State:$27,868
- Net Price: $18,080
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Retention Rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 3,419
- Undergrad Students: 2,696
- Graduate Students: 723
- Grads Salary: $50,800
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Online Finance Education in Louisiana
Finance is a popular field of study for students interested in pursuing a career in business. Many colleges and universities offer finance degree programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in this competitive industry. A finance degree program typically includes courses such as accounting, economics, statistics, financial management, investment analysis, and risk management.
One popular type of finance degree program is an MBA with a concentration in finance. This type of program offers a broad foundation in business principles, along with specialized coursework focused on financial management. Another option is an undergraduate degree in finance which provides students with more focused coursework specific to the field of finance.
Many colleges also offer online finance degree programs designed for working professionals who need flexibility to balance their education and career obligations. These online programs allow students to complete coursework at their own pace, while still receiving the same academic rigor and quality education as traditional on-campus programs. Overall, there are many options available for students interested in studying finance at the college level, allowing them to find a program that best fits their needs and goals.
Students interested in attending the best undergraduate finance programs in louisiana can choose from a huge number of options across the state, including a choice between a private or public university. These options include Nicholls State University, the University of Louisiana, Louisiana Tech University, Louisiana State University - Shreveport, Loyola University - New Orleans, Southeastern Louisiana University, Tulane University, McNeese State University, etc.
Online Associate Degree in Finance (AS)
An associate degree in finance is an excellent way to gain foundational knowledge and skills in the field. These degree programs typically take around two years to complete and cover topics such as accounting, financial analysis, investments, and risk management. Graduates of this program can go on to pursue entry-level positions in various industries or transfer their credits towards a bachelor's degree program.
The curriculum for an associate degree in finance may vary depending on the institution, but most programs provide students with a strong understanding of basic financial principles, along with hands-on experience using industry-standard software. Students can also expect to learn about financial statement analysis and how to use it to make informed decisions and will also develop skills in budgeting, forecasting, and data analysis, which are essential for success in the field.
Overall, an associate degree in finance is an excellent option for individuals looking to enter the world of business or finance without committing to a four-year program right away. It provides students with a solid foundation of knowledge that they can build upon throughout their careers, while also being more accessible than some other higher education options. Graduates with this degree have numerous opportunities available within various industries including banking, insurance companies, corporations, or non-profit organizations that need financial help.
Online Bachelors Degree in Finance (BS)
A bachelor's degree in finance is an excellent choice for students who are interested in a career in business or banking. These degree programs provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in various financial industries such as banking, investment management, or insurance. The curriculum typically includes courses on financial accounting, investment analysis, risk management, and corporate finance.
Many colleges offer a bachelor's degree in finance as part of their business school programs. These programs often have rigorous requirements that prepare students for professional certification exams such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). Graduates from these programs can pursue careers as financial analysts, bankers, portfolio managers, and other roles within the finance industry.
Overall, earning a bachelor's degree in finance is an excellent investment toward a rewarding career path, with many opportunities for growth and advancement. With the right education and experience under their belt, graduates have the potential to make significant contributions to companies across multiple industries while also enjoying high salaries and job satisfaction.
Online Masters Degree in Finance (MS)
A master's degree in finance is a graduate-level program that provides students with a deeper understanding of financial theory, analysis, and practice. These degrees prepare graduates to work in a variety of roles within the finance industry including investment banking, corporate finance, asset management, and financial advising.
To earn a master's degree in finance, students typically complete coursework in areas such as financial modeling and analysis, portfolio management, risk assessment and management, corporate finance strategy, and quantitative methods. Many programs also require students to complete capstone projects or internships to gain hands-on experience working with real-world financial problems.
Overall, earning a graduate degree in finance can be an excellent way for students to develop the advanced skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today's competitive finance job market. With many top-ranked schools offering rigorous programs designed to prepare graduates for leadership roles within the industry—along with strong support networks of alumni and faculty members—students pursuing this degree can feel confident that they are making an investment in their future success.
Online PhD Degree in Finance (PhD)
A PhD in finance is a highly specialized degree program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of financial theories and practices. It’s designed to prepare students for careers in academia, research, and consulting. Many colleges and universities offer PhD programs in finance, each with its own unique curriculum and requirements.
To be admitted into a PhD program in finance, applicants are usually required to have completed a master's degree or equivalent coursework in finance or related fields. The program typically takes 4-5 years to complete, during which students are required to take advanced courses in topics like asset pricing, corporate finance, financial markets and institutions, econometrics, and mathematical methods for economics.
Upon completion of the program, graduates are equipped with the skills necessary to conduct original research on complex financial problems. They can pursue careers as professors at universities or research institutions, consultants for businesses, or analysts for government agencies. Overall, earning a PhD in finance can open numerous opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing advanced study within the field of finance.
Online Finance Certifications
A finance degree program is a great way to learn the fundamentals of finance and accounting. However, many employers prefer candidates with additional certifications beyond a bachelor’s degree. There are several accounting and finance certifications that can improve your career prospects and earning potential.
One such certification is the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, which requires passing three levels of exams covering investment management, financial analysis, and ethics. Another popular certification is the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which focuses on accounting principles and auditing procedures and requires one of the most difficult certification tests in any field. The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification covers topics like budgeting, forecasting, and cost management.
Earning one or more of these certifications can help demonstrate your expertise in specific areas of finance and set you apart from other job candidates. Furthermore, some positions require certain certifications as a prerequisite for employment or advancement within an organization. As such, it may be worth considering pursuing a finance certification alongside your college degree program to maximize your career potential in the field of finance.
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Become a Finance Professional in Louisiana
If you have a passion for numbers and a strong desire to help people manage their finances, or if you are focused on starting a career where you can earn the best money for your degree, then a career in finance might be the perfect fit for you. In Louisiana, there are steps you can take to become a finance professional and build a successful and rewarding career in this field. Here is a list of steps you can follow to become a finance professional in Louisiana.
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Step 1: Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
To become a finance professional, you need a bachelor's degree in finance or a related field such as accounting, economics, or business. Some universities such as Louisiana State University, Southeastern Louisiana University, and Tulane University offer finance degrees that provide students with an excellent foundation in finance and accounting principles as well as investment strategies, financial markets, and corporate finance.
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Step 2: Consider Professional Certifications
After getting a degree in finance, you might want to consider earning a professional certification such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) credential. This globally recognized certification requires passing a rigorous exam and accumulating three years of professional experience, which qualifies you to provide financial planning services to individuals and businesses.
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Step 3: Gain Work Experience
To gain practical work experience, consider seeking an internship in the finance industry while you're still in school. This will help you to build your resume and gain real-world experience, which could make you an attractive candidate to potential employers. You could also consider working as a financial analyst, budget analyst, or even a loan officer to gain experience in various aspects of finance.
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Step 4: Network with Professionals in the Industry
Networking with professionals in the finance industry can help you learn more about job opportunities, trends, and best practices in the field. Joining professional organizations like the Louisiana Bankers Association or the Louisiana Society of Certified Public Accountants can provide opportunities for networking, as well as continuing education and career development.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Finance?
One of the most versatile degrees out there, a bachelor's in finance can lead to a wide range of career opportunities. Graduates can pursue careers in banking, investment management, financial planning, and corporate finance, among others. Many students also choose to continue their education with a master's degree or certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP) designation.
A career in banking typically involves working for commercial banks or investment banks, where graduates can work as loan officers, risk managers, or financial analysts. Investment management is another popular career path for finance graduates. In this field, they are responsible for managing investments on behalf of individual clients or institutional investors such as pension funds and endowments.
Corporate finance is another area where finance graduates can excel. They work closely with company executives to make strategic decisions about budgeting and forecasting profits while analyzing potential mergers and acquisitions. Overall, the possibilities are endless with a bachelor's in finance degree; it all comes down to finding your passion within the field and pursuing it wholeheartedly.