What is Finance?
Finance professionals are an invaluable part of business life. Their main responsibility lies in overseeing financial activities and ensuring an organization's funds align with its goals and objectives. However, many people remain unaware of what finance professionals actually do or their contributions to company success. Finance professionals specialize in financial management, planning, and analysis. They often work across industries such as banking, accounting, insurance, and investment management - their primary responsibility being ensuring an organization's finances remain in order.
Finance professionals take on many roles and responsibilities within an organization's finances. They usually oversee its financial planning process – helping to create strategies, identify company financial objectives, and assess risks, as well as analyzing data and preparing reports for management teams.
They play an integral part in overseeing financial operations such as accounts payable, receivable, payroll, and more. Furthermore, they ensure all financial transactions are recorded accurately in accordance with accounting standards.
Financial analysis is another key task of finance professionals. Analyzing data helps identify trends and potential growth areas; additionally, they evaluate company financial performance against benchmarks while devising measures to enhance it. It takes exceptional analytical abilities, an attention to detail, strong communication skills and the ability to perform under pressure to be a successful financial management professional. Furthermore, you must possess a keen knowledge of financial principles, accounting standards, tax regulations, investment strategies, and more.
Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Score: 89.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,488
- Out-of-State:$36,402
- Net Price: $16,018
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
- Total Enrollment: 54,955
- Undergrad Students: 39,248
- Graduate Students: 15,707
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
University of Minnesota-Crookston
Score: 79.57
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,120
- Out-of-State:$13,120
- Net Price: $12,894
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 2,303
- Undergrad Students: 2,303
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $74,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Saint John's University
Score: 77.82
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $53,942
- Out-of-State:$53,942
- Net Price: $27,982
- Acceptance Rate: 86%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- Total Enrollment: 1,645
- Undergrad Students: 1,528
- Graduate Students: 117
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
University of St. Thomas-St. Paul
Score: 77.1
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $52,284
- Out-of-State:$52,284
- Net Price: $30,137
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 80%
- Total Enrollment: 9,025
- Undergrad Students: 5,906
- Graduate Students: 3,119
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
University of Minnesota-Duluth
Score: 75.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,318
- Out-of-State:$19,762
- Net Price: $18,031
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 9,675
- Undergrad Students: 8,810
- Graduate Students: 865
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Hamline University
Score: 75.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $48,311
- Out-of-State:$48,311
- Net Price: $23,021
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Retention Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 2,638
- Undergrad Students: 1,765
- Graduate Students: 873
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Concordia University-Saint Paul
Score: 75.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,000
- Out-of-State:$25,000
- Net Price: $17,776
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
- Total Enrollment: 5,544
- Undergrad Students: 3,071
- Graduate Students: 2,473
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Concordia College at Moorhead
Score: 75.6
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $30,020
- Out-of-State:$30,020
- Net Price: $23,087
- Acceptance Rate: 66%
- Retention Rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 69%
- Total Enrollment: 1,903
- Undergrad Students: 1,827
- Graduate Students: 76
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Bethel University-Saint Paul
Score: 75.31
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $42,930
- Out-of-State:$42,930
- Net Price: $29,915
- Acceptance Rate: 72%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
- Total Enrollment: 3,546
- Undergrad Students: 2,592
- Graduate Students: 954
- Grads Salary: $77,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
The College of St. Scholastica
Score: 74.95
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $40,454
- Out-of-State:$40,454
- Net Price: $24,578
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 67%
- Total Enrollment: 3,207
- Undergrad Students: 1,938
- Graduate Students: 1,269
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
Minnesota State University-Mankato
Score: 74.24
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,490
- Out-of-State:$18,860
- Net Price: $16,809
- Acceptance Rate: 71%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- Total Enrollment: 14,590
- Undergrad Students: 12,676
- Graduate Students: 1,914
- Grads Salary: $73,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
Score: 74.15
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,160
- Out-of-State:$43,160
- Net Price: $22,843
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 4,133
- Undergrad Students: 1,100
- Graduate Students: 3,033
- Grads Salary: $79,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Winona State University
Score: 74.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,498
- Out-of-State:$17,230
- Net Price: $18,187
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
- Total Enrollment: 6,154
- Undergrad Students: 5,403
- Graduate Students: 751
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Minnesota State University Moorhead
Score: 73.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,336
- Out-of-State:$10,336
- Net Price: $17,939
- Acceptance Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 4,682
- Undergrad Students: 3,729
- Graduate Students: 953
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
Bemidji State University
Score: 73.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,164
- Out-of-State:$10,164
- Net Price: $15,561
- Acceptance Rate: 78%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 4,023
- Undergrad Students: 3,677
- Graduate Students: 346
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Augsburg University
Score: 72.64
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,942
- Out-of-State:$43,942
- Net Price: $25,409
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
- Total Enrollment: 3,088
- Undergrad Students: 2,358
- Graduate Students: 730
- Grads Salary: $81,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
College of Saint Benedict
Score: 72.2
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $53,884
- Out-of-State:$53,884
- Net Price: $28,746
- Acceptance Rate: 88%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- Total Enrollment: 1,470
- Undergrad Students: 1,443
- Graduate Students: 27
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
St. Cloud State University
Score: 72.07
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,117
- Out-of-State:$10,117
- Net Price: $14,065
- Acceptance Rate: 95%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 10,420
- Undergrad Students: 8,569
- Graduate Students: 1,851
- Grads Salary: $75,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Rasmussen University-Minnesota
Score: 71.17
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,899
- Out-of-State:$10,899
- Net Price: $17,858
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
- Total Enrollment: 3,058
- Undergrad Students: 2,649
- Graduate Students: 409
- Grads Salary: $70,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
Metropolitan State University
Score: 67.7
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,780
- Out-of-State:$9,780
- Net Price: $19,347
- Acceptance Rate: 82%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 6,294
- Undergrad Students: 5,488
- Graduate Students: 806
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
University of Northwestern-St. Paul
Score: 67.53
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $36,830
- Out-of-State:$36,830
- Net Price: $25,704
- Acceptance Rate: 93%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
- Total Enrollment: 3,253
- Undergrad Students: 3,161
- Graduate Students: 92
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
Southwest Minnesota State University
Score: 67.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,304
- Out-of-State:$10,304
- Net Price: $15,004
- Acceptance Rate: 92%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
- Total Enrollment: 6,930
- Undergrad Students: 6,518
- Graduate Students: 412
- Grads Salary: $67,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
North Central University
Score: 64.62
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $29,460
- Out-of-State:$29,460
- Net Price: $23,374
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- Total Enrollment: 992
- Undergrad Students: 893
- Graduate Students: 99
- Grads Salary: $60,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
Walden University
Score: 62.6
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,498
- Out-of-State:$12,498
- Net Price: $20,510
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 31%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 42,312
- Undergrad Students: 6,298
- Graduate Students: 36,014
- Grads Salary: $84,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Capella University
Score: 58.33
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,436
- Out-of-State:$14,436
- Net Price: $14,935
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 36%
- Graduation Rate: 21%
- Total Enrollment: 39,727
- Undergrad Students: 13,280
- Graduate Students: 26,447
- Grads Salary: $78,000
- Student-to-faculty: 35:1
Online Finance Education in Minnesota
Minnesota boasts an enviable economy, with multiple industries contributing to its success. One key sector is finance - which encompasses businesses and services related to financial management, investment, and banking - playing an essential role in economic development for Minnesota by managing assets and investments for both businesses and individuals alike.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were approximately 138,570 people employed in finance and related industries in Minnesota as of May 2020. This includes a range of occupations, from financial analysts and accountants to loan officers and investment bankers. The finance industry in Minnesota is diverse, with many different types of businesses and organizations offering financial services to consumers and businesses.
In fact, one of the largest employers in the finance industry in Minnesota is Wells Fargo, which has a significant presence in the state. Other major employers include US Bancorp, Ameriprise Financial, and Thrivent Financial, among others. In addition to these large companies, there are also many smaller financial firms and businesses operating in Minnesota, providing a range of services to consumers and businesses.
Minnesota's finance industry is expected to experience continued expansion and transformation as new technologies and regulations shape financial services offerings. Due to this evolution, skilled professionals in this sector should remain in demand, thus providing Minnesotans with potential employment opportunities.
Overall, Minnesota finance is an expansive industry with multiple businesses and organizations operating within this field. A substantial number of people work within finance-related fields - making this industry essential to supporting Minnesota's economy, as well as offering employment opportunities to residents of the state. Therefore, those interested in exploring finance as a career should explore Minnesota as they discover different avenues available within this fascinating and rewarding sector.
Students interested in enrolling in finance programs in Minnesota can find options all over the state from schools in Minnesota; you can find finance degrees from both colleges and universities, or a community college. These options include Saint Mary's University of Minnesota, University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minnesota State University Mankato, Concordia College, Augsburg University, St Cloud Technical and Community College, Winona State University, Bethel University, Hamline University, the University of St Thomas, etc. Business and finance schools make finance degrees accessible for financial management students enrolled at every level. Find the right finance program for you!
Online Associate (AS)
An associate degree in finance is a two-year undergraduate program that provides students with a foundational understanding of financial principles. Students who complete this program are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to pursue entry-level jobs in finance or continue their studies at the bachelor's level.
In an associate degree program, students typically take courses in accounting, economics, business law, statistics, and financial analysis. These courses provide students with a comprehensive understanding of financial markets and institutions, as well as essential quantitative skills, such as the ability to analyze financial data and make informed decisions.
Graduates of an associate degree in finance can pursue careers in various industries such as banking, insurance, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Some common entry-level positions include loan officer, credit analyst, and personal banker. Additionally, those who wish to further their education can transfer credits towards a bachelor's degree program in finance to gain specialized knowledge and advance their career prospects. Ultimately, an associate degree in finance prepares you for a successful career path within the world of finances, while also laying the foundation for further education opportunities down the road if desired.
Online Bachelors (BS)
When it comes to pursuing a career in finance, earning a bachelor's degree in the field can be an excellent starting point. Many colleges and universities across the country offer finance programs that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of financial principles and practices. These finance programs typically cover a range of topics including accounting, economics, investments, corporate finance, and financial analysis.
In addition to coursework, many finance degree programs also offer opportunities for hands-on experience through internships or other experiential learning activities. This can be especially valuable for students who are interested in pursuing careers in specific areas of finance, such as investment banking or wealth management. Furthermore, earning a bachelor's degree in finance may also prepare graduates to pursue advanced finance degrees or certifications in the field down the road.
Overall, obtaining a bachelor's degree in finance can be an excellent investment for those looking to start their careers in this exciting field. With strong job prospects and high earning potential immediately after graduation, it’s no wonder why so many students choose to pursue this path each year.
Online Masters (MS)
Graduate finance degrees are specialized programs that provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a successful career in the field. These finance degree programs typically focus on advanced financial analysis, portfolio management, risk assessment, and investment strategies. Students are also exposed to the latest trends and technologies in financial markets.
Many universities offer online master's finance degrees, as well as traditional, on-campus programs. Online finance degrees provide greater flexibility for students who may be working full-time or prefer a more self-paced learning environment. However, on-campus programs offer opportunities for networking with classmates and professors which can be beneficial when pursuing job opportunities after graduation.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
Earning a PhD in finance is a rigorous and challenging process that requires extensive research, critical thinking, and analysis skills. This degree program typically takes four to six years to complete and involves coursework, comprehensive exams, dissertation research, and defense. The curriculum includes advanced topics such as financial theory, econometrics, asset pricing models, financial markets, and institutions.
Many top-ranked universities offer PhD programs in finance provide students with access to world-renowned faculty members who are experts in the field. Graduates of these programs can pursue careers as professors at universities or take up positions in private firms related to finance or consulting.
Additionally, earning a PhD in finance can also lead to opportunities for research roles at government agencies or international organizations, such as the World Bank or the International Monetary Fund. Overall, getting a PhD in this field is an excellent option for individuals who want to develop their analytical skills while making significant contributions to the field of finance through academic research and teaching.
Online Certifications
Finance certifications are an excellent way for individuals who want to enhance their skills and knowledge in finance. These certifications can be obtained by completing courses, passing exams, and fulfilling other requirements that vary depending on the organization offering the certification. There are different types of finance certifications such as those for Chartered Financial Analysts (CFA), Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Certified Financial Planners (CFP), and more.
Many universities offer finance degree programs that help students prepare for these certifications. These programs usually cover various topics like investment analysis, financial planning, risk management, accounting principles, and more. By taking these courses, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the financial industry and learn how to apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems.
Obtaining a finance certification is an excellent way for individuals to improve their skills and advance in their careers. Finance certifications are most commonly offered by professional associations with courses that prepare students for these certifications by providing them with a broad range of skills necessary to succeed in this field, though there are college courses which can perform the same function. If you're interested in pursuing a career in finance or want to take your current career path further forward, it's worth considering getting certified.
Become a Finance Professional in Minnesota
Finance is a growing and diverse industry that offers a wide range of career opportunities. In Minnesota, finance professionals have a high demand due to the state's large and diverse economy. If you're looking to start a career as a financial analyst or a financial advisor, here are some steps to consider.
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Step 1: Earn a Degree in Finance or a Related Field
Most finance professionals have at least a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, economics, or a related field. Some employers may prefer or require a master's degree in a related field, such as a Master of Business Administration (MBA) or a Master of Finance (MFin).
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Step 2: Gain Relevant Work Experience
Getting an entry-level job in finance can be a great way to gain relevant work experience. Many finance professionals start as financial analysts or accountants, working their way up to more senior positions. Internships can also provide valuable work experience and help you build professional connections.
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Step 3: Get Certified
Earning a professional certification can demonstrate your expertise in a specific area of finance and make you a more competitive job candidate. Certifications such as the Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) are highly valued in the finance industry.
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Step 4: Join Professional Organizations
Joining a professional organization, such as the Financial Planning Association (FPA) or the Association for Financial Professionals (AFP), can provide networking opportunities and access to industry events and resources. These organizations can also offer training and continuing education programs to help you stay up to date with industry changes and trends.
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Step 5: Network and Build Professional Connections
Networking is crucial in any industry, but it’s especially important in finance. You can attend industry events and conferences, join local networking groups, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know when a personal connection may lead to a job opportunity.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Finance?
A bachelor's in finance offers graduates a wide range of career opportunities. They can work in investment banking, financial planning and analysis, corporate finance, risk management, insurance, and more. In an investment bank, graduates can work as analysts to develop financial models for mergers and acquisitions or initial public offerings (IPOs). They can also become traders to buy and sell securities on behalf of clients.
With a degree in finance, graduates can also pursue careers in financial planning and analysis. They analyze financial data to help businesses make informed decisions about investments and budgeting. Corporate finance is another possible path where graduates focus on managing a company's finances by creating budgets, forecasting revenues and expenses, or raising capital.
Another option for those with a bachelor's in finance is risk management, a role in which they assess potential risks that could affect the company's assets or reputation. Insurance companies also hire finance graduates to evaluate policies, determine premiums, and manage investments portfolios. Overall, the possibilities are vast for those who hold a degree in finance as it is one of the most versatile degrees available today.