Published on May 6, 2024
Edited by Evelyn Keener
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University Headquarters (HQ) is an industry-leading, independent educational organization that provides independent college rankings using a proprietary formula to create first class unbiased rankings. The team at University HQ strives to provide accurate and trustworthy rankings that highlights the best programs for finance in Virginia.

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What Career Options are Available for Finance Majors?


Virginia has various colleges and universities offering online finance degree programs and providing an accessible education right in student’s own homes. These online finance degrees are designed for flexibility and convenience, offering career advancement and increased earning potential.

Old Dominion University and Liberty University are both options that provide respected online finance degree programs, covering topics like financial management and risk analysis and preparing students for a variety of roles in finance, banking, investment, and more.

Compare Popular Online Finance Programs

Top Ranked Campus & Online Finance Programs in Virginia


1
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $64,525
    • Out-of-State: $64,525
  • Net Price: $24,733
  • Acceptance Rate: 17%
  • Retention Rate: 98%
  • Graduation Rate: 95%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,243
  • Undergrad Students: 1,867
  • Graduate Students: 376
  • Grads Salary: $90,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 7:1
  • Washington and Lee University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
2
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $20,986
    • Out-of-State: $58,014
  • Net Price: $19,469
  • Acceptance Rate: 19%
  • Retention Rate: 97%
  • Graduation Rate: 95%
  • Total Enrollment: 26,082
  • Undergrad Students: 17,444
  • Graduate Students: 8,638
  • Grads Salary: $84,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 15:1
  • University of Virginia
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
3

Virginia Tech

Score: 83.75

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,478
    • Out-of-State: $36,694
  • Net Price: $19,301
  • Acceptance Rate: 57%
  • Retention Rate: 91%
  • Graduation Rate: 86%
  • Total Enrollment: 38,170
  • Undergrad Students: 30,434
  • Graduate Students: 7,736
  • Grads Salary: $83,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Virginia Tech
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
4
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $20,484
    • Out-of-State: $51,186
  • Net Price: $18,129
  • Acceptance Rate: 71%
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 77%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,512
  • Undergrad Students: 1,512
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $88,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Virginia Military Institute
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
5

William & Mary

Score: 82.02

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $25,040
    • Out-of-State: $49,412
  • Net Price: $25,688
  • Acceptance Rate: 33%
  • Retention Rate: 95%
  • Graduation Rate: 91%
  • Total Enrollment: 9,654
  • Undergrad Students: 6,797
  • Graduate Students: 2,857
  • Grads Salary: $80,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • William & Mary
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
6
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $62,600
    • Out-of-State: $62,600
  • Net Price: $29,248
  • Acceptance Rate: 24%
  • Retention Rate: 92%
  • Graduation Rate: 88%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,876
  • Undergrad Students: 3,145
  • Graduate Students: 731
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 8:1
  • University of Richmond
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
7
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,576
    • Out-of-State: $30,790
  • Net Price: $18,274
  • Acceptance Rate: 78%
  • Retention Rate: 89%
  • Graduation Rate: 81%
  • Total Enrollment: 22,224
  • Undergrad Students: 20,346
  • Graduate Students: 1,878
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • James Madison University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
8
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,815
    • Out-of-State: $39,397
  • Net Price: $18,479
  • Acceptance Rate: 90%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Total Enrollment: 39,049
  • Undergrad Students: 27,014
  • Graduate Students: 12,035
  • Grads Salary: $82,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • George Mason University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
9
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $16,458
    • Out-of-State: $39,042
  • Net Price: $21,294
  • Acceptance Rate: 91%
  • Retention Rate: 85%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 28,082
  • Undergrad Students: 20,958
  • Graduate Students: 7,124
  • Grads Salary: $72,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Virginia Commonwealth University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
10
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,262
    • Out-of-State: $32,662
  • Net Price: $16,098
  • Acceptance Rate: 95%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 48%
  • Total Enrollment: 23,107
  • Undergrad Students: 18,375
  • Graduate Students: 4,732
  • Grads Salary: $76,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Old Dominion University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
11

Randolph-Macon College

Score: 68.36

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $48,002
    • Out-of-State: $48,002
  • Net Price: $28,389
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 74%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,490
  • Undergrad Students: 1,490
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $73,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 10:1
  • Randolph-Macon College
12

Radford University

Score: 67.24

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $12,286
    • Out-of-State: $25,185
  • Net Price: $17,105
  • Acceptance Rate: 93%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,718
  • Undergrad Students: 6,008
  • Graduate Students: 1,710
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 12:1
  • Radford University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
13
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $15,200
    • Out-of-State: $27,410
  • Net Price: $21,772
  • Acceptance Rate: 88%
  • Retention Rate: 76%
  • Graduation Rate: 67%
  • Total Enrollment: 4,358
  • Undergrad Students: 3,154
  • Graduate Students: 1,204
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Longwood University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
14
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $9,910
    • Out-of-State: $21,412
  • Net Price: $14,652
  • Acceptance Rate: 89%
  • Retention Rate: 70%
  • Graduation Rate: 40%
  • Total Enrollment: 5,783
  • Undergrad Students: 5,337
  • Graduate Students: 446
  • Grads Salary: $70,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Norfolk State University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
15

Roanoke College

Score: 63.37

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $36,774
    • Out-of-State: $36,774
  • Net Price: $29,169
  • Acceptance Rate: 80%
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Graduation Rate: 71%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,826
  • Undergrad Students: 1,826
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $66,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 11:1
  • Roanoke College
16

Hampton University

Score: 60.31

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $29,162
    • Out-of-State: $29,162
  • Net Price: $32,421
  • Acceptance Rate: 74%
  • Retention Rate: 77%
  • Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,286
  • Undergrad Students: 2,846
  • Graduate Students: 440
  • Grads Salary: $78,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 13:1
  • Hampton University
17

Liberty University

Score: 58.56

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $21,222
    • Out-of-State: $21,222
  • Net Price: $29,913
  • Acceptance Rate: 99%
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 96,709
  • Undergrad Students: 48,906
  • Graduate Students: 47,803
  • Grads Salary: $63,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Liberty University
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings
18

Virginia Union University

Score: 58.31

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $14,880
    • Out-of-State: $14,880
  • Net Price: $21,057
  • Acceptance Rate: 81%
  • Retention Rate: 54%
  • Graduation Rate: 39%
  • Total Enrollment: 1,860
  • Undergrad Students: 1,329
  • Graduate Students: 531
  • Grads Salary: $68,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 17:1
  • Virginia Union University
19

Northern Virginia Community College

Score: 51.14

  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $5,703
    • Out-of-State: $11,786
  • Net Price: $10,109
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 35%
  • Total Enrollment: 51,896
  • Undergrad Students: 51,896
  • Graduate Students: N/A
  • Grads Salary: $40,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 28:1
  • Northern Virginia Community College
20
  • Undergraduate Tuition
    • In-State: $13,920
    • Out-of-State: $13,920
  • Net Price: N/A
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Retention Rate: 42%
  • Graduation Rate: 28%
  • Total Enrollment: 2,608
  • Undergrad Students: 2,198
  • Graduate Students: 410
  • Grads Salary: $75,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 41:1
  • Strayer University-Virginia
View All Their Popular Majors and Rankings

Online Finance Education in Virginia


Online finance degrees can provide many advantages to students. First, they provide flexibility by enabling individuals to study at their own pace and schedule. This benefit is especially helpful for working professionals or those with multiple commitments as it allows them to balance education with other obligations. Furthermore, students enrolled in an online program usually have access to all course materials and lectures via an internet connection from anywhere; this eliminates commute time to campus and gives them the ability to learn in the comfort of their own homes.

Online finance degrees can also offer students the ability to learn at their own pace, unlike traditional classroom settings. Students often progress at a pace that suits them best, which can enhance comprehension and retention of subject matter for a more successful educational experience. Students may find degrees from a public school or private colleges in the state.

Additionally, online finance degrees present opportunities for career advancement and greater earning potential, especially when students use them to pursue higher levels of education and pertinent minors or certification. Graduates armed with degrees in this field can pursue various roles in the finance industry such as financial analyst, manager, or accountant. Such roles can offer, or lead to roles that offer, higher salaries and growth within the field. By enrolling in an online degree program, individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary for excelling in whatever path they have chosen.

Advantages of Online Finance Degrees

  • Flexibility
  • Convenience
  • Self-paced learning
  • Career advancement

Degree Options and Curriculum


Virginia offers online finance programs that provide students with a range of degree options that can allow them to achieve their educational goals at their own pace and convenience. From earning a bachelor's to advanced studies at master's levels, these programs are tailored specifically for your individual needs and aspirations.

Online finance degree programs aim to equip their students with the knowledge and skills required for success in the finance industry. Coursework may cover topics like financial management, investments, risk management, financial analysis, business ethics, and more. Students may also opt to specialize in areas like corporate finance, financial planning, or investment management depending on their interests or career goals.

Our National Rankings for Bachelors in Finance Our National Rankings for Masters in Finance

Specializations in Finance

Students enrolled in online finance degree programs can select from various specializations to further increase their expertise and marketability in the finance field.

Popular specializations may include:

  • Corporate Finance:
    Concentrates on financial decision-making within corporations including capital budgeting, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions.
  • Financial Planning:
    Explores personal financial management, retirement planning, tax strategies, and estate planning for individuals and families alike.
  • Investment Management:
    Examines strategies and techniques utilized in investment analysis, portfolio management, and asset valuation.

Students looking to advance their career prospects in finance can do so by selecting a degree level and specialty that aligns with their desired career objectives and gain a deeper knowledge of a particular aspect of this industry.

Degree Option Program Duration Core Courses Specializations
Bachelor's Degree 4 years (full-time) Financial Management, Investments, Financial Analysis, Business Ethics Corporate Finance, Financial Planning, Investment Management
Master's Degree 1-2 years (full-time) Advanced Financial Management, Risk Management, Strategic Financial Analysis, Ethical Leadership Corporate Finance, Financial Planning, Investment Management

Prospective students should be aware that specific curriculum may differ between institutions, so students are advised to carefully examine all course offerings and requirements of each program before making their choice.

Admission Requirements and Application Process

Before enrolling in online colleges in Virginia, several admission requirements need to be fulfilled. While specific institution admission criteria may differ slightly between schools (though they are the same between in-person and online programs), they generally include the following:

  • Complete an online application form
  • Submit official transcripts from previous educational institutions
  • Standardized test scores, such as ACT or SAT
  • Recommendation letters from professors, employers, or any other individuals who can vouch for your academic abilities and potential

Not all online finance programs have these same requirements; some may not require scores from standardized tests and others may require an individual personal statement outlining your goals, interests, and motivation for seeking an online finance degree. It‘s crucial that you review each admission requirements to ensure you fulfill all necessary criteria and meet them fully.

Once you have collected all of the required documents and completed an application form, you can submit your application online. Most online application processes are user-friendly, allowing you to easily provide all of the information and upload any required documents. It’s advisable to double-check all details to prevent errors or omissions that might delay the processing of your application.

  • Application Deadlines
    Applications have different application deadlines, so it's essential that you plan in advance and submit your application well in advance of this date. Some programs accept applications on an ongoing basis until all available spots have been filled, others have specific deadlines per semester or academic year – it’s wise to contact the admissions office directly for this information to ensure timely application submission.
  • Affordable Online Colleges in Virginia

    Cost is always an important consideration when pursuing an online finance degree in Virginia, which is why there are several colleges in Virginia with affordable tuition rates offering finance degrees to online learners from all over the country, and even for international students.

    Online College Tuition Rates (per credit hour)
    Old Dominion University $11,220 (in-state)
    $31,170 (out-of-state)
    Norfolk State University $9,622 (in-state)
    $20,790 (out-of-state)
    Averett University-Non-Traditional Programs $37,790 (in- and out-of-state)

    Picking an affordable online college can save money on expenses like transportation and housing, making it an even more cost-effective solution for earning your finance degree. When selecting an affordable option in Virginia, consider your budget carefully to maximize your success without breaking the bank!

  • Financial Aid and Scholarships
    Virginia offers various financial aid options to offset the cost of education. Starting your application for aid starts with filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs administered by federal institutions. Submitting it early increases your odds of receiving assistance. Though you won’t be able to make use of work-study programs if you attend a school online from far away.
  • Financial Aid

    There are various forms of financial aid including scholarships, grants, and tuition assistance programs – these can be offered by employers, schools, or other organizations. Scholarships often reward academic achievements or specific criteria set by scholarship providers and usually do not need to be repaid (unless you do not maintain eligibility); grants typically meet need-based criteria without needing to be repaid; tuition assistance programs provide a way for employers and organizations to cover some tuition expenses.

    Be sure to explore all available financial aid options and apply for scholarships and grants that align with your qualifications and goals. Financial aid can significantly lessen the financial strain of earning any degree, making higher education more affordable and accessible.

Check out our Financial Aid Guide Learn more about finance resources and scholarships

Potential Careers for Graduates in Virginia


Acquiring an online finance degree opens numerous career possibilities in Virginia. Armed with your newly gained skills and knowledge from these programs, you could pursue roles like financial manager, accountant, analyst, or investment banker within this booming field. These roles often have attractive salaries, growth prospects, and the ability to make an impactful mark in this competitive field.

Find Online Finance Schools

As a financial manager, you'll be responsible for overseeing the financial health of an organization, making strategic investment decisions, and managing financial risks. Accountants, on the other hand, are responsible for ensuring accurate financial records, preparing tax documents, and analyzing financial data. Financial analysts analyze investment opportunities, provide market insights, and make recommendations based on their findings. Investment bankers facilitate mergers and acquisitions, assist in raising capital, and advise clients on financial transactions.

The career outlook for all finance professionals in Virginia is promising. The finance industry continues to experience growth, with a high demand for skilled professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of financial managers is projected to grow by 16% from 2022 to 2032, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. Additionally, the demand for accountants and financial analysts is expected to grow by 4% and 8%, respectively, during the same period.

Career Median Annual Salary Projected Job Growth
Financial Manager $139,790 16% (Much faster than average)
Accountant $78,000 4% (As fast as average)
Financial Analyst $96,220 8% (Faster than average)
Investment Banker $85,660+ N/A

With a finance degree and the right skill set, you can definitely position yourself for success in Virginia's expanding finance industry. From managing finances and analyzing data to advising clients or providing client advisory services, these career options offer stability, growth, and potential for high earnings. Pursuing an online finance degree equips you with knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in these roles and make meaningful contributions within a growing field.

Read more on all business career specialties

Accreditation and Quality Assurance

When seeking an online finance degree in Virginia, it’s vitally important to pay attention to the quality and accreditation of the institution. Accreditation assures students they will be receiving an education that meets acceptable standards. Accreditation also serves as a sign of quality and credibility reassuring students they will receive an exceptional education experience.

Accreditation is granted by accrediting agencies, organizations responsible for evaluating educational institutions and programs. Accreditation agencies evaluate curriculum, faculty qualifications, student support services, and educational outcomes before granting accredited status to educational programs and institutions. These agencies serve an essential function in upholding higher education standards, while guaranteeing that students receive valuable and pertinent instruction.

When selecting an online finance degree program, look for programs accredited by recognized accrediting agencies such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Accreditations shows that this program has undergone a stringent review process that meets industry standards or exceeds them. However, if your chosen college or university does not have accreditation from one of these agencies, then it should at least be regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

The Importance of Accreditation

Accreditation can provide several advantages to students pursuing online finance degrees. Accreditation ensures that the educational resources and curriculum provided by an institution are of high-quality and relevant to finance-related fields, often boasting experienced faculty with industry experience who provide invaluable guidance and insights. Furthermore, accreditation may be a requirement for professional certifications or licensure in specific finance specializations.

Accreditation can also increase the value of your degree in the eyes of potential employers, who often favor candidates with degrees from accredited institutions because it demonstrates their dedication and strong educational foundation. Accreditation also facilitates credit transfer should you decide to pursue further study or transfer to another institute.

When selecting an online finance degree program in Virginia, always take into account its accreditation and quality assurance measures. This will ensure that you receive high-quality education that adds real value in the job market. Look for programs accredited by recognized agencies so you can make an informed decision regarding your educational journey.

Student Support Services

Virginia students pursuing an online finance degree may also be interested in having student support services to enhance their learning experience and ensure success in academic pursuit. From online resources, academic advising services, career services, and more - these support systems are available and ready to assist your academic journey and ensure its completion successfully.

  • Academic Advising
    Virginia degree programs often provide their students with academic advising services as an integral student support service. Academic advisors are there to guide you through your degree program, select suitable courses, and stay on the path toward meeting academic goals. They offer personalized guidance, answer any queries that arise, and create a study plan tailored specifically to you.
  • Career Services
    Some online programs also provide comprehensive career services that can assist students with preparing for their future in finance, accounting, and more. These may include resume writing support, interview prep assistance, job search resources, networking events, and job hunting assistance. Dedicated career services teams can also assist in exploring different career pathways within finance industry while increasing your chances of securing employment upon graduation.
  • Online Resources

    Online finance degree programs provide students with access to valuable online resources that can aid them in their coursework and research projects such as digital libraries, research databases, and academic journals. Furthermore, you may gain access to virtual study groups where you can collaborate with your peers for an enhanced learning experience.

    Overall, student support services play an essential part in your success as an online finance student in Virginia. From academic advising and career services to access to online resources, these services aim to give you everything you need for academic and professional growth within the finance industry.

Alumni and Networking Opportunities

One of the main advantages of online finance degree programs is accessing an expansive alumni network that offers invaluable opportunities for graduates. Connecting with alumni allows graduates to tap into a wealth of professional contacts in finance industry - opening the door to potential job offers and mentorship. Building relationships among fellow alumni also enables you to enhance your understanding of finance by sharing insights and learning from one another's experiences.

Networking in the alumni community is invaluable for individuals pursuing careers in finance. Alumni networks can serve as platforms to share job vacancies, industry insights, and referrals between peers - which you may benefit from when participating in alumni events both online and off. By networking with alumni, you demonstrate your dedication to your field, and it can help you tap into an incredibly helpful group of finance professionals.

Benefits of Alumni Networking Reasons to Connect with Alumni
Access to job opportunities Job referrals and recommendations
Industry insights and trends Stay updated on the latest developments
Mentorship and guidance Learn from experienced professionals
Professional development Attend workshops and webinars organized by alumni
Expand your networkx Establish connections with finance professionals

Overall, programs can provide invaluable networking opportunities through their alumni networks for both students and graduates alike. By engaging with fellow alumni, you can make meaningful relationships, gain industry insights, and access potential job openings. Actively taking part in alumni events or online communities will enhance professional growth while creating a supportive network of finance professionals throughout your career.

Frequently Asked Questions


Are there any colleges or universities in Virginia offering online finance degree programs, so I can complete my education remotely?

Yes. Many Virginia schools and universities provide such degree programs, and they can offer all the same support as regular programs.

What are the Benefits of Online Finance Degrees?

Online finance degrees provide flexibility by enabling students to study at their own pace and schedule. Furthermore, these degrees allow you access course materials and lectures from anywhere with internet connectivity - not to mention career advancement opportunities and increased earning potential!

What degree options are available through online finance programs in Virginia?

Virginia online finance degree programs provide several different degree options, from online bachelor's programs to master's to even PhDs. These program’s curricula often cover topics like financial management, investments, risk management, financial analysis, and business ethics. You might earn a degree in finance, accounting, investments, financial management, and more.

What career opportunities exist in Virginia for online finance degree graduates?

Graduates with an online finance degree in Virginia can pursue various career opportunities including roles as financial managers, accountants, CPAs, financial analysts, and investment bankers. Virginia's finance industry is expanding, creating excellent job prospects for individuals with finance backgrounds.

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