Online Associates Degree in Finance - Best of 2024

Get Matched With Finance Colleges

Overview of an Associates in Finance

Finance is a broad category for a number of degrees and careers. With a traditional or online finance degree, you can move into bookkeeping, tax work, or consulting with a variety of clients in nearly any industry. While an online associate will only gain you access to a limited number of entry-level positions, it will give you an introduction to the great variety possible as a professional in finance such as financial analyst, financial managers, corporate finance controller, financial services manager, or even an economics or international business professor if you decide to go into academics. If you are unsure where you want to take your future career, earning an online associate's is the perfect first step to allow you to figure that out, as well as giving finance professionals a way to get into the field as soon as possible. With this you can jump right into a job in the field, gain experience, and earn a living either full-time or while you go back to school to earn a bachelor’s finance program with all of the general education requirements for your preferred specialization or industry.

Compare Popular Online Finance Programs

PROS

An associate degree in finance is an entry-level award that can start a career in finance and open the doors to several financial occupations. Unlike a bachelor’s, an associate's requires about 60 credit hours and students can complete the coursework in two years, though there are some accelerated online programs as well. Given the costs of education, the savings of two years of tuition, fees, and living expenses can be a critical factor for many families. Associate's create earning power above and beyond that available to the average person with a high school diploma. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has found that associate degree holders make more than high school graduates. In 2017, the median for associate degree grads was $836 per week, and high school graduates earned a median wage of $712.

CONS

Employers require a bachelor’s level education for many finance professionals and may want a master's for those working as financial managers. The bachelor’s curriculum includes more extensive coursework whether it is taken online or in-person, and graduates can enter the job force with a broader and deeper set of skills and knowledge than they can with an associate's. The student must also consider the limitations of an associate degree; some career goals are more easily accomplished with a bachelor’s, such as the earning of certain credentials/certifications. For example, students that achieve a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school may be eligible to sit for the Chartered Financial Analyst Level I exam or complete the Certified Financial Planning (CFP) designation. Further, students that wish to advance to upper management may need a master’s in finance, which you can’t even begin without a bachelor’s degree.

Search Programs

25 Best Online Associate in Finance Programs

University of Cincinnati

Score: 84.06

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $13,570
- Out-of-State: $30,582
Net Price: $20,149
Acceptance Rate: 86%
Retention Rate: 86%

Graduation Rate: 72%
Total Enrollment: 41,155
Undergrad Students: 29,663
Graduate Students: 11,492
Grads Salary: $50,200
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Cambridge College

Score: 75.33

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $18,072
- Out-of-State: $18,072
Net Price: $21,178
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 100%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 2,135
Undergrad Students: 840
Graduate Students: 1,295
Grads Salary: $49,200
Student-to-faculty: 8:1

Davenport University

Score: 74.21

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $23,324
- Out-of-State: $23,324
Net Price: $18,350
Acceptance Rate: 99%
Retention Rate: 74%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 5,073
Undergrad Students: 4,069
Graduate Students: 1,004
Grads Salary: $50,600
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Franklin University

Score: 69.51

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,577
- Out-of-State: $9,577
Net Price: $18,989
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 8,044
Undergrad Students: 5,647
Graduate Students: 2,397
Grads Salary: $48,700
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Northeast Iowa Community College

Score: 68.61

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,600
- Out-of-State: $7,470
Net Price: $7,097
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 53%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 4,355
Undergrad Students: 4,355
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $39,200
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

University of Cincinnati-Clermont College

Score: 67.51

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $6,554
- Out-of-State: $13,786
Net Price: $9,248
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 70%

Graduation Rate: 22%
Total Enrollment: 7,448
Undergrad Students: 7,448
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $50,200
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Seminole State College of Florida

Score: 67.32

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,227
- Out-of-State: $11,447
Net Price: $3,144
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 66%

Graduation Rate: 43%
Total Enrollment: 14,323
Undergrad Students: 14,323
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $38,100
Student-to-faculty: 26:1

Isothermal Community College

Score: 67.32

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,030
- Out-of-State: $6,638
Net Price: $6,756
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 69%

Graduation Rate: 53%
Total Enrollment: 1,876
Undergrad Students: 1,876
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,600
Student-to-faculty: 11:1

New England Institute of Technology

Score: 66.29

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $35,625
- Out-of-State: $35,625
Net Price: $33,437
Acceptance Rate: 74%
Retention Rate: 62%

Graduation Rate: 50%
Total Enrollment: 1,895
Undergrad Students: 1,720
Graduate Students: 175
Grads Salary: $44,500
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Wayne Community College

Score: 66.16

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,524
- Out-of-State: $8,668
Net Price: $4,694
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 80%

Graduation Rate: 49%
Total Enrollment: 2,732
Undergrad Students: 2,732
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,300
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Wilmington University

Score: 65.95

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,330
- Out-of-State: $12,330
Net Price: $14,089
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 56%

Graduation Rate: 20%
Total Enrollment: 14,020
Undergrad Students: 9,091
Graduate Students: 4,929
Grads Salary: $52,500
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Miami Dade College

Score: 63.98

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,838
- Out-of-State: $9,661
Net Price: $5,478
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 47,245
Undergrad Students: 47,245
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,700
Student-to-faculty: 19:1

Nash Community College

Score: 63.5

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,883
- Out-of-State: $8,883
Net Price: $7,102
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 2,645
Undergrad Students: 2,645
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $35,600
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

St. Cloud Technical and Community College

Score: 63.11

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,957
- Out-of-State: $4,957
Net Price: $10,730
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 64%

Graduation Rate: 34%
Total Enrollment: 3,466
Undergrad Students: 3,466
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $40,700
Student-to-faculty: 20:1

Richmond Community College

Score: 62.17

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,552
- Out-of-State: $8,696
Net Price: $4,986
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 34%
Total Enrollment: 2,290
Undergrad Students: 2,290
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,800
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Southwestern Community College-Sylva

Score: 62.09

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $5,806
- Out-of-State: $19,630
Net Price: $8,858
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 58%

Graduation Rate: 45%
Total Enrollment: 2,256
Undergrad Students: 2,256
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,000
Student-to-faculty: 10:1

Brunswick Community College

Score: 62.09

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,532
- Out-of-State: $8,676
Net Price: $7,656
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 67%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 1,678
Undergrad Students: 1,678
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $32,700
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Wake Technical Community College

Score: 62.02

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,336
- Out-of-State: $7,582
Net Price: $3,914
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%

Graduation Rate: 31%
Total Enrollment: 21,551
Undergrad Students: 21,551
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $35,300
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Johnston Community College

Score: 61.76

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,657
- Out-of-State: $8,801
Net Price: $5,844
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 47%
Total Enrollment: 4,282
Undergrad Students: 4,282
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,700
Student-to-faculty: 15:1

Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute

Score: 61.66

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,537
- Out-of-State: $8,681
Net Price: $6,286
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 71%

Graduation Rate: 40%
Total Enrollment: 3,703
Undergrad Students: 3,703
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $31,100
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

Vance-Granville Community College

Score: 61.62

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $1,956
- Out-of-State: $6,564
Net Price: $3,193
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 72%

Graduation Rate: 31%
Total Enrollment: 2,814
Undergrad Students: 2,814
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,400
Student-to-faculty: 16:1

Berkeley College-Woodland Park

Score: 60.66

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,600
- Out-of-State: $28,600
Net Price: $17,068
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 64%

Graduation Rate: 44%
Total Enrollment: 2,078
Undergrad Students: 1,944
Graduate Students: 134
Grads Salary: $35,900
Student-to-faculty: 14:1

Craven Community College

Score: 60.29

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,022
- Out-of-State: $6,630
Net Price: $6,055
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%

Graduation Rate: 39%
Total Enrollment: 2,701
Undergrad Students: 2,701
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,400
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Barton Community College

Score: 59.38

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,904
- Out-of-State: $4,832
Net Price: $9,073
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 50%

Graduation Rate: 41%
Total Enrollment: 4,269
Undergrad Students: 4,269
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $33,000
Student-to-faculty: 18:1

Central Carolina Community College

Score: 58.95

Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $2,554
- Out-of-State: $8,698
Net Price: $6,311
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 70%

Graduation Rate: 33%
Total Enrollment: 5,231
Undergrad Students: 5,231
Graduate Students: N/A
Grads Salary: $30,500
Student-to-faculty: 12:1

Certificate Vs. Associate's

A certificate differs from an online associate's, though both can be found at many online and community colleges. An online associate degree represents an achievement in general education. The certificate is more focused and designed to certify or prove competence in a narrow area or niche, allowing you to take a few courses online and then get started right away in your career. The certificate differs from the associate's in terms of costs, time to complete, and uses for advancement.

The certificate is an end to itself. Usually, it does not provide academic credit toward a bachelor’s. The certificate is also quicker than an online associate; online and in-person certificate programs usually run for one year or less. The certificate is for people that possess a required level of education and experience. The acceptance requirements differ from an online associate program, which typically do not require specialized education or experience.

What Finance Associate Degrees are Available?

A full-time online associate degree generally takes two years to complete. In terms of general education, it can resemble the first half of a bachelor’s, which takes four years to complete. Associate degrees are popular among students that seek to earn their education quickly and also among those who seek a bachelor’s or more. An associate degree typically is substantially less expensive than attending an undergraduate institution and there are just as many associate degrees to be found online as there are bachelor's, if not more.

A graduate of an online associate program is equipped for employment in occupations in which employers seek at least some level of college education. Those students who aim to earn associate degrees usually fall into two broad categories. First, some students are preparing for further education and earn Associate of Arts or Associate of Science degrees. Other students are preparing to enter an occupation or profession. These students often opt for ‘applied’ science or art degrees.

An Associate of Science in Finance (AS) is a two year degree that focuses on the field of finance. The associate of science may have more math, computer, and technology coursework, along with similar topics like statistics.
An Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in finance is a career: oriented degree with a lower number of general education classes and a higher number of practical courses than the AA or AS degrees. Students that wish to enter the field but do not expect to complete an undergraduate degree can select these courses to meet their goals.
An Associate of Arts in Finance (AA) is a two: year degree with courses that cover general knowledge and broad areas of study. In the finance sector, this degree prepares students to complete a bachelor’s degree at a later time.
An Associate of Applied Business (AAB) prepares: students to work in corporate and organizational roles including small businesses, non-profits, and entrepreneurship. Students study the practical aspects of business including management, marketing, accounting, and legal aspects.
An Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) is a degree: program designed to help students enter the job market upon graduation. These courses of study have a sharp focus on hands-on training and learning in real-world environments.

Admission Requirements for Finance Majors

Each school sets their own admissions standards for associate degree programs. The basic requirement is the completion of a high school education either by diploma, GED, or home study. Schools require transcripts from high school and any online or in-person college work completed. Typical requirements also include some form of essay, personal information, and test scores from standard tests like the SAT or the ACT.

Online programs offer process admissions without a personal meeting. However, applicants should engage the school and at least speak by telephone with admissions officials. This not only helps the applicant by answering questions and reducing concerns, but it can also streamline the admission process by allowing you to get a clearer picture of the requirements.

Schools must commit time and resources to review applications. The schools often cover their costs by charging application fees. Many schools may waive or reduce the fee should it interfere with the student’s ability to apply for admission.

How long does it take to earn a Finance Associates?

An online associate degree in finance usually takes about 60 semester hours. This is roughly 20 college-level courses or labs. Some courses of study also require internships in settings such as offices, training facilities, or commercial locations. Students can pursue an associate degree in finance on a full-time basis and complete it within two years, they may elect a part-time approach and complete the degree in three or more years, or they may find an accelerated program. Online study may reduce the time needed to complete the degree. Many students wanting to finish more quickly take additional online courses during the school year and in the summer session. By adding an extra course and using the summer session, students can reduce the time needed to as little as 18 months.

Find Your Finance Program

Potential Careers in Finance with an Associates

The below-listed items describe careers and positions for those with an associate degree in finance.

Financial Analysts examine trends and information in various markets such as investments. They can serve within an organization to analyze internal processes, and they can help plan for the best gains under various potential economic situations. The national average salary is $61,400.
Financial Clerks help businesses and organizations manage their pay and benefits programs to be sure that all employees receive proper and timely payments. Clerks can have responsibility for organizational functions such as payroll or larger processes such as accounts payable and receivable. The national average salary is $34,800.
Personal Financial Advisors help individuals, families, and businesses develop their assets for income and security, aiming for the best possible outcome. Personal financial advice is a growing industry as more families learn the benefits of personal economic planning. The national average salary is $63,900.
Real Estate Analysts provide expertise in the valuation and other decisions concerning property. They pay attention to markets and trends and can help determine the best time as well as options for organizational action. These can include leasing, buying, and acquiring property or property rights. The national average salary is $60,200.
Sales Managers are important positions in businesses that obtain income for the company from commercial and other types of sales. These roles involve setting goals, managing staff in an office, professional communications, policy creation, and working with and analysis of customers and accounts. The associate degree in finance helps students gain a basic understanding in these skills. The national average salary is $61,300.

Options to Advance

An online associate degree can be an excellent starting point for a finance career. Students can begin at entry-level positions in small, medium, or large organizations. Some students may start businesses and begin a career as an entrepreneur. Whether the associate is an AA, AS, AAS, or AAA type degree, students can work with colleges or universities to transfer some or all their credits toward a traditional or online bachelor’s degree. The bachelor’s level, when added to prior work experience, can propel a career into upward mobility. By completing an online bachelor’s in finance and a focused field of study, you can find new and higher paying opportunities.

Online associate degree holders can also enhance their skills by further coursework without an advanced degree, and this can add depth and focus to a skill set. Some occupations benefit from certifications from industry organizations that can provide a higher level of skill and knowledge than other candidates.

Best Online Associate in Finance Degrees for 2024