Clicky

The 10 Best Online Associates in Finance

Best Online Associates in Finance - featured image

Do you want to have a thriving profession in the field of business and Finance? Pursuing an online associate degree in Finance will equip you with the necessary foundational skills and expertise, from basic accounting and financial analysis to complex financial statements and business law.

Best Online Associates in Finance - fact

Finance is a long-standing sector, with new career opportunities thriving annually. Since Finance is a foundational function in almost all small and big companies, finance careers never run out. Graduates of online finance programs at the associate level can have a career breakthrough working as personal bankers, loan specialists, financial analysts, financial managers, investment banking analysts, and finance professionals.

Since it is less broad than the study of accounting, an associate degree program in Finance helps students become more proficient for work in the finance sector while having foundational training in business and accounting.


Additional Information: The Best Online Schools for Bachelor’s in Finance Degree Programs


Methodology

Because in-depth specialization is rarely offered at the associate level, we’ve made this list to make it convenient for prospective students to find the ideal Finance program. The 10 best online schools offering associate in Finance degrees are listed randomly, highlighting their unique features and academic programs.

We provide a comprehensive overview of each online program, class schedules, and plan of study, among other features, including:

  • Coursework focusing on the application of finance and business proficiencies for entry-level career opportunities,
  • Learning format with an exclusive student-to-faculty ratio,
  • Affordable cost of study, including Financial Aid programs,
  • Offered through 100% online format, with the option to go hybrid if students prefer,
  • Accredited by regional accrediting organizations,
  • Allows convenient transferrable academic credits for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Check out our Methodology page for more detailed information on our school ranking process.

Best Online Associate in Finance Degree

Wilmington University

Wilmington University

Prominent Program Features:

Wilmington University offers an Associates of Science in Finance program taught by industry professionals who provide real-world experience and insights from their work experiences. It is a career-focused academic program that prepares graduates for entry-level positions in real estate, investment, entrepreneurship, and banking.

WilmU’s associate degree in Finance program consists of 20 courses that can be completed within four semesters in a full-time learning format. Finance students can complete their finance program faster by transferring academic credits. The 60-credit program is based on a cost-per-credit payment, where students only pay for the courses they need to complete the finance program.

Apart from general education and elective courses, students complete the following finance core courses that include 15 credits of the curriculum:

  • Financial Management
  • Corporate Finance
  • Financial Planning
  • Personal Finance
  • Economics of Money and Banking

Did You Know?

Wilmington University has several partnerships with state and community organizations, universities, community colleges, and high schools, including transfer agreements with more than 600 schools in the country.

The university’s articulation or program-to-program initiative allows matching specific academic programs at the undergraduate levels, providing seamless transfers of the associate degree programs. It is nationally recognized as a transfer-friendly university by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society.


Northeast Iowa Community College

Northeast Iowa Community College

Prominent Program Features:

The Associate of Applied Science program at Northeast Iowa Community College requires at least 63 credits for degree completion. Although admission starts at any term, the fall term begins the program sequence. The online Finance program features a plan of study that can be easily transferred to many 4-year colleges and universities. It is an excellent program used as a foundational requirement if students are planning to complete a professional degree in securities, banking, Finance, and other related studies.

The finance associate program consists of four terms, integrated with economics, accounting, management, and business courses. The core finance courses include:

  • Introduction to Commercial Lending
  • Principles of Banking
  • Personal Finance
  • Commercial Banking

Apart from the set of coursework, students learn how to utilize various financial tools required to analyze the financial markets. NICC also provides students with a variety of opportunities for tuition savings.

To enroll in NICC’s finance associate degree, prospective students submit their high school diploma, college transcripts, or equivalent credentials. They must also complete the ALEKS® math and ACCUPLACER® writing and reading assessments. However, assessments can be waived based on prior academic coursework or submission of valid SAT or ACT scores.

Did You Know?

Northeast Iowa Community College has received several accreditations from prestigious accrediting organizations across different areas of study, including the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, Commission on Dental Accreditation, National League for Nursing Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation, and Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education among many others.


Davenport University

Davenport University

Prominent Program Features:

Davenport University offers an Associate of Business Administration in Finance program specially accredited through the International Accreditation Council for Business Education. The academic program is taught by industry professionals who help students build a solid business core. Students will be equipped with the necessary proficiencies and expertise to thrive in the financial sector, preparing them for entry-level business and finance roles.

The 65-credit Finance associate program consists of the following courses:

  • Financial Analysis for Business Managers
  • Investment Planning
  • Money and Banking
  • Corporate Finance
  • Advanced Corporate Finance

The 100% online program features six start dates per year, allowing students to start their program anytime they prefer. Although program length depends on individual preferences, students can complete their associate degree in two years.

Did You Know?

Davenport University Excellence System is the school’s mission to prepare its students to succeed in the knowledge-driven education of modern times. The system comprises nine student learning outcomes that advocate professional competencies for graduates.

The learning outcomes include Global & Intercultural Competence, Civic & Social Responsibility, Ethical Reasoning & Action, Critical & Creative Thinking, Analysis & Problem Solving, Leadership & Teamwork, Information & Technology Proficiency, Written Communication, and Professional Communication.


Stark State College

Stark State College

Prominent Program Features:

Stark State College’s Associate of Applied Business in Finance program is offered in full-time and part-time learning formats. Prospective students can start their academic journey by pursuing Stark State’s Tax Preparer and Banking Associate certificate programs. Each certificate features courses that can directly apply to the associate degree in Finance.

The ACBSP-accredited finance program can be completed in 63 credits, with a set of courses that include:

  • Money and Banking
  • Business Finance
  • Investment and Securities
  • Personal Finance
  • Financial Accounting

Since the program features flexible scheduling and classes, online students can earn their associate degree in Corporate Finance in as little as two years. Graduates are prepared to pursue career opportunities in small accounting firms, government agencies, investment firms, mid-size to large corporations, and insurance companies.

Did You Know?

Stark State College has an open-door policy in which the school welcomes any student who wishes and benefits from higher education. The College offers equal opportunity for all students, allowing them to enroll in the school but not necessarily in a particular degree-granting program.

Stark State also has transfer agreements with 30+ colleges and universities, including Kent State University, The University of Akron, and Ohio State University, helping students to transition their academic credits smoothly to a 4-year degree program.


Madison Area Technical College

Madison Area Technical College

Prominent Program Features:

Madison Area Technical College is a Wisconsin-based technical college offering some of the country’s best Associate Degree in Finance programs through its School of Business and Applied Arts. The Finance program provides online students with a solid foundation in financial statement analysis, real estate, investing, retirement planning, and financial planning.

The coursework equips students with the essential skills and knowledge for entry-level positions in financial institutions, including manufacturing enterprises, government, real estate, financial planning, insurance companies, credit unions, and banks.

A unique feature of the program is that students can pursue an area of concentration, including Risk Management & Insurance, Accounting, Business Management, Small Business, or Human Resources. Students in the online Finance program can complete their program full-time or part-time, including an eight-week accelerated learning format. The 69-credit hour online associate in Finance program includes the following courses:

  • Personal Finance
  • Financial Institutions
  • Management Accounting
  • Corporate Finance
  • Financial Analysis

Did You Know?

Madison College is a community college covering 40 school districts in the state. Featuring more than 180 academic programs, the school is the University of Wisconsin System’s #1 source of transfer students due to affordability and flexibility. Each school within Madison College also has professional partnerships that benefit graduates.


Cambridge College Global

Cambridge College Global

Prominent Program Features:

The Associate of Science in Accounting – Finance program at Cambridge College Global is one of two concentrations offered, providing a strong foundation for prospective students interested in the financial aspects of an organization. The online Finance program emphasizes developing skills and knowledge, including using state-of-the-art and relevant accounting tools and systems, basic accounting knowledge, management, critical thinking, and financial statement preparation.

The online ASA program is designed to allow a smooth transition of academic credits to the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program at CCG. Graduates with an associate degree are equipped with the proficiencies and expertise to qualify and pass the QuickBooks Pro exam administered by Intuit.

The 60-credit ASA program includes the following courses:

  • Principles of Financial Services
  • Corporate Finance
  • Financial Literacy
  • Investment Management
  • Principles of Investments

Did You Know?

Cambridge College’s interactive distance learning platform was recognized with the ACHE Award for Creative Use of Technology and the 2014 Gold Award for Best Practices. In case you didn’t know, the New England College of Business and Finance is no longer operating as an independent institution of higher education since it is now Cambridge College Global.


University of Maryland Global Campus

University of Maryland Global Campus

Prominent Program Features:

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers an Associate of Arts in Accounting & Finance program that requires 60 credits for degree completion, allowing up to 45 credits for faster and more affordable learning. Although all courses are completed 100% online, select hybrid courses are available depending on students’ preferences.

Enrollment in the online Finance program doesn’t require GRE or SAT scores; students can choose from multiple start dates so they can start anytime when they’re ready.

UMGC features a recommended course sequence; however, students can complete multiple courses simultaneously up to their course load limit. Through the coursework, students can develop expertise in accounting and business-related areas, including marketing, business law, and information systems. Some of the courses integrated into the curriculum include:

  • Business Finance
  • Career Transitions
  • Communication and Collaboration
  • Fraud Detection and Deterrence
  • Fundamentals of Building Wealth

Did You Know?

The University of Maryland Global Campus allows students the utmost flexibility in their program completion, with a study-on-your-time basis of learning. Distance learners won’t have to log in at scheduled times. While most courses feature biweekly or weekly due dates, it is up to students’ time to log in when it fits their schedule.


Franklin University

Franklin University

Prominent Program Features:

Franklin University’s Association of Science in Financial Management program is tailored to fit busy, working adults who want to fast-track their associate degree completion. Graduates can earn their A.S. in Financial Management in as little as 24 months, depending on their course load. The university offers three trimesters annually, with start dates per trimester, allowing students to start their associate degree in Finance easier and more conveniently.

The A.S. in Financial Management program provides a seamless, transfer-friendly path to pursuing a baccalaureate degree in Financial Management. The university’s per-credit-hour tuition rates give students a realistic estimate of how much the associate degree costs. Students can also benefit from the tuition guarantee in which they can lock in their tuition rate from their first term through degree completion.

The 100% online Finance program features 6 & 12-week courses and includes the following courses in its curriculum:

  • Financial Accounting
  • Managerial Accounting
  • Money, Banking, & Financial Markets
  • Introduction to Microeconomics
  • Investments

Did You Know?

Franklin University has numerous partnerships with businesses and organizations, including medical schools, community colleges, and employers. Thanks to its global reach, the university has partnerships with 12 countries, and a network of more than 135 schools in the U.S.

Franklin University also has its College Credit Plus, helping districts increase the accessibility of academic degrees and reduce tuition costs. The university offers technology resources and personalized services to its partner districts and communities through College Credit Plus.


Columbus State Community College

Columbus State Community College

Prominent Program Features:

The Associate of Applied Science in Finance program at Columbus State Community College prepares aspiring finance professionals by enhancing their proficiencies and knowledge in the financial aspects. The online program is one of the few associate programs in Finance that receives accreditation from the ACBSP-Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs. It has demonstrated its reputation for meeting the high-quality standards of business education, promoting teaching excellence.

Since it is an open-admission and non-selective program, students will only require the submission of a high school diploma or GED equivalent. Students must complete some of these online courses to graduate with an A.A.S. degree in Finance:

  • International Finance
  • Money and Banking
  • Personal Finance
  • Corporate Finance
  • Finance Capstone

Finance associate graduates at CSCC have numerous transfer options for pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Finance, management, applied management, accounting, and leadership, including the Ohio Dominican University, Ohio University, American College of Education, Tiffin University, Franklin University, and Otterbein University.

Did You Know?

Almost all major and reputable accrediting agencies have granted accreditation status to Columbus State Community College, including the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs, the American Bar Association, the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, the Federal Aviation Association, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.


University of Cincinnati

University of Cincinnati

Prominent Program Features:

The University of Cincinnati offers an Associate of Applied Business in Financial Management Technology program featuring asynchronous online courses available 24/7. Distance learners complete 7-week or 14-week courses, allowing them to complete them anytime. Although the academic program can be completed online, graduates will receive the same degree and transcripts as their on-campus counterparts. Depending on students’ eligibility for financial aid, UC offers a diverse range of financial aid opportunities.

Through the online Finance program, students gain a comprehensive understanding and proficiencies to leverage a business-management methodology for financial forecasting, analytical processes, and budgeting. Students will complete the following courses:

  • Fundamentals to Financial Planning
  • Fundamentals of Risk Management
  • Introduction to Macroeconomics
  • Financial Accounting
  • Stock Markets and Investments

Designed for adult learners, the 100% online program is available part-time and full-time, including six start dates annually.

Did You Know?

The University of Cincinnati is well-known for providing traditional and non-traditional students with a balance of real-world experience and academic excellence. It is a public research university that ranks #4 in the U.S. for internships and co-ops, making it a top institution consistently ranking in the Top 5 and #1 for co-ops among public universities.

As a global founder of cooperative education, the university has one of the biggest co-op programs where students receive $75M annually as a collective effort around the globe.


Check this out: The Best Online MBA in Finance Degrees


Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the typical timeline for completing an Associate degree in Finance?

Pursuing an associate degree in Finance program can be completed in two years. However, the program duration depends on students’ schedules and preferences. If you are enrolled in an online associate in Finance program, students will have more flexible schedules and plans of study.

Some schools offer accelerated online programs that allow students to complete their associate degrees in less than two years. Other schools also have programs that can be completed in eight weeks. Since they have the option to complete extra courses at a time, they can graduate in less time if they study year-round full-time.

What are continuing education opportunities for graduates with an Associate degree in Finance?

An associate degree in Finance is an excellent stepping-stone for students pursuing further studies or training. Graduates can enroll in their preferred bachelor’s degree program in areas of study, including economics, accounting, management, marketing, and other more specialized studies.

Finance graduates can also pursue a variety of industry certifications that provide more in-depth training and knowledge, including the Certified Financial Planner (CFP), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

What are the admission requirements for an Associate degree in Finance program?

Although online schools have different admission requirements, most prospective students can enroll in an online associate in Finance degree by completing their high school diploma or GED equivalent. Other application requirements include application essays and 2-3 letters of recommendation.

While professional experience is rarely mandatory in an associate program, some students can also submit resumes. Students with prior training and work experience can benefit from transferring academic credits, allowing them to enjoy a reduced program length and a more affordable option for pursuing their associate studies.

What is the career outlook for Associate graduates with a degree in Finance?

Graduates with an associate degree in Finance are equipped with the necessary business and finance skills to pursue a variety of related fields. The more in-depth training helps them become proficient in taxation, banking, accounting, entrepreneurship, and marketing.

According to the U.S. Labor Statistics Bureau, the career outlook for financial and business occupations is expected to grow by 7% between 2022 to 2032, generating approximately 911,400 jobs in this decade. Apart from a promising employment outlook, finance graduates enjoy competitive wages, with a median wage of $76,850 per year.

Who is eligible to enroll in an online associate degree in Finance program?

A variety of schools accept students with high school diplomas or equivalent credentials into their online associate in Finance programs. However, prospective students may have to complete a math placement test to assess the set of courses for enrollment. Although it is not mandatory, online finance students should have a passion for business and mathematics.


Don’t miss out on this: The Best Online Associates in Economics

Rowan Jones
Chief Editor