MBA in Finance Online Master of Business Administration Program
Program Overview Why get an MBA in finance online?
Suited for investment brokers, small business owners, project analysts and top executives, the online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in finance program at Southern New Hampshire University combines exceptional business training with a focus on short-term financial management, capital budgeting and portfolio management — all while building a strong skill set in leadership, ethics, innovation and strategy.
Skills you'll learn:
- Financial data analysis using quantitative and qualitative techniques
- How to use data for decision-making
- Adaptable strategy development
- Evaluation and execution of organizational process improvement
- How to cultivate a globally aware and culturally responsive team
- Cultural, ethical and legal standards, and sustainable practices
Courses & Curriculum Online MBA in Finance classes built for the modern workforce
The MBA in Finance online degree program provides you with the skills and knowledge of strategic financial management and a deeper understanding of critical topics like cash management, budgeting, financial markets, investments and portfolio management. Your courses are thoughtfully designed to result in an invaluable skill set that can help you start — or continue — your career in business.
MBA in Finance online courses
The MBA in Finance consists of 7 core MBA courses and 3 finance concentration courses where you'll have the opportunity to use a Harvard Business Review working capital simulation program to write financial and investment analysis reports and comparative analyses — all with a close eye on market and industry trends. Depending on your academic background, you may need to take 1 or 2 additional business foundation courses.
Courses may include:
Visit the course catalog to view the full MBA in Finance curriculum.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
---|---|
Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
MBA Technical Requirements
Video Communication Platform:
- Mac or PC desktop or laptop (not a mobile device or tablet)
- Webcam
- Microphone
- Required: At least 1 Mbps upload/download speed
- Learn more about our detailed technical requirements
Internet Connectivity for Virtual Labs:
- Recommended: 5Mbps upload/download speed with less than 40ms latency
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: March 24, 2025 | June 9, 2025
Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty members bring with them decades of experience in the business field and exhibit strong leadership both in the classroom and in their professional careers. This experience informs the development of courses and curriculum that can help position graduates for success, wherever they go next.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Russ Bellemare
In addition to teaching in Southern New Hampshire University's online finance program for 24 years, Dr. Russ Bellemare has taught at the University of Texas as an adjunct professor and has spent 46 years in the banking and commercial real estate industry.
Position
Adjunct Instructor, Finance
Joined SNHU
2000
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Business Studies from Southern New Hampshire University
- Master of Business Administration from Southern New Hampshire University
- Doctor of Business Administration in Finance from North Central University
"Being an alum of SNHU, I am proud and privileged to be an adjunct professor having served in this capacity for over 20 years. This privilege continues to provide me with the opportunity to pass along to my students what I have learned in my 46 years in the finance industry and maximize the use of knowledge I acquired through continuing my education."
A dedicated academic team
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell
Dr. Zuzana Buzzell began her SNHU career in 2005 as an adjunct faculty member before taking a full-time position in 2014. She has more than 15 years of experience developing and teaching programs in finance, business and economics, and has worked in hybrid, traditional and online academic programs, government agencies and in the private sector.
Dr. Buzzell’s research interests include digital ethics, finance technology, cryptocurrencies, and the future of finance and blockchains. She has published in several journals, conference papers and blogs on topics including mortgage-backed securities, finance technology, Brexit and more.
Dr. Buzzell earned a bachelor’s in business administration, an MBA, a master’s in finance as well as a PhD in International Business.
“The MBA in Finance provides the knowledge to help a business owner or a corporate executive achieve success because finance impacts every strategic decision.”
Kristin Regis, senior associate dean of business programs
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 180,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
It's easy, fast and free.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online graduate tuition
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,274 $2,548 $3,822If 2 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,836
If 4 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $16,562
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a MBA degree. Most master's degrees require 30 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 6 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Career Outlook Where can I work with an MBA in Finance?
The MBA in Finance online program prepares you to enter or advance your career as a finance professional in investment banking, securities, small business development and more. Because the program core is founded on traditional MBA training, you'll learn valuable skills in areas like marketing, strategy and change management — all of which are in high demand in a variety of industries.
Industries
Financial managers can find roles across a large number of disciplines, including:1
Work as a budget analyst, investment analyst, business intelligence analyst, risk analyst or management analyst. Help organizations manage finances and investments, and share recommendations to help limit risk.
Consult with clients on personal investment needs and provide advice for how to meet short- and long-term financial goals.
Assess the overall financial health of an organization, and oversee the budget process, billing or other business matters.
Help your organization make critical financial decisions by collecting, tracking and correcting the company's finances.
Examine, analyze and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate reports prepared by others.
Increase in financial manager positions through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
The median annual salary for financial manager jobs as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
With an MBA in Finance, your career options are truly limitless. You can combine your business acumen with your financial expertise to serve in any number of business roles in private business, government or nonprofits.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 911,400 openings are project each year (on average) for business and financial occupations through 2032.1
Some career opportunities with a finance MBA are:
- Investment banker. In this role, you may help clients raise funds to finance various activities, play a key role in helping to develop businesses or provide financial advice to clients on how to raise necessary capital to fund their own interests. This role requires financial savvy as well as strong communication skills.
- Management consultant. This is a dynamic role with many opportunities to serve businesses of all sizes. Your role may be to solve complex financial problems or identify financial strengths and weaknesses of a business. Problem solving and analytical skills are key for success in this role.
- Accountant or auditor. In this role, you'd be the expert who ensures financial compliance for your organization. You may compute any owed taxes and prepare tax returns, or make recommendations for best practices to manage the financial health of your organization overall.
- Chief executive officer. While most corporations have a chief financial officer dedicated to overseeing financial matters, it’s important for the CEO to have a clear understanding of the implications for different decisions. The person in this role also needs to be prepared to speak to the company’s overall financial position, which is where the MBA in Finance can come in handy.
- Small business owner. Every decision a small business owner makes impacts finances. And, as a small business, they typically can’t afford to hire someone dedicated to financial management. The breadth of skills gained in the MBA program provides an excellent foundation to own or manage a small business.
We strongly recommend considering an online MBA in Finance. You'll be able to take courses at your own convenience, with 24/7 access to all course material. Faculty are professionals in the field, bringing their expertise into the classroom to offer top-notch instruction.
If you already have a bachelor’s degree in a business-related field from an accredited school, you may be able to waive the foundation requirements for the online MBA in Finance. If your bachelor’s degree is in a non-business-related field, you may have to complete up to 2 foundational courses to ensure you are best prepared to succeed. No GRE or GMAT scores are required at SNHU.
Our team of admission counselors can also discuss with you any credits you have received previously from other institutions and give you a credit assessment to see if there is an opportunity for transfer. (At SNHU, you can transfer up to 6 credits toward your MBA program from previously attended institutions.)
Our student support services team members are ready to assist you throughout your time with SNHU, from admission and advising, to our career team and our alumni network for continued networking.
Because there are so many directions in which you can take your career with an MBA in Finance, there is a wide range of what you can earn with this degree.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects for business and financial occupations look bright. About 911,400 openings are projected each year, on average, in these professions through 2032.1
In terms of salary, the median annual wage for business and financial occupations was $79,050 in 2023.1 More specifically, financial analysts earned a median annual wage of $99,890 that same year, while financial managers earned a median annual wage of $156,100.1
The earning potential is great, but so is the competition. The better prepared you are with a credential like an MBA in Finance, the more you can stand out in a tough job market.
While both an MBA in Finance and a master’s in finance can lead to a rewarding career, there are some key differences between the two. Most notably, an MS in Finance is focused on exactly that: finance. An MBA in Finance, on the other hand, has a business foundation with a 3-course finance emphasis. The MBA can be seen as more versatile if you are open to a wide variety of careers.
“The master’s in finance is excellent preparation for a finance-specific career, while the MBA in Finance is good for a variety of business careers,” said Kristin Regis, senior associate dean of business programs for Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). “The MBA offers a broader range of skills that will make it easy to switch tracks if you decide you’d rather not focus on finance. The MBA also has the added benefit of preparing you for management positions.”
At SNHU, our online MBA in Finance offers a solid business foundation with a comprehensive understanding of business-related finance. You can graduate with this degree ready to excel as a high-level business executive in a variety of professional fields. You can also be prepared to view an organization holistically from a well-informed, business-related vision.
If you have a mind for business and an eye for numbers, a finance MBA could be right for you. This degree is an extremely marketable credential because it offers you training in a sought-after skill set that combines business principles with the finer points of finance.
With an MBA in Finance, you could apply your project management, portfolio management and overall financial acumen to work in career fields such as:
- Banking: You may choose to work in banking management and financial institutional operations.
- Corporate finance: Your degree could lead to a career in any number of organizations, from large to small corporations to government entities or nonprofits. In any of these organizations, you may analyze financial statements or corporate investments, lead portfolio management or make recommendations with regards to global investment opportunities.
- Supply chain management: An MBA in Finance degree does more than prepare you to run a business. It helps facilitate and improve the day-to-day function of an organization. And, it can help you develop long-term, fiscally viable strategies to help your organization stay operational in the face of unforeseen economic changes.
- Information technology: An MBA shows that you have the training needed to speak the language of business in a variety of professional settings. Your degree can stand for the fact that you have received training in leadership, operations management, marketing and business ethics with an emphasis in financial literacy. These are beneficial qualities to any business including IT, where innovation often leads the way. Developing business plans that align to a company's strategic goals and innovation tactics is essential in IT and many other industries.
- Education: Perhaps you wish to teach at college level. An MBA in Finance could lead to opportunities to give back. Engaging with your community through teaching courses to students in business and finance, you can bring real-world experience in the industry into the classroom. You may also wish to build on your MBA with a doctorate in business or finance and teach at the university level as well.
Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm (viewed May 29, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/home.htm (viewed May 29, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/financial-analysts.htm (viewed May 29, 2023)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.