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Financial Planning Degree Online BS in Finance Concentration Courses

Kevin Deveraux, an SNHU alum, wearing a black and grey plaid buttondown shirt at a computer with two thin notebooks, a smartphone and white coffee mug next to him.

Cost per credit $330

Total courses 40

Term length 8 weeks

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Program Overview Why get a financial planning degree?

SNHU's CFP Board-registered online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning prepares students for a rewarding career, guiding people toward the achievement of their personal financial goals.

Earning your financial planning degree at SNHU means you've met the educational requirement to become a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, one of the highest standards of excellence in the field. Our financial planning program is also registered with the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc., preparing you to take the CFP® certification exam.

It is also the only CFP Board-registered program in New Hampshire.

Skills you'll learn:

  • Financial plan development
  • Forecasting
  • Tax preparation
  • Compliant ethical and legal strategies
  • Risk management
  • Estate planning
Kevin Deveraux wearing a black and grey plain buttondown shirt working on a red laptop.

Courses & Curriculum Online financial planning degree classes that prepare you for your career

The online finance degree is grounded in core business knowledge, which emphasizes communication, entrepreneurial thinking, collaboration, personal and social responsibility and global orientation. 

Degree Courses

Online financial planning degree courses

Business programs require learners to complete the business core program, which includes a variety of business-specific courses. This program focuses on 10 core competencies to prepare you for success wherever you go.

It culminates in a capstone experience that brings the numbers to life as students use cutting-edge technology and case studies to analyze and synthesize financial reporting data.

Courses may include:

Course ID: ACC 201
Students will learn the steps of the accounting cycle and how to prepare financial statements in accordance with industry established rules and regulations. Students will develop skills needed to analyze financial accounting information, communicate this information to stakeholders, and understand the accounting procedures that produce this information.
Course ID: ACC 202
Students will explore the financial impact of short-term and long-term business decisions. By learning how accounting and other productivity information can be used to assess and improve performance of an organization, managers will be provided the essential information they need to execute growth strategies and select opportunities that create business value.
Course ID: ACC 330
In this course, students will learn about current US tax laws and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), as well as the relevant source documents, associated with federal tax returns for individuals. Students will research and apply the appropriate tax laws in relation to the specific circumstances and tax liabilities. Students will prepare federal tax returns and communicate various tax return information to stakeholders.
Course ID: BUS 206
Students will examine the background, foundation, and ethical aspects of the United States' legal system as it applies to business organizations. Students will also learn the impact of torts, product liability, criminal law, contracts, sales, business organizations, and agency and cyber law in a business setting.
Course ID: FIN 320
Students will examine the corporate finance discipline, including the financial management of organizations and the skills needed to make decisions about financing, investments, and dividends. Students will learn how the analysis of financing and investment options can inform decisions that add value to an organization and its investors.
Course ID: FIN 325
This course introduces the importance of strategic analysis through the use of financial statements, the purpose of which is to assess the overall performance, effectiveness, and efficiency of the organization. Students in this course will learn the use, interpretation, and purpose of financial reports-including the balance sheet, cash flow statement, income statement, and statements of retained earnings-using practical strategies that will aid in decision-making.
Course ID: FIN 350
In this course, students will be introduced to the comprehensive financial planning process and will develop financial knowledge on a range of financial planning concepts. The psychology of financial planning and best practices in the field will be explored. Students will analyze diverse client scenarios to determine and effectively communicate appropriate financial recommendations.
Course ID: FIN 355
Examine strategies to mitigate financial risk through risk management techniques to protect income, assets and financial plans. Differentiate between insurance types and products and be able to conduct an insurance needs analysis to make informed client recommendations.
Course ID: FIN 460
Examine estate planning techniques used to optimize an estate's value and to ensure a seamless transition of assets upon an individual's death. Explore appropriate questions to ask in order to collect the information needed for evaluation of, and recommended changes to, the estate plan. Students familiarize themselves with the different parties involved in an estate plan.
Course ID: FIN 485
In this course, students will demonstrate the ability to synthesize and apply financial planning knowledge and skills through the development and communication of a comprehensive financial plan. Students will build expertise in general principles of financial planning, investment planning, risk management and insurance planning, tax planning, retirement savings and income planning, estate planning, and the psychology of financial planning. This course will also provide students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of professional conduct and regulation.
Course ID: INT 113
This course is the foundation for business in a global context with an emphasis on applications. It offers a survey of fundamentals and principles of management in the context of globally oriented firms and primarily presents an assessment of the differences between business in domestic and international context. The course explores fundamental issues in business in an increasingly interdependent world; including management principles and techniques in a global context. Themes constituting fundamentals of international business such as economic, political, cultural and social environment of business; organizations that facilitate international business and organizational structures; trade theory; government influence on trade; international business modalities and entry strategies into foreign markets, global financial system as well as the emerging issues related to international business; are also explored.
Course ID: MKT 113
This course examines the organization's functions for creating, communicating, and delivering value to customers. These functions, designed to meet customers' needs and organizational goals, include marketing research, environmental monitoring, target market selection, product selection, promotion, distribution and pricing.
Course ID: OL 125
The human relations skills that managers need to develop interaction skills that contribute directly to effective human resource management and the development of higher productivity are studied. Skill areas include leadership, motivation, communications, group dynamics, organizational development, management by objectives, and stress and time management. Students learn techniques for becoming more effective managers, subordinates, peers and persons. Students are introduced to the international aspects of human relations.
Course ID: OL 421
Business School Capstone Course. This interdisciplinary approach to the study of the process of strategic management includes strategic analysis planning, implementation, evaluation and control from the perspective of top management in profit-making U.S. and international corporations, and public and non-profit organizations. Text and case studies are used extensively. Writing and team intensive course. Experience with Microsoft Office or equivalent is required.

Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning curriculum.

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Upcoming term starts: March 3, 2025 | May 5, 2025

Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025

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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:

8-week terms

Learn around your schedule

24/7 online support

Online Classroom

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
How to Take an Online Class at SNHU
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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.

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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 undergraduate tuition

Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720

*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:

$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700

If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750

If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800

If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850

If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900

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 bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 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.

Career Outlook What can I do with an online financial planning degree?

A bachelor's in finance with a financial planning concentration puts you in a powerful position for employment in banking, insurance, mortgage companies and credit card firms. Some financial specialists work solo as tax preparers, personal financial advisors or real-estate appraisers – though additional licensure requirements, which vary by state, can apply.

Though there are many different financial advisors, being a certified CFP® professional may set you apart. The CFP Board notes that getting certified increases your chances of a competitive edge and career satisfaction, as well as customer satisfaction.2

Occupations

As an individual or as part of a financial team, with SNHU's online degree, you'll be prepared to take on jobs such as:

Guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending money to make a profit. Assess the performance of stocks, bonds and other types of investments.

Oversee the day-to-day financial operations of a particular customer's account within a business with a focus on client satisfaction.

Use analytical skills to project potential losses and make recommendations to limit risk through diversification, currency exchanges and other investment strategies.

Provide advice on investments, insurance, mortgages, estate planning, taxes and retirement to help individuals manage their finances.

13%

The projected percent growth in employment for personal financial advisors through 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1

$99,580

The median annual salary for financial advisors in 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

A degree in financial planning can lead to a career as a certified financial planner, known as a CFP®, which is a role that individuals involved in financial decisions can benefit from.

Handling money is an important task from single parents to the CEOs of large businesses. A financial planner helps them to organize and understand where their money comes from, where it goes and what they should do with it along the way.

You could be helping a small-town clerk be sure her town can afford what they need, or you could be helping a family manage their expenses as two children go into college, or advising a young graduate on the best steps for a healthy financial future.

A degree in financial planning can lead you to a wide array of career experiences because of how many people benefit from an expert's eyes on their budget.

A career as a certified financial planner is an excellent choice for those who enjoy working with people and mathematics. The CFP Board states that it was founded to help every American access quality financial advising.3 You may find satisfaction from helping others in your work.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you may meet with clients to advise them of investments to make, changes they may need to keep their finances and future healthy, or guide them through planning for retirement or sending children to college.1

The BLS also reported the median annual wage for personal financial advisors was $99,580 in 2023, with the highest 10% earning more than $239,200.1 Adding to that, the projected job growth rate through 2032 is 13% — much faster than the national average for all professions.1

If you're ready to take the first step in becoming a certified financial planner, securing both your financial future and many others', you can start by applying for SNHU's BS in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning. The process is quick and simple – and there's no application fee.

It's important to choose a program that is verified by the Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards (CFP Board) to ensure you're prepared for the CFP® exam.

The certification also requires a bachelor's degree or higher, so choosing a degree program that also serves to teach you financial planning makes your path efficient.

At SNHU, our Bachelor of Science in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning is approved by the CFP Board.

This program not only teaches you the skills necessary to pass the exam but also gives you well-rounded skills in finance so you can make plans with many other financial systems in mind. You may take courses to learn risk management and insurance planning, taxation or human relations in administration. This prepares you to work with clients who have multiple kinds of investments and interests, large and small.

Additionally, you have access to SNHU's student resources such as the career development team and tutoring services. You'll have support on your way to certification that could help you enter your career as a CFP® with confidence.

Costs vary depending on where and how you're learning.

Online courses often fit more lives at a lower cost. At SNHU, our tuition for online bachelor's degree programs is one of the lowest in the nation. The standard tuition rate is $330 per credit hour. This totals about $39,600 for a 120-credit degree program. However, for many students, the total tuition investment becomes less, as many have previously attended other institutions and can save money by transferring credits into the program.

We're also dedicated to making higher education accessible, so we have a wide variety of financial aid options that may be able to help reduce your cost. Our Student Financial Services team can help you develop a financial plan to borrow and pay wisely, much like you could be doing for others in your future career as a CFP®.

So for the investment outlined, you not only prep for the CFP® exam but you earn your BS in Finance with a concentration in Financial Planning at the same time.

Both credentials are a great choice for someone who wants to work in finance. It all depends on your preferred type of work.

As the CFP Board states, a CFP® works with individuals or small groups, while a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) works within bigger organizations that make large investments, such as banks or insurance companies, and analyzes these investments.2

Someone working as a CFP® may find a more personal connection to their work, especially if they help families and young adults plan for their financial futures. If you prefer designing strategies for healthy financial decisions for everyday people, earning a CFP® certification may be the right choice for you.

Alternatively, earning a CFA is an especially high distinction in the investment industry. This is a globally recognized standard of skills that could allow you to work with businesses all over the world. And if you like a challenge, this is a highly competitive industry and position.3

You can even earn both credentials, as they pair well together. Having the skills to work both small-scale and large-scale is a valuable trait. With both certifications, you can address the full scope of your client's financial life – whether the small family wants to invest in big stocks or the organization wants to take smaller budgets into account, you may have the right skills to bring to the table.

Being able to work on multiple levels can allow you to do the majority of the work yourself with no need to employ other services to fill knowledge gaps. This helps build a stronger relationship with clients too.

Whether you're a CFA, a CFP® or both, you can work in a great industry.

The length of time it takes you to earn a financial planning degree is up to you and your schedule.

At Southern New Hampshire University, you can attend full time (2 classes per term) or part time (1 class per term). Undergraduate terms at SNHU can fly by, as they're only 8 weeks long. You can work with your academic advisor on a timeline for getting your degree.

The length of time it takes to earn your bachelor's is also dependent on transfer credit. Most SNHU students have brought in credit from other colleges or life experience, and they come here intent on finishing their degree.

Fortunately, SNHU has a generous transfer policy that allows you to put up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's here. If you're able to transfer in the full 90, that means you only have 10 classes (30 credits) left to get to the finish line.

At SNHU, success is on your schedule. When you submit a free application, you can have the admission team perform a transfer credit evaluation – also for free. From there, you can make an informed decision about your time at SNHU.

Related Articles

Sources & Citations

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/personal-financial-advisors.htm (viewed May 2, 2024).

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.

2 Certified Financial Planner Board, on the internet, at:

  • https://www.cfp.net/why-cfp-certification/why-get-certified (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)
  • https://www.cfp.net/about-cfp-board/mission-and-priorities (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)
  • https://www.cfp.net/get-certified/certification-process/education-requirement (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)
  • https://www.cfp.net/get-certified/certification-process/exam-requirement (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)
  • https://www.cfp.net/why-cfp-certification/career-guide/what-makes-cfp-certification-different/how-does-cfp-certification-complement-my-cfa (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)

3 CFA Institute, CFA Program, on the internet, at https://www.cfainstitute.org/en/programs/cfa (viewed Feb. 25, 2022)

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. (CFP Board) owns the CFP® certification mark, the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® certification mark, the CFP® (with plaque design) certification mark and the CFP® (with flame design) certification mark in the United States, which it authorizes use of by individuals who successfully complete CFP Board's initial and ongoing certification requirements. CFP Board also owns the CFP BOARD® service mark. Any marks owned by CFP Board are used with permission.