Study Finance in Missouri
Whether you want to work in financial services, corporate finance, international finance, or something in between, you can get the education you need in Missouri. With a collection of bachelor’s and master’s degrees available from the state’s public universities, you can chart a course for a successful career.
Completing your degree doesn’t require on-campus studies, either. In many cases, the same on-campus degrees are available entirely online. Moreover, these degrees are typically taught by the same professors and feature the same curriculum that on-campus students complete.
The question is, which online finance degrees are the best Missouri has to offer? Consult the guide below for some of the popular options!
Online Finance Degrees in Missouri
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering online finance degrees in Missouri:
- Missouri State University
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Lindenwood University
- University of Missouri-Columbia
- University of Massachusetts Global
- Avila University
- Walden University
- Rockhurst University
- Southern New Hampshire University
Missouri State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Finance
The Bachelor of Science in Finance at Missouri State is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). As such, it’s one of the top programs in the nation and offers a curriculum that prepares you well for a career in finance.
In fact, you can pursue any number of jobs in this field once you complete this degree, including:
- Credit Analyst
- Banker
- Broker
- Financial Analyst
- Financial Planner
Additionally, the curriculum prepares you to take the Level 1 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) exam, which is a critical step in becoming a full-fledged CFA. Combined with your undergraduate education, this credential can help you land more lucrative positions in the finance field.
The first two years of your studies revolve around beginner-level coursework. On the one hand, you’re required to complete general introductory classes in English, social sciences, math, natural sciences, and other liberal arts fields. You’re also required to take classes in communications, the humanities and art, and physical education, to name a few.
On the other hand, you must also complete basic business core courses. For finance majors like yourself, this means taking the following four classes:
- Financial Markets and Investments
- Portfolio Management and Alternative Assets
- Debtor and Creditor Rights and Remedies
- Business Enterprises, Rights, and Liabilities -or- Legal Environment of Business Organizations for Professionals
After that, you have your choice of three concentrations: a 24-credit Corporate and Investments track, a 21-credit Financial Planning track, or a 24-credit FinTech track.
The Corporate and Investments track teaches you how to manage money for businesses and organizations. To gain the necessary skills for this kind of work, you are required to take Intermediate Financial Management, International Financial Statement Analysis, and Security Valuation.
Then, you’ll take two of the following three classes: Principles of Real Estate, Financial Planning, or Principles of Risk Management and Insurance. After that, you’ll select three more classes from a list of approved electives. For example, you can take a course in Game Theory, which studies the strategy involved in all sorts of pursuits, from finance to economics to business. You’ll even explore how strategy is employed in warfare, sports, and politics.
As another example, you can take a class in Management of Financial Institutions, which teaches you the theories and techniques used to manage both depository and non-depository financial organizations. You’ll focus on asset and liability management, liquidity, foreign exchange rates, and capital risk.
The Financial Planning option is formatted in much the same way. You have a lot of choices regarding the classes you take. For example, you can take Tax Accounting I, Financial Planning, and Introduction to Estate Planning. Alternatively, you can choose to take a four-course sequence including Introduction to Estate Planning, Professional Planning, Principles of Risk Management and Insurance, and Employee Benefits and Social Insurance.
Then, you’ll choose one elective course from among the following options (though many other options are available):
- Individual Income Tax Assistance
- Financial Research and Portfolio Management
- Behavioral Economics
- Principles of Real Estate
- Life Insurance
Lastly, the FinTech track focuses on the fundamentals of using technology to improve clients’ financial standing. You’ll take courses like Machine Learning, Applied Business Statistics, and Foundations of FinTech. You’re also required to complete one elective course, such as Applied Econometrics, Security Valuation, or Risk Modeling and Analytics. The FinTech track also requires you to complete an internship in finance or information technology and security.
Missouri State’s application for undergraduate admission is available online. Admission as a first-year student is available in a number of different ways. For example, if you have a cumulative high school GPA of 3.0 or higher, you are guaranteed admission. Alternatively, if you’re in the 48th-55th percentile of your high school class and have a GPA of 2.85-2.99, you must take the ACT or SAT and score 21 of 1060 or higher on the exam, respectively.
Other levels of admission are available, too. The criteria for each depends on your class rank, GPA, and standardized test scores.
Northwest Missouri State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Finance
Northwest Missouri State’s Bachelor of Science in Finance is available completely online and offers a Financial Management specialization. This specialization enables you to hone your money management skills and prepare for a career working with businesses to manage the use of their funds in a financially responsible manner.
This 120-credit program usually takes four years of full-time studies to complete. However, Northwest Missouri State has a very friendly transfer policy: you can transfer as many as 82 hours toward meeting the graduation requirements.
Assuming you’re a first-year student with no prior college credits, you’ll need to complete the Northwest Core of courses first. These general education courses are like those described above – introductory studies in a broad range of liberal arts fields. The knowledge and skills you acquire in these courses (e.g., analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills) are essential for your success as you move into your major studies.
The next phase of the program includes Common Professional Component courses. These classes cover math, information technology, and basic business topics. For example, you’re required to take General Statistics, Mathematical Modeling, and Computers and Information Technology.
Then, you’ll complete 39 more credits within the Common Professional Component. These credits focus on business topics, like Accounting I and II, Principles of Macroeconomics, Principles of Microeconomics, and Business Law. Likewise, you’ll take the following classes:
- Fundamentals of Business Finance
- Business Communication
- Principles of Management
- Operations Management
- Strategy and Decision-Making
The required finance-related coursework includes 27 credits of studies in fields like Investment Principles, Intermediate Financial Management, and Financial Institutions. You’ll take a course in Selected Cases in Finance, too. This class uses a case study approach to explore important topics in corporate financial management.
Additionally, you’ll take an Investment Management course that discusses foreign exchange, fixed income, derivatives, and other essential investment topics. Yet other studies focus on Human Resource Management, Organizational Behavior, and Entrepreneurship.
Lastly, you’re required to take six credits of elective courses. These classes must align with the goals of your degree plan and should be within the finance department or the broader business department. Your advisor must approve any electives you wish to take.
Once you’ve completed this program, you’ll have a solid set of skills applicable to many different finance careers, including the following:
- The ability to understand finance fundamentals within a business.
- The ability to make appropriate financial-related business management decisions.
- The ability to effectively communicate about finance verbally and in writing.
To apply, you must be a high school graduate or have an equivalency to be considered as a first-year applicant. You’re required to meet various other criteria, such as submitting an essay, ACT or SAT scores, or achieving an acceptable high school GPA (e.g., 2.0 or above).
You can also apply as a transfer student if you have 24 or more transferable college credits. To do so, you must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher, and your credits must be from a regionally accredited college or university.
Lindenwood University
Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science – Finance
At Lindenwood University, you can complete a bachelor’s degree in finance in about four years. You have the option of choosing either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science so you can adapt your degree to better fit your career goals. You can also choose a Bachelor of Business Administration with a finance specialization if that’s a better option for you.
As you’d expect, the first portion of this undergraduate degree is spent studying other subjects. In fact, you must complete 51-53 general education and core business requirements before starting your major studies in finance.
The general education business requirements cover broad topics in Economics, business communications, and math. For example, you’ll take Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, and College Algebra. You must take either Basic Statistics or Statistics for Natural Science, as well as a communication course, like Public Debate, Group Dynamics and Effective Speaking, or Fundamentals of Oral Communication.
The core requirements focus much more on business and finance-related subjects. You’ll take Principles of Financial Accounting and Principles of Managerial Accounting. You’ll also take Principles of Finance, which explores basic concepts like financial analysis, capital budgeting, and international financial management.
Furthermore, you’ll take introductory management courses like Introduction to Business and Free Enterprise and Introduction to Information Systems. Another key required management class is Principles of Management, which teaches you essential decision-making skills required in management positions. Other business core classes include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Business Law I
- Management Policy
- Principles of Marketing
- Business Analytics I
- Human Resource Management -or- Organizational Behavior
Once the basic coursework is out of the way, you’ll begin your studies in either a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science program. The B.A. option requires 75-77 credits within the major, while the B.S. option requires 78-80 major-area credits. Despite this difference, both options require you to complete the same sequence of four essential finance classes: Corporate Finance I, Investments I, Financial Institutions and Markets, and Seminar in Finance.
The seminar requirement explores theoretical principles in finance through case studies. You’ll focus on financial problems that might arise in small business settings, international finance, and other scenarios. You’ll also study the optimum capital structure and timing of financial policy.
Both the B.A. and B.S. tracks offer the same electives. You must complete at least 15 credits of coursework in areas like accounting, economics, or entrepreneurship. Electives are also available in finance and math.
Ultimately, what sets the B.A. and B.S. options apart is that the B.A. allows you to take more classes outside the major. Meanwhile, the B.S. requires you to take additional courses in business or finance. Either way, you’ll learn from experienced professors with real-world experience working in finance.
Lindenwood University accepts online applications year-round. You must meet the following criteria to apply as a first-year student:
- Have a high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Submit your high school transcripts or equivalency scores
- Submit official ACT or SAT scores (unless you choose the test-optional admissions process).
Choosing the test-optional process means your application for admission will be reviewed based on factors like your high school grades, the academic rigor of the courses you took in high school, your involvement in community organizations, and your history of participation in extracurricular activities.
University of Missouri-Columbia
Online Master of Science in Finance
The Master of Science in Finance from the University of Missouri-Columbia is AACSB-accredited and requires you to complete 30 credits of study. Most students are able to finish the program in one calendar year (three semesters). However, you can enroll part-time and take two or more years to complete the degree if doing so better suits your schedule.
Though this curriculum is generalist in its focus, it also includes coursework in FinTech and financial software to address the growing need for financial experts with familiarity with using Excel, mathematical models, and statistical analyses to dive deep into data to make more informed financial decisions. As a result, this program emphasizes the following:
- Examining the interrelationship between risk management, finance, and strategic decision-making.
- Exploring financial software tools and necessary data analytics skills.
- Equipping you with the ability to use quantitative reasoning to make insights using financial models.
Before beginning this program, you must complete four prerequisites, assuming you haven’t already completed them as part of an undergraduate degree in this field. These prerequisites include the following: Financial Accounting, Microeconomics, Corporate and Managerial Finance, and Statistics.
Then, once those classes are complete, you can start working on the 30 credits needed to graduate. The required coursework explores a wide range of business and finance topics. For example, you’ll take Economics for Managers, which helps you understand how microeconomic and macroeconomic forces influence managerial decision-making.
You’ll also take a Financial Markets class that examines the operation and structure of stock and bond markets, derivatives securities, and money markets. Additionally, two Financial Statement Analysis classes, an Ethics course, and a Financial Modeling class are required. The final core class, Managerial Finance II, analyzes financial information pertaining to asset management. You’ll discuss acquisitions, costs of alternative financial contracts, and examine the interaction between funding and investment decisions.
The remaining credits are elective finance courses of your choosing. The program offers a broad range of options so you can customize your degree to your particular interests. For example, if you want to work in portfolio management, you might take Investment Policy and Portfolio Management. Alternatively, if you want to work for a depository banking institution, you might consider taking Investment Banking.
Other elective options include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Derivative Financial Securities
- Equity Securities Analysis
- Fixed-Income Securities Analysis
- Advanced Financial Management
- International Financial Markets
This program offers a thesis option, too. In lieu of taking traditional elective courses, you can complete a detailed research proposal and thesis defense and earn up to six elective credits.
You can apply to the University of Missouri-Columbia online at any time. The following requirements must be met to be considered for admission to this program:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university.
- Have a 3.0 GPA or higher for the most recent 60 undergraduate credits you’ve earned.
- Complete any required prerequisite coursework.
- Submit TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, or Cambridge C1 scores to demonstrate your English proficiency (this is only required for applicants for whom English is not their native language.
GMAT or GRE scores can be submitted as well, though this is not required.
University of Massachusetts Global
Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance
You can pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance at UMass Global, focusing on the essential skills needed to become a finance professional. The curriculum includes a variety of topics, from international finance and financial management to investments, offering practical learning opportunities that let you apply classroom knowledge in real-world scenarios.
This 120-credit program is divided into three main categories: general education, core requirements, and the finance emphasis. In general education, you’ll study liberal arts subjects such as quantitative reasoning, written communications, humanities, and art. Additionally, you’ll take courses in social sciences, natural sciences, and information fluency. To fulfill this part of the curriculum, you need to complete 42 credits.
The core requirements consist of both lower-division and upper-division courses related to business. For lower-division requirements, you’ll take classes such as:
- Principles of Accounting I and II
- Introduction to Computers and Data Processing
- Principles of Microeconomics
- Principles of Macroeconomics
- Introduction to Statistics
These classes are designed to help you develop essential business skills. You’ll learn about accounting procedures, data-driven decision-making, and the factors that influence economic growth on various scales.
Upper-division courses in the core requirements offer a more in-depth study of business-related subjects. For instance, you’ll take a Principles of Management class to develop leadership skills and a Principles of Marketing class to learn the basics of marketing products and services. Other classes include Business Finance, Organizational Communication, and Strategic Management.
The finance emphasis requires you to complete six specialized finance courses. One of these is a Financial Institutions course, which covers major financial organizations like the Federal Reserve, the stock market, and regulatory commissions. Another is an Income Taxation course to help you understand how state and federal governments tax income.
Additional finance emphasis coursework includes:
- Intermediate Financial Management
- Investments
- International Finance
- Financing the Small Business
The knowledge gained throughout this program is highly applicable to the finance industry. The curriculum aligns with industry standards, and you’ll learn from professors who are currently employed in finance or have relevant experience.
UMass Global also allows you to earn credit for prior knowledge. Depending on your academic and work history, you might receive credit for professional certifications, military experience, or corporate training.
The application requirements vary based on your educational background. If you have 11 or fewer college credits, you must submit your high school diploma (or equivalent) and official high school transcripts showing your graduation date. For those with 12 or more transferable credits, you must also provide official transcripts from all colleges or universities attended and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.0.
What is the Difference Between a BS and a BA in Finance?
When deciding between a Bachelor of Science (BS) and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Finance, it is important to understand the differences in their focus and curriculum structure:
Curriculum Focus
BS in Finance: Emphasizes technical and quantitative aspects of finance. You’ll take more courses in mathematics, statistics, economics, and specialized finance topics. This program is ideal if you are interested in roles that require strong analytical skills, such as financial analysis, investment banking, or risk management.
BA in Finance: Offers a broader education in finance with a strong emphasis on liberal arts. You’ll take more courses in humanities, social sciences, and communication. This program is suitable if you are interested in finance roles that also require strong communication and interpersonal skills, such as financial planning, consulting, or sales.
Course Requirements
BS in Finance: Requires more coursework in technical subjects like calculus, data analysis, and financial modeling. You’ll focus on detailed aspects of finance, such as corporate finance, portfolio management, and financial markets.
BA in Finance: Requires more general education courses in areas like literature, psychology, and history. You’ll still cover fundamental finance topics, but with fewer technical requirements compared to a BS program.
Career Pathways
BS in Finance: Prepares you for technical and specialized roles in the finance industry. Graduates often pursue careers as financial analysts, investment bankers, actuaries, or roles in financial engineering.
BA in Finance: Prepares you for a wider range of roles that may involve client interaction, advisory, and management. Graduates often find careers in financial planning, consulting, marketing within financial services, or general management roles in finance-related fields.
Skills Development
BS in Finance: Focuses on developing strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills. You’ll gain proficiency in financial software, quantitative analysis, and data interpretation.
BA in Finance: Focuses on developing strong communication, critical thinking, and interpersonal skills. You’ll learn how to explain financial concepts to non-experts, build relationships with clients, and understand the broader social and economic context of finance.
Flexibility and Electives
BS in Finance: Has a more rigid structure with fewer elective courses. The program is designed to build specific technical skills needed in finance.
BA in Finance: Offers more flexibility with a variety of elective courses. You have the opportunity to explore subjects outside of finance, allowing for a more well-rounded education.
What are the Career Opportunities With a Finance Degree in Missouri?
Earning a finance degree in Missouri opens up a variety of career opportunities that can pave the way for a successful professional life. With a strong grounding in financial principles, you can explore diverse sectors such as banking, investment, corporate finance, and financial planning. Missouri’s vibrant economy and financial sector offer numerous avenues for applying your skills and knowledge.
In the banking industry, you may begin your career as a financial analyst or loan officer, analyzing financial statements, assessing risks, and assisting clients in obtaining loans. Missouri’s banking sector provides a solid platform for developing your expertise in financial evaluation and client interaction.
Investment firms in Missouri offer roles like portfolio managers, where you manage investment portfolios for clients, or financial advisors, guiding clients on investment strategies. These positions allow you to hone your skills in market analysis and investment planning, helping clients reach their financial goals.
Corporate finance departments within Missouri’s various companies need finance professionals to manage budgets, conduct financial forecasting, and create strategies to maximize profitability. Roles such as financial managers or controllers involve overseeing an organization’s financial health and ensuring adherence to financial regulations.
Financial planning is another promising career path. As a personal financial advisor, you help individuals manage their finances, plan for retirement, and achieve their financial objectives. This field allows you to build lasting relationships with clients and make a meaningful impact on their financial well-being.
Public accounting firms in Missouri also offer opportunities for finance graduates. As an accountant or auditor, you’ll review financial records, prepare tax returns, and ensure the accuracy of financial information. Experience in public accounting can be particularly valuable if you aim to become a certified public accountant (CPA) in Missouri.
Government agencies and non-profit organizations in Missouri also require finance professionals. In these roles, you manage public funds, develop budgets, and ensure efficient use of resources to support organizational goals.