Online Bachelor of Science in Finance (BS)
Build the analytical skills that guide financial decision-making. This online bachelor’s degree program at American Public University (APU) examines the analytical frameworks that guide how organizations invest capital and manage financial risk.
About APU’s Online Bachelor’s Degree in Finance
This online finance degree program explores how organizations allocate financial resources and evaluate the outcomes of those investments. Students build fluency in the analytical processes that finance professionals use to make informed business decisions.
APU’s curriculum examines the financial environment in which businesses operate. Courses address how shifting market conditions can affect the value of an investment. Students discuss the functions of financial institutions, as well, and consider how capital is moved between those who hold it and those who need it. Coursework addresses the legal, ethical, and regulatory frameworks that govern conduct in financial markets and across international borders.
The program also covers the modern technologies that are reshaping financial analysis and reporting, such as data analytics tools, blockchain systems, and machine learning.
Online Program Concentration
We offer a general concentration for this program. Click to learn more.
About the Concentration
The General Finance Concentration will give students an overview of different financial practices including capital investments, risk, investments, and insurance. Those who select the general concentration will find themselves more positioned for a role in finance. This concentration will focus on how corporations utilize the financial markets for funding projects, capital improvements, and, in some cases, acquisitions.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate a deeper knowledge around relevant topical areas in finance.
Explore Career-Relevant Topics in APU’s Online Finance Program
This bachelor’s degree program explores the principles that guide corporate finance decisions and shape organizations’ investment strategies. Coursework helps sharpen critical-thinking and analytical skills as students discuss the nuances of capital budgeting and how interest rates affect the cost of borrowing.
Finance majors will also:
- Recognize the fundamentals of financial management in business environments
- Explore the financial environment and changing market conditions
- Execute investment decisions by assessing financial risk and leveraging
- Examine legal, ethical, and global issues in financial markets
- Implement strategies and capital structures to support evolving financial technologies
This online bachelor’s program provides an overview of the functions that financial analysts perform within private-sector organizations and financial institutions. Students examine how professionals interpret financial data to determine whether an investment is worth pursuing. Coursework sharpens analytical skills and supports fluency in the forecasting methods used throughout the financial services industry.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Financial analysts, who analyze financial data and trends to support investment and business decisions
- Investment analysts, who evaluate investment opportunities and assess financial risk and return
- Budget analysts, who develop and monitor budgets to support organizational goals
- Financial managers, who oversee financial planning, reporting, and resource management activities with additional experience
The Bachelor of Science in Finance may also help lay the groundwork to pursue advanced education in finance, business, or a related field.
The finance major is designed to sharpen analytical and decision-making skills. Coursework examines the real-world methods that organizations use to evaluate investments and structure the capital that funds long-term growth.
Coursework is designed to help students:
- Analyze financial statements and organizational financial performance to support business decision-making
- Apply principles of corporate finance and capital budgeting to evaluate financial opportunities
- Evaluate investment opportunities using risk, return, and portfolio analysis techniques
- Assess domestic and global financial markets and economic conditions affecting organizations
- Examine legal, ethical, and regulatory considerations impacting financial decision-making
- Apply financial technologies and data analytics to support forecasting and financial planning
Explore APU’s Curriculum for the Bachelor of Science in Finance
This online degree program examines how financial decisions support business objectives across the public and private sectors. Students are introduced to the accounting and economic principles that underpin the finance field.
Major-required courses explore the complexities of corporate finance, examining how companies raise capital and allocate funds. Financial technology is built into the curriculum as well. Coursework covers the digital systems that process payments and record transactions.
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Grow Your Network While You Pursue Your Bachelor’s Degree in Finance Online at APU
APU’s online student clubs enable classmates, faculty members, and alumni to connect outside of the virtual classroom. There are dozens of these online communities, ranging from honor societies to career-focused professional organizations.
Students pursuing this Bachelor of Science in Finance may be especially interested in the National Society of Leadership and Success. The Association of Latino Professionals for America may also appeal to finance majors, as it offers access to networking events and a virtual career center.
Learn more about student communities and other ways to get involved when you pursue an online finance degree at American Public University.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APU.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
APUS signature skills.
Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.
The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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APU is here to support your student journey
We know your well-being is vital to your success. That's why we offer a range of supportive resources to help you throughout your academic journey.
- Career Coaching
- 24/7 Mental Health Support
- Admissions & Advising Support
- Student Life
Career Coaching
Get individualized guidance to help you explore career options, strengthen professional skills, and prepare for the next step in your journey. Whether you’re just entering the workforce, changing fields, or advancing your professional knowledge, our career services team is here to help you translate your goals into action.
Learn More24/7 Mental Health Support
Your well-being is essential to your success. That’s why APU offers access to confidential, flexible, and around-the-clock mental health support. Through our partnerships with telehealth apps, you can connect with peers and professionals anytime you need to manage stress, maintain balance, or find motivation.
Learn MoreAdmissions & Advising Support
From your first course to the day you graduate, our admissions and advising teams are here to guide you every step of the way. You’ll receive personalized assistance with enrollment, program selection, and degree planning from professionals who understand the needs of adult learners.
Learn MoreStudent Life
At APU, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Enrich your college experience and expand your network by getting involved in any of our student organizations. From cultural and social organizations to program-specific honor societies, you’ll find a group to help you thrive during and after your studies.
Learn MoreAPU Makes Earning Your Finance Degree Affordable
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
APU Removes Barriers
Quality Education Shouldn’t Break the Bank
We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
- Financial Aid
- Private Loans & Scholarships
- Military & Veteran Benefits
Transfer Credits
APU makes it easy to earn credit for the work you’ve already done. We accept transfer credits from prior college coursework, professional training, exams, and certifications. We’ll evaluate your transcripts at no cost and help you maximize eligible credits so you can save time, reduce costs, and stay focused on reaching your education goals sooner.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
We’re committed to making quality education accessible and affordable. APU participates in federal financial aid programs, including grants and loans for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office can provide personalized guidance to help you understand your options, complete required forms, and make an informed decision about paying for your education.
Learn MorePrivate Loans & Scholarships
In addition to federal financial aid, some APU students choose to explore private education loans or external scholarships to help fund their studies. We encourage all students to first complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal student aid before considering private options. Be sure to research lenders carefully, compare terms, and understand your rights and responsibilities as a borrower.
Learn MoreMilitary & Veterans Benefits
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Apply to APU’s Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Finance Today
This online finance degree is designed for students balancing their education with career obligations, family responsibilities, and other commitments. Online courses have no set login times, and students may complete weekly assignments from anywhere with internet access. The University also has rolling admissions and welcomes new students to the BS in Finance program year-round.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT® required for undergraduate programs7
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About Pursuing a Finance Degree Online at American Public University
Accounting programs focus on how organizations record and report financial transactions. Finance programs focus on what organizations do with that information to invest capital strategically.
Finance majors at APU still complete accounting coursework, however, to help them understand how to read and interpret financial statements.
Certification requirements are set by the issuing organizations, not by the University. Students who plan to pursue either credential should review the current requirements published by the CFA Institute and the CFP Board.
APU’s Bachelor of Science in Finance does not prepare students for the CFA or CFP exam.
With more than 200 career-relevant degrees and certificates, APU makes online education accessible and affordable.
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Consumer Information
Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.
The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
