Chart Your Financial Future

What is a Bachelor of Arts in Finance?

Invest in your future with a 100% online, IACBE-accredited Bachelor of Arts in Finance degree from the University of Arizona Global Campus. Every business is an integrated system and needs professionals with finance skills in long-range financial planning and implementation. By earning your online finance degree, you will discover how to measure and secure the efficient use of financial resources.

Upon completion of the BA in Finance degree program, you will be able to:

  • Analyze business and financial conditions using appropriate problem-solving skills
  • Apply financial theories to conduct financial analysis
  • Appraise financial practices to achieve the efficient use of financial resources
  • Evaluate the political, social, legal, regulatory, and technological issues in the context of micro- and macro-finance
  • Evaluate financial information and non-financial information to appropriately assess business opportunities
  • Construct long-range financial planning, implementation, and control systems

Why Choose the University of Arizona Global Campus?

Accelerated 5 week courses
1 course at a time
$0 Application Fee
Accredited by WSCUC
Tuition Costs*

Military Students $250.00/credit

Undergraduate Courses $460.00/credit

Technology Fee** $115.00/course

Books and Other Class Materials** $125.00/course

UAGC student
Scholarships

UAGC offers enrolled students access to ScholarshipUniverse, a platform that tailors external scholarship opportunities to your unique situation, making it easier to find and apply for scholarships.

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Employee Savings

UAGC is proud to provide reduced tuition rates for our academic and corporate partners, helping community college transfer students and corporate employees earn their degrees with less financial burden.

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Course Overview

1

Year 1

  • In this foundational course, students explore the principles necessary for achieving personal and career success. GEN 101 serves as a road map, guiding students as they begin their academic journey. Through self-discovery, surveying available resources, connecting with UAGC groups, and engaging with Career Services, students learn the essential skills of planning and goal setting. Students apply their personal strengths, skills, and lifelong learning strategies to develop essential career competencies. By making these meaningful connections students gain a deeper understanding of how their education relates to their desired career path.  Congratulations on embarking on this college journey filled with growth, exploration, and endless possibilities! This course is not available for non-degree seeking students and is not available as an elective.

  • This course offers an overview of digital fluency as it applies to personal, academic, financial, and professional success. Students will analyze the impact of digital technology on personal, social, and diversity issues and will develop digital skills that will assist in achieving academic, personal, and career goals. An overview of digital media is introduced with practical strategies for application in personal and professional life.

  • Learn and use key, practical skills that are applicable at home, at work, and in all UAGC courses! As UAGC students progress in their academic journey, strategies for personal, professional, and academic success continue to develop. This introductory course takes a two-pronged approach to setting students on a path to success. It merges fundamental informational literacy concepts with essential resources and skills that prepare students for college and career. Students learn how to identify, locate, evaluate, apply, and acknowledge information obtained through UAGC Library databases and internet search engines. By applying the research process, students sharpen critical thinking skills and learn to use information ethically. The final project is a practical and relevant opportunity for students to apply their learning in personally, professionally, and academically meaningful ways.

  • ENG 121 is designed to introduce students to the standards of writing in both academic and professional settings. The class will operate by first introducing, and then allowing students to practice, several written communication skills. Throughout, we will work to understand writing as a process, one that is strengthened through critical thinking, deepened by research, and built on a foundation of professional standards. Students will articulate a sense of their own skills and goals, and engage in collaborative conversations with peers and their instructor so as to be able to express their ideas more effectively. During the course, students will use the writing process to scrutinize their own perspectives while challenging them to embrace a wider conversation.

  • This course is designed to expand students’ appreciation of film and knowledge of how films are made. Through analysis of storytelling in a visual medium, students will examine the ways in which movies are shot, develop characters, evoke emotion, depict physical reality, reflect society, and have the power to influence it. Though the focus of the course is film itself, students will gain deeper intercultural fluency while growing their skills in critical thinking, written communication, and visual analysis.

  • This course is a study of correct and incorrect reasoning involved in everyday activities. The fundamentals of language and argument, deductive and inductive reasoning and other aspects of practical reasoning are examined. 

  • This course examines and evaluates theories and arguments concerning ethics and moral reasoning from a philosophical perspective. By engaging with historical and contemporary sources, students will analyze theories about the meaning, nature, and justification of ethical concepts; determine and assess how different forms of moral reasoning apply to contemporary moral issues; become more reflective and informed about their own moral beliefs; and develop their capacity for critical practical reasoning.

  • In this course, students will develop and expand their research and writing skills to communicate ideas in informed, ethical, and persuasive written documents intended for a range of audiences across a range of situations and contexts. Students will receive instruction and practice in synthesis and analysis, bolstering their written communication skills with a thorough understanding of academic research while honing critical thinking skills and effective work habits. Through writing well-structured, logical, and effective academic essays, students will explore tools and develop topics in a way that is meaningful to academic and professional lives. Prerequisite: Successful completion of ENG 121 or equivalent with a grade of “C-” or better.

  • This course is designed to aid students in understanding the dynamics of interpersonal relationships. Verbal and nonverbal communication patterns among people in personal, social, academic, and professional settings will be examined, within and between cultures, including both face-to-face and technologically mediated channels.  The nature of these interactions will be evaluated using contemporary communication theory. The course will enable students to identify their interpersonal communication skills and behaviors and to more critically evaluate their own oral communication and that of others. The primary goals of the course are to improve the quality of students’ communication in their personal and professional relationships, to enhance students’ experience and. confidence with oral communication, and increase awareness of the importance of interpersonal communication that is inclusive and equitable.

  • This course surveys American history from 1877 to the present. Emphasis is placed on the multifaceted experiences within American society; political, economic, intercultural, and social trends; and the impact of the United States in world affairs. Prerequisite: ENG 122 or successful completion of the Written Communication Competency II requirement.

2

Year 2

  • This course introduces students to the interdisciplinary field of social sciences and some of the disciplines that comprise this field, including anthropology, psychology, economics, sociology, political science, and history. In this course, students will learn important social science concepts and theoretical approaches, along with the research methods that social scientists use to study human behavior. They will also learn how research and findings from the social sciences can be applied broadly throughout society. Throughout the course and through a summative assignment, students will examine how social factors shape social behavior and some of the consequences of current social problems.

  • In this course, learners deepen their understanding of the importance of natural resources to mankind. Students explore physical, biological, and ecological principles, examine how human alterations affect the environment, and reflect on the controversies surrounding various approaches to addressing environmental problems and the steps some communities have taken to address these challenges.

  • In this course, students will explore a wide range of Algebra topics. Topics will include study of linear equations, linear relationships, slope, polynomials, and functions, including graphing relations and solving systems of equations. Emphasis will be placed on developing an awareness of historical and current uses of algebra in real life settings, in various careers, and in solving important societal problems. Prerequisite: MAT 221 or equivalent with a grade of "C-" or better.

  • The capstone serves as an opportunity to reflect upon, integrate, and showcase learning achievement. Through discussions and course-embedded assessments, students will demonstrate a mastery of essential general education competencies as they relate to their personal and professional lives and provide evidence of growth through application of competency related skills to real-world situations. A minimum grade of “C-“ is required to meet course requirements. Prerequisite: 75 completed credits or permission of the student’s college or dean.

  • Introduction to the legal environment of business in the United States. Examination of the Constitution, administrative law, contracts, agency, and the protection of competition, consumers, employees, investors, the environment, and international trade.

  • In this course, students will examine some of the most recent and classical organizational ethics cases using the framework from managing business ethical procedures and practices. This course will provide a sound ethical decisions making guideline for students to use when making business ethical decisions and encourage ethical conduct and discourage unethical conduct in the workplace. Student will also explore how business ethics impact the global business environment and the current thinking on business –society and the business-environment relationships.

  • Introduction to national income determination and the equilibrium level of output and employment. Monetary and fiscal policies as well as open economy issues are discussed. Recommended prerequisites: Fulfillment of the General Education Critical Thinking core competency and Digital Literacy competency.

  • ECO 204 is an introduction to the microeconomic principles of the market system and provides a general outline of the consumer and producer choice theories. The course also discusses other important microeconomic concepts like supply and demand, externality, elasticity, pricing and profitability. Other topics include various levels of firm and industry competition associated with different market structures. Recommended prerequisites: Fulfillment of the General Education Critical Thinking competency, Quantitative Reasoning Core competency, and Digital Literacy competency. (Equivalent to ECO 308).

  • Introduction to the principles and procedures of general financial accounting with an emphasis on reporting to individuals outside the organization. Development of accounting reports on an accrual basis.

  • Primarily covers the principles of managerial accounting. Emphasis on reporting to individuals inside the organization. Major concepts include job order costing, process costing, budgets and standards, and statement analysis. Prerequisite: ACC 205.

3

Year 3

  • This course provides an introduction to the field of personal financial management and planning, focusing on the tools individuals and families employ to manage their financial affairs.

  • This course is a practical introduction to the concepts to the fields of statistics and its many applications in Descriptive statistics, Hypothesis testing, ANOVA, and Regression for business administration students with emphasis on Excel’s tools for statistical analysis. Prerequisite: Fulfillment of Quantitative Reasoning Core Competency.

  • Examines money and capital markets, with particular emphasis on the factors that determine interest rates. Additionally, it will delve into the prominent financial institutions, both public and private including the Federal Reserve System and the role it plays in influencing financial and economic outcomes. The course will also explore the various types of financial instruments such as bonds, equities, and derivative instruments. Prerequisite: ECO 100 or ECO 203. (Cross-listed as BUS 316.)

  • This course will introduce students to the important principles of financial management of an entrepreneurial business and the ethical challenges of running a small business. The course will enable students to describe the key components and creation of a business plan. The course will cover financial statements and key financial ratios that guide business owners. Students will learn how to develop a financial forecast for a new business, including evaluating its financing needs and alternatives. Finally, the course will explore the importance of working capital management within the context of small business.

  • This course encompasses fundamental financial concepts and analysis. Students will learn to evaluate the financial performance of a company and analyze key financial ratios. The course will enable students to calculate the present and future value of assets using the concept of the time value of money. Additionally, the course will cover the value and risk of companies, the relationship between risk and return, and the meaning of the weighted average cost of capital. The course is designed to equip students with the technological and analytical tools they need to help businesses make sound financial decisions. Prerequisites: ACC 201 or ACC 205 or ACC 208 or ACC 281 and fulfillment of the Quantitative Reasoning Core Competency. (Equivalent to BUS 320.)

  • The study and analysis of securities and other forms of investments. Emphasis is on investment principles from the manager’s point of view. Prerequisite: BUS 401.

  • An examination of the international aspects of corporate finance and investing, the course covers balance of payments, foreign exchange with emphasis on exchange rate determination, exchange risk, hedging, and interest arbitrage, international money and capital markets, international financing, and international banking.

  • This capstone course will enable students to synthesize prior learning and develop an advanced understanding of key financial concepts and theories, and the firm as a mechanism to build shareholder wealth. Course content includes evaluating projects using capital budgeting techniques, analyzing a firm’s cost of capital, and assessing key components of dividend policy. Finally, in the summative assignment, students will implement capital budgeting techniques within the framework of corporate mergers and acquisitions. Prerequisite: GEN 499. This course must be taken last in the program. 

     

4

Year 4

Program Requirements
Credit Breakdowns
General Education
43
Credits
Major Credit Requirements
45
Credits
Electives
35
Credits
Total Credits
120
Credits

To earn your Bachelor of Arts in Finance at UAGC, you must complete 120 credits. You will need to complete 30 upper-division credits, of which 18 credits must be from the major program. A total of 30 credits must be completed at the University of Arizona Global Campus to meet the residency requirement. You may be able to transfer approved credits from community colleges, other previous college coursework, or other life experiences such as military service or job training toward your degree.

In this program, 3 credits from the major may also satisfy General Education requirements.

Special Terms and Conditions

A degree in finance may prepare a student for many different career options. Some of these career options may require holding specific certifications such as Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Analyst or FINRA registration. While a degree program provides a wide background in the finance field, the University of Arizona Global Campus does not guarantee that any student is prepared for any certification examination at the completion of their degree. You are encouraged to research the requirements of each organization so that you can see how your education and work experience can help prepare you for the designation you will need.

Certain degree programs may not be available in all states.

While the University of Arizona Global Campus does not collect applicant criminal background, certain criminal histories may prevent students from obtaining licensure, certification, or employment in their chosen field of study.

Quality Matters Certification

The Online Teaching Support Certification recognizes programs that require all online faculty to undergo training in best practices for online course delivery, provide faculty with ongoing pedagogical support, encourage faculty professional development to increase their knowledge and skill in online teaching, emphasize instructor availability and feedback to learners, and collect and use feedback from learners to improve online teaching. Learn More

The Online Learner Support Certification recognizes programs that provide all the critical student and academic services needed for learner success and use learner feedback to continuously improve those services.

What Can I Do With a Degree in Finance?

Career Paths

As an undergraduate finance major, just a few of the many professional career paths you may choose to pursue include:

  • Credit Administration Manager
  • Loan Officer
  • Financial Risk Specialist
  • Financial Analyst
  • Budget Analyst
  • Personal Financial Advisor
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Career Fields

With your Bachelor of Arts in Finance degree from UAGC, you can prepare for a variety of careers, including commercial and investment banking, financial planning, corporate and public finance, real estate, risk management, insurance and more. A finance degree is highly versatile and can be curated to meet your career needs.

Connect With Career Services
Job Market Outlook

Gain insights into the finance job market by reviewing the Bureau of Labor Statistics market outlook report.

View Full Market Outlook

The course content is really good, really valuable.

Colette S.
Class of 2016

BA in Finance FAQs

  • Pursuing a major in finance may open the door to a multitude of career opportunities in various sectors such as banking, investment, corporate finance, financial planning, risk management, and more. A few additional benefits to majoring in finance include:

    • Financial literacy and decision-making skills
    • Adaptable skill sets that can be used around the world
    • Competitive salaries in a high-demand job market
    • Continuous learning and growth opportunities
    • Job security and stability
  • The value of a finance degree depends on your career goals and interests. It can provide a strong foundation for many finance-related careers, offering opportunities for growth and higher earning potential.

  • Depending on your level of dedication and full-time status, a bachelor’s degree in finance provides entry-level learning opportunities and can usually take full-time students four years to complete. Additionally, a finance degree can be required for many different finance positions in the field, while a bachelor’s degree is often a minimum requirement for some finance-related certifications. This is something to take into consideration when planning out both your education and career goals.

  • Yes, earning a bachelor's in finance can open the door to entry-level positions in various financial sectors. Gaining experience and further education, such as a Master of Business Administration degree, can help prepare you for higher positions in finance.

  • A bachelor’s in finance provides you with an understanding of financial analysis, financial management, and financial systems. You’ll build your skills in long-range financial planning and implementation and learn problem-solving skills, including the ability to analyze business and financial conditions.

    At UAGC, our online finance degree program will start you off by teaching you the main principles of finance and then take you into the principles of investments. During your bachelor’s in finance program, you will have the opportunity to take classes in international finance or financial risk and mitigation, taking your finance skills even further. Your online finance degree courses include subjects like markets, investments, risk management, and micro and macroeconomics.

  • Earning a BA in Finance online can offer several benefits, but it's important to carefully consider your goals and learning style to determine if this mode of education is the right fit for you. Here are some of the advantages of pursuing an online bachelor's degree in finance at UAGC:

    • Flexible Online Classroom: Discover an online classroom experience that gives you the flexibility to create your own schedule. You will have access to 24/7 online support and service along with all the tools and technology needed for you to successfully complete your program coursework.
    • Educational Format: You will be learning from the best, as our finance faculty have had many years in the industry and possess a range of financial certifications. By having faculty who have the professional and necessary real-world experience in finance, you and your degree are given added value.

*

These tuition costs are estimated based on average undergraduate students; rates are not guaranteed.

**

The Technology Fee covers access to University systems such as the online classroom, the Student Portal, and other academic resources. The Technology Fee and the Course Digital Materials (CDM) Fee are fully refundable if a student does not attend beyond Day 3 of a course (Week 3 if covered under the University of Arizona Global Campus Promise Refund Schedule). After this time, the fee becomes non-refundable. Students are charged the Technology Fee for repeated coursework. Students are not charged the CDM fee for repeated coursework if previously charged.

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The transferability of credits is subject to the University of Arizona Global Campus transfer credit policies and requires the submission of official transcripts. The official transcripts will be evaluated by the Registrar’s Office to determine the credits that will officially apply toward a UAGC degree program. Credits must be earned at the same degree level in order to be applied. Additional restrictions may apply. See the UAGC Academic Catalog for full undergraduate and graduate transfer policies.

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This program requires you to be a current licensed registered nurse. Please check out other programs to reach your education goals such as the BA in Health and Wellness.

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