Program Summary
Prepare for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and/or Certified Financial Planner (CFP) examinations with our AACSB–accredited finance degree. This program features multiple online extracurricular opportunities that allow you to apply your knowledge as you progress through your course work.
An Online AACSB–Accredited Degree in Finance
Develop a solid foundation in principles of finance, including capital management, investment and portfolio management, financial institutions, and personal finance, with the 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Finance from Penn State World Campus. In this program, students can learn the analytical and conceptual skills necessary to add value to a finance-based position. As a graduate of the AACSB–accredited bachelor's degree, you can be prepared to pursue or advance a career in banking, financial analysis, security analysis, corporate finance, or personal financial planning.
Finance at Penn State
The World Campus undergraduate finance program, offered in partnership with Penn State Behrend, is distinct in its pragmatic focus on professional designations. Your in-depth course of study will help prepare you for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and/or Certificated Financial Planning (CFP) designations.
The bachelor's in finance has also been accepted into the CFA® Institute University Affiliation Program, a unique accomplishment for an online program. This status is granted to institutions whose program incorporates a significant portion of the CFA Program Candidate Body of Knowledge (CBOK) into its curriculum. Students who complete the required course work will be better prepared to sit for the CFA exams.
Your Online Finance Courses
As a student in our finance program, you will study all components of the field, including investments, corporate finance, financial markets, and more. The curriculum provides a firm grounding in the principles of business, economics, and accounting — with an in-depth focus on issues and knowledge in finance and financial management. This Penn State World Campus program also offers flexibility in choosing the path most suited to your goals.
Extracurricular Opportunities
An education through Penn State World Campus encourages you to explore your talents beyond the classroom. While progressing through your bachelor’s degree program, you will have the opportunity to participate in extracurricular activities traditionally offered only to resident students. By taking part in these offerings, you can further enhance your knowledge and demonstrate to employers that you are motivated to acquire experience in the finance field while pursuing your education.
Extracurriculars include:
- Intrieri Family Student Managed Fund
- Investment Research Challenge Team
- Financial Management Association
- Financial Planning Club
- Finance Speaker Series
- Spring Student Trip
Careers in Finance
Graduates of the undergraduate finance program often pursue careers as:
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- financial adviser, manager, or consultant
- securities analyst
- credit counselor
- budget or credit analyst
- loan officer
- insurance underwriter
- bank branch manager
- commodities, securities, and financial services sales agent
CFA is a registered trademark owned by CFA Institute.
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