Financial analysis associate degree programs prepare students to become financial experts and business analysts. A financial analyst performs economic assessments and projections, researches financial trends, writes financial reports, and guides investment decisions. With Associate Degrees in Financial Analysis, you can be a research analyst, investment analyst, rating analyst, or equity analyst.
If you’re comfortable with numbers and have an interest in business and finance, you can start your journey toward becoming a financial analyst by enrolling in one of the best financial analysis associate degree programs. Throughout this article, you’ll learn about some of the best Associate Degrees in Financial Analysis, as well as related jobs and their salaries.
What Is Financial Analysis?
Financial analysis is the process of evaluating whether a business is in good financial standing and how it can grow through investments. There are many techniques and methods used to analyze the economic viability of a company. These include cash flow analysis, trend analysis, comparative financial statements, and fund flow. A financial analyst should be proficient in all of these concepts.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis include Borough of Manhattan Community College, Houston Community College, Columbus State Community College, Portland Community College, and Franklin University.
However, students wondering where to get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis should also consider local options, as in-state tuition is typically much less than out-of-state tuition. If you want to know where to get a financial analysis associate degree, it is highly recommended you consider all of your options and measure them against your capabilities, goals, and preferences.
What Schools Offer the Best Financial Analysis Associate Degrees?
- Borough of Manhattan Community College
- Houston Community College
- Columbus State Community College
- Davenport University
- Northeast Iowa Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
The standard admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis program include a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. The associate in financial analysis requirements are quite lenient as one of the goals of associate degree programs is to be accessible to as many students as possible.
As a result, students don’t need to worry about not meeting the financial analysis associate degree requirements. Although all schools slightly vary in terms of the application process, every school has an admissions counselor who will gladly walk you through the admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis program.
During this process with the admissions counselor, they’ll also inform you of relevant program details, such as the fact that there are no required programming languages for an Associate of Financial Analysis or that there are many payment options available.
Financial Analysis Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent certificate
- Have a minimum 2.0 GPA (negotiable based on the institution)
- Provide transcripts from previous educational institution
- Complete English and math assessments (waived for qualifying students)
- Submit an application before the deadline
How to Get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis
The best way to get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is through a community college. A community college is one of the best ways to get a financial analysis associate degree because they don’t require students to have prior knowledge or experience of the subject before beginning their financial analysis associate degree programs.
Another huge benefit of earning a financial analysis associate degree at a community college is the tuition costs and payment options. Tuition at community colleges is a fraction of that of a university. Most states have an open enrollment policy, meaning anyone with a high school diploma or equivalent certificate can enroll. Some states even have government-regulated programs that cover the full two-year tuition of associate degrees, given students meet the basic criteria.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
You’ll need roughly 60 credits for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis. However, this entirely depends on the state and institution, as some financial analysis associate degree programs require up to 90 credits. It’s important to note that students who wish to earn their associate degrees from two-year institutions are usually required to complete 90 credits, 60 of which are transferable, if they plan to transfer to four-year universities.
Financial Analysis Degree Requirements
- Approximately 15 general education credits
- Approximately 15 elective credits
- Approximately 30 major credits
Best Financial Analysis Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Borough of Manhattan Community College | Associate of Science in Financial Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Central Piedmont Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Accounting and Finance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Columbus State Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Finance | Higher Learning Commission |
| Davenport University | Associate of Business Administration in Finance | Higher Learning Commission |
| Hillsborough Community College | Associate of Science in Accounting Technology, Financial Option | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Houston Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Banking/Finance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Joliet Junior College | Associate of Applied Science in Accounting | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northeast Iowa Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Accounting | Higher Learning Commission |
| Northern Virginia Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Accounting |
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| North Hennepin Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Finance Management | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Financial Analysis: Top Financial Analysis Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis should offer affordable tuition or excellent payment options, have a high graduation rate, and be accessible in terms of location or format.
Top financial analysis associate degree programs are usually offered through community colleges as their tuition is far more affordable than that of a four-year university. In addition, the best financial analysis associate programs provide services that assist students throughout their two-year education.
It’s important to remember that ultimately, the best schools for a financial analysis associate degree align with your educational and professional goals, preferences, and needs. Plenty of schools offer Associate Degree in Financial Analysis programs. The hardest part is narrowing down your options and choosing which one is best for you.
Best Online Financial Analysis Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Franklin University | Associate of Science in Financial Management | Higher Learning Commission |
| Genesee Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Accounting | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Johnston Community College | Associate Degree in Accounting and Finance | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Banking and Financial Services | Higher Learning Commission |
| NorthWest Arkansas Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Business Management – Banking and Finance | Higher Learning Commission |
| Palomar College | Associate of Science in Accounting | Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges |
| The Pennsylvania State University | Associate in Science in Business Administration | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Portland Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Accounting | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Rasmussen University | Associate Degree in Accounting | Higher Learning Commission |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Associate of Science in Accounting | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Colleges for Financial Analysis: Top Online Financial Analysis Associate Degree Programs
This list of the best online schools for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis include some of the oldest and most reputable schools in the country. Some of the top financial analysis associate programs are provided through a hybrid format, which requires students to complete a small portion of the program on-campus.
As with any educational program, the best financial analysis associate program for you can only be determined based on your needs, preferences, and goals. Be sure to assess your options based on cost, graduation rate, learning format, and curriculum.
What Is a Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is a two-year program that will lay the foundation of your knowledge in basic accounting and the financial industry. To earn a financial analysis associate degree, you need to be comfortable with subjects like math and accounting.
In a finance course, you will learn the strategies of budgeting, financing, and forecasting. You will also learn about stocks, banking, financial models, and economics. You will learn to use and master some of the most common accounting tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, Quickbooks, and Xero.
You will become familiar with budgeting and payroll management tools such as PlanGuru and SurePayroll. You will learn to use and navigate ecommerce solutions such as PayPal and ApplePay, both of which will be useful in your job as a financial analyst.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is important because the finance industry is one of the most strongly relied on. One of the reasons why a financial analysis associate degree is important is because it qualifies students for certain careers in the finance industry without having to commit to an entire bachelor’s degree program.
An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is higher than a certificate and lower than a bachelor’s degree. Although certificates are very useful for some finance careers, they aren’t as widely accepted and acknowledged as an associate degree is.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Financial Analysis?
You can get the following types of Associate Degrees in Financial Analysis:
- Associate of Science in Financial Management
- Associate in Applied Science in Accounting
- Associate Degree in Accounting and Finance
- Associate in Applied Science in Banking and Financial Services
- Associate in Science in Business Administration
The type of Associate in Financial Analysis you get isn’t as important as the institution you earn it from. Most employers will accept any of the above-listed associate degrees for a position that requires a financial analysis associate degree.
Is It Better to Get an Associate or Bachelor’s in Financial Analysis?
It is better to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Analysis because it is a higher qualification. Whenever accessible, students should pursue a bachelor’s degree over an associate degree because it qualifies them for a broader range of careers, higher positions, and more competitive salaries. Employers will almost always favor candidates with the highest educational qualification.
If you want to know, between an Associate and Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Analysis, which is better, you should also be sure to research the position you’re aiming for. For some positions, the salary of a bachelor’s degree to an associate degree isn’t worth the extra two years of school. Ultimately, figuring out which is better, an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Financial Analysis, depends on your career goals.
What Is the Difference Between a Financial Analysis Associate Degree and a Financial Analysis Certificate?
The main difference between a financial analysis associate degree and a certificate in financial analysis is the level of qualification and depth of learning. You should get a financial analysis associate degree instead of a certificate because an associate degree will qualify you for a wider variety of jobs and higher pay.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
A financial analysis associate degree costs an average of $15,748. This amount includes school fees, plus room and board. If we consider only tuition, the average annual associate in financial analysis costs about $3,812. This information is based on data on the cost of higher education for the 2019 to 2020 school year, collected by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
Financial Analysis Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Financial Analysis Degree
There are several available financing options for those who want to enroll in an associate degree program. The different financial aid sources include grants, scholarships, work-study jobs, public and private loans, and military aid.
The first step is to talk to your school’s financial aid office to see if they offer grants or student loans. If the school offers no financial aid for an associate in financial analysis, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
How Long Does It Take to Get a Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
Typically, it takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis. However, the Associate in Financial Analysis length varies based on the preferred pace of the student. Most associate degree programs require students to complete 60 to 90 credits. Students can complete these credits at whatever pace they wish. So, how long it takes to get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis ultimately depends on the student.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is not very hard to get. Getting a financial analysis associate degree is not very hard because it only involves lower-division courses, which are generally easier than the upper-division courses you would need for a bachelor’s degree.
Why Should You Get a Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis are the job opportunities, networking events, and valuable classes. The benefits of getting a second degree in financial analysis are even greater. You can put the credits of your associate degree toward a bachelor’s degree in financial analysis, which would allow you to complete your bachelor’s degree in approximately two years.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Financial Analysis?
The required courses for a financial analysis associate degree include general education courses, major courses, and elective courses. The courses in an Associate in Financial Analysis program will vary based on the school and specific associate track you choose. Below, you’ll find some of the most common Associate in Financial Analysis courses you can expect to take.
Financial Management
In a financial management course, students learn fundamental financial management concepts, such as fiscal transparency, the different components of financial accountability, the management of the budget cycle, capital budgeting, and retirement planning.
Law and Banking
Some of the concepts students will learn through this course include capital management, accounting for deferred taxes, types of financing, accounting standards, fund flow analysis, international finance basics, and other related topics.
Accounting Foundations
In this financial analysis course, students will learn accounting terminology, debits and credits, the accounting cycle, budgeting and forecasting, inventory accounting and cost accounting, the audit process, exit strategies, and many other accounting fundamentals.
Statistical Concepts
A large portion of financial analysis involves statistics. Through a statistical concepts course, students will develop a strong foundation in statistics and how it applies to financial analysis. In a financial analysis associate degree program, this course will specifically focus on the use of statistics in everyday financial analysis tasks.
Principles of Finance
On this associate in financial analysis course list, Principles of Finance is the most popular course you’ll find, regardless of the specific degree program that you’re enrolled in. Through this course, students learn the foundational concepts of finance as an industry and its implications on different sectors.
Continuing Education Paths for Financial Analysis Associate Degree Graduates
The best path to take with a financial analysis associate degree is a transfer program. Students can choose associate degree transfer tracks that allow them to transfer their associate degree credits to a bachelor’s degree. Through this option, graduates with associate degrees can complete their bachelor’s degrees in two years.
Related Financial Analysis Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Financial Analysis Associate Degree Programs
The best financial analysis associate degree programs have accreditation, a good reputation, limited barriers to admission, affordable cost, and dynamic curricular content. You can expect a good balance of general education courses and major courses from a financial analysis associate degree program.
Accreditation
Accreditation refers to a school’s official recognition and permission to issue a standardized credential. Accreditation can only be granted through an external accrediting body. This is important because associate degrees are not valid if they’re not awarded by accredited institutions.
Reputation of Program
The reputation of a program describes the general consensus of a program by former students who have offered insight. Through reading financial analysis associate degree reviews and speaking to active or former students of different programs, you’ll get an idea of what the different programs are like and which one is best for you.
Barriers to Admission
Barriers to admission include anything that makes the admission process more difficult. Barriers can include a minimum GPA, certain standardized test scores, high tuition, or any other requirement for admission. This is especially important for students who didn’t finish high school or complete a GED, have a low GPA, or have low standardized test scores.
Cost
Cost is one of the most significant factors to consider in terms of what to look for in top programs. It’s easy to assume that high tuition means a higher quality of education, but this is simply not true. Affordability should be one of your top priorities when choosing a program that’s best for you. At the very least, you should ensure your preferred school offers financial aid.
Curricular Content
Before choosing a financial analysis associate degree program, you should check the course list on the website to see what courses you’ll be taking. This ensures the curriculum is relevant to your career goals. This also lets you know how many general education courses you’ll be required to take in comparison to actual major courses.
What Is the Most Affordable Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
The most affordable associate degrees in financial analysis include the following:
- Hillsborough Community College
- Houston Community College
- Palomar College
- NorthWest Arkansas Community College
- Central Piedmont Community College
Salary and Job Outlook for Financial Analysis Associate Degree Graduates
Some of the best financial analysis associate degree jobs are offered through company partnerships or continuing education programs. This means that some jobs that require a bachelor’s degree can be occupied by an associate degree-holder who is transferring their credits to pursue a bachelor’s.
In the sections below, we’ll take a look at the average Associate in Financial Analysis salary, some of the types of jobs you can get with an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis, and other related topics.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
It is not hard to find a job with a financial analysis associate degree. However, you should be aware that not all finance positions are open to associate degree holders. This is because there are more financial analysts and other finance professionals who earn bachelor’s degrees than associate degrees, which naturally raises the standard requirements among employers.
What’s the Average Financial Analysis Associate Degree Salary?
The average annual salary for someone with a finance associate degree is $44,000, according to PayScale. Although this is the typical salary for someone with an associate degree in financial analysis, it greatly varies based on the exact position, company, and location.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Financial Analysis Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a financial analysis associate degree include loan officer, cost estimator, and accountant. Some of the high-paying jobs you can get with this credential are budget analysis, accounting, and personal finance advising. There are many jobs with a financial analysis associate degree requirement that you will gain access to through this associate degree.
Financial Analysis Degree Jobs
- Budget analyst
- Cost estimator
- Accountant
- Fundraiser
- Loan officer
Potential Careers With a Financial Analysis Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis?
You can make between $50,000 and $90,000 with an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis. Financial analysis majors can make a lot of money, depending on the position, financial institution, and location they’re working in. Although this salary range provides an idea of how much financial analyst associate degree holders make, it is possible to make more or less than those amounts.
Top Financial Analysis Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Financial Analysis Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Personal Financial Advisor | $89,330 |
| Budget Analyst | $78,970 |
| Accountant | $73,560 |
| Loan Officer | $63,960 |
| Fundraiser | $59,610 |
Best Jobs for Financial Analysis Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for financial analysis associate degree grads are high-paying with room for advancement. While there are many places you can work with this qualification, some of the best jobs for an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis are listed below.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Financial Analysis Bootcamp vs Financial Analysis Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is better than a financial analysis bootcamp because an associate degree is a higher credential, making it more widely acknowledged within the finance industry. Although there are differing opinions on the financial analysis degree vs bootcamp topic, employers will typically agree that higher education makes a candidate more appealing.
Benefits of a Financial Analysis Associate Degree
- It creates a pathway to an advanced degree. An associate degree can stabilize your educational journey. You can easily earn college credits and apply them to a bachelor’s or master’s degree.
- You’ll have access to higher-paying jobs. Because an associate degree is a higher credential than a bootcamp certificate, you will qualify for higher positions and can negotiate higher pay.
- You will have a wealth of career options. An associate degree builds the foundation that will expose you to different areas of the finance industry. The higher your qualifications, the more jobs you’re eligible for. This is one of the main advantages of an associate degree over a bootcamp certificate.
- It enhances your appeal to employers. An associate degree is a recognized credential. If you have the right skills and experience, an AAS may be all you need to get employers to choose you over another candidate.
- They’re often sponsored by companies. Some associate degrees are part of professional training or continuing education programs. Some employers will even pay for you to get one if it’s in the company’s interest to do so.
Benefits of a Financial Analysis Bootcamp
- It offers a hands-on learning experience. Bootcamps are ideal if you want an intensive, hands-on learning experience. People who enjoy tactile learning often prefer bootcamps over traditional education options.
- It’s quick. Unlike an associate degree program that would require around two years, a bootcamp will help you acquire a specific set of skills in just a few weeks.
- It’s flexible. Bootcamps are convenient and practical. Many of them are even conducted entirely online. In these cases, classes are a mix of live and recorded lectures, interspersed with interactive and collaborative projects.
- Its education model is focused and structured. Unlike traditional schools that have general education requirements, bootcamps solely teach industry-relevant skills.
- It can quickly get you a job. Bootcamps can quickly get you a job, especially if the skill you are learning is very specific to what a company needs. They will also prepare you for job interviews and provide you with career services to ensure you land a job quickly.
Is an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis is worth it if you want a high-paying, stable job in the finance industry. Earning an associate degree equips you with a valuable qualification while leaving the opportunity open for higher education.
This allows you to easily transfer your credits to a related bachelor’s degree program and finish your four-year degree in two years, should you choose that path. Ultimately, anyone wondering is an Associate in Financial Analysis worth it, should determine their professional and educational goals and assess how well they align with an Associate Degree in Financial Analysis program.
Additional Reading About Financial Analysis
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Financial Analysis Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, you can become a financial analyst with an associate degree, although most companies require a bachelor’s degree. An Associate Degree in Financial Analysis can earn you many entry-level positions within the finance industry.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Accounting, or Finance is usually the standard requirement for becoming a financial analyst. While some employers will accept an associate degree and others will require a master’s, a bachelor’s degree is probably the safest qualification to aim for if you want to become a financial analyst.
Yes, financial analysis can be a stressful field because analysts often work long hours, have tight deadlines, and work with the unpredictability of the banking industry. However, this isn’t the cause for all financial analysts, as the level of stress is directly tied to the company culture your employer maintains.
Yes, employers hire candidates with associate degrees. As long as an associate degree satisfies the education requirement, associate degree-holders make very competitive candidates. Some companies even offer educational assistance for employees who want to continue their education and earn a bachelor’s degree.
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