2026 Best finance Degree Programs Ranking in Georgia

What can I expect from finance degree in Georgia?

The average cost of a finance degree in Georgia varies depending on the type of institution. Public universities, such as the University of Georgia and Georgia State University, typically charge in-state tuition ranging from $10, 000 to $14, 000 per year, making a four-year degree approximately $40, 000 to $56, 000. Out-of-state students may face tuition fees nearly double this amount. Private colleges generally have higher tuition, often exceeding $30, 000 annually, which can mean total costs above $120, 000 for a full degree.

Graduates from these programs often reflect positively on the return on investment, citing robust internship placements in Atlanta's financial sector and skill-building experiences that justify initial expenses. Many students highlight how access to Atlanta's financial hubs boosts job prospects, with employers valuing graduates' practical experience with real-world financial data and case studies.

Financial aid and scholarships are frequently available, reducing out-of-pocket costs. Those attending AACSB-accredited institutions often emphasize the assurance of quality education aligned with industry expectations, ensuring their expenses translate into valuable career opportunities.

Where can I work with finance degree in Georgia?

Finance graduates from universities like the University of Georgia and Georgia State University often find employment in Georgia's robust banking and financial services sector. Metropolitan Atlanta, hosting major banks such as Truist and Regions Financial, offers diverse roles including financial analyst, loan officer, and credit manager, where graduates apply their analytical and decision-making skills in real-world scenarios.

Corporate finance roles attract many graduates, with companies like The Coca-Cola Company and Delta Air Lines headquartered in Atlanta. These organizations seek candidates proficient in budgeting, forecasting, and strategic financial planning, allowing new professionals to contribute directly to business growth.

Graduates also enter the growing fields of investment advisory and asset management, sectors that offer dynamic career paths involving wealth management and risk assessment. State and local government agencies hire finance degree holders for positions in auditing and financial regulation, ensuring public funds are managed efficiently.

Entry-level salaries typically range from $55, 000 to $70, 000 annually, reflecting the competitive and rewarding nature of finance careers in Georgia, backed by a diverse economy and thriving financial institutions.

How much can I make with finance degree in Georgia?

Finance graduates in Georgia can expect competitive earnings, particularly if they leverage programs from institutions like Georgia Tech Scheller College of Business. Entry-level financial analysts in the state generally earn around $55, 000 to $65, 000 annually, but according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean annual wage nationwide for financial analysts is $112, 950, highlighting strong growth potential. Graduates stepping into roles such as investment banking analysts also see a mean salary near $112, 950, reflecting the high demand for specialized skills.

Financial advisors in Georgia tend to earn a median hourly wage of about $45, equating to approximately $94, 000 yearly. However, the national mean wage for financial advisors rises to $150, 670, which suggests that with experience or additional credentials like an MBA or CFA, Georgia graduates can approach or exceed these figures.

Credit analysts and insurance underwriters may start with more modest salaries-around $94, 750 and $85, 610 mean annual wages respectively-but these roles offer stable career paths. Graduates from popular Georgia universities often report satisfaction in advancing their careers and salaries within metropolitan hubs like Atlanta, where finance roles pay significantly higher.

How long does it take to complete finance degree in Georgia?

Completing a finance degree in Georgia generally takes about four years of full-time study for undergraduate programs like the Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance. This typical timeline aligns with universities such as the University of Georgia and Georgia State University, where students accumulate around 120 credit hours of coursework. Some graduates report that taking accelerated courses or heavier loads helped them finish in three years, though this demands strong discipline and careful planning.

Part-time students, often balancing jobs or family commitments, may take closer to six years to complete their degrees, reflecting a common experience at institutions like Kennesaw State University. For graduate studies, a Master's in Finance usually requires 1 to 2 years of full-time study, with flexible options such as evening or weekend classes popular among working professionals across Georgia.

Graduates appreciate experiential learning through internships or co-op programs offered by these schools, which can slightly extend study duration but enhance career readiness and confidence in real-world finance roles.

What's the difference between online and on-campus finance degree?

Online finance degrees in Georgia offer students flexible schedules, enabling them to study remotely from locations across the state. Graduates from programs at Kennesaw State University or Georgia Southern University often highlight the convenience of balancing coursework with work or family commitments. This format demands strong self-discipline and time-management skills but removes the need for commuting and campus housing costs.

Conversely, on-campus finance degrees provide immersive, face-to-face engagement with professors and peers, fostering immediate feedback and collaborative learning experiences. Students attending the University of Georgia or Georgia State University benefit from rich campus resources, including finance clubs, internships, and local career fairs, which enhance networking opportunities within Atlanta's financial sectors.

Tuition for both formats typically ranges between $10, 000 and $12, 000 annually for in-state students, yet on-campus programs may incur additional housing and commuting expenses. Employers in Georgia's finance industry increasingly recognize online credentials, though some still value traditional campus experience for local job placement advantages.

What is the average cost of finance degree in Georgia?

The average cost of obtaining a finance degree in Georgia reflects a significant difference between in-state and out-of-state students, as well as between public and private institutions. According to recent data, the median total cost for a finance degree in Georgia stands at approximately $29, 208. However, for in-state residents, this amount is considerably lower, around $5, 971, making public universities an affordable option. Graduates from well-known Georgia universities often share that managing tuition within this range allowed them to focus more on internships and networking opportunities, which were crucial for their career development.

Those pursuing a finance degree at private colleges in Georgia often encounter higher expenses, sometimes exceeding the median total. Still, many students find the investment worthwhile due to the resources and connections gained. Realistic budgeting should also include additional living costs, books, and fees, which can quickly add to the overall expenses when earning a finance degree. Understanding the total expenses for finance degree programs Georgia has to offer is essential for prospective students to plan wisely.

For students seeking more flexible options, programs such as the quickest online degree completion programs for working adults provide alternative pathways that can reduce both time and cost burdens.

What financial aid is available to finance degree students in Georgia?

Students pursuing finance degrees in Georgia often depend on a blend of federal, state, and institutional financial aids to manage the average $10, 400 annual tuition at public colleges. Federal aid is crucial, including Pell Grants that provide up to $7, 395 for eligible students, along with subsidized and unsubsidized loans offering manageable repayment. Work-study options allow many students to gain valuable experience while offsetting costs.

State programs like the HOPE Scholarship and HOPE Grant significantly ease the financial burden. The HOPE Scholarship rewards merit, covering partial to full tuition at institutions such as the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business, where graduates often cite scholarships as a key factor in making their education affordable. The HOPE Grant targets certificate programs, including certain finance-related fields.

Private scholarships from organizations like the Georgia Association of Business Brokers and institutional awards enhance funding opportunities further, reinforcing optimism among finance students that financial constraints need not block their career ambitions.

Industry Connections and Internship Opportunities

Georgia’s top finance degree programs distinguish themselves through robust industry partnerships and structured internship pipelines that bridge academic learning with real-world experience. Many universities collaborate with leading financial firms in Atlanta’s burgeoning fintech ecosystem, offering semester-long internships at institutions like SunTrust (now Truist), Equifax, and global banks. These collaborations not only provide hands-on exposure to financial analysis and corporate valuation projects but also often lead to full-time offers upon graduation. Career centers in Georgia State University and the University of Georgia host annual finance career fairs, connecting students with recruiters from asset management firms, credit rating agencies, and regulatory bodies. Through programs such as the UGA Finance Scholars Internship, participants work side-by-side with industry mentors on live client engagements, refining skills in portfolio management and risk assessment. In addition to corporate internships, students can engage in government-sponsored placements at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta or state economic development offices, gaining insights into monetary policy and public finance. This diverse array of experiences equips graduates for roles across sectors and even inspires career shifts—students interested in economic research frequently explore resources on becoming an economist, leveraging their finance backgrounds to pursue analytical positions in think tanks and federal agencies. By integrating classroom theory with professional practice, these industry connections and internships not only enhance employability but also foster the networks essential for long-term career growth in Georgia’s dynamic financial landscape.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in finance degree program in Georgia?

To enroll in a finance degree program in Georgia, students must hold a high school diploma or GED, which serves as the foundational qualification across both public and private institutions. Many graduates from schools like the University of Georgia note that strong performance in high school math courses such as algebra, geometry, and statistics greatly eased their transition into finance studies.

Standardized tests like the SAT or ACT remain significant for admission, although some programs have become test-optional. At Georgia Institute of Technology, for example, these scores still form a core part of the holistic review process, ensuring readiness for the rigorous curriculum.

Applicants to graduate finance programs typically possess a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or related disciplines, along with a competitive GPA above 3. 0. They often submit GMAT or GRE scores, supporting their academic competence. Personal statements and recommendation letters reflecting real-world finance experience also enhance applications, as seen with MBA candidates balancing work and study in Atlanta-based programs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Finance Degree Programs in Georgia

Q: What minimum GPA and test scores are required to apply? A: Most Georgia institutions require a high school GPA of at least 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. Competitive programs may seek GPAs of 3.0 or higher. SAT scores typically range from 1100 to 1300, while ACT scores often fall between 22 and 28. Check each school’s admissions page for exact thresholds. Q: Can I earn my Finance degree entirely online? A: Yes. Several public and private universities in Georgia offer fully online bachelor’s and master’s programs. Online delivery provides flexibility for working professionals and access to digital resources such as virtual trading rooms and discussion boards. Q: How long does an online master’s in Finance usually take? A: Most full-time online master’s programs require 30–36 credit hours, which can be completed in 12–18 months. Part-time students often finish in two years. Accelerated tracks may allow completion in as little as 9 months. Q: Are there affordable online Finance master’s options outside Georgia? A: Absolutely. For a comprehensive comparison of cost-effective online master’s in Finance beyond Georgia, review our Cheapest Online Master’s in Finance Degree Programs Ranking in Pennsylvania. Q: How do I apply for financial aid and scholarships? A: Start by completing the FAFSA to determine eligibility for federal grants and loans. Georgia students should also apply for the HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships via the Georgia Student Finance Commission. Many universities offer merit-based awards; submit all applications by each school’s priority deadline.

What courses are typically in finance degree programs in Georgia?

Finance degree programs in Georgia typically include core courses such as accounting and economics, which form the foundation for understanding how businesses manage resources and economic factors influence financial decisions. Graduates from popular institutions like the University of Georgia or Georgia State University often reflect that these subjects were crucial in grasping the basics needed for real-world applications.

Students also take statistics and business law to develop strong analytical skills and comprehension of financial regulations. A graduate from Georgia Tech noted that mastering these courses eased their internship experience in Atlanta's financial district.

Specialized courses focus on corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets, international finance, and financial modeling. For instance, learning corporate finance equips students to analyze company capital strategies, while investment analysis dives into portfolio management and risk assessment.

These courses prepare students to handle tasks they might face after graduation, like analyzing market trends or managing global finance challenges, making their education both practical and relevant to Georgia's robust financial sector.

What types of specializations are available in finance degree programs in Georgia?

Finance degrees in Georgia typically offer specializations such as Corporate Finance, Investment Management, Financial Analytics, Quantitative Finance, and Risk Management. For example, graduates from universities like the University of Georgia often report gaining strong skills in capital budgeting and financial statement analysis through the Corporate Finance track, which prepares them for roles as financial analysts or controllers. Meanwhile, Investment Management focuses on portfolio management and securities analysis, aligning well with asset management firms and investment banking sectors popular in Georgia's financial markets.

Students exploring finance career options Georgia programs increasingly choose Financial Analytics or Quantitative Finance, integrating data science skills such as statistical methods and algorithmic trading. These areas match the growth in Georgia's FinTech industry. Risk Management specialization addresses credit, market, and operational risks, crucial in the state's robust banking and insurance sectors. Other options include Real Estate Finance and Personal Financial Planning, where graduates find rewarding opportunities advising clients on wealth and retirement.

Beyond specializations, many students seek easy online certifications that pay well to supplement their degree and enhance employability in this competitive market.

How do you choose the best finance degree in Georgia?

Choosing the best finance degree programs in Georgia 2026 requires careful examination of curriculum and career alignment. Graduates from the University of Georgia's Terry College of Business often highlight how the program's emphasis on both theory and practical skills helped them secure roles in financial analysis and asset management. Accreditation is vital; programs accredited by the AACSB ensure rigorous education and better employer recognition. Cost factors heavily into the decision, with in-state tuition at public universities averaging around $10, 000 annually, while private colleges exceed $30, 000. Prospective students must also account for textbooks and materials expenses. Many seniors recommend investigating scholarships or assistantships to reduce financial strain. Employment outcomes are a key metric-financial analysts in Georgia earn a median of $85, 000 yearly, reflecting strong local demand. Smaller class sizes and faculty with industry experience enrich learning and networking opportunities. For those exploring pathways beyond bachelor's degrees, considering easy associate degrees may be a practical option for affordable finance degrees in Georgia colleges.

What career paths are available for finance degree students in Georgia?

Graduates with a finance degree in Georgia have access to a broad spectrum of career paths supported by the state's robust economy and business environment. Jobs with finance degree in Georgia commonly include roles such as financial analyst, loan officer, and investment banker. For instance, graduates from major institutions like the University of Georgia and Georgia State University often secure positions at Atlanta's financial firms, where the median annual wage for financial analysts is about $85, 000. This demonstrates both strong demand and competitive compensation in the region.

Other notable career opportunities encompass accounting, auditing, and wealth management, particularly in Atlanta, home to multiple Fortune 500 companies requiring professionals skilled in risk management and financial compliance. Additionally, emerging fields like fintech offer exciting prospects, with job growth exceeding 10% annually according to state data. Many students leveraging their finance education at Georgia colleges combine this with low tuition costs found at in-state public universities, or consider pursuing an online degree low cost to further improve financial flexibility.

What is the job market for finance degree in Georgia?

The job market for finance degree jobs in Georgia remains robust, driven by the state's dynamic economy and the concentration of major financial institutions in Atlanta. Graduates from well-regarded programs at universities like the University of Georgia and Georgia State University often secure roles in banking, corporate finance, and investment firms. Entry-level salaries typically range from $50, 000 to $60, 000, reflecting a competitive advantage due to Georgia's lower cost of living compared to cities like New York or San Francisco.

Financial analysts in Georgia earn a median annual wage of about $86, 000, outperforming national averages. This positive trend aligns with an 8% projected job growth from 2022 to 2032, signaling expanding opportunities for graduates. Many alumni report strong demand in fintech startups and real estate firms, fields that complement traditional finance roles within the state's favorable business environment.

Cost-conscious students benefit from annual in-state tuition fees between $6, 000 and $12, 000 at public universities. The combination of affordable education and a growing job market makes pursuing a finance degree in Georgia an attractive path. Those interested in trade school careers that pay well may find finance an appealing option given its steady prospects.