Best Finance Degrees in Florence, Arizona (2026 Guide)
Choosing the right finance degree near Florence, Arizona can shape your career opportunities for decades. Whether you want to work in corporate finance, banking, investment management, or start your own business, selecting an accredited, reputable, and outcome-driven program is critical.
Key Takeaways
- Florence does not host a standalone university, but several top Arizona institutions within commuting distance offer highly ranked finance degrees.
- Arizona State University (ASU) leads in national recognition, alumni network, and career outcomes.
- Northern Arizona University (NAU) and University of Arizona (UArizona) offer strong finance programs with competitive tuition options.
- Accreditation, internship access, and career placement rates matter more than generic rankings.
- Online finance degrees provide flexible and affordable alternatives for working students in Florence.
How We Evaluated the Best Finance Degrees Near Florence, AZ
To determine the best options, we assessed programs based on:
- Accreditation: AACSB accreditation, the gold standard for business schools
- Tuition and affordability for Arizona residents
- Career outcomes and salary potential
- Internship and employer partnerships
- Program flexibility, including online and hybrid formats
- Commute practicality from Florence
Florence is located in Pinal County, with access to major higher education institutions in Phoenix, Tempe, Flagstaff, and Tucson.
Top Finance Degree Programs Near Florence, Arizona
1. Arizona State University – W. P. Carey School of Business (Tempe, AZ)
Distance from Florence: Approximately 50 miles
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Finance
Accreditation: AACSB
Arizona State University's W. P. Carey School of Business is widely regarded as the strongest finance program in Arizona. It consistently ranks among top U.S. public business schools.
Why ASU Stands Out
- Nationally recognized finance faculty
- Extensive internship pipelines with Phoenix financial firms
- Large alumni network across Arizona
- Strong employer recruiting in banking and investment sectors
Career Outcomes
Graduates commonly pursue careers in:
- Financial analyst
- Corporate finance manager
- Investment banking associate
- Risk management analyst
Median early career salaries for finance graduates from major public universities often range between $60,000 and $75,000 depending on specialization and internships completed.
Best For: Students seeking national recognition, elite networking, and strong placement outcomes.
2. University of Arizona – Eller College of Management (Tucson, AZ)
Distance from Florence: Approximately 70 miles
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Major in Finance
Accreditation: AACSB
The University of Arizona offers a competitive finance program emphasizing quantitative skills and real-world applications.
Program Strengths
- Finance-focused student investment funds
- Hands-on portfolio management experience
- Strong regional employer connections
- Research-driven faculty mentorship
Eller College students benefit from practical training in financial modeling, valuation, and strategic investment decision-making.
Best For: Students interested in investment analysis, portfolio management, and research-focused finance careers.
3. Northern Arizona University – The W. A. Franke College of Business (Flagstaff, AZ)
Distance from Florence: Approximately 140 miles
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Finance
Accreditation: AACSB
NAU provides a smaller class environment compared to larger state schools, offering individualized attention and close faculty interaction.
Advantages
- Personalized academic advising
- Affordable in-state tuition
- Hybrid and online pathways
- Business analytics integration
NAU’s program is especially appealing to students who prefer collaborative learning and mentorship.
Best For: Students seeking a balance between affordability and personalized instruction.
4. ASU Online – Bachelor of Science in Finance
For Florence residents who need flexibility, ASU Online offers a fully accredited finance degree with the same curriculum as the on-campus program.
Key Benefits
- No relocation or commuting required
- Access to career services and networking events
- Flexible scheduling for working adults
Online learning can reduce indirect educational costs such as transportation and housing while maintaining strong credential value.
Best For: Working professionals, parents, and students seeking maximum flexibility without sacrificing accreditation.
Side-by-Side Comparison
UniversityAccreditationFormatDistance from FlorenceBest ForArizona State UniversityAACSBOn-Campus & Online50 milesStrong career placement & prestigeUniversity of ArizonaAACSBOn-Campus70 milesInvestment & research focusNorthern Arizona UniversityAACSBOn-Campus & Hybrid140 milesSmall class sizes & affordabilityASU OnlineAACSBFully Online0 milesMaximum flexibility
What to Look For in a Finance Degree
1. AACSB Accreditation
This accreditation ensures rigorous academic standards and global recognition.
2. Internship Opportunities
Proximity to Phoenix’s financial district and growing Arizona economy provides valuable internship access. Programs connected to major employers offer a measurable advantage.
3. Curriculum Depth
Look for courses in:
- Financial modeling
- Investment analysis
- Corporate valuation
- Risk management
- Financial markets and institutions
4. Career Services
Strong job placement support can significantly impact your starting salary and network strength.
Admissions Requirements
Most Arizona public universities require:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA requirements
- SAT or ACT scores, though some schools are test optional
- Completion of prerequisite math courses
Transfer students from community colleges in Pinal County may qualify for simplified admissions pathways and reduced tuition costs.
Career Outlook for Finance Graduates in Arizona
Arizona’s financial sector continues expanding, particularly in Phoenix and surrounding metropolitan areas.
Common Jobs for Finance Graduates
- Financial Analyst
- Loan Officer
- Investment Analyst
- Credit Analyst
- Financial Advisor
National labor data consistently show finance-related roles offering above-average earnings compared to many bachelor’s degree fields. Growth in fintech and real estate investment in Arizona further strengthens job prospects.
Estimated Tuition Considerations
In-state tuition at Arizona public universities is generally more affordable than private institutions. Costs vary by residency, course load, and housing.
- Public universities often range from approximately $10,000 to $13,000 per year for in-state tuition
- Online programs may reduce commuting and housing expenses
- Financial aid and scholarships are widely available for Arizona residents
Students should always consult official university financial aid offices for the most current tuition figures and scholarship programs.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Finance Degree Near Florence
The best finance degree in Florence, Arizona depends on your career goals, preferred format, budget, and academic profile. For prestige and large-scale networking, Arizona State University leads the region. For hands-on investment training, the University of Arizona stands strong. For personalization and affordability, Northern Arizona University offers practical advantages. For flexibility, ASU Online provides a respected and convenient alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions about Finance Degrees near Florence, Arizona
What is the closest finance degree program to Florence, AZ?
The closest major finance program is at Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business in Tempe, about 50 miles from Florence. ASU offers an AACSB-accredited Bachelor of Science in Finance with strong ties to Phoenix-area employers.
Can you earn a finance degree online while living in Florence, AZ?
Yes. ASU Online offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Finance with the same AACSB-accredited curriculum as the on-campus program. This lets you complete your degree from Florence without relocating or commuting.
How much does a finance degree typically cost for Arizona residents?
In-state tuition at Arizona public universities often ranges from about $10,000 to $13,000 per year, not including housing, books, and fees. Online options may lower living and commuting costs. You should confirm current rates with each school’s financial aid office.
What jobs can you get with a finance degree in Arizona?
With a finance degree, you can pursue roles such as financial analyst, loan officer, credit analyst, investment analyst, or financial advisor. Many of these jobs are in the Phoenix and Tucson areas, where the financial services sector keeps growing.
What should you look for when choosing a finance program near Florence?
You should look for AACSB accreditation, strong internship access in Phoenix or Tucson, clear career placement support, and a curriculum that covers financial modeling, investment analysis, valuation, and risk management. Also consider commute time or online flexibility from Florence.
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