Students taking notes in class

Adult Studies

Bachelor of Science in Finance - Accelerated

The accelerated degree in finance from DeSales will help you meet industry growth and prepare you to excel in business finance roles, accounting careers, and more.

Program Details

Official Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Format
Online
Online
Credit Hours
120
Program Start
Start Anytime
Application Deadline
Apply Anytime
Average Time to Degree
3-4 Years

Why Get Your Degree at DeSales University?

The world of finance offers countless opportunities, from financial planners and accountants to data analysts and more. Here at DeSales, our mission is to provide a top-notch business education rooted in the Salesian tradition. We offer flexible learning options that fit your schedule and needs.

students in classroom

Program Highlights

Flexible Options

  • Earn a full degree or a certificate at your own pace. Follow an accelerated plan of study to earn your degree faster or progress as conservatively as you want. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with multiple start terms per year, so you can start when you are ready. All classes are online unless otherwise noted, with numerous start dates throughout the year. A personal advisor will ensure you get exactly what you need to succeed.

Value and Return of Investment

  • Here's your first lesson in effective financial planning: you could increase your earning potential in just a few years. A bachelor's in finance will teach you about cash flow and help you increase yours by allowing you to graduate in less time for less money. Our efficient, low-priced tuition—bolstered by various financial aid and tuition deferment opportunities—combined with a proven track record of alumni success means you are sure to make the most of your time at DeSales.

Professional Development Opportunities

  • Our faculty have seen it all and come from various professional backgrounds with firsthand knowledge of financial industries. We encourage you to lean on the experience of our faculty and their existing connections to build your network of finance professionals and colleagues.

What Will You Study?

Finance majors must take a combination of core business and finance courses and are encouraged to take additional electives in accounting.

Examples of courses you may take as part of the Accelerated Finance major include:

  • Financial Accounting
  • The Legal Environment of Business
  • Financial Management
  • Money and Banking
  • Financial Markets and Institutions
  • Investment and Portfolio Management

Program Tracks & Certificates

Swipe below to discover more!

alt text

Tracks

Learn More

Track

Financial Planning

If you’re interested in a finance career involved with developing financial strategies for individuals and businesses, our financial planning track is for you. In this track, you'll have the opportunity to take courses in banking, security analysis, risk management, taxation, and international finance.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • Financial Plan Development
  • Income Tax Planning
  • Introduction to Risk Management
  • Investments and Portfolio Management
  • Retirement and Estate Planning
alt text

Track

Data Analytics

With the data analytics track, you will learn the structures, concepts, mathematics, and computer languages of data analytics and AI as they relate to finance. You will learn to use the software and cloud platforms that are in demand in the job market, such as Tableau, SAS, Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, and Google TensorFlow.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • Applied AI Platforms and Projects
  • Databases and Data Visualization
  • Introduction to Data Analytics and AI
  • Statistical Analysis and Predictive Modeling
alt text
alt text

Certificates

Learn More

Certificate

Certified Financial Planner Board-Registered Program

DeSales is currently the only Certified Financial Planner® (CFP) Board Registered program in the Lehigh Valley. Upon successful completion of this program, you'll be eligible to sit for the CFP® Certification Examination. Whether you’re starting a new career in financial planning or seeking to advance in your current role as an accountant or financial consultant, our financial planning certificate could be the perfect fit for you.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • Income Tax Planning
  • Introduction to Risk Management
  • Investment and Portfolio Management
  • Personal Finance
  • Retirement and Estate Planning
  • Financial Plan Development
alt test

Certificate

Financial Management

This certificate program offers preparation in accounting fundamentals, legal processes concerning business organizations, federal income taxation, and various aspects of financial management related to the business enterprise. You'll gain insights into accounting and business finance fundamentals, making this certificate a valuable addition to various degree types and a boost to your existing career.

Courses You May Take Include:

  • Financial Accounting
  • Financial Management
  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  • Quantitative Business Analysis (or) Data Analytics
alt text

Outcomes & Careers

As of May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the following key data for finance-related occupations:

  • Business and Financial Occupations: Employment in this sector is projected to grow faster than average, with about 963,500 openings per year through 2033. The median annual wage is $79,050, significantly higher than the national median wage of $48,060(BLS,BLS).
  • Financial Analysts: Employment is expected to grow by 9% from 2023 to 2033, with around 30,700 openings annually. Financial analysts earn a median annual wage of $107,680(BLS).
  • Financial Managers: This role is projected to grow by 17% over the next decade, much faster than the average. About 75,100 openings annually are anticipated, with a median annual wage of $156,100(BLS).

These figures highlight strong growth and competitive wages within the finance sector, making it a promising field for those pursuing careers in business and financial management.

students in a classroom

Admission Criteria

  • A High School Diploma or GED, and at least one of the following must apply:
  • You have been out of high school for 5+ years
  • You are a veteran or active duty service member
  • You have a full-time career and/or other significant non-academic responsibilities, such as being self-supporting or having financial dependents
  • You already have a bachelor's degree and are now pursuing a certificate or second degree
Visit Admissions Tuition & Fees
Students in a classroom

Prerequisites

Already Attended Some College?

We will be happy to evaluate your prior college courses. DeSales accepts up to 75 credits from regionally accredited colleges and universities. All transferred credits must be applicable to some curriculum offered at DeSales University. You must complete at least 15 three-credit (or more) courses at DeSales University to earn a degree from DSU.

Please note that only credits are transferred; your grades for transfer courses are not calculated into your GPA at DSU.

Contact Us

Adult Studies Admissions

Contact

Resource Links