Are you currently searching for the best universities for finance in 2022?
The following list of the best universities for finance in 2022 is based on a combination of data and expert opinion. The list includes both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as some online options to ensure that students can study where they want to live.
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Overview
When you think of finance, what do you see? Do you see a white-collar job with an expensive suit, sitting behind a desk in a large office building? What do you think about the stock market and investment funds?
Finance is all about money. It’s about managing it, earning it, investing it, and protecting it. It includes many different disciplines like accounting, economics, and risk management to name just a few. The skills needed for each job are different depending on whether your role will be at an individual bank or working for a larger financial institution such as Lehman Brothers or JP Morgan Chase.
But no matter where your career takes you the most important thing is having good interpersonal skills because these make everything easier when dealing with people directly involved in making decisions that affect your daily life on both sides.
List of the Best Universities for Finance
The following are the 25 Best Universities for Finance:
- Harvard University
- Stanford University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- University of Oxford
- University of Chicago
- University of Cambridge
- The London School of Economics & Political Science
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of California, Berkeley
- New York University
- London Business School
- Columbia University
- National University of Singapore
- Yale University
- Bocconi University
- University of California, Los Angeles
- University of Toronto
- The University of Manchester
- HEC Paris School of Management
- The University of New South Wales
- The University of Melbourne
- Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
- Imperial College London
- The University of Sydney
- INSEAD.
25 Best Universities for Finance
1. Harvard University
About the school: Harvard University is a private Ivy League research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. Founded in 1636 by Puritan settlers from England, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States and the first university to be founded in the New World.
Harvard has grown into one of America’s most prestigious universities; it has produced a large number of notable alumni including presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Ralph Waldo Emerson, and Theodore Roosevelt.
About the program: At Harvard, you’ll get a top-notch education and have the opportunity to be part of a small community that’s focused on helping you succeed.
The Financial Accounting program at Harvard is designed to give you the skills and knowledge needed for your future career. You’ll start out by learning accounting basics, like double-entry bookkeeping, so you can learn how businesses track their finances.
Once you’ve mastered these fundamentals, you’ll move on to more advanced courses covering topics like financial reporting and auditing. If you’re interested in investing or banking, there are also options for those tracks within the program.
Tuition fee: $54,768 per year.
2. Stanford University
About the school: Stanford University is a private research university in Stanford, California. It was founded in 1891 by Leland and Jane Stanford, and dedicated to Leland’s son and early death, who died from typhoid fever. The university opened its doors to students on October 1, 1891.
Stanford is known for its academic strength, wealth, and proximity to Silicon Valley.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at Stanford University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of accounting and finance. The program offers a set of core courses that are designed to lay the foundation for future specialization in either accounting or finance, as well as elective courses that provide students with a greater understanding of how these disciplines interact within business environments.
Students will learn how to apply quantitative skills to accounting problems, as well as how to use qualitative methods to analyze financial information. The program also covers topics such as financial statement analysis, corporate governance, and international finance.
Tuition fee: $55,473
3. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
About the school: MIT has a very interdisciplinary approach to education, with students encouraged to take classes outside of their major and collaborate with other students. MIT currently has around 18 schools of study, ranging from computer science to architecture, and students can choose from some 580 fields of study within those schools.
About the program: The Master of Finance program at MIT is designed to help students develop the skills necessary to succeed in the accounting and finance professions.
MIT’s rigorous curriculum enables students to gain a deep understanding of fundamental concepts and develop their ability to apply these concepts in real-world settings. The program prepares students for careers in corporate accounting, financial planning, and investment banking, as well as public accounting.
Tuition fee: $55,878
4. University of Oxford
About the school: The University of Oxford is a world-leading university with a wide range of courses, including a number of courses in finance and accounting. The university has an excellent reputation for research and teaching.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at Oxford is designed to give you a deep understanding of the business world. It is also designed to prepare you for a career in the financial industry. The University of Oxford has connections with many companies around the world, including many major banks and other companies that hire graduates from this program.
You will learn about accounting, finance, and business in general through lectures and by working on projects with your peers. You will also have opportunities to meet with professionals from careers in accounting or finance during visits or tours around town or during lectures given by these professionals themselves.
Tuition fee: £9,250 (UK students); £28,950 – £44,240 (overseas students); £52,560 (Masters program).
5. University of Chicago
About the school: The University of Chicago is a private research university in Chicago, Illinois. The school offers a wide variety of programs and courses in the field of finance.
About the program: The Finance Programs at the University of Chicago offers students an opportunity to explore this emerging area academically, professionally, socially, and culturally. Students will gain hands-on experience through internships and extracurricular activities such as mock trading competitions.
Tuition fee: $41,031
6. University of Cambridge
About the school: The University of Cambridge is one of the oldest universities in the world and has been ranked as the best university in the world on several occasions.
The university is also a top choice for finance students because it offers both excellent academic programs and access to industry professionals.
About the program: The University of Cambridge’s Accounting & Finance program focuses on preparing students for careers in the financial sector.
The curriculum prepares students to become professional accountants and finance professionals but also addresses the needs of those who want to pursue other careers in the business world. The program offers a wide variety of courses that cover the fundamentals of accounting and finance.
Tuition fee: £9,250 – £24,507
7. The London School of Economics & Political Science
About the school: The London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE) is a public research university in London, England, and a constituent college of the federal University of London. The school awards bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees across all disciplines including the social sciences, arts, and humanities as well as medicine and natural sciences such as economics.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at the London School of Economics & Political Science is a unique and exciting experience that equips students with the knowledge they need to thrive in today’s world.
The program’s curriculum focuses on how to use financial information to make better decisions. Students will develop the skills necessary to solve real-world problems in business, from understanding different types of financial statements to analyzing data and communicating their findings.
Students will also develop an understanding of the economic factors that influence companies and markets, allowing them to make predictions about future trends. They will be able to apply this knowledge by working with clients on projects related to accounting, finance, risk management, or marketing strategy.
Tuition fee: £9,250 (UK students); £23,330 (overseas students).
8. University of Pennsylvania
About the school: University of Pennsylvania is a private research university located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at the University of Pennsylvania is a comprehensive, interdisciplinary course of study that prepares students for careers in public accounting and finance. The program emphasizes strong fundamentals in accounting, finance, and quantitative analysis. Students also explore a broad range of topics related to financial markets and corporate governance.
The program offers an undergraduate degree in accounting or finance, as well as an undergraduate minor in accounting or finance. The department also offers an MBA program with concentrations in accounting and finance.
Tuition fee: $56,212
9. University of California, Berkeley
About the program: The University of California at Berkeley is a public research university located in Berkeley, California. It was founded in 1868 and serves as the flagship institution of the ten research universities affiliated with the University of California system.
Through its various schools and colleges, it offers undergraduate and graduates programs in a wide range of subjects, with a strong emphasis on science, engineering, and environmental protection.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at the University of California, Berkeley aims to prepare students for a career in the accounting and finance industries.
The program is designed for students who want to pursue careers in accounting and finance. Students will learn about all aspects of the field, from financial analysis and reporting to risk management and auditing.
Students will also receive training that can be applied directly to their professional jobs, such as how to analyze financial statements and how to use Microsoft Excel effectively.
Tuition fee: $67,424 – $76,433
10. New York University
About the school: NYU was founded in 1831, and it’s a private research university in New York City. The school offers more than 300-degree programs across 20 schools and colleges. It has more than 50,000 students as well as over 2 million living alumni.
About the program: The Accounting Department at New York University is designed to prepare you for a career in the accounting field.
With an emphasis on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills, students will learn how to identify and analyze business problems, develop financial models and solutions, as well as how to communicate effectively with clients. The program offers both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Accounting & Finance.
Tuition fee: $29,969
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11. London Business School
About the school: London Business School is one of the world’s leading business schools. It has an excellent reputation in finance and offers a large program for those who wish to study the subject. The school’s alumni network is also very strong, with graduates working at institutions such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase & Co., and Deutsche Bank AG.
About the program: London Business School offers Accounting & Finance programs that allow you to develop your skills in financial management, accounting, and business law. You’ll study with a diverse group of students from around the world who are interested in preparing for careers in accounting and finance.
You’ll learn how to manage financial information, including how to prepare statements and reports on financial status, as well as how to analyze data and make sound decisions. You’ll also learn how to use accounting software programs such as Excel, as well as how to create a budget and manage accounts payable/receivable.
The program will give you an understanding of the relationship between finance, economics, accounting, management science, and business law. You’ll be able to apply this knowledge through participation in field trips, team projects, and case studies that address issues such as corporate governance, sustainability issues, or mergers & acquisitions (M&A).
Tuition fee: N/A.
12. Columbia University
About the school: Columbia University is an Ivy League college and ranks among the most selective and prestigious universities in the United States and the world. With over 100 undergraduate majors, 300 academic programs, and a student-to-faculty ratio of 7:1 (4:1 for graduate courses), Columbia has produced six Nobel laureates along with many prominent scientists and politicians.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at Columbia University is a great way to learn about the financial side of the business. You’ll study accounting and finance from a variety of perspectives, including international business, investment banking, and corporate finance, as well as accounting information systems.
In addition to classroom learning, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to gain real-life experience through internships with top companies in New York City. These internships are designed to give you hands-on experience in your field of study while also helping you build your network and develop new skills that will help you succeed after graduation.
Tuition fee: $49,580 (Masters in Accounting)
13. National University of Singapore
About the school: The National University of Singapore is a world-class, research-intensive university. It has earned its reputation as one of the top universities in Asia and is ranked among the top 50 universities in the world by QS World University Rankings.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at the National University of Singapore is a great choice for students who want to build their careers in the financial services industry. With a focus on data-driven decision-making and effective communication, you’ll leave the program with the skills you need to succeed.
The program includes comprehensive training in accounting theory, management theory, applied statistics, financial reporting, corporate governance and control systems, international financial reporting standards (IFRS), macroeconomics, and microeconomics. In addition to classroom learning, you’ll also have opportunities to develop your professional skills through internships with local accounting firms.
Tuition fee: $32,400
14. Yale University
About the school: Yale University is located in New Haven, Connecticut. It opened its doors in 1701, making it one of the oldest universities in America. The school has been home to many notable alumni, including James Madison, John Jay, and Aaron Burr.
Yale offers undergraduate and graduates degrees in more than 70 different majors across 12 schools. As a result of its large size, Yale has the ability to offer students an array of programs that cater to specific interests and career paths.
About the program: The Accounting & Finance program at Yale University is a great place to learn about accounting and finance.
If you’re interested in accounting, the program has a strong focus on auditing and taxes. If you’re interested in finance, the curriculum covers topics such as investments, corporate financial management, and international finance.
Yale offers a wide range of courses that are taught by expert faculty members with extensive experience working in the industry. The school also offers field trips and internships so students can get real-world experience while they are still enrolled at the school.
Tuition fee: $79,000
15. Bocconi University
About the school: Bocconi University is a private university in Milan, Italy. It is one of the most highly regarded universities in Italy, particularly for its business and economics programs.
About the program: The Bocconi degree program offers courses at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and allows you to specialize in various fields including finance, accounting, and economics.
Tuition fee: €14,000
16. University of California, Los Angeles
About the school: The University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is one of the most prestigious universities in the United States. It’s located in Los Angeles and has over 40,000 undergraduate students.
About the program: The Master of Finance Engineering program at UCLA is designed to help you build a career as a financial engineer. It is a part-time program that can be completed in two years.
The curriculum covers all the topics you’ll need to become a financial engineer and includes courses like Financial Modelling, Corporate Finance, and Portfolio Management.
UCLA also offers MBA/FEMBA/EMBA programs.
Tuition fee: $13,226
17. University of Toronto
About the school: The University of Toronto is a tertiary institution that is infamously committed to excellence. They offer one of the best educations in the world and help you prepare for your future by providing you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed.
It is a top-ranked research-intensive university that provides a world-class education in a diverse, welcoming environment.
About the program: The Master of Finance program at the University of Toronto is designed to help you develop the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in an increasingly complex and competitive financial world.
You’ll study with a world-class faculty, who have decades of experience in the field. You’ll also get hands-on experience through our unique co-op program, where you’ll be able to apply what you’re learning in real-world settings.
Tuition fee: $19,590
18. University of Manchester
About the school: The University of Manchester is a public research university located in Manchester, England. It was founded as Owens College in 1851 and was granted university status in 1904. It currently has around 40,000 students, making it one of the largest universities in the United Kingdom by the number of students.
About the program: The University of Manchester offers a BSc Management (Accounting and Finance) program that emphasizes the study of financial markets, management accounting, and corporate finance. The program provides students with a broad foundation in the theory and practice of financial markets, management accounting, and corporate finance.
Tuition fee: £9,250 – £26,000
19. HEC Paris School of Management
About the school: HEC Paris School of Management is a world-renowned business school in Paris, France. It has been recognized as one of the best business schools in the world by several publications.
HEC Paris offers undergraduate and graduates degrees in many different fields, including marketing, finance and accounting, management, entrepreneurship, and innovation management.
About the program: The MSC Accounting, Finance & Management program at HEC Paris School of Management offers you the chance to earn a degree in one of the most sought-after fields in business.
The program is designed to give you the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the rapidly changing world of business. You’ll learn everything from accounting theory to financial reporting practice, with a focus on applying your knowledge to real-world situations.
Tuition fee: €33,500
20. The University of New South Wales
About the school: The University of New South Wales is a public research university in Sydney, Australia. It is regarded as one of the leading universities in Australia and Asia. UNSW is consistently ranked among the top 5 universities in Australia and is particularly strong in the fields of business, law, medicine, engineering, and technology.
About the program: The Master of Finance & Investment program at UNSW Business School is an intensive two-year full-time program that combines rigorous academic study with practical experience. It provides students with a deep understanding of financial theory, quantitative methods, and their application to real-world problems in finance and investment management.
Tuition fee: AUD$995 per unit.
21. The University of Melbourne
About the school: The University of Melbourne is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities, founded in 1853. It consistently ranks among the top 5 in the country for both graduate employability and research quality.
The university offers more than 350 courses across 6 faculties: Arts, Business and Economics, Education and Social Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Engineering and Science, Law, and the Graduate Research School.
About the program: The Master of Finance program at the University of Melbourne is an internationally recognized program that provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the financial and economic world.
Tuition fee: AUD$37,456
22. Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
About the school: Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore, is a public university serving more than 50,000 students from over 100 countries.
About the program: The BSc Banking & Finance program at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, is a premier educational experience for those who are interested in learning about financial management and banking.
The program is designed to prepare you for careers in banking, finance, and risk management. You will learn about how to manage money and assets, as well as how to make decisions that can affect your company’s bottom line. You will also learn about the economic environment and how it affects businesses and individuals.
Tuition fee: S$9,400 – S$13,200
23. Imperial College London
About the school: Imperial College London is a world-class institution that has been ranked the best university in the UK for three years running. The school attracts students from all over the globe and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
It also provides research facilities for students interested in pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
About the program: Imperial College London’s MSc Finance & Accounting program is perfect for those who want to learn about accounting practices and theories, as well as how to apply them in real-world situations. You’ll be able to sharpen your skills in accounting, finance, business management, and more.
You’ll dive deep into the world of accounting and learn how to manage financial transactions like a pro. You’ll also gain an understanding of fundamental business processes and how they’re affected by technology and changing markets.
Tuition fee: £11,836
24. The University of Sydney
About the school: The University of Sydney is one of Australia’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Established in 1850, it has a long history of excellence in research and teaching. The university offers more than 300 courses across its three campuses, which are located in the inner-city suburbs of Camperdown and Darlington.
About the program: The BSc and MSc in Business Finance programs at the University of Sydney cover the core areas of finance, including corporate finance, financial markets, and institutions, financial instruments and markets, quantitative methods in business and economics, corporate governance, international finance, accounting for decision making and investment analysis.
Tuition fee: $48,000
25. INSEAD
About the school: INSEAD is a global business school with campuses in France, Singapore, and Abu Dhabi. It offers a wide range of degree programs in management and entrepreneurship, with a focus on Asia and Europe.
About the program: The MIM in Finance program at INSEAD is designed for students who have an interest in working with money and its power. The curriculum includes courses on macroeconomics, corporate finance, and financial markets along with electives like behavioral economics and risk management. There are also opportunities for internships at both large companies and start-ups in France, Italy, and Spain.
Tuition fee: €49,500
Career Options in Accounting & Finance
If you have a passion for numbers and are looking for a career that is in high demand, then accounting may be the right choice for you. Accounting is the process of keeping track of money and financial information, or it can be defined as the science or study of the methods and principles involved in the preparation of financial statements.
Accountants are in demand because they help businesses keep track of their finances. An accountant helps companies make sure they are following government regulations related to taxes, payrolls, and other requirements related to running an organization. They also provide support by preparing reports on how companies are performing financially so that executives can make sound decisions about future investments.22
The average salary of an accountant ranges between $44,000 – $100,000 per year (median salary of $81,410), depending on experience level within this field—so if this sounds like something that interests you then check out your local university to see what classes they offer.
FAQs
What is the difference between a finance major and an accounting major?
A finance degree focuses on understanding the financial markets, including investments. An accounting degree, on the other hand, teaches you how to keep track of numbers and documents related to companies or businesses. Both fields require math-heavy degrees with plenty of mathematics classes under your belt before you can start working in your chosen field.
What are the best universities for finance in 2022?
The top schools for those interested in studying finance include Harvard, Stanford and MIT.
Is finance worth studying?
Companies typically find it a pain to track their numbers. If this is something that comes effortlessly to you (and you just love money), you can give a career in finance a shot.
Recommended Reads
- 20 Best Courses to Take in College to Get a Job
- Top 30 Short Degrees That Pay Well
- 20 Best Economics Universities in Europe
- Top 100 MBA Colleges in the World.
Wrapping It Up
Hopefully, you now know which universities are the best for finance. If you’re looking to study in the US, then one of these would be a great choice. If not, then there are plenty of other options too.
