At Athabasca University, our online finance degree offers a modern, integrated approach that combines both finance and economics, giving you a comprehensive understanding of today's evolving financial services sector. The program focuses on key elements such as financial markets, financial instruments, and investment decision-making, offering invaluable insights into how institutions and individuals can effectively manage and use capital. This well-rounded education prepares you for a range of career opportunities in the rapidly changing world of finance.
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Athabasca University's online Bachelor of Commerce, Finance Major integrates finance and economics courses to give you a broad exposure to the growing financial management sector.
The field of finance involves the study of:
financial markets
financial instruments
investment decision-making
You will also learn to analyze alternative methods of gaining and managing capital.
Admission requirements
There are no formal admission requirements for this program. All you need is to be 16 or older. You can enrol anytime and start right away, regardless of your previous education.
Please note: If you have a degree in administration, business, commerce or management, or a degree with a related major or concentration from AU or another university, you cannot apply to the Bachelor of Commerce, Finance Major program.
Program details
Overview
Choosing to pursue an online finance degree at Athabasca University offers unmatched flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own terms. This opens up the possibility to continue working full-time, taking care of family, or even traveling, all while gaining the skills and knowledge you'll need for a successful career in finance.
Why take the Bachelor of Commerce?
The Bachelor of Commerce is one of the most highly recognized credentials in the Canadian business community. This technically based business degree explores all core areas of business including:
marketing
statistics
financial and management accounting
finance
information systems
organizational behaviour
commercial law
Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Our Faculty of Business also holds AACSB accreditation, placing us among the elite 6% of business schools worldwide. This distinguished accreditation, known as the gold standard in the industry, is a testament to the rigor and depth of our program, and the high-quality education it provides.
Routes and options
The Bachelor of Commerce, Finance Major is a 4-year online degree program. If you already have a post-secondary diploma, you can take the shorter post-diploma route. There are no set start dates - you can enrol at any time and register for courses right away.
Post-diploma route
There are 2 possible routes into the post-diploma option, with an additional option available for students who have completed a business diploma in Ontario. Faculty of Business diploma to degree routes.
Completion times
Finish this program in as little as 2 years (post-diploma route) or 4 years (degree route) of full-time study. Or work at your own pace and take as long as you need. There is no time limit for completion. The program may be completed faster if transfer credit is applied toward your degree.
How to apply
You can apply to AU online, anytime. Once you’ve completed the online application form and paid the one-time general application fee (and transfer credit evaluation fee, if applicable), you’re officially an AU student and can start registering in courses.
Transfer credit will not be accepted if course(s) completed more than:
10 years ago in the business and administrative studies area of study at the senior (300/400) level;
5 years ago in CMIS (all levels);
10 years ago in statistics (all levels).
If you are currently working in the field and provide evidence of work being completed, this restriction may be waived. Transfer credit being used to satisfy options other than those in the business and administrative studies area will not be restricted.
Request and send your transcripts if you want us to consider your previous post-secondary education for transfer credit.
Once you have paid the initial application fee, tuition is pay-as-you-go for each course registration. Course fees vary depending on your location and other factors.
Estimated program costs are available in the Calendar.
Financial aid and awards
We're dedicated to supporting your academic goals and committed to helping you overcome financial barriers by providing many funding and award options.
In our BComm Finance Major, you'll delve into a range of impactful courses that cover both finance and economics, including subjects like financial markets, financial instruments, and investment decision-making. These courses are designed to equip you with the expertise to understand and navigate the complex world of financial services, preparing you for various roles in this dynamic field.
To complete the program you will need to fulfill the requirements of the first 2 years of the Bachelor of Commerce, plus those specific to your major.
Our program plans can give you an idea of what courses you need to finish this program, and how to plan the order you'll take them in. If you're feeling stuck, our academic advisors can help.
Below are some of the courses that our students take in this program. Please consult an advisor to confirm any course planning, as some of these courses may not apply to you.
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Career options
A finance degree from AU sets the stage for diverse career paths in the financial services sector. Whether you're interested in becoming a financial analyst, investment banker, or diving into corporate finance, this program provides the foundational skills needed for success in these and many other financial roles.
Some potential careers include:
retail and wholesale trade manager
administrative officer
professional occupations in advertising, marketing and public relations
financial advisor
professional occupations in business management consulting
financial and investment analyst
managers - public and private sector
executive assistant
advertising, marketing and public relations manager
business development officer
market researchers and analyst
business services manager
administrative services manager
purchasing manager
entrepreneur
Resources and links
Additional information that you need to know about AU and this program.