Choosing Between an Accounting Degree vs. a Finance Degree
Written by:
Appalachian State University
• Oct 3, 2025
Deciding between an accounting degree vs. a finance degree is a major step for students considering a business career. Both paths offer strong job prospects, competitive salaries and opportunities for professional growth, but the focus, skills and day-to-day responsibilities differ significantly.
Find out the differences between the two degree programs below and learn how App State Online’s Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Accounting aligns with your strengths, career goals and long-term aspirations.
What Is an Accounting Degree?
An accounting degree centers on accurately recording, analyzing and reporting financial information. Students in accounting programs develop a deep understanding of financial statements, tax regulations, auditing procedures and accounting information systems. The curriculum emphasizes precision, ethical decision-making and regulatory compliance, ensuring that graduates can manage complex financial data and provide actionable insights for organizations.
Core courses in an accounting program typically include the following:
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Financial and managerial accounting
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Taxation and auditing
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Accounting information systems
Many graduates with an accounting degree prepare for professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), which can open doors to higher-level positions and increased earning potential. With accounting skills in high demand in industries from health care to banking, this degree provides both stability and versatility for a long-term career in business.
What Is a Finance Degree?
A finance degree centers on managing money, investments and financial planning for individuals, businesses and organizations. It emphasizes strategic decision-making to optimize financial performance and business development while assessing risk and return.
Core courses in a finance program typically include the following:
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Corporate finance
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Investment analysis
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Financial markets
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Risk management
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Portfolio management
Students develop essential skills such as analytical thinking, financial modeling, forecasting and decision-making under uncertainty. These skills allow graduates to evaluate investment opportunities, manage assets, and guide organizations or clients toward achieving their financial goals.
Many graduates with a finance degree pursue professional certifications such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) to enhance their expertise, credibility and career advancement potential in financial services, investment management and advisory roles.
Comparing an Accounting Degree vs. a Finance Degree
When deciding between an accounting degree vs. a finance degree, it helps to consider the focus of each program and the skills students develop. Accounting programs concentrate on accurately recording, analyzing and reporting financial transactions, while finance programs emphasize managing assets, investments and strategic financial planning.
Curriculum Differences
Accounting students typically study courses such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing and accounting information systems. These courses help students develop precision, attention to detail and ethical decision-making skills.
Finance students, on the other hand, focus on corporate finance, investment analysis, financial markets, risk management and portfolio management. These courses help students develop analytical thinking, forecasting skills and the ability to make decisions under uncertainty.
Career Opportunities
Both degrees can lead to rewarding careers, but the roles can differ, even though there is some overlap. Accounting graduates may pursue careers as:
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Accountants
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Auditors
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Tax consultants
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Controllers
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Forensic accountants
Finance graduates may pursue careers as:
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Investment bankers
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Portfolio managers
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Financial planners
Why Choose an Accounting Degree?
Choosing between an accounting degree vs. a finance degree starts with reflecting on personal strengths and interests. Those who enjoy structure, attention to detail and working within established regulations may find accounting to be a better fit. Accounting programs also often cover financial subjects in their curriculum.
It’s also important to consider career goals, job stability, lifestyle preferences and long-term growth opportunities in each field when making a decision. Accounting degrees often lead to opportunities as CPAs, auditors or controllers, providing a steady and reliable career path. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors earn a median annual salary of $81,680 as of May 2024, and they have a higher-than-average projected job growth between 2024 and 2034.
Seeking guidance from professionals in both industries, as well as academic advisors, can provide valuable insights to help make an informed choice.
Why Choose App State Online?
App State Online’s BSBA in Accounting Flight Path Program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to build technical expertise while strengthening ethics, critical thinking and analytical skills. Key coursework covers both accounting and finance topics, focusing on financial statement analysis, auditing practices, financial planning and budget management.
Students gain practical experience through internships with local and regional firms, preparing them for success in public, corporate and government accounting roles. The program also provides a solid foundation for professional certifications, including the CPA, and benefits from a strong alumni network that supports mentorship and career development.
When weighing an accounting degree and a finance degree, your decision should align with your career goals and interests. While finance emphasizes investments and strategic planning, accounting focuses on compliance, reporting and in-depth financial analysis — skills that are essential in every sector.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a rewarding career in accounting, find out more about App State Online’s BSBA in Accounting. Explore program details, curriculum and success stories and launch a future built on financial expertise.
Recommended Readings:
What Can I Do With an Accounting Degree?
Understanding Tax Compliance for Accountants
Sources:
Indeed, Finance vs. Accounting Degrees: Choosing a Career Path
Indeed, What Jobs Can You Do With a Finance Degree?
Intuit, What Careers Can You Pursue With an Accounting Degree?