An automatic Finance Assistant technical diploma at one year and your Finance associate degree after two? Win-win!
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Finance
Program Number: 101142
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 65 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: 100% In Person, 100% Online, Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Business
Estimated Program Cost: $12,539.77
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  • Program Overview

    Finance relates to the management of money through financial analysis. This includes investing and evaluating financial opportunities and risk levels.

    The Finance program at Madison College provides you with a solid foundation in personal financial planning, retirement planning, investing, real estate, and financial analysis required for entry-level positions in banks, credit unions, insurance companies, financial planning, real estate, government, or manufacturing enterprises.

    Your courses will focus on active learning through projects, simulations, cases, and sharing of business experiences.

    After completing your first year of classes, you will be automatically awarded the Finance Assistant technical diploma.

    Once you are admitted into the Finance program, you may be able to double major and complete the Business Management or Accounting associate degree with just one or two additional semesters of study. Speak to your advisor to learn more.

    Program Details

    Students in the Finance program can attend full or part-time.

    • Courses focus on active learning through projects, simulations, cases, and sharing of business experiences rather than passive textbook learning.
    • Courses are offered online, face-to-face or 8 weeks accelerated delivery.
    • Full-time or part-time, day and evening options are available.
    • Career pathways available to double major in Business Management and transfer to four-year institutions.

    Finance classes may be offered at the following Madison College campuses:

    • Madison - Truax
    • Madison - South
    • Fort Atkinson
    • Reedsburg
    • Watertown

    Careers

    Completing the Finance associate degree program at Madison College prepares you for valuable work as a:

    • Analyst: Credit, Budget, Data, or Business
    • Paraplanner / Financial Planning Assistant
    • Customer Service Representative
    • Personal Banker
    • Loan Coordinator
    • Vehicle Financing Specialist

    With additional education and/or work experience, graduates may find employment as:

    • Financial Planner/Advisor
    • Assistant/Branch Manager in banks, credit unions, or other financial institutions
    Your Advantage at Madison College
    Learn from faculty who have years of finance and business experience!

  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    First Semester
    10-101-111
    Accounting 1 - Principles
    Introduction to the field of accounting. The accounting cycle of journalizing transactions, posting, adjusting and closing entries, as well as the preparation of accounting statements is emphasized for service industries and merchandising concerns. Details of accounting for cash and receivables are studied. An introduction to a computerized accounting system is also included.
    4 credits
    10-106-109
    Business Spreadsheet Applications
    Create professional data-driven workbooks utilizing Microsoft Office Excel spreadsheet software. Students will work with formulas to professionally format worksheets, create charts and tables, utilize advanced functions and apply conditional formatting, work with multiple worksheets, workbooks, and templates, incorporate data validation, utilize worksheet protection; create macros, export and cleanse data sets, and perform what-if analysis.
    3 credits
    10-114-130
    Personal Finance
    This introductory course considers finance from the point of view of the individual or family unit. Topics include budgets, insurance, housing, borrowing, saving, investing and estate planning. Students complete personal finance projects applying the material learned.
    3 credits
    10-801-195
    Written Communication
    Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
    3 credits
    10-804-144
    Math of Finance
    This course takes an algebraic approach to solving financial problems. Topics include personal finance and retirement, mathematics of retailing, mathematics of banking and lending, and statistical applications. Major emphasis is placed on solving problems involving the time value of money by using a financial calculator. The material in this course develops a sound base for subsequent courses by using an analytical approach to problem solving.
    3 credits
    Second Semester
    10-101-113
    Accounting 2 - Principles
    Procedures of accounting for partnerships and corporations. Additional topics include fixed assets, current liabilities and payroll, long-term liabilities, investments, statement of cash flows, analysis of financial statements, and may include an introduction to cost accounting.
    4 credits
    10-101-123
    Tax 1
    Introduction to federal and state income tax laws with an emphasis on personal taxes. These areas are included: filing status, personal exemptions and standard deductions; income recognition, itemized deductions, credits, depreciation, gains and losses, and sole proprietorship taxation. The course also requires the preparation of a series of individual income tax returns.
    4 credits
    10-114-128
    Financial Institutions
    Introductory-level course which considers the role of financial institutions in the economy. Topics include financial intermediation, the Federal Reserve System, financial markets and instruments, and non-bank financial institutions, including savings and loan associations, credit unions, finance companies, insurance companies, pension funds, mutual funds and governmental financial institutions.
    3 credits
    10-809-195
    Economics
    This course is designed to give an overview of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and international economics. Concepts include scarcity, resources, alternative economic systems, growth, supply and demand, monetary and fiscal policy, inflation, unemployment and global economic issues.
    3 credits
    20-810-205
    Small Group & Interpersonal Communications
    This course explores verbal and nonverbal concepts, theories, and practical skills necessary to become competent in interpersonal and small group settings. Students explore dependent, independent and interdependent relationships with others in personal and work-related settings.
    3 credits
    Third Semester
    10-101-118
    Management Accounting
    Emphasizes the managerial use of accounting reports, the problem-solving functions of accounting in relation to current planning and control, performance evaluation, long-range planning, budgets and cost-volume-profit relationships.
    4 credits
    10-102-104
    Business Statistics
    Introduces the theory of, and application to basic statistical methods. Emphasizes solving practical business problems. Topics include basic measures, probability, sampling, and time series analysis. Knowledge of Excel is strongly recommended.
    3 credits
    10-102-160
    Business Law 1
    This survey course covers legal principles used in the business world. Major emphasis is placed on contracts along with torts, federal and state courts, criminal law, marital property and bankruptcy and wills. The course is taught on a level suitable for an associate degree student. Federal, state and case law serve as the basis of study.
    3 credits
    10-114-126
    Corporate Finance
    This intermediate-level course views finance from the perspective of the financial manager. Topics include techniques of financial analysis, forecasting and budgeting, operating and financial leverage, working capital management, the time value of money, cost of capital, long-term debt and stock financing, dividends and retained earnings. Students are expected to apply both principles of accounting and finance.
    3 credits
    10-162-126
    Introduction to Loss Investigation (AIC 33)
    The claim function, factors influencing claims, the steps involved in analyzing, negotiating, and litigating first and third party claims, and the basics of property and liability losses will be covered in this class.
    3 credits
    Fourth Semester
    10-102-143
    Organizational Management
    Learn why results and relationships are key to effective management, in the context of the traditional managerial elements of planning, organizing, directing, and controlling. Apply techniques for problem solving, critical thinking, decision-making, delegation, motivation, change management, and political savvy behavior to case studies, simulations, and activities. Self-assess Emotional Intelligence (EI) and apply techniques to improve EI. Manage tasks while working independently and/or remotely.
    3 credits
    10-106-190
    Professional Development
    Get fully prepared for your job or internship search! Build an electronic portfolio by creating an effective resume, cover letter, and thank you letter. Polish interviewing, networking, and personal branding skills. Learn effective techniques to present yourself to employers for job prospects or promotions.
    1 credit
    10-114-127
    Financial Analysis
    A capstone course for the Finance program. Students work in teams to analyze an industry and work individually to analyze a specific company. The project familiarizes students with common sources of business and financial information and develops their analytical skills. A final oral and written report is required.
    3 credits
    10-114-140
    Investments
    This advanced course considers alternative investment media and markets. Topics include the investment environment, fundamental and technical analysis, timing, selectivity and diversification, and computer-based investment management. Investment analysis will make use of a student-developed spreadsheet platform.
    3 credits
    10-809-199
    Psychology of Human Relations
    This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
    3 credits
    Elective
    3 credits
    Recommended Elective Courses (3 credits)
    10-101-138
    Accounting and Payroll Systems
    A survey of accounting and payroll systems covering procedures and methods to capture data and report financial information. Specific topics include flowcharting, internal controls, and transaction work in both manual and computerized environments. Special emphasis is also placed on payroll calculations and the processing of payroll information. Lab intensive course involving hands-on experience with Excel spreadsheet software and accounting software.
    3 credits
    10-102-135
    Project Management Fundamentals
    Develop skills to manage a project from start to finish through teamwork. Class topics include project acceptance; defining, planning, scheduling, leading, monitoring, and controlling projects; and project closeout. Apply skills, both as a participant and a project leader, in case studies and group projects, using tools such as Microsoft Project, templates, charters, Gantt charts, critical paths, milestones, risk control and prioritization.
    3 credits
    10-145-102
    Small Business Development
    Provides an introduction to prospective small business owners to the principles involved in planning and operation. Attention is given to small business appraisal and opportunities. Emphasis will be placed on factors that contribute to a successful business operation.
    3 credits
    10-104-102
    Marketing Principles
    Explore the dynamic and engaging world of marketing where creativity meets strategy. This course dives into the four key principles: Product, Price, Place, and Promotion. Students will uncover how marketing shapes business through topics like target markets, consumer behavior, product development, pricing strategies, distribution channels, and innovative promotions.
    3 credits
    10-104-104
    Selling Principles
    Dive into personal selling with this dynamic course. Analyze the relationship between selling and marketing, develop ethical standards, and evaluate buyer motivation and resistance. Learn to build trust through product knowledge and relationship strategies, understand the selling process, and create effective sales presentations for goods, services, or ideas.
    3 credits
    10-116-145
    Introduction to Human Resources
    This course explores the basics of human management including strategic human resource planning, issues in human resources, planning, equal employee opportunity, analyzing and staffing jobs, training and development, and global and international employment.
    3 credits
    10-116-147
    Wage, Salary & Benefits Admin
    This course focuses on basic systems and plans of compensation for employees including merit pay, incentive pay, and person focused pay. This course also covers principal techniques in the development and administration of employee benefit programs.
    3 credits

  • How to Apply

    To Apply

    Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!

    If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.

    Note: It is recommended to only apply for a semester that has already started if you are currently enrolled in classes, or you have verified that classes are still available for that semester.

    Application Dates

    Fall 2026

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is November 15, 2026

    Spring 2027

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is April 15, 2027

    Summer 2027

    • Application available on September 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is July 15, 2027

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027

    Admission Requirements

    All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.

    1. Admission Application

    The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.

    2. Education Completion

    Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:

    • High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
    • GED/HSED completion
    • College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
      • Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
      • At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
        • The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
        • Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
        • Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript

    All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.

    Additional Notes

    Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate. 

    Questions?

    Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Finance career.

    It's Free to Apply

  • Transfer Opportunities

    UW System Schools

    UW Oshkosh
    The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
    UW Platteville
    This program-to-program articulation agreement between UW-Platteville and Madison College provides students with guaranteed admission into the UW-Platteville Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) Finance major and to be awarded ALL Associate Degree credits toward the BBA Finance major after successful completion of their Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)-Degree at Madison College.

    Wisconsin Private Schools

    Lakeland University
    Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.
    Milwaukee School of Engineering
    Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.

    Out-of-State Schools

    Franklin University
    Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

  • Career Outcomes

    After completing the Finance program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to:

    • Create reports
    • Analyze financial data
    • Analyze investments

    • Graduate Summary

      Graduate Report Summary Overview

      		202320242025
      Number of Program Graduates111013
      Number of Surveys Sent111012
      Number of Surveys Returned449
      Percent of Surveys Returned
      Available for Employment448
      Percent Available for Employment100.0%100.0%88.9%
      Not in Labor Market
      Percent Not in Labor Market0.0%0.0%11.1%
      Available for Employment

      		202320242025
      Graduates Employed438
      Percent of Graduates Employed100.0%75.0%100.0%
      Employed in Related Occupation226
      Percent Employed in Related Occupation50.0%66.7%75.0%
      Employed in Unrelated Occupation202
      Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation50.0%0.0%25.0%
      Employed - No Response010
      Percent Employed - No Response0.0%33.3%0.0%
      Seeking Employment010
      Percent Seeking Employment0.0%25.0%0.0%
      Reaction To Training at Madison College

      		202320242025
      Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)2.833.3
      Number of Satisfaction Responses449
      Very Satisfied (4)003
      Percent Very Satisfied0.0%0.0%33.3%
      Satisfied (3)346
      Percent Satisfied75.0%100.0%66.7%
      Unsatisfied (2)100
      Percent Unsatisfied25.0%0.0%0.0%
      Very Unsatisfied (1)
      Percent Very Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Primary Reason for Attending Madison College

      		202320242025
      Number of Primary Reason Responses449
      Preparation for Getting a Job333
      Percent Preparation for Getting a Job75.0%75.0%33.3%
      Career Change110
      Percent Career Change25.0%25.0%0.0%
      Improvement of Existing Skills005
      Percent Improvement of Existing Skills0.0%0.0%55.6%
      Preparation for Further Education000
      Percent Preparation for Further Education0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Personal Interest001
      Percent Personal Interest0.0%0.0%11.1%
      Other000
      Percent Other0.0%0.0%0.0%
      When Employment was Obtained

      		202320242025
      Number of When Employment Obtained Responses428
      Before Enrollment116
      Percent Before Enrollment25.0%50.0%75.0%
      While Attending the College102
      Percent While Attending the College25.0%0.0%25.0%
      After Training at the College210
      Percent After Training at the College50.0%50.0%0.0%
      Location of Employment (related and unrelated)

      		202320242025
      Number of Employment Location Responses438
      In College District226
      Percent In College District50.0%66.7%75.0%
      In Wisconsin, Not in District102
      Percent of In Wisconsin25.0%0.0%25.0%
      Outside of Wisconsin100
      Percent Outside Wisconsin25.0%0.0%0.0%
      Employer Location Unknown010
      Percent Location Unknown0.0%33.3%0.0%
      Salary Trend
      Salary Trend202320242025
      Full Time Employment (Related Job)Full Time Salary Count124
      Average Monthly Wage$5,375$3,689$8,846
      Average Hourly Wage$31.25$21.45$51.43
      Average Work Hours per Week40.040.043.4
      Part Time Employment (Related Job)Part Time Salary Count11
      Average Hourly Wage$21.17$20.00
      Average Work Hours per Week20.025.0

    • Graduate Employers

      Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
      Employer(s)Job TitleCity*State**Positions
      Heartland Credit UnionDigital Team LeadVerona
      Madison BoatsOffice Financial Assistant
      Rdw Holdings CorpChief Financial OfficerLake Delton
      TDSAssociate Manager
      United States Postal ServiceSenior Systems Account TechnicianEagan
      Wilde East Towne HondaSales & Leasing Representative

      * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.

      ** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.

      *** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu

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