With the rapid development of Internet finance, its role in economic life has become increasingly prominent, presenting new challenges and opportunities for higher education, particularly in the ideological and political education (IPE) in universities. The characteristics of Internet finance necessitate innovations in the content and methods of ideological and political education to meet the demands of the era. This paper explores the importance and innovative practices of IPE in university courses under the background of Internet finance. The paper analyzes the impact of Internet finance on university IPE, the main challenges faced by university course IPE, and innovations in teaching content, methods, and practical activities. The study finds that the era of Internet finance increases the demand for innovation skills and critical thinking while also introducing new ethical and moral challenges. Therefore, university IPE needs to foster students’ awareness of innovation, critical thinking skills, ethical and moral values, and a sense of social responsibility through the renewal of teaching content, innovation in teaching methods, and enrichment of practical activities. This approach aims to contribute to building a healthy Internet financial environment and promoting the harmonious development of society.