Online Accounting Degrees

Online accounting degrees can help you pursue your career goals from anywhere that is convenient for you.

There are many exciting, well-compensated career opportunities with an online bachelor’s in accounting, from bookkeepers to Certified Public Accountants (CPA’s).

If you like the challenge of handling the finances of companies or individuals and helping businesses stay on track financially, then a career in accounting is a great way to get a jump start in the corporate world.

Online Bachelors in Accounting Degrees

The business world is competitive, and having a bachelor’s degree in Accounting will open the door to further career opportunities.

After successful completion of this online degree program, you will have a strong knowledge of various business disciplines as well as specialized financial skills to help a business succeed in the changing economy.

A few of the many topics that you may cover over the course of your online bachelor’s in Accounting degree program include:

• Corporate finances
• Economics and statistics
• Critical thinking and strategic problem solving
• Laws, ethics, and business regulations
• Financial planning and analysis

Upon completion of a bachelor’s Accounting program, you will have the chance to sit for professional certification exams to prepare you for work in a number of careers, such as a Certified Internal Auditor or Certified Fraud Examiner.

Accounting Careers and Salaries

When working in the world of accounting, you will be responsible for helping a business, organization, or individual with their financial obligations. Typically, those with an online accounting bachelor degree work to reconcile financial accounts, accurately report data and help a company make wise financial decisions based on its current situation.

In the table below, we put together a sampling of top job opportunities in accounting and their median annual salaries according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS),  to give you an idea of paths that you can take after successfully completing your online accounting program:

Accounting is a respected and necessary division of the business world, and many individuals working in this field have opportunities to work themselves up to managerial or executive positions.

Those with online degrees in accounting play an essential role in the success of a business. In order to stay competitive in a changing economy, businesses, organizations, and individuals must make wise financial decisions and stay on top of their financial obligations.

For example, the BLS states that those working as accountants and auditors will experience a 6% growth over the next 10 years, which is about as fast as the national average across all occupations. Additionally, those who are interested in business and financial operations occupations will see a 7% growth rate within this same timeframe.

Check out our list of the Top 40 Accounting careers to compare the various jobs people may obtain after earning accounting degrees online. While you may begin in an entry-level job, over time you may as much or more than the median annual salaries shown above based on your unique experience and skill set.

Bachelor of Science in Accounting Curriculum & Courses

The core and elective coursework in accounting includes introductions to various types of accounting, statistics, business fundamentals, financial management, and more. These are some accounting major courses generally offered in the program:

• Introduction to Accounting: Students learn about accounting principles, practices, and terminology and the practical application of this knowledge.
• Introduction to Business: This is a foundational course that introduces students to business terminology, principles, and practices, such as business structures and business finance.
• Principles of Microeconomics: Students study microeconomics by examining market systems, pricing strategies, supply and demand, investments, and economic analysis.
• Principles of Macroeconomics: Economic concepts and principles and the roles of financial operations, such as banking and monetary policy, are studied based on a macroeconomics viewpoint.
• Payroll Accounting: This course examines key concepts and principles of payroll accounting and how such principles are applied according to various laws and transactions.
• Taxation: This course may be offered in two parts as an introductory and advanced course to teach students about income taxation and federal tax systems, along with other taxation topics like tax planning and deductions.
• Auditing: Students learn how to conduct audits by being introduced to auditing concepts and the process of auditing.
• Principles of Financial Management: Concepts and practices of financial management are explored, with an emphasis on financial markets, asset valuation, and data-driven decision-making.
• Statistics: This introductory course teaches students about statistical models and methods from a business perspective.
• Accounting Analytics: Students learn how to collect, process, and store data related to accounting and finance.

Online accounting schools teach students about several key subjects essential to understanding the roles and responsibilities of accounting and finance jobs, such as financial management, auditing, marketing, and economics.

How to Know If an Online Degree in Accounting is Right for Me

With the popularity of virtual degree programs rising, many students are wondering if an online degree in accounting is the right fit for them. If you enroll in an online degree program from an accredited university, you will be offered the same high-quality education and resources as those who take traditional on-campus classes.

Enrolling in an online Accounting program has several advantages for adult students juggling career and family obligations, including:

• Opportunities to learn from accounting and business experts across the country
• Ability to complete your degree program in less time through alternative schedules or accelerated classes
• Virtual tutoring, advising, and mentorship programs for Accounting students
• Opportunity to increase computer skill training through state-of-the-art software

For individuals who are self-motivated, organized learners, online classes can be an excellent way to work towards a reputable degree in a timeframe that is flexible enough to fit into your busy life.

Choosing an Online Bachelor Degree in Accounting Program

There are several factors to consider when choosing an accounting school online. Below we discuss a few essential factors that you should look into during the process of choosing an accounting program:

• Accreditation: Accreditation is an essential aspect of a reputable online accounting degree program. Check to see if your chosen school is accredited.
• Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Having a small class size in your accounting courses is just as important when taking online classes as is for traditional on-campus classes. When your university is committed to having low student-to-faculty ratios, they help ensure that you will get the individualized attention and support that you need in order to succeed within the accounting program.
• Academic Advising and Student Services:  It can be important to look at the academic and student services that your prospective college offers its online students. While learning online, it will be helpful to know what kind of services each school offers to its students.
• Cost: The cost of each program is also an important factor. Compare various programs to see which one fits your budget.
• Degrees Offered: Be sure to check with each school you are considering to ensure they offer your chosen degree program. Also, compare the various programs’ coursework to ensure the coursework fits with your desired career goals.

By doing your research beforehand, you can ensure that your degree will be respected by future employers within the workforce.

Admissions Requirements

Admissions offices have general requirements that students must meet before applying and additional materials may be requested at the time you submit your application, such as:

• High school diploma or GED
• SAT or ACT scores (only some schools require them)
• Personal statement
• Application form

Proof of high school or GED completion is a general requirement that most undergraduate admissions offices require before applying for a program. SAT or ACT scores and a personal statement may be required or optional depending on the school.

Accounting Ongoing Education

If you need flexibility in your schedule while earning your accounting degree, consider one of the universities offering online programs. These online degrees are designed to be structured to fit into your busy life.

From online associate’s degrees in accounting to get you started in an entry-level career to online master’s degrees in accounting, there are several options for successfully continuing your education online. An associate’s degree in accounting will give you a solid foundation for understanding essential accounting responsibilities.

A graduate degree can open the door for opportunities in a variety of managerial and professional positions. If you are interested in high-level career positions or want to teach within a post-secondary institution, then look into colleges that offer online doctorate degrees in accounting.

Online Accounting Degrees Accreditation

Accreditation is an essential aspect of a reputable online accounting degree program. By going through the voluntary accreditation process, a school has its academic offerings and curriculum reviewed to ensure that it is of the high quality expected by its student body.

Although many traditional universities offer online courses that are accredited within the industry, there are still “degree mill” schools out there with non-accredited accounting programs that you want to avoid at all costs. There are several regional accrediting agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, as well as national agencies that offer accreditation to colleges.

If you are wondering if your school’s accreditation is recognized, take a look at the U.S. Department of Education’s website for a complete list of recognized agencies.

Accounting Licensure and Certifications

Licensure and certification requirements can vary depending on where you live, as some states may require a license or certification to offer specific accounting or financial services.

Obtaining a license or certification, even if it’s not required, may prove to employers that you’re qualified to perform specific accounting responsibilities. These are some common licenses or certifications that accounting professionals may obtain:

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
• Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
• Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)

Certification requirements can vary, but accredited online accounting degree programs may help fulfill coursework requirements and prepare students to sit for a licensure exam.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Financial aid comes in many different forms, such as state and federal aid, scholarships, and work-study programs.

State and federal aid is based on income, which is determined by demonstrated financial need. You may find additional information about state financial aid eligibility requirements through your state’s Department of Education.

You can submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through the U.S. Department of Education to determine your federal financial aid eligibility.

Colleges, universities, and various types of organizations offer scholarships for different things. Some scholarships are merit-based or appeal to a specific group of students, while others may be available to virtually any student.

Students may apply for a work-study program, which is typically offered in the form of a part-time job located on or off-campus to help pay for college.

What is an Accounting Major?

An accounting major is considered a type of business degree program that involves the study of business administration, financial management, accounting fundamentals, analytics, and auditing. Other courses also include the study of economics, statistics, and calculus.

Key responsibilities that accounting majors might learn in the program include managing the finances of a client or business, analyzing financial information, conducting audits, and creating financial plans and goals for clients. Some accounting major programs may offer specializations, which can help you personalize your curriculum to align with your career interests.

Is Accounting a Good Major?

Yes, accounting is a good major for many undergraduate students. Business and financial job markets are expected to have positive growth over the next several years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the annual median salary for accountants and auditors is higher than the national annual median salary.

An accounting major may prepare you for other jobs besides accountant and auditor, such as budget analyst, cost estimator, financial analyst, and personal financial advisor. Some online accounting colleges may offer concentrations, which can allow you to learn skills beneficial to a specific business or finance career.

Is Accounting a Hard Major?

Accounting is a technical major that can be ideal for students interested in crunching numbers, analyzing data and financial documents, and communicating with clients or businesses.

The curriculum of an accounting degree program can help you build technical and professional skills by studying various topics related to accounting and business, such as:

• Accounting Information Systems
• Public Speaking
• Organizational Behavior
• Financial Management
• Economics

Some skills that can be beneficial for accounting majors include attention to detail, time management, deductive reasoning, problem-solving, and strong communication.

What Can You Do With an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting?

An accountant degree online can be beneficial for several career pathways. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most accountants and auditors work for accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services.

Accounting careers can also be found in other industries, such as finance and insurance and government. You may apply the skills and knowledge you obtain in the program to work in marketing, financial advising, fraud investigation, or sales.

A bachelor’s in accounting can also be supplemental to another degree, such as business administration or business analytics.

Is Accounting a Good Career?

Yes, accounting is a good career for many professionals. Accounting is a popular career for individuals who have a knack for dealing with numbers and functions and relaying complex financial information to clients and businesses.

There are several career pathways you may consider with an accounting degree, such as accountant, auditor, budget analyst, cost estimator, or financial manager. According to the BLS, the annual median salaries of jobs related to accounting are higher than the national annual median salary of all occupations.

What Are Some Accounting Degree Jobs I Can Get?

An accounting degree may give you valuable skills and knowledge essential to numerous types of accounting and finance jobs, such as:

• Accountant
• Auditor
• Financial Analyst
• Financial Manager

These positions typically require at least a bachelor’s degree for entry. Financial management professionals typically gain work experience in an entry-level position before pursuing a management role.

According to the BLS, most accountants and auditors work for accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services. Other accounting professionals are employed in the finance and insurance, government, management, and self-employment industries.

Can You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Online?

Yes, many colleges and universities offer online bachelor’s in accounting programs fully online. Some schools may have different learning environments, such as asynchronous or synchronous learning, which can affect how your classes and assignments are scheduled.

Online schools for accounting typically offer the same curriculum as on-campus programs, but they lack face-to-face discussions with professors and peers. You can still connect with professors and peers virtually and group assignments that require collaboration may still take place.

Technology supplies, such as a computer and webcam, and access to the internet are needed to complete online courses and assignments.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Bachelor in Accounting Degree Online?

An online bachelor’s in accounting degree will take four years to complete with full-time study if the program follows a traditional 16-week semester schedule. You can finish in less time if you follow an 8-week semester schedule and stay continuously enrolled year-round.

A traditional bachelor’s program typically requires a minimum of 120 credit hours to graduate. If you’re enrolled in a traditional 16-week semester program as a part-time student, it may take longer than four years to complete.

What’s the Difference Between Finance vs. Accounting Online Degrees?

While both accounting and finance degrees cover financial skills to use within a professional business career, there are several distinct differences between the two programs.

If you’re interested in finance, you can check out our in-depth discussion of finance degrees and programs.

What’s the Difference Between a BA vs. BS in Accounting?

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees have slightly different focuses, which can affect the type of core and elective coursework offered.

A BS in Accounting is generally more technical and career-oriented, while a BA in Accounting may include a wider variety of coursework in other subjects aside from accounting.

What’s the Difference Between a CPA vs. CFA?

These are some differences between a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credential:

A CPA is ideal for individuals who want to become a licensed accountant, while a CFA is ideal for financial analyst or management positions.

Is an Accounting Degree Worth It?

Yes, an accounting degree is worth it for many students. Many accounting jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree for entry. There are also opportunities for career growth by gaining work experience or seeking licensure or certification.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the future job markets for several business and finance careers are expected to have as fast as average job growth over the next several years. Some occupations, such as financial manager and personal financial advisor, are expected to have much faster than average growth.

Universities Offering Online Bachelor in Accounting Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy program online. Common courses include Microeconomics Principles, Business Statistics, and Computer Applications and Information Technology. Classes are typically 7.5 weeks long each. On average, the 120 required credit hours are completed in 4 years of full-time attendance.

Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Christian University offers an online program for a BS in Accounting. Courses are typically taken 1 at a time and are often completed in 5 or 7 week blocks. Class sizes are usually small enough to encourage individualized learning and networking. Classes commonly utilize an accelerated 5 to 7 week format.

Colorado Christian University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. The curriculum typically teaches foundational concepts like legal compliance, finance, marketing, leadership, economics, qualitative decision making, and business intelligence.

Completion of the program may help prepare to take industry-recognized exams, such as Certified Public Accountant, Chartered Financial Analyst, and Certified Management Accountant.

Colorado State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. Common courses include Principles of Microeconomics, Financial Statement Analysis, Auditing, and Business Law. The 183 credit program commonly has new classes starting every 5 weeks. U.S. News & World Report has ranked CTU’s program among the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for 9 years in a row.

Colorado Technical University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

DeVry University offers an online BS in Accounting program online. This program is designed to help with gaining the requisite knowledge to sit for the Certified Public Accountant exam. Potential careers for graduates include accounting manager, budget analyst, internal auditor, fraud investigator, or financial planner.

DeVry University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Eastern Oregon University offers an online program for a bachelor’s degree in accounting. A concentration is offered in Certified Managerial Accounting, which is designed to provide the knowledge needed to take the certified management accountant (CMA) exam. On average, attending classes full-time enables completion of the 180 required credit hours in about 4 years.

Eastern Oregon University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Franklin University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. Common courses include Principles of Management, Marketing, Business Law, Financial Accounting, Federal Income Tax, Auditing, and Accounting Research. Classes are typically 6 or 12 weeks long each. Up to 94 of the 124 required credit hours may be transferred in from other accredited institutions.

Franklin University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana State University offers a BS in Accounting program online. The program is intended to prepare for planning to obtain a Certified Public Accountant license. Upon completion of general education requirements, the completion of at least 81 major-specific credit hours is required. The program is designed to help pursue accounting careers in public, corporate, government, non-profit, and educational settings.

Indiana State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Indiana University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. The curriculum aims to teach topics like cost accounting, financial accounting, auditing and systems, and taxation. The program is designed to provide knowledge on how to perform accounting tasks, how to provide data-driven solutions, and how to foster effective analytical and critical-thinking skills.

Indiana University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Liberty University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. The program is designed to help develop analytical and communication skills that can prepare for certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Classes are usually about 8 weeks long each. With full-time attendance, the program is often completed in about 3.5 years.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Louisiana State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. Concentrations include General Accounting and Accounting Information Systems and Data Analytics. Transfer credits for previous professional and educational experiences may be granted. LSUA ranked third on Best Universities list of the Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s Degrees for 2022.

Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Maryville University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online. Common careers for graduates include corporate controller, cost accountant, financial advisor, fraud specialist, or budget analyst. This 128 credit curriculum typically teaches key concepts in subject areas such as finance, tax, auditing, economics, communications, and business ethics.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Metropolitan State University Denver offers an online or a hybrid program for a BS in Accounting. The program aims to prepare for accounting roles in a wide variety of settings. Common courses include Business Analytics, Managerial Finance, Income Tax, Auditing and Attestation, and Accounting Ethics and Professionalism.

MSU Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Ottawa University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting program online. Concentrations include Actuarial Science, Economics, Finance, and Leadership and Management. The curriculum requires the completion of 120 credit hours and covers topics like cost management, statistics, finance, ethics, income tax, and business operations.

Ottawa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Pennsylvania State University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Students planning to sit for their CPA exam in preparation for public, industry or nonprofit accounting roles may find an ideal fit in this program. The curriculum consists of 120 credits. Most students complete their degree requirements in four years when attending classes full-time.

Pennsylvania State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Purdue University offers a BS in Accounting program online. Concentrations include Auditing and Forensic Accountancy, Public Accountancy, Tax Accountancy, and Managerial Accountancy. Courses usually require about 15 to 18 hours per week, typically leading to completing the 180 required credits in about 4 years.

Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Southern Illinois University–Carbondale offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Classes meet primarily online, though obtaining a field internship is usually required. The program is designed to prepare for sitting for the CPA exam. Upon completion of general education requirements, the 64 credits required for the major are generally completed in 18 to 24 months.

SIU – Carbondale is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance. The curriculum typically teaches topics like financial analysis, accounting principles, auditing and taxation, business skills, and economics. Up to 90 of the 120 required credit hours may be transferred in from other accredited institutions.

SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, Inc.

Southern Utah University offers a BS in Accounting program online. The program aims to prepare for entry into careers such as actuary, forensic accountant, financial analyst, certified public accountant, or risk manager. The program typically takes 3 years of full-time study, and usually offers 2 start dates each year.

Southern Utah University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

The University of Alabama–Birmingham offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Common courses include Legal Environment of Business, Management Processes and Behavior, Financial Accounting, and External Auditing. The program aims to offer networking opportunities and preparation for CPA and other professional exams.

The University of Alabama at Birmingham is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Maine–Presque Isle offers a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting program online. The program typically offers several start dates spanning summer, fall, spring, and summer terms. The curriculum consists of 120 credits of general education and major-specific coursework. On average, major requirements may be completed in 12 months when attending full-time.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

The University of Maryland offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting program. The program utilizes an online model, though hybrid courses and in-person learning opportunities may be available. Courses generally teach concepts like data analytics, income tax, cost accounting, internal auditing, and forensics. Up to 90 of the 120 credits may be transferred from other accredited institutions.

UMGC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Massachusetts–Dartmouth offers an online program for a BS in Accounting. The program is designed to help in pursuing careers in accounting, investment, lending, government, or corporate business. A 2.5 or higher GPA must be maintained in order to graduate. The curriculum typically culminates in a final internship in the field.

The University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

The University of Minnesota offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. The program aims to teach the theoretical and analytical frameworks required to work effectively in public, private, or governmental accounting. Potential classes include Accounting Systems, Auditing, Income Tax, Managerial Finance, and Business Ethics. The program commonly admits twice each year for spring and fall terms.

The University of Minnesota is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of North Carolina–Greensboro offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Classes tend to meet asynchronously online. The program seeks to provide knowledge and skills in business operations, financial analysis, and tax and auditing accountancy. After graduation, the opportunity commonly exists to pursue a master’s in accounting or careers in a wide variety of business environments.

UNC Greensboro is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Phoenix offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. The program aims to prepare for careers that help organizations run efficiently and ethically. Up to 90 approved credit hours from other accredited institutions may be transferred in. Typically, no SAT scores or college admissions essays are required for admission.

The University of Phoenix is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The University of South Florida offers a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy. Coursework can be completed online through recorded lectures, video presentations, asynchronous assignments, and virtual communications. This degree completion program is intended for individuals who have previously completed baccalaureate credits and want to take the next step in their education.

The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of the Cumberlands offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Potential courses include Theory of Accounting, Accounting Information Systems, Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Principles of Management, and Cost Accounting. The program aims to teach knowledge of the major concepts in the functional areas of accounting, finance, marketing, and management.

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

The University of Toledo offers a Bachelor of Business Accounting program online. The program is designed to help in preparing to take the Certified Public Accountant examination. The program aims to provide the latest online technologies and innovative teaching practices, including access to UToledo’s eLibrary, IT Help Desk, and eTutoring. Transfer credits may be awarded for prior educational, professional, and military experience.

The University of Toledo is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Western Governors University offers an online program for a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. The program is designed to help in the pursuit of careers in accounting, finance, and economics. On average, with full-time attendance, program requirements may be completed in about 42 months.

Western Governors University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Getting Your Accounting Bachelor Degree Online

If you want to make a difference in the world of business and have a head for numbers, then an online degree in accounting may be the perfect way to get a jumpstart in a lucrative and rewarding career.

With a positive job outlook and a constantly expanding business environment, those who pursue an accounting education have a number of exciting opportunities to make the most out of their online degree,

To start your journey, you can research accredited online accounting degree programs and choose one that is going to fit your schedule and needs.