An online accounting degree can prepare students for a variety of career paths, such as accountants and auditors, loan officers, compensation and benefits analysts, and more.
The first step in furthering your education in this field is finding the right online accounting degree program for you. With that in mind, Intelligent.com reviewed dozens of accounting degree programs based on their cost, retention and graduation rates, faculty, rankings, and more. The result is our list of picks for the absolute best online accounting programs available.
To provide students with additional support in this journey, Michelle Pickett, the director of Northern Illinois University’s Academic Advising Center, offers her expert insight into what students should look for in an online accounting degree program and what they can expect in terms of program cost and duration, admissions requirements, career opportunities and more.
What You Expect From an Online Accounting Degree Program
A bachelor’s degree in accounting introduces students to the foundational and intermediate skills and principles they need for basic accounting roles in various settings. Students gain an appreciation for how accounting intersects with other areas of business, including marketing, finance, management, business law, and more.
Curriculum specifics vary by program, but in most cases, students start with a core curriculum that provides an overview of accounting basics alongside foundational business courses. As students progress through their programs, they often have an opportunity to specialize within an area of accounting, such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, or forensic accounting. Internships or other field experiences are a common component of undergraduate accounting programs, giving students first-hand experience in a professional setting before graduation. Continuing your education and completing a master’s in accounting program allows for further specialization and professional opportunities.
Asynchronous and synchronous learning contribute to the flexibility of completing an online accounting degree, and both options can be a good fit for different reasons. Asynchronous learning allows students to access course materials, lectures, and assignments at their own pace, making it suitable for those with full-time jobs or other commitments. Conversely, synchronous learning involves real-time interaction with instructors and fellow students through virtual platforms, offering a more structured and collaborative learning experience.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online accounting degree program
- Financial Accounting: Examines the development, objective, and purpose of financial statements, emphasizing the preparation, analysis, and use of these statements to make operating, financial, and investment decisions.
- Managerial Accounting: Teaches the fundamental tools and principles of managerial accounting for decision-making purposes, including planning and control and preparing management accounting reports and statements for making internal business decisions.
- Introduction to Corporate Finance: Studies the basic theory, techniques, and application of financial analysis tools for business financial administration and decision-making.
- Cost Accounting: Reviews the concepts and methodologies applicable to understanding a cost accounting system for business decision-making, cost control, and performance assessment and explores statistical methods in measuring cost behavior, overhead, and fixed costs.
- Principles of Taxation: Covers the objectives and principles of taxation, including the economic policy underlying various tax systems — property, consumption, value-added, federal, and state income tax regimes.
Why Trust Us
The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.
- Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
- 800+ rankings pages are reviewed and updated yearly
- Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
- Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources
How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Accounting degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
The Top 50 Online Accounting Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
University of West Florida
Intelligent Score: 99.62In-state: $3,735
Out-of-state: $16,004
In-state: $7,088
Out-of-state: $7,088
SAT: 1060-1230
ACT: 21-27
$211
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
UMass Amherst
Intelligent Score: 98.79In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$495
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Intelligent Score: 98.24In-state: $49,046
Out-of-state: $51,013
In-state: $39,917
Out-of-state: $39,917
SAT: 868 and 1052
ACT: 18 and 30
$496
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
Eastern New Mexico University
Intelligent Score: 97.89In-state: $4,074
Out-of-state: $6,114
In-state: $5,351
Out-of-state: $5,351
SAT: 950-1160
ACT: 17-23
Resident: $174
Non-Resident: $257
Online, On-Campus
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
University of Arkansas
Intelligent Score: 97.64In-state: $7,568
Out-of-state: $24,056
In-state: $7,752
Out-of-state: $7,752
SAT: 1090-1280
ACT: 23-29
$339
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Western Governors University
Intelligent Score: 97.48In-state: $6,380
Out-of-state: $6,380
In-state: $7,500
Out-of-state: $7,500
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$312
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
121
University of Minnesota Crookston
Intelligent Score: 97.35In-state: $13,318
Out-of-state: $31,616
In-state: $17,580
Out-of-state: $17,580
SAT: 1240-1460
ACT: 25-31
$441
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
University of Arizona
Intelligent Score: 96.82In-state: $10,990
Out-of-state: $33,273
In-state: $11,938
Out-of-state: $11,938
SAT: 1090-1350
ACT: 21-29
$530
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
National University
Intelligent Score: 95.81In-state: $13,320
Out-of-state: $13,320
In-state: $15,480
Out-of-state: $15,480
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$370
Online, On-Campus
International Accreditation Council for Business Education
180
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Intelligent Score: 95.67In-state: $7,070
Out-of-state: $16,980
In-state: $11,310
Out-of-state: $11,310
SAT: 860-1060
ACT: N/A
Resident: $295
Non-Resident: $353
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
125
Maryville University
Intelligent Score: 95.08In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
In-state: $14,346
Out-of-state: $14,346
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$540
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
128
Temple University
Intelligent Score: 94.86In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $28,992
In-state: $16,956
Out-of-state: $16,956
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$665
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
124
Trine University
Intelligent Score: 94.85In-state: $32,990
Out-of-state: $32,990
In-state: $41,457
Out-of-state: $41,457
SAT: 1010-1210
ACT: 20-27
$299
Online
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
120
Mercer University
Intelligent Score: 94.42In-state: $28,695
Out-of-state: $28,695
In-state: $14,964
Out-of-state: $14,964
SAT: 1180-1340
ACT: 25-31
$525
Online, On-Campus
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
University of South Florida
Intelligent Score: 94.37In-state: $4,559
Out-of-state: $15,473
In-state: $8,350
Out-of-state: $8,350
SAT: 1160-1320
ACT: 25-30
$105
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Buena Vista University
Intelligent Score: 92.90In-state: $36,426
Out-of-state: $36,426
In-state: $9,936
Out-of-state: $9,936
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$465
Online,On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
150
Florida Atlantic University
Intelligent Score: 92.74In-state: $2,522
Out-of-state: $14,374
In-state: $5,467
Out-of-state: $5,467
SAT: 1060-1220
ACT: 21-26
Resident: $263
Non-Resident: $781
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 92.24In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
$563
Online
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
120
How to Choose an Online Accounting Degree Programs
Clarify your goals and priorities
While earning an accounting degree is an excellent way to pursue an in-demand and lucrative career, it’s crucial to ensure that this degree closely aligns with your goals and interests. Consider exploring introductory accounting courses to gauge your interest and aptitude or shadowing professionals in the field to get real-world exposure.
Researching career prospects, job responsibilities, and potential paths within accounting helps align expectations. “Consider a program that allows you to explore courses that focus on the basic similarities of the accounting degree to other business areas, such as finance and business administration,” Pickett says. Consulting with academic advisors, current accounting students, and professionals can also offer valuable insights that apply to your unique situation.
Now is also an ideal time to reflect on your logistical needs. Determine whether a synchronous or asynchronous online program will better suit your learning style and schedule and if you will enroll in a program full-time or part-time.
Research schools and programs
As you begin collecting information on potential schools and programs, you must ensure that any institutions you’re considering are accredited by a recognized accrediting body. “Accreditation is important when looking at the academic requirements, standards, and quality of a program’s academic curriculum,” Pickett says. “It also factors into a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid funding.” Institutions should have accreditation through a recognized regional accrediting agency, while accounting programs may be accredited by organizations such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Comprehensive research can ensure that you make an informed decision on the best fit for your accounting degree. Start by compiling a list of potential schools based on specialization options, program reputation, and accreditation. Then, explore each school’s website to gather information on curriculum, faculty expertise, and student support services. You can also read reviews and research rankings to gauge program quality and contact current students or alumni for their firsthand experiences. Lastly, consider visiting campus or participating in virtual tours to get a feel for the environment.
Prepare for tests and applications
While conducting your research on potential schools, you should also review their guidelines for applications and eligibility. This information will often vary from school to school, so it can be helpful to use a spreadsheet or checklist to stay organized when applying to multiple schools.
In general, an application for a bachelor’s degree in accounting requires the following:
- Completed applications and required fees
- Official transcripts from high school and any other previously attended colleges
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
- SAT or ACT scores
Some programs may have eligibility requirements, such as a minimum high school GPA or coursework in certain related subjects. If you have questions about application requirements and procedures, contact the school’s admissions office.
Select your program
You can feel confident selecting your program after conducting thorough research, reviewing admissions requirements, and considering financial factors. Choose a program that resonates with your aspirations and offers the best fit for your academic and professional journey in accounting.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
You should also gather information about tuition costs, fees, and financial aid options as you research programs and decide which school you’ll attend.
A key step in this process is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which institutions use to determine student eligibility for need-based aid such as scholarships, grants, work-study, and student loans. Students can also seek scholarships and grants through outside sources, such as professional development organizations, private foundations, community and religious groups, and government programs.
Students planning on working while earning their accounting degree should inquire with their employer about available tuition assistance benefits, which can help offset some of the costs of higher education. Veterans and active-duty military service members can check with their schools about military tuition discounts and GI Bill benefits.
What Can I Do With Online Accounting Degree Programs
Degree?
By earning an accredited online degree in accounting, you can unlock a world of opportunities in the financial realm, says Michelle Pickett, the director of Northern Illinois University’s Academic Advising Center. “A bachelor’s degree in accounting provides individuals with the skills to prepare and examine financial records, evaluate financial data for its accuracy, and ensure that the appropriate taxes are paid,” Picket says. “Your financial reporting and budgeting expertise will make you a valuable asset to organizations seeking to maintain accurate records and make informed financial decisions.”
Accounting offers diverse career prospects for individuals with a penchant for numbers, analysis, and strategic decision-making. Through comprehensive coursework and practical experiences, this degree equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate careers in finance, taxation, auditing, and more.
While a bachelor’s degree in accounting is sufficient to obtain many entry-level accounting positions, as well as a Certified Public Accounting (CPA) license, students who want to advance to high-level accounting roles may want to pursue a master’s degree in accounting or a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
Career outlook
- Accountants and auditors: Prepare and examine financial records, identify potential areas of opportunity and risk, ensure accurate financial records, and provide solutions for businesses and individuals.Â
- Median annual salary: $79,880
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 4%
- New jobs projected: 126,500 per year
- Budget analysts: Help public and private organizations plan their finances by preparing budget reports and monitoring organizational spending.
- Median annual salary: $84,940
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New jobs projected: 3,600 per year
- Financial managers: Oversee an organization’s economic health by creating financial reports, direct investment activities, and developing plans for its long-term financial goals.
- Median annual salary: $156,100
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 16%
- New jobs projected: 69,600 per year
Online Accounting Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an online accounting degree program cost?
The cost of an online accounting degree varies based on several factors. For the most accurate information about a program’s cost, speak to a financial aid counselor at the schools you’re considering.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition for four-year degree programs during the 2022-23 academic year was $9,750 at public colleges and $38,421 at private schools. Public university students should note if the school charges different tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students.
The student’s pace of study can also influence costs. Pursuing a degree part-time can be more manageable for those who need to work while studying. However, it may extend the duration of the program, resulting in additional costs for tuition and fees in the long run.
How long does earning an online accounting degree take?
A bachelor’s degree in accounting typically requires 120 credits, translating to four years of full-time study and 5-6 years of part-time study.
Online students may be eligible for accelerated programs, which condense coursework into a shorter time frame (usually three years). Students who have previously earned credits from another college or degree program may be eligible for degree completion programs, allowing them to transfer credits and earn their accounting degree in a shortened time frame.
Is an online accounting degree worth it?
“Earning an online accounting degree is valuable in preparing individuals to pursue careers related to accounting, auditing, and budget management in various industries,” Pickett says.
The demand for accountants and auditors is projected to grow by 4% over the next decade, meaning that professionals in this field can count on steady employment for the foreseeable future. This degree also prepares students for several related roles, including budget analyst, loan officer, auditor, financial examiner, and financial analyst.
It’s essential to acknowledge that there is more to selecting this major than high demand. Determining an accounting degree’s potential Return on Investment (ROI) is also important. According to the Education Data Initiative data, the lifetime ROI for most Bachelor’s degrees, including accounting, is an impressive 287.7%. However, most degree holders don’t see these returns for 15 years after earning their degree. For the first ten years, the ROI on a Bachelor’s degree is -41.1%.
Students who continue to earn their master’s in accounting have a different reality due to increased job prospects and higher earnings. According to data from the University of North Carolina, graduates with a master’s in accounting will likely double their annual salary in just five years. In addition, graduate students with a degree in accounting are likely to incur less student debt than other professional degrees, like law and medicine, because the degree can be completed in a shorter amount of time.
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