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Best Online Accounting Degree Programs of 2023

Taking an online bachelor’s degree in accounting will allow students to learn how to manage an organization’s money and ensure that it will stay financially afloat. Thus, they will be required to master research and analysis, elements of finance and economics, business fundamentals, and more.

Students taking an online accounting degree will learn many business skills in relation to financial management. The first year will focus on core subjects that students completing a degree in finance also take. They can then choose their specialization—like auditing, tax, or management—in the following years.

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Accounting graduates are likely to become accountants and auditors. Relatively, it is expected that more than 81,000 jobs for students with an accounting degree will be available between 2021 and 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

To find the right school that can help you achieve your academic and employment goals, our researchers gathered all the valuable information a student needs before taking an online degree in accounting.

Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Table of Contents

Can you get a degree completely online?

Students can now complete an accounting degree online. That is because an online accounting degree uses the same faculty that teaches on-campus programs. Online and on-campus degrees also have the same classes.

Additionally, online degree programs in accounting allow students to choose between synchronous vs. asynchronous classes. Synchronous classes refer to attending classes virtually together with their instructor and classmates. On the other hand, asynchronous classes allow them to study a lecture at their own pace.

More than 40% of students prefer live online classes, and over half like to take live classes that can be recorded (Muthuprasad, 2021). Instructors will use web conferencing technologies to provide live virtual classes and class discussions.

On the other hand, 54.40% of students prefer recorded classes uploaded on the university website, YouTube, or any other application (Muthuprasad, 2021). This is because asynchronous classes allow students to log in and take classes anytime, offering a more flexible schedule. This is also ideal for employees who want to stay employed while completing their bachelor’s degree.

Source: Muthuprasad et al., 2021

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way many employers and hiring managers view an online degree. Since 2020, 75% of hiring managers are more likely to hire applicants who received their degree online (FutureLearn, 2021). This shows that the majority of employers take online degrees seriously.

However, recent studies show that some employers still favor students who earn their accounting degrees in-campus. The findings from a paper titled “Accounting graduates with both online and traditional coursework: impact on hiring decisions” published in Accounting Education are instructive on this point. It states that “accounting recruiters do not value graduates of online accounting programs as highly as their counterparts from traditional accounting programs. Specifically, potential accounting employers are less willing to hire candidates earning their undergraduate degrees online than candidates with similar skills and grades earning their undergraduate degrees in a traditional environment (Braun et al., 2020).”

When deciding what coursework to take online and in the classroom, the study recommends taking accounting majors in-campus. Meanwhile, students can take non-accounting courses online.

Should students decide to take completely online degree courses in accounting, our researchers suggest taking courses endorsed by a college or university accredited by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

hiring online degree holders

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Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

Earning an online degree enables students to earn the same qualifications as those who took face-to-face classes. This means that a degree in economics is the same whether completed online or on-campus. That said, an online accounting degree can be recognized worldwide.

However, students must earn them from an accredited college or university. It also helps if they are from a reputable school. This is because 34.5% of hiring managers value the university or college where the applicant got their degree (FutureLearn, 2021).

Source: FutureLearn, 2021

Aside from CHEA accreditation and the school’s reputation, it would be best for students to enroll in a college or university recognized by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It is a national organization that ensures online programs have the same content as their on-campus counterparts.

2023 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting Programs

Our team of review experts at Research.com pulled data from credible sources and came up with a list of colleges and universities offering online accounting programs. The schools listed below were evaluated based on their academic rating, enrollment rate, affordability, and other key metrics.

1. University of West Florida

The University of West Florida offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting program. This offers a unique combination of accounting knowledge and coursework in management. This course will allow graduates to understand how accounting affects all business areas. They will also learn how to communicate sensibly with all stakeholders.

  • Program Length: Two to four years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Business administration, finance, accounting
  • Cost per Credit: $218.98 (in-state), $648.37 (out-of-state)
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International

2. Santa Fe College

Taking an Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Santa Fe College will teach students essential business skills. These include managerial accounting, auditing, and financial statement analysis. Also available in on-campus and hybrid settings, completing this course allows students to apply their knowledge in solving real-world problems,

  • Program Length: Two to four years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Accounting, management
  • Cost per Credit: $126.33 (in-state), $428.83 (out-of-state)
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

3. University of Arkansas in Little Rock

The University of Arkansas in Little Rock offers an Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This program provides business-based education that prepares students for various careers in accounting. This includes public accounting, finance, and business.

  • Program Length: Two years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Business management, accounting
  • Cost per Credit: $280
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)

4. Ottawa University-Online

Students taking an Online Bachelor of Arts in Accounting from Ottawa University-Online will allow them to make sense of the bottom line and keep the wheels of business running. This includes learning how to communicate with internal and external stakeholders. Students will also develop skills in financial accounting, systems analysis, and economic and managerial planning.

  • Program Length: Two to five years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Actuarial science, economics, finance, leadership and management
  • Cost per Credit: $499
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

5. Liberty University

The Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Data Analysis from Liberty University teaches students the core technical skills of accounting. These include the tools and general business practices that make accountants adaptable to many roles. Graduates will also gain essential business skills with an emphasis on accounting.

  • Program Length: Three to four years
  • Tracks/concentrations: Accounting, business management
  • Cost per Credit: $390
  • Required Credits to Graduate: 120
  • Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Online vs. Traditional Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

An online bachelor’s degree in accounting may take students at least two years to complete. This often varies depending on the number of credits a student can take per academic year.

Regardless, this program allows students to develop skills they can use whether they want to work in accounting firms, corporations, non-profit organizations, or the government. An online accounting degree also lets students enjoy the following benefits:

  • Affordability. The cost of online learning can be comparable to in-person tuition. However, it can spare students many in-campus fees and travel expenses.
  • Flexibility. Students can choose whether to spend the entire year studying or enjoy a summer vacation. They can also choose whether to take synchronous or asynchronous classes, so they have better control over how to use up their time each day.
  • Accessibility. Aside from flexibility, students also have the freedom to study anywhere. There is no need for them to relocate to attend classes. This makes it ideal for working students who may find it difficult to balance having to go to work and attend classes physically.
  • School-life balance. The great thing about taking an online degree in accounting is that students can plan their schedules around other activities like employment or sports training. This allows them to pursue other passions or perhaps find ways to earn some income while studying.
  • Student satisfaction. While online learning is different from a face-to-face environment, they offer similar experiences to students. In fact, nearly 70% of students believe that online studies is as good or better than a traditional classroom setting (University of the Potomac, n.d.).

online vs traditional classroom

Is an online degree cheaper?

Whether an online accounting degree is more affordable than in-person tuition will depend on various factors. Colleges and universities often charge online students on a per-credit basis. Thus, learners may expect to pay at least $15,240 per academic year if a university charges $127 per credit (Santa Fe College, 2023).

Another factor to consider is the state of residency. Out-of-state students are often charged higher tuition, although some colleges and universities charge flat tuition for online students regardless of where they live.

Students should also consider technology fees. Schools charge for using technology and devices to fund the maintenance of their current infrastructure. They also use the fund to implement new technologies within the educational institution.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

Although employers are more willing to hire students who completed their accounting degree in-campus, most hiring managers take an online accounting degree seriously. This is because online students have the same qualifications as those who take face-to-face classes.

However, students must ensure they take online degree programs in accounting from a reputable and accredited college or university. This is because employers and hiring managers emphasize where students earn their degrees rather than how.

All in all, an online degree in accounting can still land you the same jobs that traditional degree holders have access to. As such, it can provide you with a positive ROI. For reference, an accountant’s average annual salary is $65,000 (Talent.com, 2023). This is more than quadruple the federal minimum wage.

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The website Research.com is funded by advertising. All school search, finder, and match results, as well as featured or trusted partner programs, are for schools who pay us. Our school rankings, resource guides, or any other editorially impartial content on our website are unaffected by the compensation we receive.

How much does an online bachelor’s degree in accounting cost?

The estimated cost of pursuing an online accounting degree ranges from $29,000 to $46,000 per year. On the other hand, on-campus tuition can cost between $27,000 and $55,000 (CollegeBoard 2021).

Contrary to popular belief, an online degree often costs the same as on-campus tuition. According to the CHLOE 4 report, 48% of sampled colleges and universities price their online programs in line with campus equivalents (2020).

Online LearningIn-campus Learning
Public In-state$28,728$26,820
Public Out-of-state$37,368$43,280
Private$45,506$54,880
* Estimated tuition per academic year

Source: CollegeBoard, 2021

Aside from tuition, students should also consider the following expenses:

  • Fees. This refers to various school expenses like registration, lab access, activities and programs, health and fitness facilities, and more.
  • Books and Supplies. While online students do not have to pay for textbooks, they may incur online science lab fees.
  • State residency. Some schools charge different tuition rates for online students depending on their location. On the other hand, some schools offer in-state tuition rates to online students.
  • Transportation. Online learning eliminates the need for students to commute to campus. Thus, they can save on gas, parking, and vehicle maintenance. However, depending on the program they enroll in, they may need to visit the campus occasionally.

Is an online accounting degree worth it?

Considering the opportunities that it can open up for an individual, an online accounting degree is worth pursuing. Whether you take your online degree courses in accounting from a public or private university, there are employers who will recognize this credential.

That said, graduates can use their online degrees to land jobs that pay well. They can also use it as a stepping stone to becoming a certified public accountant (CPA). However, students are required to complete at least 30 additional credits to qualify. Most students fulfill this requirement by taking an online certificate program in accounting or an online master’s degree in accounting.

Students who complete an online degree in accounting can pursue various career paths. They can be financial managers, personal financial advisors, budget analysts, and more. Regardless, their primary role is to help people and organizations manage their finances and develop long-term financial plans.

What are the requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in accounting?

Students with analytical and mathematical skills can pursue an online accounting degree. This program also touches on various business and finance subjects, allowing graduates to apply their knowledge and skills in various fields. In line with this, colleges and universities impose admission requirements to ensure enrollees can handle the demands of studying an online degree in accounting.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in accounting vary depending on the college or university. Here are the typical requirements that students must submit to enroll:

  • Online Application. Students must fill out an online application form. Some schools accept applications on a rolling basis and do not charge application fees.
  • Test Scores. Aside from the application, students must take and pass their college entrance exams. Some colleges and universities require enrollees to submit their ACT or SAT scores.
  • Official Transcripts. Universities require incoming first-year students to have a minimum GPA of 2.0. On the other hand, transfer students must submit official transcripts from their previous schools to ensure a successful university transfer.
  • English Proficiency. For international students, colleges and universities require a TOEFL score of at least 61.
  • Miscellaneous Requirements. Some colleges and universities may require students to submit two to three letters of recommendation and one application essay.

General Requirements

Online degree courses in accounting can foster a student’s skills to become an effective accountant or auditor. That said, we have listed below some of the critical skills that students must develop throughout the program:

  • Communication. Accountants and auditors are often required to communicate with internal and external stakeholders. Hence, students must develop strong communication skills.
  • Interpersonal Skills. Being able to communicate with stakeholders is one thing. However, it is also essential that graduates be able to build meaningful relationships with them. This is where having interpersonal skills can be helpful.
  • Analytical Skills. This skill can be useful in interpreting financial data and gaining insights on how to use data-driven information effectively.
  • Problem-Solving. It is also vital that accounting graduates be able to navigate through unexpected challenges. One reason is that organizations may face unique and complex financial issues.
  • Adaptability. Aside from problem-solving skills, students must also know how to adapt. An organization’s financial situation may cause it to pivot, requiring graduates to keep an open mind and understand an impending change.

What are the technological requirements of students for online learning?

Students will need a fast internet connection and a personal computer or a laptop to complete their online degree. In addition, their devices must have the following specifications:

Recommended Operating Systems

  • Windows 10 or newer
  • macOS 10.14 or newer
  • Linux Ubuntu, Elementary OS, or Mint

Hardware Specifications

  • The device must not be more than five years old
  • Processor: At least 2GHz
  • Hard Drive: At least 32 GB
  • Memory (RAM): At least 4 GB
  • Ethernet (LAN) connection or wireless adapter (Wi-Fi)
  • Sound card with speakers

Having a laptop or PC with the specifications listed above allows students to access some of the popular learning management software their school will likely use.

Source: eLiterate

Although not a requirement, it will also help if students have a webcam and noise-canceling headsets. This is to eliminate background noise during online class participation.

Courses to Expect in Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

An online accounting degree equips students with the skills and qualifications needed for most accounting careers. This can include financial and management skills.

Below are some of the courses that students can expect when taking online degree programs in accounting:

  • Accounting Principles. This course provides students with basic accounting knowledge. Some of the topics this course covers include accounting theories and creating financial statements.
  • Auditing. In this course, students will discover how to collect financial information, identify report errors, and point out fraudulent activities. This may also cover accounting and auditing laws and regulations.
  • Taxation. This course will educate students about tax laws for individuals and businesses. They will also learn about exposure techniques to reduce taxes legally.
  • Finance Basics. In this course, students will learn the major pillars of finance and how to use financial data to solve business problems. Other topics include financial forecasting and planning.
  • Accounting Computer Applications. This course will train students to use some of the well-known accounting software. They will also explore the security procedures and risk mitigation relevant to these applications.

Students can expect that these courses can help them acquire the skills and qualifications needed for the most in-demand jobs in accounting. Completing online degree courses in accounting can also be the first step to becoming a CPA.

Source: Indeed, n.d.

Things to Look for in an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

Like when looking for any online programs like a design online degree or an education degree, when looking for an online accounting degree, you need to look for the following:

Accreditation

As mentioned, employers can take an online counseling degree seriously if it comes from an accredited and reputable school. Doing so also allows students to qualify for federal financial aid.

That said, students must ensure that their preferred college or university has CHEA-recognized national and regional accreditations. Another thing to consider is if the institution has DEAC accreditation.

It is also essential that colleges and universities have accounting programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

Licensure or Certifications

For some students taking an online bachelor’s degree in accounting, the ultimate goal is to become a CPA. One reason is that it can increase their job prospects. It will also allow them to earn 10% to 15% more than non-CPAs (Franklin University, 2022). But, given the effort to acquire one, many often take the finance route in the accounting vs finance degree conundrum.

If you, however, are resolute in being a CPA, then look for a school that prepares students for the uniform CPA examination. They should also provide internships and state-specific continuing education requirements to qualify as CPA.

Scholarships and Financial Aids

While colleges and universities offer merit- and talent-based scholarships, some organizations also provide financial aid to accountant degree aspirants:

Some military friendly online colleges offer tuition assistance for those who serve in the military, so if you’re one of them, try looking for an online school that supports this aid. When choosing a school, try to see if they can accommodate these scholarships and grants.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022

Taking the Next Steps in Your Accounting Career

Earning an online accounting degree will allow students to be part of the workforce, where they can help people and organizations manage their finances. As the demand for accountants and auditors is expected to grow by up to 6% in 2031 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022), it is safe to say that this is a stable and practical career.

Completing accredited online degree programs in accounting is an essential first step toward a career that lets graduates help the community become financially afloat. This includes creating financial statements, using tax software, and detecting fraudulent money activities.

Also a recommended degree for someone hoping to work in the corporate world is a BA in psychology. What can I do with a psychology degree? With a BA in psychology, you can work in human resources. You can also explore online degrees in business administration, which also helps open the doors to the corporate world for you.

That said, it is recommended that students enroll in a reputable college or university that can prepare them for an accounting career. Otherwise, they can use their degree to become CPA or continue to graduate studies.

 

References:

Find The Best Degree Match

Get personalized degree recommendations that will help you find a program that will match your goals and dreams.

The website Research.com is funded by advertising. All school search, finder, and match results, as well as featured or trusted partner programs, are for schools who pay us. Our school rankings, resource guides, or any other editorially impartial content on our website are unaffected by the compensation we receive.