2027 Is Purdue Global's Online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting Worth It? What Students Should Know

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

What makes Purdue Global's online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program stand out?

Choosing Purdue Global's online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting involves weighing flexibility against academic rigor, a tradeoff that suits working adults managing jobs and personal commitments. The program's asynchronous format allows students to bypass fixed schedules, which is essential for those balancing varied responsibilities. However, this independence demands strong self-motivation, as the graduation rate of 48% reflects the challenges of staying engaged without in-person structure. This suggests that students seeking discipline and steady peer interaction might consider whether this model aligns with their learning style.

The scale of Purdue Global-with 44,421 students and 2,670 staff including 711 full-time faculty-offers access to a wide range of expertise and support. This diversity can expose students to broad perspectives relevant in accounting roles, though part-time faculty may affect consistency in teaching quality. The program's practical, career-oriented curriculum focuses on immediately applicable accounting skills, which is advantageous for those aiming to enter or return to the workforce quickly. Students who benefit most tend to be those prioritizing convenience and applied skills over traditional campus experiences or highly theoretical study.

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Is it difficult to get admitted to Purdue Global's online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program?

Admission to most Associate of Applied Science in Accounting programs tends to involve moderate competition due to the demand for accounting skills paired with limited program capacity. Employers often expect candidates to have foundational knowledge and some proof of dedication, making program entry a meaningful filter. However, the overall competitiveness varies regionally and by institution, with some programs imposing selective criteria that can complicate entry for non-traditional or returning students.

In contrast, Purdue Global's Associate of Applied Science in Accounting adopts an open admission policy that significantly reduces the hurdles typically encountered. The program does not require standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT, a common barrier in traditional higher-education settings. This approach leads to higher acceptance rates and fewer gatekeeping academic measures, enabling students with diverse educational backgrounds and professional obligations to enroll without stringent screening.

The consequence of this open admission model is twofold: while it expands access to accounting credentials for many, it places greater responsibility on students to self-manage their academic progress and skill acquisition, as the program does not filter for prior academic preparedness. This tradeoff means the onus is on students to stay motivated and build competencies that employers demand despite the program's low admission barriers.

One recent graduate shared, "I hesitated even applying because I thought the process would be overwhelming with exams and hoops to jump through. Instead, I submitted my application and enrollment materials quickly, without waiting months for decisions or retaking tests. There was relief but also a bit of uncertainty about whether I was ready since it felt less selective. Balancing work and studies afterward was the real challenge."

The curriculum for Purdue Global's online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting deliberately reflects the practical demands of entry-level accounting roles. Its alignment with current standards is visible in how it balances foundational accounting knowledge with the software and regulatory skills that employers increasingly require. A student completing this program should expect to handle typical workplace scenarios involving computerized accounting systems, compliance issues, and everyday financial reporting. Below are key curriculum factors that demonstrate how Purdue Global's accounting program stays relevant to ongoing industry shifts.

  • Software Integration: The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with widely used tools like QuickBooks and Excel. This practical exposure addresses the digitalization trend in accounting workflows, ensuring graduates can efficiently manage electronic bookkeeping and financial data-an essential requirement for hiring managers.
  • Regulatory and Ethical Focus: Courses covering business law and ethics provide students with vital knowledge of compliance frameworks. This focus is crucial given the evolving landscape of financial regulations and the need for accountants to mitigate legal risks and uphold industry standards.
  • Core Accounting Competency: The program maintains a solid grounding in fundamental accounting principles and financial management. This backbone helps ensure graduates meet baseline employer expectations for accuracy and analytical reasoning in bookkeeping and payroll tasks.

This combination of digital proficiency, regulatory awareness, and foundational skills aligns with many employers' preferences within the associate degree hiring pool. The program's curriculum thus reflects a mindful adaptation to industry needs while recognizing the ongoing tradeoff between technical learning and conceptual understanding inherent in an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting. For prospective students weighing options, this alignment with practical workplace demands distinguishes Purdue Global's program among the variety of accounting curricula available, including when compared with some other degree offerings in affordability or delivery mode, as seen in broader lists like programs found in the cheapest online doctoral programs. The updating of the Purdue Global online accounting curriculum supports its relevance, but candidates should also consider how well it fits their specific career contexts and employer expectations.

What Graduates Say About Purdue Global's Online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting Program

  • Hannah: "Studying at Purdue Global gave me the flexibility to balance work and school, which was crucial since I was already working part-time in bookkeeping. Their Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program helped me build practical skills quickly, allowing me to transition into a full-time accounting assistant role. However, I noticed that many employers favored candidates with certifications or hands-on internship experience, so I supplemented my degree by pursuing an Excel certification to stay competitive."
  • Molly: "When I enrolled in Purdue Global's Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program, my goal was to enter the workforce fast and remotely, which the program's online format perfectly supported. Graduating enabled me to secure a remote position in accounts payable, although I found there are salary growth limits if you don't pursue further licensure. The program gave me solid foundational knowledge, but I had to actively seek projects and freelance gigs to build a portfolio employers valued over just the degree."
  • Jade: "The Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program at Purdue Global was challenging but rooted in real-world applications that prepared me for the realities of the field. After graduating, I found the hiring landscape is pragmatic-many companies prioritize experience and internships over degrees alone. This pushed me to pivot into financial analysis support roles, combining what I learned with on-the-job training. The program's structure helped me understand the trade-offs in career advancement, especially without CPA licensure, which informed my long-term planning."

Other Things You Should Know About Degrees

What courses are typically required in Purdue Global’s online A.A.S. in Accounting?

The curriculum usually includes financial accounting, managerial accounting, business math, payroll accounting, taxation, and spreadsheet software, plus general education courses. Associate degrees in accounting commonly require about 90 quarter credits, which is roughly 60 semester credits, before graduation.

Does the program adequately prepare students for entry-level accounting roles, or is additional certification usually necessary?

The associate degree offers foundational skills for entry-level bookkeeping or accounting assistant roles but doesn't fully replace professional certifications like the CPA or CMA. Employers typically expect candidates to pursue further credentials for advancement, so students should view the program as a stepping stone rather than a terminal qualification. Prioritizing additional certifications post-graduation will significantly enhance employability and career growth.

Are there any notable limitations in transferring credits from this associate degree toward a bachelor's program?

Some students encounter partial credit transfer challenges when moving to bachelor's degrees, especially if the receiving institution has specific accounting prerequisites. Purdue Global has transfer agreements, but these are not universal. Prospective students should research target bachelor's programs early and prioritize course selections that align with those institutions to maximize credit acceptance and minimize redundant coursework.