Discover the Best Online Accounting Degree Programs
Explore our comprehensive rankings and career paths in accounting to find your path to success.
Associate Degree Rankings
Start your journey with top-rated Associate programs in Accounting.
Bachelor's Degree Rankings
Discover leading Bachelor's programs in Accounting
Master's Degree Rankings
Advance your career with top Master's degrees in Accounting
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Determine and formulate policies and provide overall direction of companies or private and public sector organizations within guidelines set up by a board of directors or similar governing body. Plan, direct, or coordinate operational activities at the highest level of management with the help of subordinate executives and staff managers.
Compliance Officer
Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and perform other compliance and enforcement inspection and analysis activities not classified elsewhere.
Financial Analyst
Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses.
Financial Controller
Plan, direct, or coordinate accounting, investing, banking, insurance, securities, and other financial activities of a branch, office, or department of an establishment.
Internal Auditor
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Management Analyst
Conduct organizational studies and evaluations, design systems and procedures, conduct work simplification and measurement studies, and prepare operations and procedures manuals to assist management in operating more efficiently and effectively. Includes program analysts and management consultants.
Personal Financial Advisor
Advise clients on financial plans using knowledge of tax and investment strategies, securities, insurance, pension plans, and real estate. Duties include assessing clients' assets, liabilities, cash flow, insurance coverage, tax status, and financial objectives. May also buy and sell financial assets for clients.
Project Accountant
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Senior Accountant
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Discover Accounting Resources
Quickly navigate to essential information pages regarding online Accounting programs.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Discover typical costs of attendance and financial aid options when pursuing a degree in Accounting.
Admission and Requirements
Discover what it takes to get into the top ranked schools for Accounting.
Accreditation
Learn more about how online Accounting programs are accredited and what it means for you.
FAQs
Answers to common questions about obtaining an online degree in Accounting.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Accounting in 2024
Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
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Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
Brief Overview of Online Accounting Degree Programs
Online accounting degree programs offer a pathway for you to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the field of accounting, all from the comfort of your home. Whether you're looking to start your career or advance in your current position, an online accounting degree can provide the flexibility to study around your existing commitments. Here's what you can expect when you enroll in one of these programs:
Affordability: Online programs can be more cost-effective than traditional on-campus programs. You'll often save on commuting costs, campus fees, and sometimes even tuition rates.
Program Outcomes: Graduates of online accounting programs can look forward to a range of career opportunities, including roles such as accountants, auditors, financial analysts, and more. The curriculum typically covers essential topics such as financial accounting, management accounting, auditing, and taxation.
Accessibility: One of the key benefits of online learning is the ability to access course materials anytime and anywhere. This is particularly useful if you are balancing work or personal responsibilities.
Student Support Services: Many online programs provide robust support services including tutoring, library access, career counseling, and technical support to ensure that distance learners receive similar support to their on-campus counterparts.
Accreditation: Accredited online accounting programs meet the same standards as traditional programs. Ensure your chosen program is accredited by a recognized agency like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accreditation is crucial for the credibility of your degree and may be required for certain certifications like the CPA.
Flexibility: Many online accounting degree programs offer asynchronous classes that allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule. Some also offer accelerated tracks that enable students to graduate quicker.
Program Reputation: Consider programs with a strong reputation in the field. A program's reputation can impact your networking opportunities and your resume's appeal to potential employers.
When choosing an online accounting degree program, it's essential to consider these factors along with our proprietary algorithm that ranks the best programs based on criteria such as affordability, program outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and program reputation. By doing so, you can select a program that aligns with your personal and professional goals while ensuring a quality education that will serve you well in your accounting career.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Accounting
Advise clients on aspects of capitalization, such as amounts, sources, or timing.
Advise licensees or other individuals or groups concerning licensing, permit, or passport regulations.
Analyze applicants' financial status, credit, and property evaluations to determine feasibility of granting loans.
Analyze blueprints and other documentation to prepare time, cost, materials, and labor estimates.
Analyze credit data and financial statements to determine the degree of risk involved in extending credit or lending money.
Analyze data gathered and develop solutions or alternative methods of proceeding.
Online Accounting Degree Program FAQs
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online accounting degree program?
Before you dive into an online accounting degree, it's essential to understand the prerequisites. Most programs will require:
- A high school diploma or equivalent (GED)
- Completion of certain high school courses, such as math and English
- SAT or ACT scores (although some programs may be test-optional)
- Some colleges may also require previous college credits or relevant work experience
Can I become a CPA with an online accounting degree?
Absolutely! An online accounting degree can be your stepping stone to becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). To sit for the CPA exam, you'll need to meet specific educational requirements that vary by state, which typically include:
- A bachelor's degree at minimum
- A certain number of credit hours in accounting and business courses
- Be sure to check with your state's Board of Accountancy (noopener noreferrer) for the exact requirements.
How long does it typically take to complete an online accounting degree?
The duration of your online accounting degree depends on several factors:
- Associate's Degree: Generally takes about 2 years to complete full-time.
- Bachelor's Degree: Typically requires 4 years of full-time study.
- Master's Degree: Usually takes 1-2 years beyond the bachelor's degree.
If you're studying part-time or have transfer credits, the time to completion can vary.
Are online accounting degrees accredited?
Many online accounting programs are accredited, which is crucial for your education's quality and recognition in the professional world. Look for accreditation from bodies such as:
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB (noopener noreferrer))
- The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP (noopener noreferrer))
- The International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE (noopener noreferrer))
Accreditation ensures the program meets high standards and that other institutions will recognize your degree.
What kind of support services are available for online accounting students?
Online students often have access to an array of support services including:
- Academic advising
- Career services and job placement assistance
- Online tutoring and library resources
- Technical support for the online learning platform
- Access to virtual student communities and networks
It's important to choose a program that offers comprehensive support to enhance your learning experience.
How much does an online accounting degree cost?
The cost of an online accounting degree can vary widely depending on the institution and whether you're looking at public or private colleges. Factors affecting cost include:
- Tuition rates per credit hour
- Fees for technology, books, and other materials
- Financial aid availability
When considering costs, don't forget to investigate financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and loans.
What career opportunities can I pursue with an online accounting degree?
Graduates with an online accounting degree have a wide range of career paths to choose from, including:
- Public Accountant
- Auditor
- Forensic Accountant
- Management Accountant
- Government Accountant
- Tax Specialist
Remember, additional certifications like the CPA can open even more doors in the accounting field.
How flexible are online accounting programs?
Online accounting degree programs are designed with flexibility in mind. Many offer:
- Asynchronous coursework that allows you to complete assignments on your schedule
- Part-time enrollment options
- Accelerated tracks for faster completion
- Multiple start dates throughout the year
This flexibility makes it easier to balance your studies with work and other commitments.
Is there any difference in the curriculum between online and traditional on-campus accounting programs?
The curriculum for accredited online accounting programs is typically very similar, if not identical, to their on-campus counterparts. Both formats aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of:
- Financial accounting
- Managerial accounting
- Taxation
- Auditing
- Accounting information systems
Online programs deliver the same rigorous coursework but with greater flexibility in how you learn.
Remember that our rankings incorporate affordability, program outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and program reputation. These factors should also guide your decision-making process when choosing an online accounting degree program that aligns with your goals and lifestyle.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Accounting
Accounting software
Analytical or scientific software
- DQO-PRO
- Tibco Scribe Software
Basic Skills
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
- Reading work related information
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