Choosing the right online accounting bachelor’s degree can be overwhelming. With over 500 accredited programs nationwide and multiple degree types to consider, how do you find the perfect fit for your career goals?
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about earning your accounting degree online in 2025—from program types and costs to career outcomes and salary expectations.
What You’ll Learn in This Guide
- Is an Online Accounting Degree Right for You?
- Types of Accounting Bachelor’s Degrees Explained
- Core Curriculum: What to Expect
- Program Costs and Financial Aid
- Career Paths with Your Degree
- Salary Expectations by State
- How to Choose the Right Program
- Understanding Accreditation
- Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Online Accounting Bachelor’s Degree Right for You?
Online accounting programs have transformed from a niche option to a mainstream choice. In 2025, more than 40% of accounting students will complete at least part of their degree online.
Benefits of Online Accounting Programs
- Flexibility: Study around work and family commitments
- Cost savings: No relocation or commuting expenses
- Technology skills: Gain digital competencies employers value
- Accelerated options: Complete your degree in 3 years or less
- Wider selection: Access top programs nationwide
Online Learning Works Best If You:
- Have strong self-discipline and time management skills
- Feel comfortable with technology and digital communication
- Can create a dedicated study space at home
- Don’t require face-to-face interaction to stay motivated
- Have reliable internet access and a modern computer
“The flexibility of online learning allowed me to continue working full-time while earning my degree. I graduated debt-free and with two years of relevant work experience.”
– Sarah Chen, CPA, Online BS in Accounting Graduate
Types of Accounting Bachelor’s Degrees: Which Path Fits Your Goals?
Not all accounting degrees are created equal. Understanding the differences helps you choose the program that aligns with your career objectives.
Bachelor of Arts in Accounting (BA)
A BA provides the most well-rounded education. You’ll take accounting courses alongside humanities, languages, and social sciences.
Pros: Develops communication skills, critical thinking, and cultural awareness valued in global business environments.
Cons: Less emphasis on technical accounting skills compared to a BS degree.
Bachelor of Science in Accounting (BS)
The BS focuses heavily on technical competencies. Expect more math, statistics, and specialized accounting courses.
Pros: Better preparation for technical roles like forensic accounting or tax accounting.
Cons: Fewer electives and liberal arts courses may limit career flexibility.
Bachelor of Business Administration with Accounting Concentration (BBA)
A BBA provides broad business knowledge with accounting as one component. You’ll study marketing, management, and operations alongside accounting basics.
Pros: Ideal for future business owners or those targeting management roles.
Cons: May require additional coursework to meet CPA requirements.
Integrated Bachelor’s + Master’s Programs
These five-year programs award both degrees and fulfill the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure.
Pros: Saves time and money while meeting CPA education requirements.
Cons: Requires upfront commitment to the full five years.
Core Curriculum: Building Your Accounting Foundation
Regardless of degree type, all accredited accounting programs cover fundamental topics essential for professional success.
Foundation Courses (First Two Years)
Advanced Coursework (Final Two Years)
Technology Integration
Modern accounting programs emphasize technology skills employers demand:
- Excel mastery: Advanced formulas, pivot tables, and data analysis
- QuickBooks certification: Small business accounting software
- ERP systems: SAP or Oracle exposure
- Data analytics: Tableau, Power BI, or similar tools
- Cloud accounting: Xero, Wave, or FreshBooks
Real Costs of Online Accounting Degrees: Budget Planning Guide
Understanding the true cost of your degree helps you make informed financial decisions and minimize student debt.
Average Annual Tuition Rates (2025)
Hidden Costs to Consider
- Technology fees: $50-$200 per semester
- Proctoring fees: $25-$75 per exam
- Digital textbooks: $600-$1,200 per year
- Software licenses: $200-$500 annually
- Graduation fees: $100-$300
Financial Aid Opportunities
Don’t let costs deter you. Multiple funding sources can make your degree affordable:
- Federal aid: Complete the FAFSA for grants and loans
- State grants: Check your state’s higher education website
- Accounting scholarships: AICPA, state CPA societies, and corporate sponsors
- Employer tuition assistance: Many companies offer $5,250+ annually
- Military benefits: GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon programs
Career Paths: Where Your Accounting Degree Takes You
An accounting bachelor’s opens doors to diverse career opportunities beyond traditional bookkeeping.
Entry-Level Positions (0-2 Years Experience)
- Staff Accountant: General ledger maintenance, financial statement preparation
- Junior Auditor: Assist with financial audits and compliance testing
- Tax Associate: Prepare individual and business tax returns
- Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist: Manage incoming and outgoing payments
- Bookkeeper: Maintain financial records for small businesses
Mid-Level Opportunities (3-5 Years Experience)
- Senior Accountant: Lead the month-end close, supervise junior staff
- Financial Analyst: Budget forecasting, variance analysis, reporting
- Internal Auditor: Evaluate internal controls and risk management
- Tax Accountant: Complex tax planning and compliance
- Cost Accountant: Analyze production costs and profitability
Growth Industries for Accounting Graduates
Accounting Salary Guide: 2024 Data by State and Metro Area
Location significantly impacts earning potential. Use this data to inform your career planning.
Top 10 States for Accountant Salaries
Best Metro Areas for New Graduates
Consider both salary and cost of living when choosing where to launch your career:
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
How to Choose the Right Online Accounting Program
With hundreds of options available, use this framework to evaluate programs systematically.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Answer these questions before researching schools:
- Do you plan to pursue CPA licensure?
- What’s your target graduation timeline?
- Which accounting specialty interests you most?
- What’s your realistic budget?
- Do you need evening/weekend course options?
Step 2: Create Your Evaluation Criteria
Step 3: Research and Compare
Use these resources to gather program information:
- School websites: Program details, faculty bios, outcomes data
- State CPA society: Lists of recommended programs
- Accounting school directories: Side-by-side comparisons
- LinkedIn: Connect with alumni for insights
- Virtual info sessions: Ask questions directly
Red Flags to Avoid
- No regional accreditation
- Extremely low tuition (often indicates quality issues)
- No published outcome data
- High-pressure sales tactics
- Limited faculty information
- No synchronous learning options
Understanding Accounting Program Accreditation
Accreditation ensures educational quality and protects your investment. Don’t skip this critical evaluation step.
Types of Accreditation
Regional Accreditation (Required)
Six regional bodies accredit entire institutions. This is the minimum requirement for any legitimate program:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC)
- WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Business School Accreditation (Preferred)
These specialized accreditations indicate exceptional program quality:
AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)
- Most prestigious business accreditation
- Only 5% of business schools worldwide
- Separate accounting accreditation available
- Virtually guarantees CPA board acceptance
ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)
- Focus on teaching excellence
- Specialized accounting accreditation track
- Common among regional universities
- Recognized by employers nationwide
IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)
- Outcomes-based assessment focus
- Growing recognition
- Often found at smaller schools
- Accepted for CPA requirements
Why Accreditation Matters
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while completing an online accounting degree?
Yes, most online programs are designed for working adults. Part-time options allow you to take 6-9 credits per semester while maintaining full-time employment. Many students find accounting-related work provides valuable experience that enhances classroom learning.
How do online accounting students network without a physical campus?
Online programs offer multiple networking opportunities:
- Virtual student organizations and honor societies
- LinkedIn groups exclusive to your school
- Regional alumni meetups
- Virtual career fairs and employer sessions
- Collaborative group projects with classmates
What technology do I need for online accounting courses?
Minimum requirements typically include:
- Computer less than 5 years old (Windows or Mac)
- Webcam and microphone for virtual sessions
- Reliable broadband internet (25+ Mbps)
- Microsoft Office suite
- PDF reader and scanner app
- Quiet space for proctored exams
Will employers value my online accounting degree?
Yes, employer attitudes have shifted dramatically. A 2024 SHRM survey found 92% of employers view online degrees from accredited institutions as equal to traditional degrees. Many employers now prefer candidates with online learning experience, viewing it as evidence of self-discipline and technical skills.
How long does it take to complete an online accounting bachelor’s?
Timeline depends on your enrollment status:
- Full-time (12-15 credits/semester): 4 years
- Part-time (6-9 credits/semester): 5-6 years
- Accelerated (18+ credits/semester): 3-3.5 years
- With transfer credits: 2-3 years
Can I become a CPA with any online accounting degree?
Not automatically. CPA requirements include 150 credit hours (30 beyond a typical bachelor’s) and specific accounting coursework. Ensure your program either:
- Offers a CPA track meeting your state’s requirements
- Provides clear guidance on additional courses needed
- Includes an integrated master’s option
Check your state’s specific CPA requirements early in your program.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Accounting Career
An online accounting bachelor’s degree opens doors to stable, well-paying careers in every industry. With the right program, you’ll gain technical skills, business acumen, and professional credentials that last a lifetime.
Ready to start comparing programs? Use our free school matching tool to find accredited online accounting programs that fit your goals and budget.
Still have questions? Our education advisors can help you navigate program options, financial aid, and career planning.
