2025: Top Online Accounting Schools Offering Bachelor’s, MAcc, MBA Options & More
Choose From the Most Respected Names in Online Accounting Education
Top business schools go all-in to build accounting programs worthy of their names. From bachelor's and MSA degrees with globally-recognized AACSB accreditation to legacy MBAs with CPA exam-prep courses built in, you’ll find exceptional online options here. All of them accept a limited number of students. Apply now and get your application to the top of the stack.
BS in Accounting
Cert, AS & BS in Accounting
(M.B.A.) – Accounting
MS Professional Accounting
MS Accountancy & Analytics
MBA Managerial/Public Accounting, Accounting Cert
PROS
Self-directed assessments allow you to prove existing knowledge to bypass courses and accelerate degree completion Bachelor's offers graduate-level coursework for an accelerated path to earning a master’s and qualifying to take the CPA exam Develop essential accounting knowledge along with effective communication and problem-solving skills Laddered undergrad options support your advancement through the bachelor’s level Rasmussen’s Empowered Learning® approach uses real-world cases to promote an understanding of accounting in a broader business context
PROS
Contemporary curriculum with coursework actively reviewed by industry leaders Hands-on approach to learning develops practical skills in everything from financial record management to tax prep to fiscal advising Faculty with in-depth experience in a wide range of related disciplines from economics to taxation Built-in capstone project supports you in mastering and demonstrating real-world accounting skills BS and MS programs can contribute to qualifications for the CPA - CIA - or CMA exams Flexible learning system accommodates the scheduling needs of working professionals Purdue Global School of Business and Information Technology Programs hold ACBSP Accreditation
PROS
Immersive exercises build real-world business expertise and problem-solving skills Choose between either course-based or tempo-based tracks depending on your learning style and availability The Walden Believe & Achieve® Scholarship offers financial incentives for academic progress Proactive student services anticipate your needs and keep you on track throughout the program Self-paced Tempo Learning option can reduce MBA costs to less than $13000 Career Hub services include career checklists - resume writing assistance and live events to prepare you to get ahead after graduation A personal academic coach can assist you through your self-paced curriculum progress
PROS
Graduates have been offered positions at high-powered firms like KPMG and Lockheed Martin MS in Professional Accounting is registered as a New York State CPA Licensure Qualifying Program Accelerated option available for students who have already completed a bachelor’s in accounting STEM-designated program All coursework and live lectures are made available through a full-service mobile app Dedicated advising services as well as career coaching and guidance assist you both academically and professionally Real-world experience built into the program ensures concept mastery
PROS
No GRE or GMAT required to apply and application fees temporarily waived for Fall 2025 Curriculum based on actual business case scenarios to build relevant skills in all aspects of accounting CPA exam prep courses built into the curriculum Tap into an extensive alumni network and get valuable guidance through GradCAT the Graduate Career Acceleration Team Offers analytics integration to prepare every graduate for the digital environment of today’s business world Eligible candidates may receive a scholarship of up to $10000 toward the MAcc program An on-campus Leadership Development Conference builds strong ties to both peers and instructors
PROS
Small class sizes offer plenty of opportunities for one-on-one support from professors Certificate designed for students with bachelor’s degrees in majors other than accounting Includes the upper-level accounting credits required for CPA exam eligibility Practical coursework covers skills directly relevant to the demands of today’s job market No GRE required for master’s program admission Learn the problem-solving and communication skills required for high-level accounting positionsCommon Questions About Online Accounting Degree Programs
Predictability, clarity, and stability are the hallmarks of the accounting field. For the accounting mindset, the idea of flexible, remote studies may answer some important questions about accessibility and affordability, but it raises many others about quality, rigor, and content.
The accounting field certainly offers a level of predictability and stability—qualities that make it an attractive career choice. Today’s online accounting degree programs deliver these same characteristics while adding flexibility and accessibility to your educational journey. If you’re wondering about quality, rigor, or career outcomes, we’ve got answers that will put your detail-oriented mind at ease.
Ready to advance your accounting career? This comprehensive guide covers everything from choosing the best online schools for accounting to understanding CPA requirements. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to level up, we’ll help you navigate your educational journey with confidence.
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What Can You Do With an Accounting Degree? Career Paths & Salary Potential
Before diving into educational requirements, let’s talk about why pursuing accounting degrees represents a high ROI career path. The field for accountants and auditors is growing faster than average, offering diverse opportunities across every sector.
Career Options by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Career Options | Median Salary Range* |
|---|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree | Bookkeeping, AR/AP Clerk, Payroll Specialist | $35,000 – $45,000 |
| Bachelor’s in Accounting | Staff Accountant, Tax Preparer, Financial Analyst | $50,000 – $70,000 |
| Bachelor’s + CPA | Public Accountant, Auditor, Tax Consultant | $65,000 – $85,000 |
| Master’s in Accounting | Controller, CFO, Forensic Accountant | $75,000 – $120,000+ |
*Salary ranges vary by location, experience, and industry
Specialized Accounting Fields
Beyond traditional roles, accounting degree programs can lead to specialized careers in:
- Forensic Accounting – Investigate financial crimes
- Management Accounting – Strategic business planning
- Government Accounting – Public sector financial management
- Non-profit Accounting – Mission-driven organizations
- Accounting Information Systems – Technology integration
- Cost Accounting – Manufacturing and production
- Project Accounting – Construction and consulting
What Degree Do I Need to Qualify for a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) Credential?
Quick Answer: To earn the CPA, you need 150 college credits—that’s 30 credits beyond a typical 120-credit bachelor’s degree in accounting.
Let’s break down the CPA degree programs requirements clearly:
The 150-Credit Requirement: Your Options
| Path to 150 Credits | Time Frame | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s + Master’s in Accounting | 5-6 years total | Career advancement + CPA eligibility |
| Bachelor’s + 30 Additional Credits | 4.5-5 years total | Focused CPA preparation |
| 5-Year CPA Track Program (3+2) | 5 years total | Streamlined path, often includes both degrees |
| Bachelor’s + Graduate Certificate | 4.5-5 years total | Targeted coursework without full master’s |
⚠️ Important State Requirements: Each state has specific course requirements for CPA licensure. Common requirements include:
- 24-30 semester hours in accounting courses
- 24 semester hours in business courses
- Specific coverage of auditing, taxation, and ethics
Always verify requirements with your state board of accountancy before choosing a program.
What Degree Do I Need to Qualify for a CMA (Certified Management Accountant) Credential?
The CMA path is more flexible than the CPA route. Here’s what you need:
- Education: Any bachelor’s degree (doesn’t have to be in accounting)
- Coursework: No specific course requirements
- Focus: Strategic financial management for organizations
Alternative credentials accepted in lieu of a bachelor’s degree:
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certified Treasury Professional (CTP)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
What is The Difference Between a CPA and a CMA?
| Aspect | CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | CMA (Certified Management Accountant) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Public accounting, tax, audit, consulting | Strategic management, internal analysis |
| Required for | Signing audit reports, representing clients before IRS | Not legally required but preferred by employers |
| Education | 150 credits with specific accounting courses | Any bachelor’s degree |
| Career Path | Public accounting firms, tax practice | Corporate finance, management roles |
Is Certification Required in the Accounting Field?
No, certification isn’t always required. Many rewarding accounting positions are available without CPA or CMA credentials. Entry-level and mid-level opportunities include:
- Without certification: Staff accountant, bookkeeper, accounts payable/receivable specialist, payroll administrator
- Under CPA supervision: Tax preparation, financial analysis, audit support
- Industry-specific roles: Cost accountant, budget analyst, internal auditor
That said, earning your CPA or CMA can significantly increase your salary potential and open doors to senior positions.
Educational Pathways: From Associate’s to Master’s
What Kind of Job Can I Get With an Associate’s Degree in Accounting?
An Associate of Science in Accounting or Associate of Applied Science in Accounting opens doors to entry-level positions and serves as a stepping stone to higher education. This two-year degree prepares you for:
- Bookkeeping positions
- Accounts receivable/payable clerk roles
- Payroll processing
- Tax preparation assistant
- Small business accounting
Many students use an associate’s degree as an affordable way to complete their first two years before transferring to a bachelor’s program—saving thousands in tuition.
Bachelor’s Degree Options
When pursuing a bachelor’s in accounting, you’ll typically choose between:
- BS in Accounting: More technical and math-focused
- BA in Accounting: Broader liberal arts foundation
- BBA with Accounting Concentration: Business-focused curriculum
All paths qualify you for most accounting positions and serve as the foundation for CPA eligibility.
Master’s Programs: Is a Graduate Degree Worth It?
A Master’s in Accounting (MAcc), MS in Accounting, or MA in Accounting offers several advantages:
- Fulfills the 150-credit CPA requirement
- Provides specialized knowledge in areas like taxation or forensic accounting
- Increases starting salary by $10,000-$20,000 on average
- Opens doors to management positions faster
What Will I Learn in an Online Certificate in Accounting Program?
Online accounting certificate programs serve different purposes depending on your current education level:
Post-Baccalaureate Certificates (Most Common)
Designed for bachelor’s degree holders needing additional credits for CPA eligibility. Typical coursework includes:
- Advanced taxation
- Governmental and non-profit accounting
- Auditing and assurance services
- Business law and ethics
- Financial statement analysis
Professional Development Certificates
For working professionals seeking specific skills:
- QuickBooks certification
- Forensic accounting
- International financial reporting
- Fraud examination
Are Online Accounting Degree Programs as Good as Traditional On-Campus Programs?
Yes. There is no qualitative difference between earning accounting degrees online versus in a traditional classroom. Your diploma won’t indicate whether you studied online or on-campus.
Key Facts About Online Accounting Programs:
| Factor | Online Programs | Traditional Programs |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | Identical content and rigor | Identical content and rigor |
| Faculty | Same professors often teach both | Same professors often teach both |
| Accreditation | Same accreditation standards | Same accreditation standards |
| Flexibility | Study anytime, anywhere | Fixed schedule and location |
| Networking | Virtual networking, broader geographic reach | In-person networking, local focus |
| Cost | Often lower (no commute/housing) | Additional costs for commute/housing |
Is It Possible to Find Accredited Accounting Courses Online?
Absolutely – the best online schools for accounting hold the same prestigious business school accreditations as traditional programs. Look for these recognized accreditations in the business school that houses the accounting program you’re interested in:
ACBSP (The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs) focuses on teaching excellence and student outcomes. This accreditor is particularly common among schools that prioritize practical, career-focused education.
ACBSP was the first to offer specialty accreditation specific to individual accounting programs. ACBSP’s Separate Accounting Accreditation only applies to bachelor’s and graduate programs, and comes with the assurance of academic rigor and an exceptional student experience. And get this – graduates of ACBSP-accredited accounting programs even get preferential seating when taking the CPA exam.
AACSB (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) represents the gold standard in business education accreditation. Only about 5% of business schools worldwide have earned this distinction, which requires meeting rigorous standards for faculty qualifications, curriculum design, and student learning outcomes.
AACSB began offering specialty accreditation specific to individual accounting programs starting in 2019. Programs with supplemental accounting accreditation from the AACSB Accounting Accreditation Council have gone through a unique level of quality reviews to earn that stamp of approval.
IACBE (The International Accreditation Council for Business Education) takes an outcomes-based approach to accreditation, emphasizing what students actually learn and can do upon graduation.
A professional accounting course offered by an accredited institution must meet high standards for curriculum content, instructor qualifications, academic rigor, and ethical practices. The best online schools for accounting will often hold specialized accreditation, though it is not an absolute requirement for quality education or licensure eligibility.
✓ Good News: Accredited online accounting courses meet the same rigorous standards as on-campus programs and are fully accepted for CPA licensure requirements.
How Long Does it Take to Complete Online Accounting Degree Programs?
Bachelor’s Degree Timeline
- Traditional pace: 4 years
- Accelerated programs: 2-3 years
- Part-time study: 5-6 years
Master’s Degree Timeline
- Full-time: 1-2 years
- Part-time: 2-4 years
- Accelerated: 12 months minimum
The flexibility of online colleges for accounting allows you to balance work, family, and education at your own pace.
What Are the Best Online Schools for Accounting?
When evaluating the best schools for accounting, consider these factors:
Key Criteria for Choosing Accounting Programs
| Factor | What to Look For | Red Flags |
|---|---|---|
| Accreditation | AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE accreditation | No specialized business accreditation |
| CPA Pass Rates | Above state/national averages | No published pass rate data |
| Faculty | CPAs, PhDs, industry experience | High adjunct-to-full-time ratio |
| Technology | User-friendly platform, mobile access | Outdated or glitchy systems |
| Support Services | Career services, tutoring, tech support | Limited or no student support |
| Financial Aid | Federal aid eligible, payment plans | No financial aid options |
How Do You Get a Job as An Accountant?
Landing your first accounting position—or advancing to a better one—requires a strategic approach:
Step-by-Step Career Launch Plan
- Choose the Right Education Level
- Entry-level: Associate’s degree or accounting certificate
- Professional roles: Bachelor’s in accounting
- Advanced positions: Master’s degree and/or CPA
- Gain Practical Experience
- Internships during school
- Volunteer tax preparation (VITA program)
- Part-time bookkeeping
- Build Technical Skills
- Master Excel and QuickBooks
- Learn industry-specific software
- Understand data analytics
- Network Strategically
- Join student accounting organizations
- Attend virtual career fairs
- Connect with alumni
- Prepare for Interviews
- Practice technical questions
- Prepare specific examples
- Research potential employers
Ready to Start Your Accounting Journey?
Now that you understand the landscape of accounting degree programs, it’s time to take action. Here’s your roadmap:
🎯 Your Next Steps
- Assess Your Goals
- Do you want to earn the CPA?
- Are you changing careers or advancing?
- Do you need flexibility for work/family?
- Research Programs
- Compare accredited schools
- Check state CPA requirements
- Calculate total costs
- Connect with Schools
- Request information from multiple programs
- Attend virtual information sessions
- Speak with admissions counselors
- Apply for Financial Aid
- Complete the FAFSA
- Research scholarships
- Explore employer tuition assistance
Remember: The best time to invest in your education is now. With flexible online options and growing demand for accounting professionals, you can start building your future today.
Frequently Asked Questions – Quick Reference
Can I earn a CPA Credential with just an online degree?
Yes! Online degrees from accredited institutions are fully accepted for CPA licensure. Your diploma won’t indicate whether you studied online or on-campus.
What’s the fastest way to meet the 150-credit CPA requirement?
The fastest path is typically a 5-year integrated bachelor’s/master’s program or taking summer courses to accelerate your timeline.
Is financial aid available for online accounting programs?
Yes, accredited online programs qualify for the same federal financial aid as traditional programs, including Pell Grants and student loans.
Do employers value online accounting degrees?
Employers focus on accreditation and your skills, not delivery format. Many hiring managers have earned online degrees themselves.
Can I work while completing an online accounting degree?
Absolutely! Most online programs are designed for working professionals, offering asynchronous courses and flexible scheduling.