Best Online Accounting Associate Degree Programs of 2025
Earn your associate in accounting online to pursue entry-level accounting roles or a four-year degree. Explore the best programs here.
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At a Glance: BestColleges’ Top Online Associate in Accounting Programs
- #1: Southwestern Community College — This specialized degree program can be used immediately to enter the workforce.
- #2: Vance-Granville Community College — Not only is this program very affordable, but it has high online enrollment numbers, which means you would be in good company.
- #3: Fox Valley Technical College — The strong graduation rate for this program puts it at the top of our list.
Do you like math and numbers? Can you see yourself working with financial data or helping people manage their taxes and plan their financial futures?
Then consider earning an associate in accounting. In this two-year program, you’ll learn accounting fundamentals, such as cost accounting, tax accounting, computerized accounting, and auditing.
To create our ranking of the best online accounting associate degree programs, we used a complex methodology to evaluate factors such as cost, graduation rate, and overall school reputation. Discover which programs made the cut.
Start Your Associate in Accounting Today
Best Associate in Accounting Online Degrees of 2025
How We Rank Schools
At BestColleges, we believe a college education is one of the most important investments you can make. We help you navigate the college selection process by offering transparent, inclusive, and relevant school rankings.
We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This list is from 2025. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology.
Southwestern Community College
Creston, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$6,120
$6,330
N/A
64%
Why SWCC Made Our List
An associate degree in accounting from SWCC can prepare you for an entry-level career at a private business or accounting firm or in government. The program equips you with the skills necessary to work in bookkeeping, in accounting, or as an auditing assistant. You'll learn all about the basic principles of accounting and how to apply them.
Why Attend SWCC
- Fundamental Courses: To earn your associate degree, you'll need to take courses like principles of accounting, business law, introduction to computers, and statistics.
- Stackable Certificates: SWCC offers a business accounting certificate that can be completed in 4-6 months. This includes a total of 25 credits that can be applied to your associate degree in accounting.
- Learn the Essentials: When you complete your degree, you'll be able to prepare basic business and financial forms, understand accounting procedures, and accurately use accounting terminology.
Know Before You Go
- Entry-Level Career Prep: This degree will prepare you for entry-level accounting and finance jobs, which typically don't pay a ton. If you're interested in a higher-paying position, you'll likely need a bachelor's degree or higher.
- Set Start Times: Class schedules follow fall, spring, and summer semesters.
- Back-Loaded Program: The second year of this two-year program tends to have a few more classes worth more credits than the first year, but this can depend on your individual schedule.
N/A
N/A
74%
1,633
Public
Yes
$6,120
$6,330
Creston, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$6,120
$6,330
N/A
64%
N/A
N/A
74%
1,633
Public
Yes
Why SWCC Made Our List
An associate degree in accounting from SWCC can prepare you for an entry-level career at a private business or accounting firm or in government. The program equips you with the skills necessary to work in bookkeeping, in accounting, or as an auditing assistant. You'll learn all about the basic principles of accounting and how to apply them.
Why Attend SWCC
- Fundamental Courses: To earn your associate degree, you'll need to take courses like principles of accounting, business law, introduction to computers, and statistics.
- Stackable Certificates: SWCC offers a business accounting certificate that can be completed in 4-6 months. This includes a total of 25 credits that can be applied to your associate degree in accounting.
- Learn the Essentials: When you complete your degree, you'll be able to prepare basic business and financial forms, understand accounting procedures, and accurately use accounting terminology.
Know Before You Go
- Entry-Level Career Prep: This degree will prepare you for entry-level accounting and finance jobs, which typically don't pay a ton. If you're interested in a higher-paying position, you'll likely need a bachelor's degree or higher.
- Set Start Times: Class schedules follow fall, spring, and summer semesters.
- Back-Loaded Program: The second year of this two-year program tends to have a few more classes worth more credits than the first year, but this can depend on your individual schedule.
Vance-Granville Community College
Henderson, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$1,824
$6,432
N/A
88%
Why VGCC Made Our List
VGCC's online associate accounting program will teach you the basics of accounting, business, and computers. You'll also take classes in written communication, such as technical writing and business communication, and get the opportunity to take a class on basic marketing principles. The diverse class selection prepares students to be well-rounded accounting professionals.
Why Attend VGCC
- Emphasis on Work-Based Learning: The final semester of your program will emphasize a work-based learning experience. You'll work and learn under a VGCC-approved employer in a role relevant to your studies.
- Lower Price: VGCC is one of the most affordable schools on our list, with an average annual net price of just over $5,000. The accounting program specifically costs $76 per credit for in-state students and $268 per credit for out-of-state students.
Know Before You Go
- Required Credits: The total number of semester credits required for the accounting associate degree is 69. VGCC predicts that if you take 17-18 credits a semester, you'll earn your degree in two years.
- No Online Student Discount: While some schools offer lower tuition rates for fully online students, VGCC charges the same per-credit rates for students taking courses online or in person.
N/A
N/A
71%
2,841
Public
Yes
$1,824
$6,432
Henderson, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$1,824
$6,432
N/A
88%
N/A
N/A
71%
2,841
Public
Yes
Why VGCC Made Our List
VGCC's online associate accounting program will teach you the basics of accounting, business, and computers. You'll also take classes in written communication, such as technical writing and business communication, and get the opportunity to take a class on basic marketing principles. The diverse class selection prepares students to be well-rounded accounting professionals.
Why Attend VGCC
- Emphasis on Work-Based Learning: The final semester of your program will emphasize a work-based learning experience. You'll work and learn under a VGCC-approved employer in a role relevant to your studies.
- Lower Price: VGCC is one of the most affordable schools on our list, with an average annual net price of just over $5,000. The accounting program specifically costs $76 per credit for in-state students and $268 per credit for out-of-state students.
Know Before You Go
- Required Credits: The total number of semester credits required for the accounting associate degree is 69. VGCC predicts that if you take 17-18 credits a semester, you'll earn your degree in two years.
- No Online Student Discount: While some schools offer lower tuition rates for fully online students, VGCC charges the same per-credit rates for students taking courses online or in person.
Fox Valley Technical College
Appleton, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,386
$6,579
68%
31%
Why FVTC Made Our List
FVTC's online AAS in accounting not only teaches you how to prepare and read financial reports, but also helps you hone your computer skills, including Microsoft Excel. You'll learn how to handle business transactions, track expenses, and manage financial decisions. This degree can prepare you for a career as a tax preparer, payroll accountant, cost accountant, or accounting associate.
Why Attend FVTC
- Strong Graduation Rate: FVTC's graduation rate is 61%, the highest of the colleges on our list.
- High Employment Rate: 93% of associate in accounting program graduates are employed just six months after graduation, earning an average annual salary of $46,100 as of 2023.
- Summer Terms: FVTC has summer, fall, and spring terms, allowing you to take summer classes and possibly earn your degree faster.
Know Before You Go
- Large Online Student Presence: FVTC enrolls over 3,400 online students across its 25 online associate degree programs.
- Application Requirements: The accounting program requires you to complete an academic skills assessment; have a high school GPA of at least 2.75; and have a high school diploma, GED certificate, or proof of an associate degree.
- Extra Costs: FVTC estimates that additional materials and supplies for this program will cost $105.
N/A
N/A
68%
10,995
Public
Yes
$4,386
$6,579
Appleton, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,386
$6,579
68%
31%
N/A
N/A
68%
10,995
Public
Yes
Why FVTC Made Our List
FVTC's online AAS in accounting not only teaches you how to prepare and read financial reports, but also helps you hone your computer skills, including Microsoft Excel. You'll learn how to handle business transactions, track expenses, and manage financial decisions. This degree can prepare you for a career as a tax preparer, payroll accountant, cost accountant, or accounting associate.
Why Attend FVTC
- Strong Graduation Rate: FVTC's graduation rate is 61%, the highest of the colleges on our list.
- High Employment Rate: 93% of associate in accounting program graduates are employed just six months after graduation, earning an average annual salary of $46,100 as of 2023.
- Summer Terms: FVTC has summer, fall, and spring terms, allowing you to take summer classes and possibly earn your degree faster.
Know Before You Go
- Large Online Student Presence: FVTC enrolls over 3,400 online students across its 25 online associate degree programs.
- Application Requirements: The accounting program requires you to complete an academic skills assessment; have a high school GPA of at least 2.75; and have a high school diploma, GED certificate, or proof of an associate degree.
- Extra Costs: FVTC estimates that additional materials and supplies for this program will cost $105.
Brunswick Community College
Bolivia, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
90%
Why BCC Made Our List
BCC's associate degree in accounting and finance can prepare you for entry-level jobs at accounting firms, small businesses, banks, hospitals, and school districts. The program not only includes classes on financial planning, computer skills, and marketing, but also covers communication and critical thinking skills.
Why Attend BCC
- Articulation Agreement: BCC has an articulation agreement with Western Carolina University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. This agreement allows BCC students who complete an associate degree in accounting to transfer to a four-year university.
- Certificate Option: BCC offers a 17-credit certificate in accounting that you can complete in just two semesters.
Know Before You Go
- Credit Requirements: The total number of credits required to complete the associate degree in accounting is 66. Most students take between 15 and 18 credits a semester.
- Tech Resources: Computers are available for use on campus and are available for rent through the library.
N/A
N/A
65%
1,845
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Bolivia, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
90%
N/A
N/A
65%
1,845
Public
Yes
Why BCC Made Our List
BCC's associate degree in accounting and finance can prepare you for entry-level jobs at accounting firms, small businesses, banks, hospitals, and school districts. The program not only includes classes on financial planning, computer skills, and marketing, but also covers communication and critical thinking skills.
Why Attend BCC
- Articulation Agreement: BCC has an articulation agreement with Western Carolina University and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. This agreement allows BCC students who complete an associate degree in accounting to transfer to a four-year university.
- Certificate Option: BCC offers a 17-credit certificate in accounting that you can complete in just two semesters.
Know Before You Go
- Credit Requirements: The total number of credits required to complete the associate degree in accounting is 66. Most students take between 15 and 18 credits a semester.
- Tech Resources: Computers are available for use on campus and are available for rent through the library.
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
Fennimore, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,386
$6,579
N/A
35%
Why Southwest Tech Made Our List
Southwest Tech's online associate degree in accounting can prepare you for a junior accounting role at an accounting firm, in local government, or at a small business. The college provides students with an advisor to discuss their career goals and craft a student success plan. This accounting program is a good fit for those who work well under pressure, can meet deadlines, are detail-oriented, and are highly organized.
Why Attend Southwest Tech
- Transfer to University: Southwest Tech has transfer agreements with 10 regional universities, meaning you can transfer your accounting credits to a four-year university if you wish to continue your education.
- Minimum Two Years: The associate degree at Southwest Tech requires a minimum of two years to complete. That said, the school does offer credit for prior-learning assessments. Accounting program classes start each year in August and January.
Know Before You Go
- Background in Mathematics: A background in consumer math, accounting, and/or computer skills can help set you up for success in this program.
- Tuition Costs: Southwest Tech estimates the total cost of tuition for its accounting degree to be $10,860 for in-state students. Students are eligible for financial aid, such as grants and scholarships.
N/A
N/A
72%
2,717
Public
Yes
$4,386
$6,579
Fennimore, WI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,386
$6,579
N/A
35%
N/A
N/A
72%
2,717
Public
Yes
Why Southwest Tech Made Our List
Southwest Tech's online associate degree in accounting can prepare you for a junior accounting role at an accounting firm, in local government, or at a small business. The college provides students with an advisor to discuss their career goals and craft a student success plan. This accounting program is a good fit for those who work well under pressure, can meet deadlines, are detail-oriented, and are highly organized.
Why Attend Southwest Tech
- Transfer to University: Southwest Tech has transfer agreements with 10 regional universities, meaning you can transfer your accounting credits to a four-year university if you wish to continue your education.
- Minimum Two Years: The associate degree at Southwest Tech requires a minimum of two years to complete. That said, the school does offer credit for prior-learning assessments. Accounting program classes start each year in August and January.
Know Before You Go
- Background in Mathematics: A background in consumer math, accounting, and/or computer skills can help set you up for success in this program.
- Tuition Costs: Southwest Tech estimates the total cost of tuition for its accounting degree to be $10,860 for in-state students. Students are eligible for financial aid, such as grants and scholarships.
Southwestern Community College
Sylva, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$5,472
$19,296
N/A
58%
Why SCC Made Our List
An accounting associate degree from SCC is a good fit for students who are good with numbers, able to balance a budget, and interested in an entry-level accounting or finance position. In this program, you can study business law, computer skills, financial planning, marketing, real estate, and taxation. These classes prepare you to work in a variety of settings, such as small businesses, manufacturing firms, banks, and hospitals.
Why Attend SCC
- Certificate Options Available: SCC offers certificates in payroll accounting for 15 credits and in tax accounting for 16 credits. A certificate can help you further specialize your program in a particular niche.
- Transfer Agreements: SCC's accounting program has transfer agreements with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Western Carolina University. Students can transfer their credits to go on to complete a bachelor's degree.
Know Before You Go
- Summer Classes Required: This program may require you to take classes over the summer, potentially up to nine credits.
- Cost of Tuition: The accounting degree requires 70 credits to complete. Total tuition costs $5,168, and the total cost including fees and supplies is estimated to be $8,514 as of 2025.
N/A
N/A
70%
2,109
Public
Yes
$5,472
$19,296
Sylva, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$5,472
$19,296
N/A
58%
N/A
N/A
70%
2,109
Public
Yes
Why SCC Made Our List
An accounting associate degree from SCC is a good fit for students who are good with numbers, able to balance a budget, and interested in an entry-level accounting or finance position. In this program, you can study business law, computer skills, financial planning, marketing, real estate, and taxation. These classes prepare you to work in a variety of settings, such as small businesses, manufacturing firms, banks, and hospitals.
Why Attend SCC
- Certificate Options Available: SCC offers certificates in payroll accounting for 15 credits and in tax accounting for 16 credits. A certificate can help you further specialize your program in a particular niche.
- Transfer Agreements: SCC's accounting program has transfer agreements with the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and Western Carolina University. Students can transfer their credits to go on to complete a bachelor's degree.
Know Before You Go
- Summer Classes Required: This program may require you to take classes over the summer, potentially up to nine credits.
- Cost of Tuition: The accounting degree requires 70 credits to complete. Total tuition costs $5,168, and the total cost including fees and supplies is estimated to be $8,514 as of 2025.
Iowa Central Community College
Fort Dodge, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$4,800
$7,092
N/A
30%
Why ICCC Made Our List
ICCC's online AAS in accounting is a good choice for people who are interested in working with people, have strong problem-solving skills, and are highly motivated. Classes here are hands-on and emphasize active learning. Students complete the program with on-the-job training in an accounting-related position with an employer.
Why Attend ICCC
- Prepare for Employment: ICCC's accounting program has a practicum component meant to help prepare you for a job as a billing specialist, bookkeeper, cash manager, junior accountant, or payroll clerk.
- Learn Computer Skills: You'll get training in key programs like Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, Taxcut, QuickBooks Pro, Peachtree, and Payroll Integrated Software.
Know Before You Go
- Technology Requirements: All online students need a laptop or desktop computer with Windows 10 or higher or macOS, access to a web camera, Chrome or Firefox software, 50GB or higher of free hard drive space, and a minimum of 4GB of RAM.
- Flexibility for Working Adults: To earn your accounting associate degree from ICCC, you'll need to complete 66 credits. You can enroll starting in the fall or spring semester. The program offers night classes for working adults as well.
N/A
N/A
52%
4,909
Public
Yes
$4,800
$7,092
Fort Dodge, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$4,800
$7,092
N/A
30%
N/A
N/A
52%
4,909
Public
Yes
Why ICCC Made Our List
ICCC's online AAS in accounting is a good choice for people who are interested in working with people, have strong problem-solving skills, and are highly motivated. Classes here are hands-on and emphasize active learning. Students complete the program with on-the-job training in an accounting-related position with an employer.
Why Attend ICCC
- Prepare for Employment: ICCC's accounting program has a practicum component meant to help prepare you for a job as a billing specialist, bookkeeper, cash manager, junior accountant, or payroll clerk.
- Learn Computer Skills: You'll get training in key programs like Microsoft Word, Microsoft Access, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Excel, Taxcut, QuickBooks Pro, Peachtree, and Payroll Integrated Software.
Know Before You Go
- Technology Requirements: All online students need a laptop or desktop computer with Windows 10 or higher or macOS, access to a web camera, Chrome or Firefox software, 50GB or higher of free hard drive space, and a minimum of 4GB of RAM.
- Flexibility for Working Adults: To earn your accounting associate degree from ICCC, you'll need to complete 66 credits. You can enroll starting in the fall or spring semester. The program offers night classes for working adults as well.
Northeast Iowa Community College
Calmar, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$5,850
$6,720
100%
45%
Why NICC Made Our List
NICC's online accounting specialist degree aims to prepare you for employment right after graduation. The program will teach you professionalism, ethics, critical thinking, and communication skills. Courses cover the fundamentals of accounting processes and procedures, and you'll get to learn through work-based simulations using accounting software.
Why Attend NICC
- Three Terms per Year: NICC's AAS in accounting takes 65 credits or 24 months to complete. You can begin your program in the summer, fall, or spring.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: The cost of tuition and fees is $14,918 for in-state and $17,063 for out-of-state students. However, financial aid is available, including the Kibbie Grant, Last-Dollar Scholarship, NICC Scholarship, and Vo-Tech Grant.
Know Before You Go
- Admission Requirements: Applicants must submit high school transcripts or high school equivalency and any college transcripts. Additionally, you must take reading, writing, and math assessments (though these tests can be waived based on previous college coursework or standardized test scores).
- Student Organization Opportunities: NICC students can join the Business Professionals of America organization, allowing you to network more easily with accounting professionals.
N/A
N/A
56%
4,378
Public
Yes
$5,850
$6,720
Calmar, IA2 yearCampus + Online
$5,850
$6,720
100%
45%
N/A
N/A
56%
4,378
Public
Yes
Why NICC Made Our List
NICC's online accounting specialist degree aims to prepare you for employment right after graduation. The program will teach you professionalism, ethics, critical thinking, and communication skills. Courses cover the fundamentals of accounting processes and procedures, and you'll get to learn through work-based simulations using accounting software.
Why Attend NICC
- Three Terms per Year: NICC's AAS in accounting takes 65 credits or 24 months to complete. You can begin your program in the summer, fall, or spring.
- Financial Aid Opportunities: The cost of tuition and fees is $14,918 for in-state and $17,063 for out-of-state students. However, financial aid is available, including the Kibbie Grant, Last-Dollar Scholarship, NICC Scholarship, and Vo-Tech Grant.
Know Before You Go
- Admission Requirements: Applicants must submit high school transcripts or high school equivalency and any college transcripts. Additionally, you must take reading, writing, and math assessments (though these tests can be waived based on previous college coursework or standardized test scores).
- Student Organization Opportunities: NICC students can join the Business Professionals of America organization, allowing you to network more easily with accounting professionals.
Sauk Valley Community College
Dixon, IL2 yearCampus + Online
$10,800
$12,060
N/A
52%
Why SVCC Made Our List
The fully online accounting degree at SVCC emphasizes financial record-keeping and the preparation and analysis of financial reports. The program prepares you for an entry-level accounting positions at industrial enterprises, public accounting firms, private businesses, and government agencies.
Why Attend SVCC
- Get Credit for Prior Learning: SVCC students can earn credit toward their associate degree if they have experience in the armed services or have met certain score thresholds on proficiency exams, CLEP and Dantes tests, or Advanced Placement tests.
- Easy to Continue Education: Associate in accounting students who wish to earn a bachelor's degree or become a CPA can follow SVCC's AA business transfer program guidelines.
Know Before You Go
- Higher Cost: The total tuition and fees for this program can range between $11,000 and $27,000, depending on whether you're a state resident, making it one of the pricier programs on our list.
- Online Student Services: Student services are available for online students, including financial aid counseling, academic support, and assistance with registration.
N/A
N/A
72%
1,433
Public
Yes
$10,800
$12,060
Dixon, IL2 yearCampus + Online
$10,800
$12,060
N/A
52%
N/A
N/A
72%
1,433
Public
Yes
Why SVCC Made Our List
The fully online accounting degree at SVCC emphasizes financial record-keeping and the preparation and analysis of financial reports. The program prepares you for an entry-level accounting positions at industrial enterprises, public accounting firms, private businesses, and government agencies.
Why Attend SVCC
- Get Credit for Prior Learning: SVCC students can earn credit toward their associate degree if they have experience in the armed services or have met certain score thresholds on proficiency exams, CLEP and Dantes tests, or Advanced Placement tests.
- Easy to Continue Education: Associate in accounting students who wish to earn a bachelor's degree or become a CPA can follow SVCC's AA business transfer program guidelines.
Know Before You Go
- Higher Cost: The total tuition and fees for this program can range between $11,000 and $27,000, depending on whether you're a state resident, making it one of the pricier programs on our list.
- Online Student Services: Student services are available for online students, including financial aid counseling, academic support, and assistance with registration.
Helena College University of Montana
Helena, MT2 yearCampus + Online
$2,792
$9,394
87%
45%
Why Helena College Made Our List
The Helena College accounting associate degree can be completed online or in a hybrid format. What's more, all academic resources, including tutoring and tech help, are offered in both online and in-person formats. This 60-credit degree can be completed in two years. You'll take classes like principles of managerial accounting, principles of financial accounting, and income tax fundamentals.
Why Attend Helena College
- Financial Aid: Helena College offers financial aid, like scholarships, as well as support and resources for students applying for financial aid.
- Certificate: In addition to an associate degree in accounting, you can earn a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) in bookkeeping in two semesters. The CAS makes up the first half of the associate in accounting program and requires 30 credits.
Know Before You Go
- Low Graduation Rate: The graduation rate at Helena College is the lowest of the schools on our list, meaning students may find it challenging to earn their degrees here.
- Small Online Enrollment: Compared to other schools on our list, Helena College has a smaller population of students enrolled online, so you'll have fewer peers to engage with.
N/A
N/A
58%
1,485
Public
Yes
$2,792
$9,394
Helena, MT2 yearCampus + Online
$2,792
$9,394
87%
45%
N/A
N/A
58%
1,485
Public
Yes
Why Helena College Made Our List
The Helena College accounting associate degree can be completed online or in a hybrid format. What's more, all academic resources, including tutoring and tech help, are offered in both online and in-person formats. This 60-credit degree can be completed in two years. You'll take classes like principles of managerial accounting, principles of financial accounting, and income tax fundamentals.
Why Attend Helena College
- Financial Aid: Helena College offers financial aid, like scholarships, as well as support and resources for students applying for financial aid.
- Certificate: In addition to an associate degree in accounting, you can earn a Certificate of Applied Science (CAS) in bookkeeping in two semesters. The CAS makes up the first half of the associate in accounting program and requires 30 credits.
Know Before You Go
- Low Graduation Rate: The graduation rate at Helena College is the lowest of the schools on our list, meaning students may find it challenging to earn their degrees here.
- Small Online Enrollment: Compared to other schools on our list, Helena College has a smaller population of students enrolled online, so you'll have fewer peers to engage with.
Is an Online Accounting Associate Degree Right for You?
Pros
According to our 2024 BestColleges Online Education Trends Report, 95% of online associate degree students and graduates surveyed say they would recommend online education to others.- Compared to bachelor’s programs, online associate in accounting programs take just two years to complete, letting you enter the workforce more quickly and save money on tuition.
- Once you earn an associate in accounting, you can enroll in a bachelor’s in accounting program to become a full-fledged accountant or prepare for more advanced roles.
Cons
While earning your associate in accounting degree, you might find the coursework challenging, especially if you struggle with math and quantitative analysis.- You might get stuck in an entry-level role with little to no room for career growth unless you pursue further education, like a bachelor’s in accounting.
- Since most high-level accounting careers require at least a bachelor’s degree, you’ll likely be limited to lower-paying roles with fewer responsibilities and more monotonous or repetitive tasks, such as bookkeeping and data entry.
How to Choose the Best Associate in Accounting Online Program for You
Before you apply, carefully consider the length and cost of your online associate in accounting program. Also, think hard about what jobs you can get with this degree. This will ensure you choose an accounting program that best meets your needs.
Cost of an Accounting Associate Degree
Online
$3,461 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$1,880 Avg. Price After Grants & Scholarships
On-Campus
$3,145 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$1,733 Avg. Price After Grants & Scholarships
Source: NCES PowerStats; latest data is from 2019-2020 and is for associate degrees in all business subjects, including accounting
- Business Scholarships: You can reduce the cost of business school, including online accounting associate degree programs, by applying for scholarships designed for business, management, and accounting students.
- Scholarships for Community College Students: These awards, which you don’t have to repay, can cover some or all of your tuition and fees for your associate in accounting program.
- Online Student Scholarships: Search for scholarships designed for students in online programs.
- Free Application for Federal Student Aid: Be sure to fill out the FAFSA each year you’re in school to see if you qualify for grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
- Student Loans: Student loans are a common way to cover the cost of college. Keep in mind that you’ll have to repay these over time — with interest.
Associate in Accounting Program Length
Typical # of Credits
60 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
Associate in Accounting Application Requirements
High School or GED Diploma: You’ll need a high school or GED diploma to get into a community college or any two-year online associate program in accounting.- Official Transcripts: You must also submit transcripts from all schools you’ve attended, including high school and any colleges or universities you enrolled in (even if you didn’t graduate).
- Minimum GPA: Your transcripts should generally show a GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0.
Accreditation for Accounting Associate Degrees
As you research online accounting associate degree programs, look for programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
ACBSP accreditation means the associate in accounting program has fulfilled strict requirements to provide students with a high-quality education and legitimate degrees.
Jobs With an Associate in Accounting Degree
| Job | Avg. Hourly Pay | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Accounting Clerk | $19 (Apr. 2025) | Develops and updates financial records to support an organization’s financial operations |
| Accounts Payable Clerk | $19 (Apr. 2025) | Performs daily financial transactions, processes incoming payments, and prepares bills and invoices for an organization |
| Billing Specialist | $20 (Apr. 2025) | Generates invoices and collects payments to ensure an organization maintains accurate billing records |
| Bookkeeper | $20 (Apr. 2025) | Oversees an organization’s billing processes by managing patient accounts, creating invoices and claims, and solving billing issues |
| Payroll Assistant | $20 (Feb. 2025) | Reviews time sheets, files documents, and performs data entry tasks to ensure employees are paid accurately and on time |
Source: Payscale
Education Beyond an Accounting Associate Degree
- Bachelor’s in Accounting: You’ll need a bachelor’s degree to become a certified public accountant (CPA). An accounting bachelor’s can also prepare you for roles like financial analyst, risk analyst, cost accountant, and financial advisor.
- Accounting Certifications: Enhance your skills and resume by earning optional certifications. The QuickBooks certification, for example, demonstrates your mastery of a popular accounting software, opening you up to roles like tax preparer and business accounting specialist. You can also earn the CPA, CIA, CMA, and CME certifications, among many others, to find higher-paying accounting opportunities.
- Master’s in Accounting: A master’s in accounting can prepare you for leadership roles such as forensic accountant, accounting manager, compliance risk manager, corporate controller, and director of accounting.
Ask An Expert: Frequently Asked Questions About Online Accounting Associate Degrees
Colin Smith is a certified public accountant and financial reporting consultant with over 16 years of experience advising public and private companies on a range of complex accounting projects. After spending 10+ years in Big 4 firms and working in public accounting, Colin started his own consulting practice. He also runs an accounting blog where he helps students and young professionals navigate their careers and the challenges of passing the CPA exam.
It depends on your goals. If you’re just looking for an entry-level role and are OK with a limited path to promotion, an associate degree may be just fine. If you’re seeking steady career progression and access to the higher income levels in the accounting field, then a bachelor’s degree is the way to go.
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