Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Accountants need specialized training to enter the workplace or earn CPA licensure. We make it easier to choose one of the nation's best bachelor's in accounting.
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Updated on September 28, 2023
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Accountants manage corporate taxes, oversee finance departments, and serve as financial sleuths for federal investigative agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors earned a median annual wage of $77,250 in May 2021. Besides typical accounting, you can use the same skills to serve as a cost estimator, budget analyst, or auditor.

An accounting degree can lead to stable, lucrative careers in respected industries. Universities offer online accounting degrees at the two-year, four-year, graduate, and doctoral levels. At the undergraduate level, accounting majors learn the skills, techniques, and tools required to manage financial information. Graduate students may specialize in a subfield of accounting or do groundbreaking research in the field.

One of the most useful degrees is the MBA in accounting, which blends traditional business education with accounting-specific knowledge and skills. Use this guide to learn more about this degree and other online accounting programs.

Why Accounting? Benefits of an Online Accounting Degree

  • Check Circle

    Accounting is a dynamic field suitable for anyone with a knack for numbers.

    Graduates can pursue many career paths, most of which are quite lucrative. The median pay for accountants in 2021 was $77,250, according to the BLS.
  • Check Circle

    In certain industries, accounting majors have particularly high earning potential.

    For example, the top-paying industry for accountants in 2022 was media streaming distribution services, social networks, and other media networks and content providers, with workers earning an average salary of $144,780. Other top industries include drinking places and computer and peripheral manufacturing.
  • Check Circle

    Accounting is a stable career that is relatively recession-proof.

    The BLS projects 6% job growth for accountants from 2021-2031. The financial manager role is projected to grow by 17%, with these workers earning a median pay of $131,710 in 2021.

Featured Online Accounting Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Accounting Programs 2023

Rankings compiled by the BestColleges Ranking Team

These rankings were compiled by our BestColleges Ranking Team and include sponsored results from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

These rankings were compiled by our BestColleges Ranking Team and include BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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#1 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

University of Arkansas at Little Rock

  • Little Rock, AR
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $280

Out of State | $280

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

The online bachelor's in accounting at UA Little Rock prepares students for certified public accountant (CPA) licensure. Learners complete general education and business administration classes. Students explore federal taxation and cost and managerial accounting. Enrollees also study auditing theory and practice.

The program fulfills the requirements to sit for Arkansas' CPA exam. Learners who successfully pass the exam must complete an additional 150 semester hours for licensure. Admission requires a minimum 2.25 GPA and college algebra and composition courses.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,495
Out-of-state
$18,750
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,760
Out-of-state
$13,050
Retention Rate
66%
Admission Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
9,581
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Franklin University

  • Columbus, OH
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $398

Out of State | $398

Credits to Graduate

124

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education

Franklin's online bachelor's in accounting program serves nontraditional learners. Students complete general education coursework in various subjects. The program covers foundational accounting knowledge for students new to the field. 

Enrollees develop advanced accounting skills in areas such as auditing and accounting information systems. Students apply their knowledge during an accounting research and analysis capstone. 

Learners can transfer up to 94 credits. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,552
Out-of-state
$9,552
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,080
Out-of-state
$16,080
Retention Rate
47%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,031
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
80% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Brenau University

  • Gainesville, GA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $690

Out of State | $690

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Brenau's online bachelor's in accounting program provides a strong foundation in business administration. Coursework prepares enrollees to sit for the Certified Public Accountant Exam. Learners study accounting principles such as cost accounting and taxation.

Enrollees also learn how to conduct fraud examinations. A course focuses on standards for auditing and assurance services. The program prepares learners for Brenau's MBA or master of accountancy program. First-year applicants need a minimum 2.75 GPA. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$29,370
Out-of-state
$29,370
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,834
Out-of-state
$12,834
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
2,817
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $390-$455

Out of State | $390-$455

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Students can complete Liberty's online bachelor's in accounting program in 3.5 years. Coursework covers financial accounting and financial statement analysis. Students learn how to use accounting information systems. 

Enrollees explore aspects of business operations such as marketing and business law. Degree-seekers can use up to 21 credits in free electives to pursue training in other areas. 

Students can transfer up to 90 credits. 

Free electronic textbooks save students money. Eight start dates provide enrollment flexibility. Applicants need a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Southern Utah University

  • Cedar City, UT
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $300

Out of State | $300

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

SUU's online bachelor's in accounting program prepares learners for auditing and managerial and financial accounting. Enrollees learn how to apply accounting information systems best practices in the workplace. 

Coursework covers general business topics such as business law and strategic management. SUU notes that almost 100% of accounting graduates find jobs right after graduation. Admission requires a minimum 2.5 GPA in pre-business foundation coursework.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,006
Out-of-state
$19,822
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,574
Out-of-state
$23,784
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
11,224
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
35% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#6 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

McKendree University

  • Lebanon, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $400

Out of State | $400

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education 

McK's online bachelor's in accounting program develops professionals with business administration and accounting expertise. Students learn how to prepare tax returns and present financial data. They explore auditing techniques and learn how to perform advanced financial accounting. A course focuses on business ethics and corporate social responsibility. 

The program helps students meet the requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountant Exam. Students can transfer up to 90 credits. Admission requires a high school or GED diploma. Transfer students need a minimum C grade on transfer credits. 

100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $400

Out of State | $400

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | International Accreditation Council for Business Education 

McK's online bachelor's in accounting program develops professionals with business administration and accounting expertise. Students learn how to prepare tax returns and present financial data. They explore auditing techniques and learn how to perform advanced financial accounting. A course focuses on business ethics and corporate social responsibility. 

The program helps students meet the requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountant Exam. Students can transfer up to 90 credits. Admission requires a high school or GED diploma. Transfer students need a minimum C grade on transfer credits.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,540
Out-of-state
$30,540
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,522
Out-of-state
$9,522
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
2,292
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Utica College

  • Utica, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $420

Out of State | $420

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Utica offers a 120-credit bachelor's in accounting degree. This fully online program requires limited general education coursework. Students learn foundational business skills such as marketing and technology management.

The major develops accounting expertise in auditing and cost management. All students learn how to prepare income tax returns. Students can use the degree as a stepping stone to certified public accountant certification. 

Degree-seekers can transfer up to 90 credits. First-year applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA. Transfer students need a minimum 2.5 GPA.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$21,560
Out-of-state
$21,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,480
Out-of-state
$21,480
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
4,947
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
61% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Ottawa University-Online

  • Ottawa, KS
  • 4 years
  • Online

 100% Online  | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $499

Out of State | $499

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

OU develops programs for nontraditional learners. The school's bachelor's in accounting program runs fully online. Students gain broad accounting skills through classes such as auditing and cost accounting. 

Students explore federal income tax laws and their implications for individuals and businesses. A course explains how to manage a company's finance and investing activities. Degree-seekers choose one of four concentrations: actuarial science, economics, finance, or leadership and management. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,976
Out-of-state
$11,976
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,430
Out-of-state
$11,430
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
261
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus

  • Portales, NM
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $170

Out of State | $255

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | No

Program Accreditation | Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs 

ENMU offers all business degrees online. The school's bachelor's in accounting program prepares learners for entry-level accounting careers and certified public accountant certification. The program includes both live and asynchronous classes.

Coursework covers various business areas, including marketing and finance. Enrollees study auditing, cost accounting, and tax return preparation. All students learn about accounting information systems theory. 

Online students receive tutoring support and access to the writing center. Applicants need a high school or GED diploma. ENMU requires SAT or ACT scores.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,996
Out-of-state
$5,994
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,044
Out-of-state
$9,342
Retention Rate
63%
Admission Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
5,685
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

Florida Atlantic University

  • Boca Raton, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

 100% Online | Scheduled Classes

Avg. Cost per Credit

In State | $203

Out of State | $722

Credits to Graduate

120

Program Information

Degree-Completion Program | Yes

Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

FAU's online bachelor's in accounting program builds on a required pre-business foundation. Students learn how to complete business administrative functions such as marketing and financial management. An accounting course teaches students money and banking principles. 

Enrollees learn the accounting applications of data analytics. Students can use elective credits to study business law or develop advanced taxation skills. 

Applicants need at least 60 credits and a minimum 2.5 GPA on the pre-business foundation. Prospective students must complete an accounting competency exam.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,522
Out-of-state
$14,374
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,467
Out-of-state
$16,695
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
30,061
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
49% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

What Can I Expect From an Online Accounting Degree?

Online bachelor's in accounting programs often appeal to students with strong math and analytical skills. However, the field requires communication and organizational skills as well. An online bachelor's degree typically requires learners to complete 120 credits over four years.

Some online accounting programs deliver coursework asynchronously, which allows learners to study during the hours that suit them best. Online students may still need to complete practical components, such as practica or internships. Distance learners can often meet these requirements at approved sites in their communities.

Undergraduate accounting programs usually award bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees. Humanities-focused BA degrees may lead to more interdisciplinary careers, whereas BS degrees focus more on business and accounting management. Some BS programs offer additional credits that can contribute to the requirements needed to become a certified public accountant (CPA).

While degree type may influence their eventual career paths, students can often choose concentrations in areas like management and financial, forensic, and tax accounting. Concentrations can lead to specific employment opportunities and certifications after graduation.

What Are the Online Accounting Courses I Will Take?

  • Minus

    Accounting Ethics

    This course examines professional standards and ethical frameworks for accountants. Coursework may look at common dilemmas in the field and how accountants can apply professional principles to manage difficult situations.
  • Minus

    Managerial Accounting

    This course teaches students how to use financial information and planning to make better managerial decisions. Learners look at ways of applying these lessons and activity-based management tools to costing, budgeting, and estimating.
  • Minus

    Auditing

    In this class, learners examine the processes and reasons for auditing financial statements. They also learn about auditors' legal and ethical responsibilities, how to plan an audit, and how to communicate its findings.
  • Minus

    Taxation

    Students in this course learn about accounting for income taxes and how to handle taxes on corporate financial statements. They learn best practices for tax planning and gain an understanding of disclosures and compliance requirements.
  • Minus

    Business Law

    In business law courses, students learn common legal terminology and processes. Covered topics may include employment, corporate, and sale, and consumer protection laws.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Accounting Program?

Admission requirements vary by school and program, but prospective students can still get a general idea of what to expect. For example, many schools require students to possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and a strong GPA. The following section details some other common requirements.

Application

The typical undergraduate application requires prospective students to include their personal information and pay a processing fee. Applicants can submit their applications individually through a school website or apply to multiple schools through The Common Application, typically known as the Common App.

Test Scores

Students' college entrance exam scores can indicate their preparedness for higher education. While many schools have suspended test score requirements because of COVID-19, prospective accounting students may still need to submit ACT or SAT scores. When required, strong scores usually lead to higher acceptance rates.

Letters of Recommendation

Most colleges require up to three letters of recommendation from former teachers or employers who can speak to the applicant's program readiness. These letters allow schools to gain professional insight into the student's past experiences and qualifications.

Essays

College application essays give prospective students room to discuss their personal journeys and reasons for applying to a program. Most applications request personal essays, which give the applicant freedom to write on any topic. However, some accounting programs may ask specific questions about the field.

Official Transcripts

Official transcripts highlight the applicant's prior studies. Transcripts may help schools identify a student's readiness, prerequisites, and outstanding courses. Transcripts can also lead to transfer credit.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degree?

Career Outlook

Graduates with bachelor's degrees in accounting can look forward to a promising job outlook. The BLS projects 6% growth for accountants and auditors between 2021 and 2031, roughly on par with the rate for all occupations.

Like many of the most popular college majors, accounting offers great career flexibility. In addition to accounting positions, graduates can pursue various business and finance careers. Possible industries include business management and government.

Financially, accounting graduates often perform well. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for accountants and auditors was $77,250 in May 2021. The highest 10% of earners in the field made more than $128,970.

See where a bachelor's degree in accounting can take you. Learn more about accounting careers.

Career Paths

Financial Manager


Financial managers supervise the financial activities of an organization, looking for ways to improve financial health and meet goals. They may manage budgeting, planning, and legal requirements. They also use financial information to make decisions, manage risk, and seek future opportunities.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $131,710

Budget Analyst


Budget analysts work with organizations to develop and review budgets. They may help consolidate, check for compliance issues, optimize spending, and analyze proposals. They also break down funding requests, provide budget forecasts, and offer alternatives or adjustments.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $79,940

Financial Analyst


Financial analysts help people and organizations improve their financial decisions. They may look at investment opportunities, study spending habits, review performance indicators, or evaluate financial statements to gather information. They then present reports and plans for the future, along with risk assessments and financial strategies.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $95,570

Cost Estimator


These professionals specialize in estimating the costs of projects, including labor, materials, and time. They often work in specific industries and collaborate with engineers and manufacturing managers to create the most accurate estimates.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $65,170

Tax Examiners and Collectors


Tax examiners review tax returns and perform audits to determine the amount of taxes owed by individuals and organizations. They ensure tax returns follow the law and regulations, investigating any issues they identify.

Median Annual Salary (May 2021): $56,780

Continuing Education

Many graduates with online bachelor's degrees in accounting continue their education for various reasons. Some wish to pursue CPA certification, which requires more credits than the typical bachelor's degree provides. These learners may look at online graduate certificates to complete requirements.

Others may choose to pursue a graduate degree, such as an online master's in forensic accounting or even an online doctoral degree in accounting. Accounting graduates might also move into a business-related program to pursue an online MBA or business certificate.

Featured Online Accounting Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Common Questions About Bachelor's in Accounting Programs

How hard is a bachelor of accounting program?

An accounting major requires several upper-level math courses, which some students may find difficult. However, if you have met the admissions requirements, you know how to manage your time, and you employ your best study skills, you can succeed in this major.

Is an accounting major harder than a finance major?

The difficulty of each major varies based on personal preferences and strengths. Both accounting and finance require a solid foundation in mathematics and analytical thinking. Accounting, however, may be perceived as more rule-based and technical, while finance can involve a deeper understanding of economic concepts and a broader view of financial markets.

Is a bachelor's degree in accounting enough?

A bachelor's degree in accounting can help you land a job as an accountant, auditor, analyst, or estimator. You may, however, need a master's degree to become a certified public accountant (CPA).

Which major pays more: accounting or finance?

According to Payscale, a bachelor's degree in accounting brings in an average of $82,000 per year while those with a bachelor's in finance earn an average of $72,000 annually.

How We Rank Schools

Each year, the BestColleges Ranking Team evaluates hundreds of online programs to produce our annual Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting ranking. In 2022, the team sourced the most recent data available from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Navigator, both of which are hosted by the National Center for Education Statistics. We identified 243 schools that qualify for our ranking list based on the following criteria.

  • Each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution.
  • Must offer an online bachelor's degree program in the given subject.
  • Must submit an annual report to the National Center for Education Statistics.

To ensure the accuracy and quality of our final ranked list, the ranking team reviewed each qualifying school to ensure it met the criteria for our ranking and then applied our proprietary ranking methodology to identify the best online schools offering this program in the nation. Each school is ranked based on a formula measuring academic factors (50%), affordability (25%), and the availability and popularity of online programs (25%).

The BestColleges Ranking Team is made up of contributors from our data science and product management teams. These contributors operate independently from the editorial team. All BestColleges school rankings are produced by the ranking team and are free of editorial influence. Read our Editorial Policy and Standards to learn more.

BestColleges' Ranking Factors

Academics (50% of total score)

  • Admissions Rate
  • Enrollment Rate
  • Full-Time Retention Rate
  • Graduation Rate
  • Number of Bachelor's Degree Graduates in the Given Subject

Affordability (25% of total score)

  • Average Net Price
  • Percentage of Enrolled Students Taking Federal Loans
  • Average Loan Default Rate

Online Programming (25% of total score)

  • Percentage of Bachelor's Degree Programs Offered Online
  • Percentage of Programs Offered at the Bachelor's Level
  • Percentage of Enrolled Students Taking Online Courses

BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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