Best Online Certificate in Accounting Programs of 2024
Discover the best online certificate in accounting programs of 2024. Launch your career in accounting with fast, specialized training.
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Certificate programs offer fast, specialized training for learners. An online accounting certificate can launch your career as a bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or financial clerk.
Many top-ranked schools offer online accounting programs. An undergraduate certificate program introduces learners to the accounting field and key accounting principles. Certificate programs provide focused accounting training for entry-level roles. After completing a certificate, distance learners can easily transfer into an online accounting degree program.
Earning an accounting certificate at the undergraduate level typically takes one year or less. Most certificate programs range from $1,000-$5,000 for in-state students. In comparison, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that the average cost of tuition and fees at an in-state public institution was $9,750 in 2022-2023. Our ranking introduces the best online certificate in accounting programs to help prospective students find the right fit for their budget, schedule, and career goals.
Best Accredited Online Certificate in Accounting Programs
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Delgado Community College
New Orleans, LA2 yearCampus + Online
$3,335
$3,335
N/A
76%
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $134
Out-of-State | $134
Credits to Graduate: 21 credits
From its campus in New Orleans, Louisiana, Delgado Community College offers affordable online programs. You can enroll in the online accounting certificate program to prepare for careers as an account clerk. The specialized program trains you to report financial information, use accounting software, and assist accountants.
You’ll take classes in payroll, QuickBooks, and business communications to strengthen career-focused skills. After completing the certificate, you can apply the 21 credits toward an associate degree or pursue entry-level roles in accounting or finance.
N/A
N/A
57%
12,139
Public
Yes
$3,335
$3,335
New Orleans, LA2 yearCampus + Online
$3,335
$3,335
N/A
76%
N/A
N/A
57%
12,139
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $134
Out-of-State | $134
Credits to Graduate: 21 credits
From its campus in New Orleans, Louisiana, Delgado Community College offers affordable online programs. You can enroll in the online accounting certificate program to prepare for careers as an account clerk. The specialized program trains you to report financial information, use accounting software, and assist accountants.
You’ll take classes in payroll, QuickBooks, and business communications to strengthen career-focused skills. After completing the certificate, you can apply the 21 credits toward an associate degree or pursue entry-level roles in accounting or finance.
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
Salisbury, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
82%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 14-18 credits
Located in North Carolina, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College extends its college resources, including advising and tutoring services, to distance learners. The public, two-year college also offers multiple accounting certificate programs. You can specialize your program by choosing a focus in government accounting, tax accounting, insurance, or accounting services.
During your program, you’ll take courses in financial accounting, managerial accounting, and courses in your focus area. For example, the tax accounting certificate includes classes in individual and business income taxing.
N/A
N/A
58%
6,716
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Salisbury, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
82%
N/A
N/A
58%
6,716
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 14-18 credits
Located in North Carolina, Rowan-Cabarrus Community College extends its college resources, including advising and tutoring services, to distance learners. The public, two-year college also offers multiple accounting certificate programs. You can specialize your program by choosing a focus in government accounting, tax accounting, insurance, or accounting services.
During your program, you’ll take courses in financial accounting, managerial accounting, and courses in your focus area. For example, the tax accounting certificate includes classes in individual and business income taxing.
Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$24,900
$24,900
78%
70%
Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $424
Out-of-State | $424
Credits to Graduate: 27 credits
Kentucky’s Campbellsville University, a private, Christian institution, offers several online certificates. Designed for accounting majors preparing for the CPA exam, the online accounting certificate helps learners meet the requirements to become a certified public accountant.
The program incorporates coursework in auditing and accounting, with a self-paced approach to studying. You’ll complete assignments on your schedule, with support from faculty. You can also customize your degree by choosing nine credits of electives, with options like cost accounting, federal taxation, and accounting information systems.
$8,473
$8,473
61%
10,238
Private
Yes
$24,900
$24,900
Campbellsville, KY4 yearCampus + Online
$24,900
$24,900
78%
70%
$8,473
$8,473
61%
10,238
Private
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $424
Out-of-State | $424
Credits to Graduate: 27 credits
Kentucky’s Campbellsville University, a private, Christian institution, offers several online certificates. Designed for accounting majors preparing for the CPA exam, the online accounting certificate helps learners meet the requirements to become a certified public accountant.
The program incorporates coursework in auditing and accounting, with a self-paced approach to studying. You’ll complete assignments on your schedule, with support from faculty. You can also customize your degree by choosing nine credits of electives, with options like cost accounting, federal taxation, and accounting information systems.
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Paducah, KY2 yearCampus + Online
$4,368
$15,288
N/A
49%
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $186
Out-of-State | $186
Credits to Graduate: 18 credits
A public college in Paducah, Kentucky, West Kentucky Community and Technical College offers affordable tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. You can choose from two accounting certificate programs, including an accounting certificate and a program for accounting recordkeeping specialists.
In the accounting certificate, you’ll study financial accounting and managerial accounting. Then, you can choose 12 credits to customize your degree, with options like personal finance, individual taxation, and financial management. The accounting recordkeeping specialist incorporates business and computing courses.
N/A
N/A
58%
4,869
Public
Yes
$4,368
$15,288
Paducah, KY2 yearCampus + Online
$4,368
$15,288
N/A
49%
N/A
N/A
58%
4,869
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $186
Out-of-State | $186
Credits to Graduate: 18 credits
A public college in Paducah, Kentucky, West Kentucky Community and Technical College offers affordable tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. You can choose from two accounting certificate programs, including an accounting certificate and a program for accounting recordkeeping specialists.
In the accounting certificate, you’ll study financial accounting and managerial accounting. Then, you can choose 12 credits to customize your degree, with options like personal finance, individual taxation, and financial management. The accounting recordkeeping specialist incorporates business and computing courses.
Wake Technical Community College
Raleigh, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
77%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 13 credits
North Carolina’s largest community college offers more than 100 online programs. Wake Technical Community College offers an eLearning Intro course to transition learners to the virtual classroom.
In the online accounting certificate program, you’ll take courses in financial accounting and payroll accounting. The program also incorporates training in accounting software programs and accounting spreadsheets. After completing the program, you’ll qualify for roles in payroll accounting and related fields. Or you can transfer the 13 credits toward an associate degree in accounting.
N/A
N/A
67%
21,299
Public
Yes
$2,432
$8,576
Raleigh, NC2 yearCampus + Online
$2,432
$8,576
N/A
77%
N/A
N/A
67%
21,299
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $76
Out-of-State | $268
Credits to Graduate: 13 credits
North Carolina’s largest community college offers more than 100 online programs. Wake Technical Community College offers an eLearning Intro course to transition learners to the virtual classroom.
In the online accounting certificate program, you’ll take courses in financial accounting and payroll accounting. The program also incorporates training in accounting software programs and accounting spreadsheets. After completing the program, you’ll qualify for roles in payroll accounting and related fields. Or you can transfer the 13 credits toward an associate degree in accounting.
Fletcher Technical Community College
Schriever, LA2 yearCampus + Online
$3,335
$3,335
N/A
78%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $134
Out-of-State | $134
Credits to Graduate: 24-36 credits
Fletcher Technical Community College offers affordable online programs from its Schriever, Louisiana campus. The accounting technology certificate prepares learners to record and report financial information. You’ll also strengthen bookkeeping skills while studying accounting principles and practices.
Choose from a 24-credit account clerk program or a 36-credit payroll clerk program. You’ll take courses in financial accounting, personal finance, and payroll accounting to strengthen your accounting skills. The program also charges an affordable flat tuition rate regardless of residency status.
N/A
N/A
58%
1,762
Public
Yes
$3,335
$3,335
Schriever, LA2 yearCampus + Online
$3,335
$3,335
N/A
78%
N/A
N/A
58%
1,762
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $134
Out-of-State | $134
Credits to Graduate: 24-36 credits
Fletcher Technical Community College offers affordable online programs from its Schriever, Louisiana campus. The accounting technology certificate prepares learners to record and report financial information. You’ll also strengthen bookkeeping skills while studying accounting principles and practices.
Choose from a 24-credit account clerk program or a 36-credit payroll clerk program. You’ll take courses in financial accounting, personal finance, and payroll accounting to strengthen your accounting skills. The program also charges an affordable flat tuition rate regardless of residency status.
Washtenaw Community College
Ann Arbor, MI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,056
$5,736
N/A
86%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-District | $112
Out-of-District | $128
Out-of-State | $139
Credits to Graduate: 17 credits
Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Washtenaw Community College dates back to 1965. The public college enrolls more than 18,000 students today. In the accounting for business certificate program, you’ll strengthen your accounting and office support skills. You can also apply your 17 accounting credits toward an associate degree.
During the program, you’ll study payroll accounting, spreadsheet software applications, and individual income taxes. The program also covers financial accounting and QuickBooks. With the certificate, you can become a bookkeeper or accounting clerk.
N/A
N/A
68%
10,884
Public
Yes
$4,056
$5,736
Ann Arbor, MI2 yearCampus + Online
$4,056
$5,736
N/A
86%
N/A
N/A
68%
10,884
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-District | $112
Out-of-District | $128
Out-of-State | $139
Credits to Graduate: 17 credits
Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Washtenaw Community College dates back to 1965. The public college enrolls more than 18,000 students today. In the accounting for business certificate program, you’ll strengthen your accounting and office support skills. You can also apply your 17 accounting credits toward an associate degree.
During the program, you’ll study payroll accounting, spreadsheet software applications, and individual income taxes. The program also covers financial accounting and QuickBooks. With the certificate, you can become a bookkeeper or accounting clerk.
University of Alaska Southeast
Juneau, AK2 yearCampus + Online
$8,460
$25,440
63%
70%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $234
Out-of-State | $234
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
A public institution located in Juneau, the University of Alaska Southeast emphasizes job-ready skills in its certificate programs. The accounting certificate program offers intensive training for those interested in accounting jobs. During the program, you’ll study financial accounting, payroll accounting, and managerial accounting. The certificate also incorporates training in spreadsheets, business, and computing.
You’ll leave the program with accounting and finance skills, including the ability to analyze financial statements and maintain accounting records. You’ll also know how to prepare corporate payrolls and manage computer accounting systems.
$11,183
$23,522
65%
1,923
Public
Yes
$8,460
$25,440
Juneau, AK2 yearCampus + Online
$8,460
$25,440
63%
70%
$11,183
$23,522
65%
1,923
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $234
Out-of-State | $234
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
A public institution located in Juneau, the University of Alaska Southeast emphasizes job-ready skills in its certificate programs. The accounting certificate program offers intensive training for those interested in accounting jobs. During the program, you’ll study financial accounting, payroll accounting, and managerial accounting. The certificate also incorporates training in spreadsheets, business, and computing.
You’ll leave the program with accounting and finance skills, including the ability to analyze financial statements and maintain accounting records. You’ll also know how to prepare corporate payrolls and manage computer accounting systems.
Butler County Community College
Butler, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$6,840
$9,840
N/A
33%
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-County | $135
In-State | $238
Out-of-State | $338
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
A public college based in Oak Hills, Pennsylvania, Butler County Community College offers multiple online business and information technology career training programs. The accounting skills certificate prepares learners for entry-level roles with coursework in payroll accounting, income taxation, and managerial accounting.
With the certificate, you can work as a bookkeeper, accounting assistant, or in another office role. If you apply your 30 accounting credits toward an associate degree, BC3 has a transfer agreement with Pennsylvania’s public universities to complete your bachelor’s degree.
N/A
N/A
61%
2,529
Public
Yes
$6,840
$9,840
Butler, PA2 yearCampus + Online
$6,840
$9,840
N/A
33%
N/A
N/A
61%
2,529
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council of Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-County | $135
In-State | $238
Out-of-State | $338
Credits to Graduate: 30 credits
A public college based in Oak Hills, Pennsylvania, Butler County Community College offers multiple online business and information technology career training programs. The accounting skills certificate prepares learners for entry-level roles with coursework in payroll accounting, income taxation, and managerial accounting.
With the certificate, you can work as a bookkeeper, accounting assistant, or in another office role. If you apply your 30 accounting credits toward an associate degree, BC3 has a transfer agreement with Pennsylvania’s public universities to complete your bachelor’s degree.
Rowan College at Burlington County
Mount Laurel, NJ2 yearCampus + Online
$3,608
$4,583
N/A
65%
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-County | $147
In-State | $164
Out-of-State | $229
Credits to Graduate: 34 credits
New Jersey’s Rowan College enrolls students both online and at its suburban Mount Laurel campus. In the accounting certificate online program, you’ll learn how to interpret financial statements, manage the accounting cycle, and use accounting systems.
During the program, you’ll study cost accounting, management principles, and computerized accounting. And you can choose three credits of electives to individualize your certificate. Rowan College also participates in a free tuition program that covers tuition costs if your household income is less than $65,000.
N/A
N/A
70%
6,273
Public
Yes
$3,608
$4,583
Mount Laurel, NJ2 yearCampus + Online
$3,608
$4,583
N/A
65%
N/A
N/A
70%
6,273
Public
Yes
Programmatic Accreditation: N/A
Cost per Credit:
In-County | $147
In-State | $164
Out-of-State | $229
Credits to Graduate: 34 credits
New Jersey’s Rowan College enrolls students both online and at its suburban Mount Laurel campus. In the accounting certificate online program, you’ll learn how to interpret financial statements, manage the accounting cycle, and use accounting systems.
During the program, you’ll study cost accounting, management principles, and computerized accounting. And you can choose three credits of electives to individualize your certificate. Rowan College also participates in a free tuition program that covers tuition costs if your household income is less than $65,000.
What Is an Online Certificate in Accounting Program?
An online certificate in accounting program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices. Its curriculum covers key areas, such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, tax accounting, and audit procedures. Certificate programs take less time to complete than degree programs, making them a good option for students curious about accounting or seeking the fastest route to accounting careers.
The biggest advantage of such programs is their flexibility. Being web-based, they eliminate the need for physical attendance, making it easier for students to balance their education with other commitments.
Certificate programs also arm students with practical skills in the latest accounting software and online research techniques, which are essential for today’s tech-forward accounting professions. However, these programs do require a high level of self-motivation and good time management skills. While they offer more convenience and often cost less compared to traditional in-person programs, they may not provide the immediate personal support and networking opportunities available in a campus setting.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Certificate in Accounting Program?
An online certificate in accounting program immerses students in a variety of courses, introducing them to the major areas of the accounting field. Here are some of the most common courses you can expect to take during such a program:
Accounting Principles
This course provides a fundamental understanding of the basic accounting principles. These principles form the backbone of all accounting operations and include concepts like the matching principle, which stipulates that expenses should be recognized in the same period as the revenues they help to generate, and the consistency principle, which requires businesses to consistently apply the same accounting methods. This foundational knowledge is essential for creating, interpreting, and presenting financial statements, as well as analyzing and understanding data.
Tax Accounting
In a tax accounting course, students explore various topics, including U.S. federal taxes, the basics of payroll and tax, financial markets, and international business taxes. The course equips students with practical skills in tax compliance and planning, financial accounting, and economic and financial analysis. Learners also study generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). These skills are critical for the accurate preparation of tax documents, payroll management, and making informed business decisions in line with tax laws and guidelines.
Payroll Accounting
A payroll accounting course covers crucial subjects such as business arithmetic, core accounting principles, payroll preparation basics, QuickBooks, and Excel. These topics equip students with the necessary skills to effectively manage payroll processes, ensuring the accuracy of financial records and compliance with payroll regulations. It also familiarizes students with key mathematical applications used in the workplace, standard record-keeping methods, and efficient worksheet crafting and data analysis techniques.
Managerial Accounting
Managerial accounting courses introduce students to key business decision-making concepts. These include presenting, modifying, and analyzing data, collecting qualitative data, forecasting, assisting with organization, planning, coordinating budgets, controlling budgets, aiding in decision-making, and conducting additional studies. The course equips managers with accurate, up-to-date financial knowledge, enabling them to make well-informed decisions regarding pricing, resource allocation, strategic planning, and performance evaluation.
Computerized Accounting
Computerized accounting courses provide students with practical knowledge of a variety of software and tools designed to enhance the efficiency of accounting tasks. These include cloud-based software like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and NetSuite ERP. Students may also study robotic process automation (RPA) tools for automating routine tasks, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for automating data entry and detecting anomalies, and data analytics and visualization tools like Tableau and Excel. These technologies can help accountants ensure accuracy, efficiency, and data-informed decision-making.
What Can I Do With an Online Certificate in Accounting Degree?
College-level training in accounting can lead to many career opportunities. With a certificate in accounting, professionals may work as bookkeepers, accounting clerks, bank tellers, or financial clerks.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $47,440 in 2023. The BLS projects 174,900 openings for these positions every year from 2022-2032.
After completing an accounting certificate, professionals can also increase their earning potential by pursuing a college degree. A bachelor’s degree meets the educational requirements for accountant and auditor jobs. Per the BLS, these roles earned a median annual salary of $79,880 in 2023.
An accounting certificate can be the first step into a high-paying career.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers maintain the general ledger for an organization’s financial accounts, which lists financial transactions, debits, and credits. They use financial data to create statements and reports. They may also handle payroll processing, create invoices, and prepare bank deposits. Bookkeepers need to pay close attention to detail.
Accounting Clerk
Accounting clerks process financial transactions, calculate interest charges, and monitor accounts. They specialize in areas like accounts payable or accounts receivable. With experience, accounting clerks review financial documents for completeness, code financial documents, and balance billing vouchers.
Bank Teller
Bank tellers process transactions at banks. They deposit cash and checks into accounts, process money orders, and exchange currencies. They also help customers by answering questions, ordering bank cards, or preparing savings bonds. A background in accounting and customer service skills can benefit bank tellers.
Financial Clerk
Financial clerks perform administrative tasks that involve financial transactions and records. They assist customers by carrying out financial transactions, calculating charges, and maintaining financial records. A background in accounting can help financial clerks in billing, payroll, insurance, and loan processing.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform clerical tasks in office settings. They schedule meetings, file documents, and provide support services. An administrative assistant with a background in accounting might file financial documents, prepare accounting reports, or perform bookkeeping services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Certificate in Accounting Programs
Yes, a certificate in accounting can be a worthwhile investment. This program equips you with foundational accounting skills, such as proficiency in accounting software, auditing, and financial management, which are highly valued across various industries.
An accounting certificate can serve as a stepping stone to further education, leading to an associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting. This can enhance your career trajectory and earning potential.
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