Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs
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Online master's in accounting programs prepare graduates for many career choices, including tax auditing, corporate management, financial information systems, and investigative or forensic accounting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 7% growth in accounting and auditing jobs from 2020 to 2030, about as fast as all occupations.
Many of our top online schools offer affordable master's in accounting programs completely online, giving students the opportunity to continue working while they earn credit toward their degree.
Master's degree-holders tend to be more desirable than accountants with only undergraduate degrees. Corporations from all over actively court master's-level accountants before they even finish school. A master's may also be required to sit for certain certification exams, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.
Accountants understand the importance of getting the most value for their dollar, including dollars spent on education. Students should consider what they receive for their investment, and make a holistic evaluation of affordability. That's why we've ranked the following online accounting programs using our unique college affordability score, which accounts for variables like the quality of education, total cost, financial aid opportunities, and potential future earnings.
When deciding whether to attend graduate school, many students find that affordable schools often provide a better return on investment. They demonstrate track records of providing rigorous academic experiences for an affordable cost, and their graduates earn salaries that make paying back their loans relatively simple.
Popular Master's in Accounting Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Most Affordable Online Master's in Accounting Programs
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The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Edinburg, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $472
Out of State | $472
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
UTRGV offers an accelerated online master's in accounting. The program prepares learners for the Certified Public Accountant Exam in 12 months. Degree-seekers can take 12 elective credits in areas like auditing, taxation, and fraud examination. Students complete classes in advanced accounting, business law for accountants, and professional ethics.
Applicants need academic experience in accounting and a minimum undergraduate 3.0 GPA. UTRGV requires transcripts and GMAT scores.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,446
Out of State | $1,446
Credits to Graduate
36-48
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
UNC-Chapel Hill's online master's in accounting program lets students concentrate in tax, audit, or financial analysis and reporting. Core classes include accounting systems essentials and introductory finance. All students participate in an on-campus leadership immersion.
Applicants do not need previous accounting coursework. Application materials include transcripts, two recommendations, a statement of purpose, and a resume. Prospective students must submit GMAT or GRE scores unless they qualify for a waiver. The admission process includes an interview.
California State University-Sacramento
Sacramento, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $740
Out of State | $740
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Sacramento State's 18-month master's in accounting program prepares students for the main four sections of the Certified Public Accountant Exam. These include auditing attestation, financial accounting and reporting, regulation, and business environment and concepts.
Learners study financial reporting and taxation of individuals. Courses run asynchronously. Applicants need an accredited undergraduate degree and a minimum 2.5 GPA. They should submit GMAT or GRE results with minimum scores in the 30% percentile. Prospective students must submit a resume, recommendations, and a statement of career objectives.
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
San Francisco, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online or Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $1,090
Out of State | $1,090
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
GGU offers a technology-focused master's in accounting program that prepares learners for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam. Concentrations include CPA applied accounting, essentials of leadership, and taxation. Enrollees can also specialize in STEM-designated advanced analytics for accountants.
Required courses include intermediate accounting, auditing, and automation and innovative technologies. CPA-holders can waive foundational courses. Applicants need an accredited undergraduate degree. Those with a GPA below 3.0 must submit a resume and a statement of purpose.
SUNY College at Old Westbury
Old Westbury, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $471
Out of State | $962
Credits to Graduate
30-62 (depending on academic background)
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students with a bachelor's in accounting can earn Old Westbury's online master's in accounting in two years. The curriculum combines professional ethics with accounting practice and communication skills. Graduates qualify to sit for New York's Certified Public Accountant Exam.
Applicants need an accredited bachelor's degree. Submission materials include GMAT scores, reference letters, an essay, and a $50 fee. The program only accepts students from certain states because of online education regulations.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $505
Out of State | $1,505
Credits to Graduate
31
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Learners can complete NC State's online master's in accounting program in 18-36 months. The program requires classes in advanced commercial law, financial accounting, income tax, and auditing.
Students can choose three electives to form a concentration. Options include tax strategy, enterprise risk management, and information technology. Applicants need prerequisites in financial reporting, managerial accounting, and business law. NC State requires GMAT scores.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $2,213
Out of State | $2,213
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
Program Accreditation | Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Students pursuing UM's online master's in accounting degree can specialize in accounting practice or CPA preparation. Degree-seekers can pair their accounting study with an MBA. Students take one class at a time during the 16-month program. Classes cover taxation, intermediate accounting, and essentials of economic theory. Enrollees can attend optional in-person events.
Applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, two recommendations, and a personal statement. UM requires GMAT scores.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced and Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $850
Out of State | $850
Credits to Graduate
32
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students pursuing Illinois' online master's in accounting degree gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience. The program takes 18-36 months to complete. Core courses include accounting analysis, managerial accounting, and federal taxation. The program combines synchronous and asynchronous formats.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Application materials include a resume, personal statement, and references. Illinois makes standardized test scores optional.
Regis University
Denver, CO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $920
Out of State | $920
Credits to Graduate
30
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
Students pursuing Regis' master's in accounting degree can specialize in financial accounting, fraud/forensic accounting, IT accounting, or managerial accounting. Degree-seekers without an accounting background must take foundational courses. Learners complete core classes in interpreting accounting information, financial communication, and accounting ethics.
Regis reviews applications from a holistic standpoint, considering all parts as potential indicators of program success. Applicants need an accredited bachelor's degree. Prospective students submit a resume and an essay. Regis conducts interviews with some applicants.
National University
La Jolla, CA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hybrid Options | Scheduled Classes
Avg. Cost per Quarter Unit
In State | $442
Out of State | $442
Credits to Graduate
45 quarter units
Program Information
Program Accreditation | N/A
NU offers a flexible master's in accounting degree that features fully online and hybrid options.
A foundational track helps learners with no accounting background. Experienced accounting students can choose a more advanced track. Both paths finish with a capstone that explores cases in accounting and auditing.
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a minimum 2.5 GPA. Applicants with lower GPA scores may submit GMAT or GRE scores for consideration. NU interviews prospective enrollees.
How Much Does an Online Master's in Accounting Cost?
As with any degree program, the cost of even the most affordable online master's in accounting varies. Each school dictates its own fees for tuition, which may vary depending on whether students are in state or out of state. Some programs may also include fees for services and facilities used exclusively for online learning, such as technology fees, test proctoring, and virtual labs.
Applicants should research tuition at their preferred schools and calculate the true cost of earning a master's in accounting. The average required tuition and fees for graduate school during the 2019-20 academic year was $19,792, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master's Program in Accounting?
Many of the most affordable online master's in accounting programs are also the highest quality. Details vary by school and program, but applicants can expect similar application procedures, concentration offerings, and coursework as part of their accounting degrees. The length and cost of each program also varies, but most programs require students to complete 30-36 credit hours.
Most online master's in accounting programs are either a master of accountancy (MAcc), master of arts (MA) in accounting, or a master of professional accountancy (MPAC/ MPA). Some schools also offer master of science (MS) in accounting programs which focus more on math and analytics.
All these tracks prepare students to sit for the CPA exam. As students prepare for graduate school, they should consider which degree track or concentration to pursue. Several accounting concentrations exist, allowing students to pursue a more specialized degree. Common concentrations include:
| Concentration | Description |
|---|---|
| Taxation |
Online accounting programs offering a taxation concentration introduce students to critical income, estate, and sales taxation principles and practices. Students develop a mastery of auditing, financial reporting, and tax law for corporate, nonprofit, and individual clients. Graduates also qualify to sit for the CPA exam. Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Accountant, auditor, tax director |
| Auditing |
The auditing concentration within an online master's degree in accounting prepares students to follow Sarbanes-Oxley federal requirements in their career, and introduces the latest auditing technologies and techniques. The curriculum emphasizes coursework in advanced auditing, ethics in accounting, and detection and prevention of fraudulent financial statements. Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Compliance auditor, internal auditor, accountant |
| Forensics |
Students concentrating in forensic accounting as part of an online accounting program study fraud investigation, specifically related to bankruptcies, contract disputes, mergers and acquisitions, and complex financial agreements. Aspiring forensic accounting experts also learn how to use forensic financial evidence in the prosecution of white-collar criminals. Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Forensic accountant, investigative accountant, fraud examiner |
| Management |
The management accounting concentration teaches students to strengthen business and leadership aspects of their role as an accounting manager. Coursework prepares students to lead teams of employees, including at the managerial/executive level, to improve financial productivity and efficiency within an organization. Graduates qualify to sit for the CMA exam. Careers This Concentration Prepares For: Certified management accountant, controller, accounting director |
| International |
Online accounting programs in international accounting train students to practice accounting and comply with tax laws in a global environment. Coursework explores how international taxation and accounting regulations compare to U.S. systems. Graduates possess a mastery over foreign exchange rates, related financial risks, and management of global financial systems. Careers This Concentration Prepares For: International accountant, international auditor, international tax accountant |
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Accounting Program?
Financial Reporting
Financial reporting is a crucial skill in any accounting job. This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of international accounting, consolidation reporting, Securities and Exchange Commision (SEC) regulations, and reporting practices. Financial reporting coursework at the graduate level also trains students in advanced tax preparation for individuals and corporate clients.
Advanced Auditing
Coursework in advanced auditing builds on a student's prior knowledge of auditing principles and practices, introduced at the undergraduate level. Topics include common auditing errors, auditing follow-up protocol, and ethical concerns specific to this occupation. Most courses in this subject incorporate a combination of case studies, current auditing research, industry promotional materials, and student-led presentations.
Business Law
This course examines the law in the context of business, stressing the importance of legal compliance and ethical practice in the corporate decision-making process. Topics include contracts, product liability, tort litigation, and internet and employment law. A necessary component of many accounting careers, business law courses also often explore international rules and regulations.
Globalization and Managerial Economics
Coursework in globalization and managerial economics explores and compares international taxation laws, financial reporting methods, and accounting practices. Students develop a critical understanding of the global marketplace, essential to aspiring international accountants and domestic tax and finance experts alike.
Corporate Financial Management
This course provides an in-depth exploration of financial management from a corporate perspective, examining capital structure, corporate policy, portfolio management, budgeting, and global executive markets. Students develop a working knowledge of risk-assessment methods specific to corporate finance shareholder valuation.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Master's in Accounting Program?
Both online and in-person master's in accounting programs typically set the same admission requirements. Graduate admission often requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, letters of recommendation, and standardized test scores from the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT).
Some schools may also require admission interviews with program alumni or university officials. These interviews help the university determine which applicants are a good fit for the school.
Application
Most colleges create their own application system for graduate programs. Prospective students may apply online through the university's website or individual application portal. In most cases, students must apply to each university using a different application.
Test Scores
A master's in accounting typically requires GMAT or Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) scores. While requirements differ depending on the school, a good GMAT score generally ranges from 700-800. For the GRE, schools typically look for students who score in the 75th percentile or above.
Letters of Recommendation
Many colleges require 1-3 letters of recommendation from applicants. These letters should be written by educational or professional mentors, including former professors, employers, and school counselors. Students should allow their recommenders plenty of time to write their letters before the application deadline.
Resume and Work Experience
Some graduate accounting programs require professional experience from applicants. Even universities that don't require previous experience may prefer applicants with some relevant work experience. Applicants should prepare professional resumes and include any relevant experience, along with significant service work, awards, and training.
Essays
Personal essays allow applicants to express why they would be a good fit for the master's program or the university. Three common essay types for graduate students include personal statements, statements of purpose, and letters of intent. Applicants should put thought and effort into these essays, as they may become the deciding factor between similar candidates.
Official Transcripts
Applicants will need to submit official transcripts from their previous undergraduate coursework to prove they hold a bachelor's degree and meet any GPA requirements. Official transcripts can also help transfer students show eligibility for transfer credits. However, each school sets their own transfer credit policies.
Top Online Macc Programs
What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Accounting Degree?
Career Outlook
Graduates with an online accounting master's degree can pursue a variety of career paths and fields of expertise. Aspiring accountants with an eye for detail should demonstrate dexterity in crunching numbers, and have a thorough understanding of mathematical functions. With qualifications exceeding the minimum education requirement for most entry-level jobs, candidates with a master's degree can pursue advanced positions in fields including accounting, auditing, and finance management.
Graduates with a master's in accounting have a strong earning potential. The BLS reports that financial managers make a median annual salary of $131,710. The top 10% of earners make more than $208,000.
See where a master's in accounting degree can take you. Learn more about accounting careers.
Career Paths
Accountant or Auditor
Accountants and auditors prepare taxes and examine financial records. They ensure individuals and corporations follow financial rules and regulations to operate efficiently and lawfully.
Accountants must obtain CPA certification through their state board to file SEC reports — another critical requirement. Most employers accept candidates with their bachelor's degrees and CPA certification, but master's degree holders may qualify for advanced positions in finance.
- Median Annual Salary: $77,250 (May 2021)
- Projected Growth Rate: 7% (2020-2030)
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts help clients manage their finances, draft or amend their budgets, and monitor their expenditures. These professionals may work for public or private organizations, ranging from large corporations to individual business owners. Most employers require at least a bachelor's degree, though some government agencies may also require the certified government financial manager credential.
- Median Annual Salary: $79,940 (May 2021)
- Projected Growth Rate: 5% (2020-2030)
Cost Estimator
Cost estimators help estimate the money, labor, time, and materials to complete a project, make a product, or provide a service. Most professionals work in construction, manufacturing, or auto repair. Employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in finance, business, or a related field, plus relevant work experience.
- Median Annual Salary: $65,170 (May 2021)
- Projected Growth Rate: 1% (2020-2030)
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts help clients make informed investment decisions by analyzing the risk and performance of bonds and stocks. They also make investment recommendations to improve the overall health of clients' financial portfolios. Candidates should have a bachelor's in finance, accounting, mathematics, statistics, or economics. Some employers may require a FINRA license for sales positions, while others may sponsor the chartered financial analyst certification for new hires.
- Median Annual Salary: $81,410 (May 2021)
- Projected Growth Rate: 6% (2020-2030)
Financial Manager
Financial managers oversee all financial operations of an organization, a corporation, or a private client. They help their clients reach long-term financial goals by drafting finance reports, advising on investments, and creating a budget with a focus on overall financial health. Candidates need a bachelor's degree and at least five years of experience in accounting, security, sales, or financial analysis.
- Median Annual Salary: $131,710 (May 2021)
- Projected Growth Rate: 17% (2020-2030)
Accounting Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.
Continuing Education
In general, professionals do not need to pursue a doctoral degree in accounting. Earning a master's degree generally fulfills any educational requirements for earning a CPA certification.
Once accountants earn their CPAs, they must complete continuing professional education (CPE) hours to keep their license current. Students must finish 80 CPE hours every two years and at least 40 hours must be completed in one year.
Students may choose to pursue a doctorate in accounting to teach at the college level.
How Do I Choose an Online Master's in Accounting Program?
Cost
According to the National Center of Education Statistics, the average cost of a master's degree was 19,792 for the 2019-2020 school year. Students paying in-state tuition at public universities will pay less than out-of-state students and those enrolled in private colleges. Readers may also find some online degree programs cost less than in-person programs.
Program Format
Online programs often provide flexible scheduling options. Students may choose to attend full time or part time, though part-time study increases degree completion time. Students can also consider programs with synchronous or asynchronous courses. Asynchronous programs allow students to complete lessons at their own pace and often appeal to students who also work.
Location
Students should still consider program location even when choosing an online program. Those enrolling in in-state online programs may benefit from lower in-state tuition. Some online programs also require students to spend time on campus for orientation or practicums.
Accreditation
Online programs receive accreditation just like on-campus programs. Students should always look for institutional and programmatic accreditation before applying to a university. Online master's in accounting programs can receive programmatic accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and AACSB.
Student Support
Providing student support services is a critical part of an online program. Student services can help students find internships and improve academic success. These resources may also include academic or professional mentors along with career counseling services like resume review and interview prep for students beginning their job search.
How Do I Pay for an Online Master's in Accounting?
Most U.S. college students rely on financial aid to help fund their degree. Regardless of a student's major or socioeconomic status, they may qualify for one or multiple financial aid resources. Common options include federal funding, scholarships, grants, and work-study. To see if they qualify, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year, which determines their eligibility for many forms of educational funding.
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Completing the FAFSA is a crucial first step for any student with financial needs. Our FAFSA guide features a step-by-step rundown on the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
Loans
Taking on student loans is a common way for students to afford college. Unlike other forms of financial aid, loans must be paid back, often with interest. Loans with high interest rates can take years to pay off. All students may apply for federal student loans by filing the FAFSA.
Grants
Grants are financial aid that do not need to be repaid. Generally, grants are awarded based on need. Students may apply for grants from their school, the government, or private organizations.
Work-Study Programs
Work-study programs help low-income students afford college by working part time while they complete their degrees. These jobs may take place on or off campus. Money earned through a work-study program can be applied directly to tuition.
Scholarships
Like grants, scholarships do not need to be repaid. Schools typically award scholarships based on merit rather than need. Students can find scholarships at their schools or through independent agencies. Scholarships often have a GPA requirement that students must meet.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Accounting Programs
Is a master's in accounting worth it?
Earning an online degree can help professionals advance their careers while working. While most accountant certifications like CPA do not require a master's degree, earning a graduate degree does fulfill CPA educational requirements.
A master's degree can also give professionals an edge in the workforce, allowing them to pursue more competitive positions.
What can I do with a master's in accounting?
Those with a master's in accounting can pursue careers as accounting managers. These professionals oversee accounting teams and create systems for analyzing and reporting financial information.
Another career path for this degree is chief accounting officer. These professionals oversee entire accounting departments and company-wide financial reporting operations.
Are accounting graduates in demand?
The BLS projects that accounting and auditing careers will grow 7% from 2020-2030, a rate about as fast as the national average. By comparison, the projected growth rate for all business and financial occupations is 8% from 2020-2030.
Readers should note that job availability can depend on many factors including location. If possible, accounting professionals may want to consider relocating to an area with more job availability.
How much money can I make with a master's in accounting?
The BLS found that accountants and auditors earned a median annual salary of $77,250 in 2021. By comparison, chief accounting officers earned an average annual salary of $180,112 in May 2022.
No degree guarantees a specific salary rate. Salaries can differ depending on factors like location, the employee's level experience, and job availability.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in accounting?
Some of the highest-paying jobs for a professional with a master's in accounting include chief accounting officers, who earn an average of $180,112, and financial managers, who earn a median salary of $131,710. Another high-paying career is corporate controller, which earns an average salary of $103,767 as of May 2022.
Feature Image: Kiyoshi Hijiki / Moment / Getty Images
