Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs of 2025
An online master’s in accounting degree can help you step into fast-growing jobs without putting your career on pause. Check out our guide to the best programs of 2025.
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Accountants are in demand amid a nationwide worker shortage. A 2023 report from the CPA Journal describes the accounting profession as being in “crisis” due to fewer people entering the field while many CPAs are reaching retirement age.
Despite this shortage, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for accountants and auditors to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than the national average projected job growth rate of 4% across all occupations.
An online master’s in accounting program can help you step into this booming sector, with some programs even catering to people without an accounting background. Many programs can help you obtain certification as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and teach you sought-after financial and analytical skills.
We compiled a list of some of the best online master’s in accounting programs based on factors like affordability and student outcomes to help you find the best one for you.
Master’s in Accounting Highlights
- In BestColleges’ 2024 Online Education Trends Report, 94% of online business students and graduates surveyed said they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- According to the BLS, accountants and auditors earn a median annual salary of $79,880 as of May 2023. Additionally, employment for these professionals is projected to grow by 6% from 2023 to 2033, as per the BLS.
- Fewer people are entering the accounting field than are leaving it, meaning accounting firms and other organizations are in need of new employees with these skill sets.
Source: BestColleges, BLS
List of the Best Online Master’s 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.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
Why We Chose This School
The University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler School of Business has long been well known for its master of accounting degree program, and the school's combination of accessibility and good student outcomes landed it at the top spot on our list.
Kenan-Flagler offers pathways for both students who have an undergraduate degree in accounting and those with degrees in other fields. The highly flexible online program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE test scores and is geared toward working professionals, so you won’t have to put your career on pause to get your degree.
The online master of accounting degree program from Kenan-Flagler includes the same faculty and curriculum as its in-person degree program. Its curriculum can teach you a combination of industry best practices and communication skills. It also includes collaborative online courses and in-person immersion initiatives, allowing you to network with your peers.
Highlights
- Open to students of all professional backgrounds
- Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Multiple networking experiences
Know Before You Apply
- $1,446 tuition per credit hour
- Requires 48 credits (students with previously completed accounting courses or an MBA degree may be able to reduce this to as low as 30 required credits)
- 3.38 undergraduate GPA on average
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
$10,552
$28,844
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler School of Business has long been well known for its master of accounting degree program, and the school's combination of accessibility and good student outcomes landed it at the top spot on our list.
Kenan-Flagler offers pathways for both students who have an undergraduate degree in accounting and those with degrees in other fields. The highly flexible online program doesn’t require GMAT or GRE test scores and is geared toward working professionals, so you won’t have to put your career on pause to get your degree.
The online master of accounting degree program from Kenan-Flagler includes the same faculty and curriculum as its in-person degree program. Its curriculum can teach you a combination of industry best practices and communication skills. It also includes collaborative online courses and in-person immersion initiatives, allowing you to network with your peers.
Highlights
- Open to students of all professional backgrounds
- Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Multiple networking experiences
Know Before You Apply
- $1,446 tuition per credit hour
- Requires 48 credits (students with previously completed accounting courses or an MBA degree may be able to reduce this to as low as 30 required credits)
- 3.38 undergraduate GPA on average
University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus
Norman, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$8,903
$25,163
77%
51%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Oklahoma Price College of Business offers a highly flexible master of accountancy program with different pathways depending on the undergraduate major.
Your experience will vary depending on your background. For example, students with a non-accounting undergraduate degree may need to take fundamental courses in accounting, economics, business finance, and statistics.
Those with an accounting background will head right into the program’s core curriculum, taking advanced courses in accounting, project management, and organizational behavior.
Note that the program also offers students the option to specialize in tax or auditing.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Affordable tuition when compared to others on this list
- Track option for non-accounting undergraduate majors
Know Before You Apply
- $32,500 total tuition including fees, or $985 per credit hour
- Merit-based scholarships available
- Requires 33 credits for the advanced standing pathway (51 credits for non-accounting majors)
$5,070
$22,140
89%
29,166
Public
Yes
$8,903
$25,163
Norman, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$8,903
$25,163
77%
51%
$5,070
$22,140
89%
29,166
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Oklahoma Price College of Business offers a highly flexible master of accountancy program with different pathways depending on the undergraduate major.
Your experience will vary depending on your background. For example, students with a non-accounting undergraduate degree may need to take fundamental courses in accounting, economics, business finance, and statistics.
Those with an accounting background will head right into the program’s core curriculum, taking advanced courses in accounting, project management, and organizational behavior.
Note that the program also offers students the option to specialize in tax or auditing.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Affordable tuition when compared to others on this list
- Track option for non-accounting undergraduate majors
Know Before You Apply
- $32,500 total tuition including fees, or $985 per credit hour
- Merit-based scholarships available
- Requires 33 credits for the advanced standing pathway (51 credits for non-accounting majors)
University of Scranton
Scranton, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$11,580
$11,580
81%
10%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Scranton is known for its exceptional accounting faculty. Over the past six years, its accounting department has landed numerous prestigious Lybrand medals, which recognize their outstanding research.
You can enroll in this school's master of accountancy degree program even if you don't have an undergraduate degree in the field. It's also worth noting that the school offers a bridge program with prerequisite courses to help you learn the fundamentals of accounting before diving into the accountancy master’s program advanced curriculum.
The University of Scranton also offers specializations in forensic accounting and accounting analytics, niche areas that can further bolster your resume.
Highlights
- Offers a bridge program for non-accounting bachelor’s graduates
- Award-winning faculty
- AACSB accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Tuition costs $895 per credit hour
- Requires 30 credits through 10 total courses over 18 months
- Non-accounting majors will likely have to take four additional bridge courses
$51,534
$51,534
87%
4,825
Private
Yes
$11,580
$11,580
Scranton, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$11,580
$11,580
81%
10%
$51,534
$51,534
87%
4,825
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Scranton is known for its exceptional accounting faculty. Over the past six years, its accounting department has landed numerous prestigious Lybrand medals, which recognize their outstanding research.
You can enroll in this school's master of accountancy degree program even if you don't have an undergraduate degree in the field. It's also worth noting that the school offers a bridge program with prerequisite courses to help you learn the fundamentals of accounting before diving into the accountancy master’s program advanced curriculum.
The University of Scranton also offers specializations in forensic accounting and accounting analytics, niche areas that can further bolster your resume.
Highlights
- Offers a bridge program for non-accounting bachelor’s graduates
- Award-winning faculty
- AACSB accredited
Know Before You Apply
- Tuition costs $895 per credit hour
- Requires 30 credits through 10 total courses over 18 months
- Non-accounting majors will likely have to take four additional bridge courses
Auburn University
Auburn, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,692
$32,076
50%
45%
Why We Chose This School
The Auburn University Harbert College of Business offers a highly flexible master of accountancy degree program geared toward working professionals. It can be completed in as little as a year depending on your schedule.
The program also offers an accelerated pathway for students without an accounting background. In this track, you'll take just eight additional core business classes before heading into the program’s accounting curriculum.
The curriculum features multiple electives that you can choose based on your career goals, like corporate taxation and fraud examination.
This flexibility translates to greater professional success for graduates — 85% of graduates who take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam within a year of graduating pass on their first try.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- High CPA Exam pass rate for recent graduates
- 79% graduation rate
Know Before You Apply
- Includes three-day, in-person residencies
- Tuition ranges between $28,500 and $39,900 depending on your pathway
- 30 semester-hours to complete the traditional program (42 for non-accounting majors)
$10,704
$32,112
93%
33,015
Public
Yes
$10,692
$32,076
Auburn, AL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,692
$32,076
50%
45%
$10,704
$32,112
93%
33,015
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The Auburn University Harbert College of Business offers a highly flexible master of accountancy degree program geared toward working professionals. It can be completed in as little as a year depending on your schedule.
The program also offers an accelerated pathway for students without an accounting background. In this track, you'll take just eight additional core business classes before heading into the program’s accounting curriculum.
The curriculum features multiple electives that you can choose based on your career goals, like corporate taxation and fraud examination.
This flexibility translates to greater professional success for graduates — 85% of graduates who take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam within a year of graduating pass on their first try.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- High CPA Exam pass rate for recent graduates
- 79% graduation rate
Know Before You Apply
- Includes three-day, in-person residencies
- Tuition ranges between $28,500 and $39,900 depending on your pathway
- 30 semester-hours to complete the traditional program (42 for non-accounting majors)
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$13,726
$35,677
89%
70%
Why We Chose This School
The George Mason University Costello College of Business offers a master of science in accounting degree program with a highly customizable curriculum.
The program covers core coursework in various types of accounting. Additionally, it offers certificates in government contracts, government accounting, forensic accounting, and accounting analytics.
You can complete this program in 11 months with a full-time schedule or 22 months with a part-time one. The program features asynchronous classes, giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, and the online courses have the same rigor as in-person ones.
If you don’t have an undergraduate degree in accounting, George Mason requires you to complete some additional prerequisites before you apply.
Highlights
- Numerous certificate programs available
- Affordable in-state tuition when compared to others on this list
- AACSB accredited
Know Before You Apply
- 24 credits of prerequisite courses required for non-accounting majors
- Tuition costs $910 per credit hour
- 30 credits required to complete the program
$10,092
$34,260
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
$13,726
$35,677
Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online
$13,726
$35,677
89%
70%
$10,092
$34,260
87%
39,528
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The George Mason University Costello College of Business offers a master of science in accounting degree program with a highly customizable curriculum.
The program covers core coursework in various types of accounting. Additionally, it offers certificates in government contracts, government accounting, forensic accounting, and accounting analytics.
You can complete this program in 11 months with a full-time schedule or 22 months with a part-time one. The program features asynchronous classes, giving you the flexibility to learn at your own pace, and the online courses have the same rigor as in-person ones.
If you don’t have an undergraduate degree in accounting, George Mason requires you to complete some additional prerequisites before you apply.
Highlights
- Numerous certificate programs available
- Affordable in-state tuition when compared to others on this list
- AACSB accredited
Know Before You Apply
- 24 credits of prerequisite courses required for non-accounting majors
- Tuition costs $910 per credit hour
- 30 credits required to complete the program
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,119
$21,600
59%
66%
Why We Chose This School
Florida International University (FIU) blends professional development with a strong accounting curriculum to help prepare students for careers across the accounting industry. The program also includes built-in CPA exam prep material to help students succeed after graduation.
FIU’s online master of accounting degree program includes specializations in taxation and assurance. Its cohort-based model means you’ll take the classes with the same peers, boosting networking opportunities even in a virtual environment.
The program is open to students with undergraduate degrees in accounting or business. Non-accounting business majors have to complete additional online prerequisite courses.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Affordable tuition compared with others on this list
- 1-year program
Know Before You Apply
- Must have an accounting or business major
- Additional prerequisites for non-accounting business majors
- $29,400 online tuition, with no difference in price for out-of-state students
$6,168
$18,566
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$9,119
$21,600
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$9,119
$21,600
59%
66%
$6,168
$18,566
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Florida International University (FIU) blends professional development with a strong accounting curriculum to help prepare students for careers across the accounting industry. The program also includes built-in CPA exam prep material to help students succeed after graduation.
FIU’s online master of accounting degree program includes specializations in taxation and assurance. Its cohort-based model means you’ll take the classes with the same peers, boosting networking opportunities even in a virtual environment.
The program is open to students with undergraduate degrees in accounting or business. Non-accounting business majors have to complete additional online prerequisite courses.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Affordable tuition compared with others on this list
- 1-year program
Know Before You Apply
- Must have an accounting or business major
- Additional prerequisites for non-accounting business majors
- $29,400 online tuition, with no difference in price for out-of-state students
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Amherst, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$14,723
$32,434
58%
20%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management offers a flexible master of science in accounting degree program that boasts strong career outcomes for graduates, with a 98% career placement rate for its accounting graduates.
The program offers two tracks. The Professional Track is geared toward working accountants, with core courses in high-demand areas such as data analytics, auditing, and taxation. The 30-credit track also includes elective courses that let you dive deeper into areas like forensic accounting and taxation.
The Transitions Track is for students that don't have a bachelor’s degree in accounting. It requires between 33 and 45 credits to complete, featuring additional foundational courses in accounting.
Both tracks can be completed in under two years, depending on your personal schedule.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Separate tracks for working professionals and those changing careers
- Good career outcomes for students
Know Before You Apply
- Offers a “try-a-class” option up to 15 credits to non-students before applying
- $25,500 tuition for Professional Track
- $28,050-$38,250 tuition for the Transitions Track
$16,591
$38,527
91%
31,810
Public
Yes
$14,723
$32,434
Amherst, MA4 yearCampus + Online
$14,723
$32,434
58%
20%
$16,591
$38,527
91%
31,810
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management offers a flexible master of science in accounting degree program that boasts strong career outcomes for graduates, with a 98% career placement rate for its accounting graduates.
The program offers two tracks. The Professional Track is geared toward working accountants, with core courses in high-demand areas such as data analytics, auditing, and taxation. The 30-credit track also includes elective courses that let you dive deeper into areas like forensic accounting and taxation.
The Transitions Track is for students that don't have a bachelor’s degree in accounting. It requires between 33 and 45 credits to complete, featuring additional foundational courses in accounting.
Both tracks can be completed in under two years, depending on your personal schedule.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Separate tracks for working professionals and those changing careers
- Good career outcomes for students
Know Before You Apply
- Offers a “try-a-class” option up to 15 credits to non-students before applying
- $25,500 tuition for Professional Track
- $28,050-$38,250 tuition for the Transitions Track
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$15,545
$30,348
44%
59%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is known for its innovative online graduate business programs, and its online master of science in accounting (iMSA) degree program is no exception.
Like other online Gies master’s programs, the iMSA program has an emphasis on analytics, as well as on business fundamentals like reporting, auditing, and taxation.
The program is offered through a partnership with the online learning platform Coursera, which offers students flexible classes they can complete on their own schedules without leaving their careers.
No accounting degree is required to enter the iMSA program. It has a highly customizable curriculum with electives available in multistate and international taxation, as well as machine learning and other in-demand topics.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Highly customizable curriculum
- Very selective admission process
Know Before You Apply
- Tuition between $21,164 and $27,200, depending on the electives chosen
- No accounting undergrad required
- Courses offered via Coursera
$12,474
$30,446
94%
56,563
Public
Yes
$15,545
$30,348
Champaign, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$15,545
$30,348
44%
59%
$12,474
$30,446
94%
56,563
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is known for its innovative online graduate business programs, and its online master of science in accounting (iMSA) degree program is no exception.
Like other online Gies master’s programs, the iMSA program has an emphasis on analytics, as well as on business fundamentals like reporting, auditing, and taxation.
The program is offered through a partnership with the online learning platform Coursera, which offers students flexible classes they can complete on their own schedules without leaving their careers.
No accounting degree is required to enter the iMSA program. It has a highly customizable curriculum with electives available in multistate and international taxation, as well as machine learning and other in-demand topics.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Highly customizable curriculum
- Very selective admission process
Know Before You Apply
- Tuition between $21,164 and $27,200, depending on the electives chosen
- No accounting undergrad required
- Courses offered via Coursera
Saint Joseph's University
Philadelphia, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$19,786
$19,786
86%
34%
Why We Chose This School
The Saint Joseph’s University Haub School of Business’s master of science in professional accountancy degree program is perhaps the most specialized program on our list. It focuses on developing accounting professionals with a strong foundation on ethics and critical thinking.
The professional accountancy core courses are designed for professionals who want to dive deeper into the field, with courses on accounting control systems, audit decision analytics, and other in-depth topics in addition to a CPA review.
Courses offered through this program focus on tax compliance and accounting, business reporting and analysis, and information systems and controls. The intensive program consists of 30 credits, takes two years to complete, and is offered fully online, on campus in Philadelphia, or through a hybrid model.
The program offers small class sizes, meaning you’ll have easy access to the program’s expert faculty. Saint Joseph’s also has a Career Center to boost students’ professional development with interview prep, resume review, workshops, and professional networking.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Small class sizes allow for more personalized support
- Accessible admission process
Know Before You Apply
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting required
- Focuses on accounting professionals
- $1,240 cost per credit, 30 credits required
$51,140
$51,140
88%
7,201
Private
Yes
$19,786
$19,786
Philadelphia, PA4 yearCampus + Online
$19,786
$19,786
86%
34%
$51,140
$51,140
88%
7,201
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The Saint Joseph’s University Haub School of Business’s master of science in professional accountancy degree program is perhaps the most specialized program on our list. It focuses on developing accounting professionals with a strong foundation on ethics and critical thinking.
The professional accountancy core courses are designed for professionals who want to dive deeper into the field, with courses on accounting control systems, audit decision analytics, and other in-depth topics in addition to a CPA review.
Courses offered through this program focus on tax compliance and accounting, business reporting and analysis, and information systems and controls. The intensive program consists of 30 credits, takes two years to complete, and is offered fully online, on campus in Philadelphia, or through a hybrid model.
The program offers small class sizes, meaning you’ll have easy access to the program’s expert faculty. Saint Joseph’s also has a Career Center to boost students’ professional development with interview prep, resume review, workshops, and professional networking.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Small class sizes allow for more personalized support
- Accessible admission process
Know Before You Apply
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting required
- Focuses on accounting professionals
- $1,240 cost per credit, 30 credits required
Nova Southeastern University
Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearOnline
$22,890
$22,890
73%
56%
Why We Chose This School
Nova Southeastern University (NSU Florida) offers a highly customizable master of accounting degree program via its H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
The program combines foundational courses in auditing, taxation, and analysis with opportunities to specialize in different accounting areas.
You can choose from three majors: accounting analytics, public accounting, and tax accounting. The program can be completed in as few as 18 months, is open to all undergraduate majors, and requires 30-51 credits for graduation, depending on what coursework you took during your undergraduate studies.
Courses are offered in an asynchronous, online format, so you’ll be able to study around your personal and work schedule.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Three majors available
- Asynchronous courses
Know Before You Apply
- $1,089 tuition per credit hour
- Open to non-accounting majors
- 30-51 credits required
$35,880
$35,880
76%
20,877
Private
Yes
$22,890
$22,890
Fort Lauderdale, FL4 yearOnline
$22,890
$22,890
73%
56%
$35,880
$35,880
76%
20,877
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Nova Southeastern University (NSU Florida) offers a highly customizable master of accounting degree program via its H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship.
The program combines foundational courses in auditing, taxation, and analysis with opportunities to specialize in different accounting areas.
You can choose from three majors: accounting analytics, public accounting, and tax accounting. The program can be completed in as few as 18 months, is open to all undergraduate majors, and requires 30-51 credits for graduation, depending on what coursework you took during your undergraduate studies.
Courses are offered in an asynchronous, online format, so you’ll be able to study around your personal and work schedule.
Highlights
- AACSB accredited
- Three majors available
- Asynchronous courses
Know Before You Apply
- $1,089 tuition per credit hour
- Open to non-accounting majors
- 30-51 credits required
Why You Should Get a Master’s in Accounting Degree
Leverage AI technology: AI is complementing accounting degrees and empowering accountants to step into their roles as trusted advisors to their companies, experts previously told BestColleges.- Accountants are in high demand: A national shortage of accountants, coupled with rising employment projections, mean employers are scrambling to fill accounting positions.
- Career stability: The BLS notes that, even as AI becomes more widespread, “this change is not expected to reduce overall demand [of accountants].”
- Versatile career opportunities: Accountants play a key role managing financial records across all industries, from public organizations to private businesses.
Benefits of Getting a Master’s in Accounting Degree Online
- In BestColleges’ 2024 survey, 97% of online college students and program graduates said they would recommend online education to others.
- In that same survey, 81% of online college students and program graduates said they think an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
- Online accounting degrees are often built for working professionals and frequently feature asynchronous courses that allow you to study around your schedule.
How to Choose the Best Master’s in Accounting Program for You
When comparing master’s in accounting programs, some of the main factors to consider include overall cost, accreditation status, program length, application requirements, and your academic and career goals.
Additionally, if you want to pursue a CPA licensure, you may also want to consider attending a program that’s based in your state. Licensure requirements vary by state, and master of accounting programs usually aim to fulfill their respective state’s CPA requirements.
Colin Smith, certified public accountant and financial reporting consultant, also recommends considering the particular area of accounting you’d like to lean into once you graduate. “Try to be very intentional with where you want your career to go and consider which programs stand out in fields of accounting that you’d like to focus on,” he says. Some common areas of accounting include tax, forensic accounting, and financial reporting.
Read on for more details about how to choose the best master’s in accounting program for you.
How Much Does a Master’s in Accounting Program Cost?
Master’s in Business/Management, 2019-20
Online
$10,995 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$8,534 Avg. Net Price
In-Person
$21,974 Avg. Tuition & Fees
$15,428 Avg. Net Price
According to 2019-20 National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data, the average online master’s in business program (which includes accounting programs) costs around $11,000 per year without financial aid. That’s less than half of an in-person degree, which can reach around $22,000 per year.
However, while online master’s degrees are generally much more affordable than their in-person counterparts, these figures can vary across schools.
For example, at the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler School of Business, an online master of accounting program can cost up to about $70,000 based on whether you have a background in accounting and how many courses you need to take to meet the degree requirements. If you take three years to graduate, that breaks down to approximately $23,300 per year.
Find Financial Aid for Your Master’s in Accounting
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Accounting Degree?
Typical # of Credits
30-60 Credits
Typical Program Length
2-3 Years
Most master’s in accounting programs take between 30 and 60 credits and up to three years to complete. However, the time it’ll take you to graduate will ultimately vary depending on your past educational experience, how many credits you transfer over, and the program format.
Many master of accounting programs feature an accelerated format. Ohio State’s master’s in accounting program, for instance, can be finished in as few as nine months. By contrast, the Kenan-Flagler School of Business’s program can take anywhere from 12 to 36 months depending on a student’s past educational experience, their transferable credits, and their path to the degree.
If you have an undergraduate degree in a related major or experience in accounting, you can generally complete your master’s program more quickly than if you’re new to the field since you may need to take fewer core courses.
Application Requirements
You’ll typically need an undergraduate degree to qualify for a master’s in accounting program. Several programs accept students without a bachelor’s in accounting degree, but you’ll likely need to complete prerequisite courses before starting the master’s program.
Additionally, you’ll typically need to provide:
Undergraduate transcripts- Letters of recommendation
- GMAT or GRE scores (if required)
- Personal statements or essays
Accreditation for a Master’s Degree in Accounting
Attending an accredited accounting program is an excellent way to make sure you’ll learn relevant skills from qualified faculty.
Colleges generally hold institutional-level accreditation, but some accounting programs also hold programmatic accreditation. The latter evaluates programs based on factors such as faculty experience and qualifications and student job outcomes after graduation. This verifies that a program meets specific academic standards and helps ensure that a degree from that program will be accepted as valid by employers, state licensing organizations, and other colleges (for those who want to continue their education and pursue a terminal degree).
A few programmatic accreditors to look for when comparing programs include:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Accreditation?
“Accreditation is often overlooked when searching for a master’s in accounting program, but it should not be ignored. If you’re planning to earn your CPA license, keep in mind that most states require that your accounting degree and underlying credit hours come from an accredited college or university.”
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Accounting Degree?
Businesses are facing a shortage of accountants, and a master’s degree in accounting can help you step into these in-demand roles.
Master of accounting degrees can help prepare you for CPA licensure, but that isn’t all you can do with the degree. During your studies, you’ll also learn key communications and advisory skills that can help prepare you for analyst and management positions.
We compiled a list of some of the roles you may qualify for with a master of accounting degree. Keep in mind that management positions also generally require years of work experience.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2023) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Accountants and Auditors | $79,880 | Help organizations and individuals with financial records, taxes, and regulations |
| Financial Managers | $156,100 | Manage an organization’s finances, plan for potential economic headwinds, and advise leaders on financial planning |
| Personal Financial Advisors | $99,580 | Help individuals make decisions based on their earnings and investments |
| Chief Executives (including Chief Financial Officers) | $206,680 | Lead an organization’s financial arm, make key investment decisions, and guide strategic financial decisions |
Learn More About Accounting Jobs
Is a Master’s in Accounting Degree Worth It?
A master’s in accounting degree can open up job opportunities in a fast-growing field — and you don’t even have to leave the workforce if you study online.
Many programs are designed with working individuals in mind, offering an asynchronous format that lets you study at your own pace. These programs can also help you meet CPA licensure requirements in your state and help prepare you for the CPA exam.
Once you graduate, you can step into an industry that’s experiencing an employee shortage driven by a looming retirement cliff and a lack of students majoring in accounting.
Accounting also offers some job security, even amid the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). The BLS notes that AI may boost accounting efficiency but isn’t expected to reduce overall demand for accountants, who will still be needed for their advisory and analytical skills.
Education Beyond a Master’s Degree
If you’re interested in teaching accounting at the university level, earning a doctorate in accounting can set you on that path.
However, if you just want to improve your career prospects, you can consider earning an accounting certificate. Business schools often offer short-term certificate programs in specialized fields like forensic accounting or auditing. These types of certificates can enhance your resume and even help prepare you to earn industry certifications from organizations like the Forensic CPA Society.
Frequently Asked Questions About Masters in Accounting Programs
Earning a master’s in accounting degree can help prepare you for several roles in a fast-growing field. With a nationwide shortage of accountants and auditors, the BLS projects faster-than-average growth for these occupations from 2023 to 2033.
Additionally, accountants earned a median annual salary of $79,880 in 2023, while the median annual salary for all workers across all jobs was $48,060 during the same time period, according to the BLS.
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Want to know the accountant education requirements? Read on to learn about what degrees, exams, and certifications you need to work in accounting.
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Is Accounting a Good Major?
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Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs of 2025
An online master’s in accounting degree can help you step into fast-growing jobs without putting your career on pause. Check out our guide to the best programs of 2025.
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