Best Online Master’s in Accounting Programs 2024
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With a master's degree in accounting, you can move beyond entry-level accountant and auditor roles and step into a specialized or leadership position.
The degree enables graduates to pursue diverse career paths. Accounting professionals with master's degrees can work as internal auditors, investment bankers, financial controllers, and chief financial officers (CFOs).
These roles can pay more than six figures annually. Plus, after you earn your degree, you can then take the certified public accounting (CPA) exam to earn your CPA licensure and increase your earning power.
In addition to a decent return on investment via salary, the accounting field also offers increased job stability and advancement opportunities, so you can pursue leadership roles in finance and accounting.
This guide on the best master's in accounting programs features a rankings list and information on accounting degrees and career paths.
Featured Online Master's in Accounting Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Master's in Accounting Online Programs
We use trusted sources like
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and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT - 4 years
- Online
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Term:
In-State | $4,755
Out-of-State | $4,755
Courses to Graduate: 10
WGU's online master of accounting degree lets you create a personalized curriculum that reflects your interests and career goals. You can take classes like advanced auditing, strategic management, and governmental and nonprofit accounting to graduate in about two years.
The competency-based program lets you complete as many courses as you want each term without paying extra tuition. Instead of charging tuition by credit, WGU students pay a flat rate for each six-month term.
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $881
Out-of-State | $881
Credits to Graduate: 30
George Mason's online MS in accounting degree can help you meet the 150-credit CPA licensing requirement. The flexible program takes as little as 11 months for full-time students to complete and two years for part-timers. Accounting classes last eight weeks, and most learners take one or two courses at a time.
The curriculum includes classes like advanced issues in taxation, governance and ethics, and a professional accounting colloquium. The university reports that 64% of students in the master of accounting program found a job by the time they graduated.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $526
Out-of-State | $1,635
Credits to Graduate: 31
NC State's professional online master of accounting program is available through the Poole College of Management. The competitive program requires the GMAT, a strong academic record, and a bachelor's degree in accounting. Applicants with bachelor's degrees in non-accounting fields can apply but must complete prerequisite courses.
Entry-level and midcareer accountants can benefit from tax accounting, data analytics, commercial law, and auditing coursework. Core classes include IT risks and controls, managerial and career effectiveness, and advanced financial accounting.
University of Scranton
Scranton, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $895
Out-of-State | $895
Credits to Graduate: 30
Scranton's online master of accountancy from the Kania School of Management includes classes like accounting ethics, business database management, business intelligence, and advanced taxation and regulation. Each enrollee completes an applied accounting research capstone at the end of the program and can add a concentration in forensic accounting or accounting analytics.
This degree suits recent graduates of accounting bachelor's programs and early-career accounting professionals through its real-world approach to accounting. Each applicant needs a bachelor's degree in accounting or another field with completion of accounting prerequisites and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Maryville University of Saint Louis
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $800
Out-of-State | $800
Credits to Graduate: 30
Maryville's online MS in accounting degree covers advanced accounting skills and can prepare you to excel in positions that require financial expertise. The fully online program does not include any campus visits and does not require the GRE or GMAT for admission. You can graduate in as little as 10 months.
The program accepts applicants with and without accounting backgrounds. If you want to apply without an accounting bachelor's, you can complete the school's bridge program to get up to speed on the accounting basics you need to enter the program.
University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, NV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $750-$990
Out-of-State | $750-$990
Credits to Graduate: 30-36
UNR's online master of accountancy program offers two degree paths, depending on your prior accounting education and experience. Students with non-accounting backgrounds must complete 36 credits, including up to six background prerequisite accounting courses.
Required core classes for the master's degree include financial reporting theory, advanced and international accounting, and data transformation and SQL. Distance learners pursuing accountancy master's degrees pay an online learning special course fee and a technology fee in addition to tuition. The program accepts applications year-round.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Semester:
In-State | $4,371
Out-of-State | $9,285
Credits to Graduate: 30
FIU's online master of accounting degree takes as little as 10 months to complete and offers specialization tracks in taxation and assurance. The cohort-based program lets students connect with other classmates and develop a strong sense of community. Enrollees receive access to business career services resources to prepare for job hunting.
Each applicant needs an undergraduate degree in accounting or business to qualify for admission. Prospective students with non-accounting backgrounds must complete basic accounting prerequisites.
Kansas State University
Manhattan, KS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $668
Out-of-State | $668
Credits to Graduate: 30
K-State Online's master of accountancy program charges the same tuition per credit to all distance learners, regardless of their location. In addition to AACSB accreditation, the program is certified by the Institute of Management Accountants and helps qualify students to take the CPA exam.
You can choose from three focus areas: tax analysis and consulting, business advisory and controllership, or assurance and information analysis. The fully online degree does not require any campus visits. Choose from electives like partnership taxation, accounting for not-for-profit entities, and international accounting.
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,651 (plus a $100/credit fee for the Naveen Jindal School of Management)
Out-of-State | $2,449 (plus a $100/credit fee for the Naveen Jindal School of Management)
Credits to Graduate: 36
UT Dallas' online MS in accounting and analytics program through the Naveen Jindal School of Management offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that can develop communication, analytical, and research skills. You can choose between two degree options: a two-year cohort-based program with pre-selected courses or a flexible, self-paced option with 30 possible accounting electives.
Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA, a competitive GMAT or GRE score, and a letter of recommendation (two for the cohort program).
DePaul University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: AACSB International
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,124
Out-of-State | $1,124
Credits to Graduate: 48
DePaul's online master's in accountancy degree from the Kellstadt Graduate School of Business can prepare you to take the CPA exam or launch an accounting career if you don't have a relevant undergraduate degree.
The program requires eight core classes and four elective classes. The curriculum explores auditing, taxation, financial accounting, and fraud examination. DePaul reports that 88% of accountancy grads found a job, continued their education, or pursued other goals within six months after graduating.
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.
Ranking Methodology Summary
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.
Benefits of Pursuing an Online Master's in Accounting
Online master's in accounting programs offer multiple benefits compared to in-person programs: flexibility, opportunities, and savings. Accounting programs can be well suited for online learning, as you can study specific accounting rules while practicing in Excel simultaneously.
On-campus programs offer additional structure, networking opportunities, and office hours with professors. You should compare the benefits of online programs with your personal learning and lifestyle choices.
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Flexibility
Accounting students who work or study for the CPA exam may require flexibility to organize their schedule. Asynchronous programs can help you multitask internships, studying, and course attendance. Reliable home internet helps make online master's in accounting programs flexible. -
Cost
Online programs may have lower costs than in-person programs, especially for out-of-state students. Additionally, you may save on additional fees such as dormitories, transportation, and food plans. If you don't have reliable home internet, though, you may need to factor in parking and commute costs for the library or business whose wi-fi you'll use for class. -
Recognition
If you graduate from an accredited online program, your degree and skills should be identical to on-campus graduates. You will be recognized for your talents, not for your choice to use distance learning.
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 of the highest quality. Details vary by school and program, but you can expect similar application procedures, concentration offerings, and coursework. The length and cost of each program also vary, 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, master of business administration (MBA), 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.
Each of these tracks prepare students to sit for the CPA exam. As you prepare for graduate school, consider which degree track or concentration to pursue. There are several accounting concentrations, allowing for a more specialized degree.
Common Master's in Accounting Concentrations
Taxation
Online accounting programs offering a taxation concentration introduce 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 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 you to follow Sarbanes-Oxley federal requirements, 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
- Sccountant
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 you 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 certified management accountant (CMA) exam.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For:
- Certified management accountant
- Controller
- Accounting director
International
Online accounting programs in international accounting train you to comply with tax laws in a global environment. Coursework explores how international taxation and accounting regulations compare to U.S. systems. As a graduate, you'll have a mastery of foreign exchange rates, related financial risks, and management of global financial systems.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For:
- International accountant
- International auditor
- International tax accountant
Business Administration
An MBA in accounting differs from a traditional master's in accounting. MBA programs include marketing, management, and finance courses. In a business administration program, you'll develop a diverse skill set that includes strategic decision-making, leadership, communication skills, and financial analysis.
Master's in accounting programs cover core business administration principles as well as advanced accounting practice and theory. In an MBA in accounting program, you'll study specialized accounting subjects like taxation, financial reporting, cost accounting, and ethics.
Careers This Degree Prepares For:
- Financial Manager: These professionals oversee your organization's financial health. Responsibilities include preparing financial reports and making strategic financial decisions.
- CFO: A CFO manages their organization's financial operations, including financial planning, budgeting, and allocation of funds.
- Investment Banker: Investment bankers provide financial advisory services for corporations. Choose this role if you'd like to facilitate mergers, financial transactions, and acquisitions for corporate clients.
- Financial Controllers: A main aspect of this role is to ensure compliance with accounting regulations. Pursue a controller role if you want to manage the accounting department, overseeing financial reporting.
- Management Consultant: Management consultants advise organizations on how to improve efficiency and problem-solving, and implement strategies to promote business growth and increase profits.
What Jobs Can I Get With a Master's in Accounting Degree?
A master's in accounting degree allows you to step into a world of lucrative accounting career opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors earned a median annual salary of $78,000 as of May 2022. However, top accountants earn over $100,000 annually.
The BLS projects there will be about 126,500 openings for accountants and auditors each year between 2022 and 2032. The increasingly high demand for skilled accounting professionals means that a master's in accounting can be a smart choice for those looking for stability and higher-than-average salaries.
Finance Controller
Finance controllers manage an organization's accounting and financial reporting. Each controller oversees financial statements to ensure compliance with accounting standards. Controllers also implement internal controls and tend to work in large nonprofit organizations, government entities, and corporations.
Job Outlook (2022-2032): 4%
Financial Manager
Financial managers are responsible for overseeing an organization's financial operations. They develop strategies to improve financial wellness and make investment decisions for the company.
Earn an accounting master's degree and you'll gain competitive financial analysis skills. You'll be well equipped to manage budgeting, risk management, and financial reporting. Financial managers often work for government entities, manufacturing, finance, and insurance firms.
Job Outlook: 16%
Forensic Accountant
Forensic accountants investigate financial crimes such as embezzlement and fraud. These investigations require you to analyze financial records and trace illicit activities. A master's in accounting can give you advanced auditing and financial analysis skills, so you'll be prepared to uncover financial discrepancies.
Forensic accountants are most in demand at consulting firms, law enforcement agencies, and accounting firms that specialize in forensic services.
Job Outlook: 4%
Internal Auditor
Internal auditors are responsible for identifying financial issues. They analyze company documents to find any trace of fraud, risk, or data inaccuracies as well as compliance concerns.
As an internal auditor, you'd investigate any problems you found. Internal auditors tend to work for large companies, nonprofits, and government entities.
Job Outlook: 4%
Investment Banker
As an investment banker, you'd help bankers raise capital and implement mergers and acquisitions, along with a variety of other financial transactions. Those with an MBA in accounting have a deep understanding of financial markets and valuation techniques.
Most investment bankers work in large investment banks (hence the name), corporate finance departments, and financial advisory firms, where they facilitate deals and provide financial expertise to corporate clients.
Job Outlook: 7%
How Do I Choose the Right Master's in Accounting Program?
You have many choices and variables to consider when choosing the right master's in accounting program. Below are some important factors to consider when asking yourself "where should I go to college?"
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Student-teacher ratio
Schools with a higher student-to-teacher ratio may have larger classes and less one-on-one opportunities with professors. -
Cost/financial aid
You should consider the total cost of programs, as prices can vary greatly. Some schools offer financial aid packages, so comparing post-financial aid prices may offer a more direct comparison. -
Delivery method
Online programs can be synchronous, asynchronous, or hybrid. If you require increased flexibility, you should ensure the program offers asynchronous courses. -
Available concentrations
Accounting programs may offer various concentrations, including financial analysis, taxation, or auditing. You can check potential institutions to ensure they have your ideal curriculum or program concentration. -
Prestige/reputation
Employers may know more about some institutions than others. Graduates from institutions your potential employer recognizes may have additional opportunities.
How Much Does a Master's in Accounting Degree Cost?
A typical master's in accounting program can range in cost from $18,000-$60,000 annually. Program costs can vary based on faculty, program length, class sizes, and more.
You will also need to budget for the cost of living, textbooks, and a computer. You can apply for financial aid to help with the cost of attending school.
If you lack reliable home internet, your distance learning may have an additional cost of commuting to a place where you can access your online classes. The cost of being a customer at businesses with free public wi-fi may also factor in.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Accounting Program?
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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. -
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 the 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.
How Do I Pay for an Online Master's in Accounting?
Most U.S. college students rely on financial aid to help fund their degrees. Regardless of major or socioeconomic status, you may qualify for some form of financial aid.
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 of the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
Loans
Taking on student loans is a common way students pay for 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 does 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.
Fellowships
Fellowships usually offer financial aid for graduate students to continue their studies. Check with your chosen program about their fellowship offerings.
Admission Requirements for Online Master's in Accounting Programs
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. These letters should be written by educational or professional mentors, including former professors, employers, and school counselors. Allow your 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 have accountant requirements may prefer applicants with some relevant work experience. 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 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 its own transfer credit policies.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Accounting Programs
What is a MAcc?
A master's in accountancy (MAcc) program teaches students essential accounting principles. MAcc programs usually prepare enrollees for the CPA exam, spending additional time on specific accounting rules compared to other master's in accounting degrees.
Which master's degree is best for accounting?
Master's degrees in accounting degrees include MAcc, MBA in accounting, MS in accounting, and many specialization choices. Your personal interests will determine the best master's degree for you. For example, if you are interested in obtaining a CPA designation, an MAcc program may be most suitable for you.
Is a master's degree in accounting worth it?
Is accounting a good major? A master's degree in accounting is worth the time and financial commitment for individuals interested in finance, business, and accounting. Graduates from master's in accounting degrees can utilize their skills in auditing, assurance, or valuation roles.
Is it better to get a MAcc or an MBA in accounting?
Both an MBA in accounting and MAcc provide accounting courses and knowledge that can be utilized in the professional world. However, an MAcc focuses more on accounting rules and skills while an MBA in accounting focuses on wider business skills including finance, management, and marketing.
Are accounting graduates in demand?
Accounting graduates are absolutely in high demand. The BLS projects that these fields will grow by 4% between 2022 and 2032.
This rate is higher for certain accounting roles such as financial manager, which the BLS projects will grow by 16% during the same time frame.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed Jan. 4, 2024.
