Accounting is one of the most stable and well-paying industries in today’s job market and obtaining an online accounting degree has never been easier.
Do you desire to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), work in corporate finance, or simply take basic online accounting classes? There are flexible, accredited programs to meet your interests and schedule.
Online accounting programs range from entry-level certificates to master’s degrees.
In this guide, we will highlight the finest online accounting degree programs, explain what to expect, and assist you in selecting the best accounting school online for your needs.
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Highlights: UAB offers a highly respected, AACSB-accredited program designed to prepare students for CPA licensure.
Pros: Strong job placement record, excellent CPA prep, fully online.
Cons: Not the cheapest option; CPA requirements vary by state.
Penn State World Campus
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Highlights: This flexible online accounting program from a top-tier public university offers strong credibility in the job market.
Pros: Faculty with real-world experience; nationally recognized.
Cons: Admissions can be competitive; higher tuition for out-of-state students.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting, MS in Accounting
Highlights: Known for accessibility and flexibility, SNHU offers both undergraduate and masters in accounting online options.
Pros: No set class times; career-focused; multiple start dates.
Cons: Less rigorous for students who prefer traditional academic environments.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting
Highlights: This Christian-affiliated university offers a solid online accounting degree for working adults, with weekly course schedules.
Pros: Affordable; good support for adult learners.
Cons: Religious curriculum may not appeal to all students.
University of Massachusetts – Amherst (UMass Online)
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Highlights: Offers a high-quality, AACSB-accredited degree backed by the UMass system’s strong academic reputation.
Pros: Excellent faculty; prestige; prepares students for CPA or graduate school.
Cons: Less flexible structure; higher tuition.
Liberty University
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting, MS in Accounting
Highlights: Liberty offers a faith-based but flexible online accounting school with self-paced learning and accelerated courses.
Pros: Eight-week terms; military discounts; good for transfer students.
Cons: Religious focus may not suit all learners.
Colorado State University Global
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting
Highlights: CSU Global offers affordable, competency-based online accounting courses designed for working professionals.
Pros: Monthly term starts; customizable degree paths.
Cons: Less name recognition compared to flagship state schools.
Western Governors University (WGU)
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting
Highlights: WGU uses a self-paced, competency-based model, allowing students to move quickly through material they already understand.
Pros: Affordable; potential to graduate faster; good for adult learners.
Cons: Requires self-discipline; not ideal for students who need live instruction.
University of Minnesota – Crookston
Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Highlights: A public school offering a fully online, AACSB-accredited degree at a lower price point.
Pros: Affordable; strong academic reputation for a regional school.
Cons: Limited graduate-level pathways unless you transfer.
Franklin University
Degree Offered: BS in Accounting, Master’s in Accounting
Highlights: Franklin is designed specifically for adult learners, offering flexible scheduling and online accounting programs.
Pros: Good transfer policies; generous credit for life experience.
Cons: Less competitive admissions may impact peer group.
Online Accounting Certificates
If you’re not ready to commit to a full degree, an online accounting certificate is a wonderful place to start. These shorter classes often include fundamentals such as bookkeeping, payroll, and tax preparation.
They can be completed in a few of months and may even lead to a degree later on. Coursera (in collaboration with universities), SNHU, and Liberty University all provide online certifications for people looking to get started in the profession quickly.
Students exploring these options often consider alternate or complementary tracks like online human resources degrees, or even medical billing and coding classes, which offer fast entry into administrative and finance-related healthcare roles.
Conclusion
To find the best online accounting degree for your goals, consider your long-term plans. If you want to become a CPA, make sure the program meets your state’s educational requirements.
If you work full-time, consider asynchronous classes or competency-based approaches. certification is essential, particularly AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE certification for business schools.
Many programs also include stackable credentials, which allow you to begin with an online accounting certificate and progress to an online bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting. Some students prefer institutions that provide good support services such as tutoring, career counseling, and internship opportunities, even if they are located remotely.