Best Online Accounting Associate Degrees 2025
An online accounting associate degree offers more flexibility than an on-campus program. As an online student, you can often complete coursework on less structured schedules and attend programs across the country.
Online accounting associate degree programs teach you the foundational skills and knowledge needed to enter the accounting field. While certified public accountants require at least a bachelor’s degree, completing an online associate accounting degree can help prepare you for entry-level roles.
Use this guide to discover top online accounting associate degrees, including the admissions process and tuition rates for these schools.
Top Online Associate in Accounting Degree Programs
Franklin University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 year
- Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
Franklin's AS in accounting covers foundational financial and managerial accounting concepts and federal income tax. Students also gain an understanding of business decision-making and financial processes. Elective courses include cost management, auditing, and fraud examination.
This online program offers courses in accelerated six-week blocks, allowing students to focus on one course at a time. Franklin also offers academic credit for prior learning, which can help students with relevant accounting or business experience graduate faster.
Highlights
- Several start dates available throughout the year
- Transfer students can apply up to 44 previously earned credits toward their degree
- Graduates can move seamlessly into Franklin's BS in accounting program
Considerations
- Transfers must complete a minimum of 20 credits at Franklin
- Accounting majors must maintain a minimum 2.25 GPA in all accounting courses
95%
$9,552
50%
$9,552
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 8,044
- Institution Type
- Private
Central Maine Community College
- Auburn, ME
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
CMCC's AAS in accounting prepares graduates for entry-level jobs as bookkeepers and tax preparers. The program includes courses in macroeconomics, business mathematics, and payroll accounting. Students also complete either a business internship in a professional setting or a capstone project.
CMCC has transfer agreements with Husson University and the University of Maine. Graduates can transfer seamlessly into bachelor's in accounting programs at these schools, earning a degree with two years of additional study. Husson offers a BS in accounting, while UM offers a BS in business administration in accounting.
Highlights
- Concentrated eight-week courses allow students to move through materials quickly
- 100% online classes with no required campus visits
- Tuition waivers may be available for certain students, such as veterans or former foster children.
Considerations
- Higher tuition rate for out-of-state students
- Primarily serves students in Maine
55%
$2,880
52%
$5,760
- Acceptance Rate
- 83%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,376
- Institution Type
- Public
York County Community College
- Wells, ME
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
In YCC's AAS in accounting program, students gain foundational knowledge in business systems and accounting processes. The two-year degree focuses on key topics in income tax accounting, managerial accounting, and accounting software. Students also can choose from specialized electives in personal finance, small business management, and risk management.
The program ends with a business capstone course. Working as part of a team, students use their accounting skills to analyze and solve real-world business problems.
Highlights
- Recent Maine high school graduates may be eligible for free tuition
- Admissions counseling available to all applicants
- Transfer agreements with four-year colleges in Maine, including Husson University and University of Maine at Fort Kent
Considerations
- Primarily serves students based in Maine
- Increased tuition for out-of-state students and no eligibility for free tuition
- Transfer agreements only available at four-year Maine colleges
68%
$2,880
55%
$5,760
- Acceptance Rate
- 76%
- Students Enrolled
- 1,625
- Institution Type
- Public
Southwestern Community College
- Creston, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
SWCC's AAS in accounting trains students for entry-level careers such as accounts payable/receivable clerk, payroll accountant, and general ledger accountant. Common courses include business law, principles of microeconomics, and business problem solving. As part of the AAS curriculum, candidates can also earn a small business accounting certificate.
Accounting students may be eligible for the Iowa Last-Dollar Scholarship, which pays for all tuition and fees not covered by federal financial aid. Both recent high school graduates and adult learners over age 20 can receive free tuition through the Last-Dollar program.
Highlights
- Students can apply for 100+ scholarships with just one application
- Tutoring available for all online students
Considerations
- AAS degree may not offer seamless transfer options to four-year accounting programs
- Primarily serves Iowa students
57%
$5,940
66%
$6,150
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,581
- Institution Type
- Public
Lake Superior College
- Duluth, MN
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
LSC's AAS in accounting builds skills in budget analysis, financial statement preparation, and income tax calculation. Candidates choose from elective courses such as fraud prevention, government accounting, and data analytics. The program also prepares graduates to sit for the Accredited Business Accountant exam in Minnesota.
LSC offers experiential learning opportunities for accounting candidates, including internships and an accounting capstone. An internship builds hands-on experience in a business setting, while the capstone applies course learning to real-world accounting problems.
Highlights
- Some of the lowest tuition rates in the Minnesota State College system
- LSC works to match students with appropriate scholarships
- Seamless transfer available into University of Wisconsin-Superior's BS in accounting program
Considerations
- Hybrid program with some campus requirements
- Certification and credit transfer opportunities apply only to Minnesota residents.
- Letters of recommendation not required but strongly recommended for scholarships
49%
$4,996
60%
$4,996
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,849
- Institution Type
- Public
Western Technical College
- La Crosse, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
Western Technical College’s associate degree in accounting offers flexible course delivery formats, including synchronous and asynchronous options. As part of the accounting curriculum, students complete a capstone project on running a manufacturing business. The capstone builds skills in accounting information systems, master budgeting, and financial reporting analysis.
The school maintains transfer agreements with several colleges across the Midwest, including Purdue University Global, Viterbo University, and the University of Wisconsin System. Graduates can transfer their associate degree credits to earn a bachelor's in accounting in person or online.
Highlights
- Courses use an accelerated seven-week format
- Students can apply for scholarships worth up to $2,500
- Credit for prior learning lets students gain academic credit for existing skills and training
Considerations
- Out-of-state students pay higher tuition rates than state residents
- Mandatory $30 application fee
- Primarily serves students in Wisconsin
66%
$4,298
47%
$6,450
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 3,872
- Institution Type
- Public
Fox Valley Technical College
- Appleton, WI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
FVTC's fully online AAS in accounting offers both part-time and full-time enrollment options. The curriculum includes topics in spreadsheets, payroll, and financial fraud detection. Candidates also complete a capstone course in which they perform accounting tasks for a small business.
FVTC holds transfer agreements with other online colleges in Wisconsin and across the country, including Lakeland University, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, and the University of Maryland's Global Campus. Students can transfer their associate credits toward a bachelor's degree at these colleges, graduating in two additional years of study.
Highlights
- Admissions and career counseling available
- Three start dates available throughout the year
- Scholarships offered for both recent high school graduates and returning students
Considerations
- Application requires a skills assessment, which may include a testing fee
- Out-of-state students pay a higher tuition rate
- Primarily serves Wisconsin state residents
30%
$3,860
74%
$6,977
- Acceptance Rate
- 68%
- Students Enrolled
- 11,181
- Institution Type
- Public
Brunswick Community College
- Bolivia, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
BCC's AAS in accounting and finance prepares graduates for entry-level positions in small businesses, accounting firms, and government organizations. The curriculum overviews accounting practices and principles, including business insurance, accounting ethics, and enterprise risk management.
During the program's final semester, students complete a work-based learning project with an approved accounting employer. This experience draws together major program concepts and applies them to real-world accounting problems, preparing students for employment after graduation.
Highlights
- No application fee or standardized test scores required
- Transfer agreements with Western Carolina University and University of North Carolina Greensboro allow students to move into bachelor's in accounting programs.
- Payment plans allow students to pay tuition in monthly installments.
Considerations
- Online learning is not available for students residing in California and some U.S. territories, including Guam and American Samoa
- Significantly higher tuition rate for out-of-state online students
89%
$2,432
67%
$8,576
- Acceptance Rate
- N/A
- Students Enrolled
- 1,678
- Institution Type
- Public
Herzing University
- Atlanta, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
Herzing's AS in accounting offers a comprehensive curriculum covering topics in taxation, business law, and project management. The program includes 65 credits and takes around 20 months of full-time study.
Herzing delivers all courses fully online, though some classes may include a scheduled virtual component. Students can choose from either daytime or evening classes, depending on scheduling availability. All candidates also complete an accounting internship at an approved business.
Highlights
- The only program on our list with accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education
- Herzing reports a 90% student satisfaction rate among 2023 graduates
- Rolling admissions allow students to apply any time of year
Considerations
- At $515/credit, Herzing is by far the most expensive school on our list
- Applicants must complete entrance testing, such as SAT/ACT or other placement exams
95%
$11,820
40%
$11,820
- Acceptance Rate
- 93%
- Students Enrolled
- 663
- Institution Type
- Private
Des Moines Area Community College
- Ankeny, IA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
What You Should Know
DMACC's AAS in accounting specialist program covers accounting fundamentals and specialized topics in financial analysis and tax preparation. The 64-credit degree includes courses in information computing, accounting professionalism, and Microsoft Excel for entrepreneurs.
DMACC offers several options for accounting majors to gain hands-on experience. Students can complete an accounting internship or participate in volunteer income tax preparation for community members. Students can also take a course that prepares them to sit for the Fundamental Payroll Certification exam.
Highlights
- Bachelor's degree transfer pathways available at Grand View University and Simpson College
- Tutoring services available for all online students
- Hybrid enrollment options available, with in-person courses offered at multiple campuses
Considerations
- At $193/credit, the school is not the cheapest on our list
- Not all math courses may meet transfer requirements at other colleges
- Program primarily serves students in Iowa
45%
$ 5,550
63%
$11,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 69%
- Students Enrolled
- 21,637
- Institution Type
- Public
What to Expect From an Online Associate in Accounting Program
On-campus and online associate degrees in accounting share many similarities. They typically feature the same curriculum requirements and lead to similar professional outcomes. However, there are some key differences to keep in mind.
Online programs feature different learning experiences and requirements of students than on-campus programs. Online programs can even differ from each other, depending on their delivery format. Below, explore some of the considerations to keep in mind as you compare online accounting associate degrees.
How Does an Online Program Differ From On Campus?
In most cases, online and on-campus students take the same accounting courses, complete the same number of credits, and pursue the same careers after graduation. The requirements and learning experiences throughout their programs, however, can differ.
The following table highlights some key differences between the two delivery formats.
| Factor | Online Program | On-Campus Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $9,750 (public) and $35,248 (private), plus books and online learning fees | $9,750 (public) and $35,248 (private), plus travel, books, campus fees |
| Course Load | 6 credits per eight-week term | 15 credits per semester |
| Program Length | 1-2 years | 2 years |
| Scheduling | Flexible: often asynchronous, anytime; or synchronous evenings and weekends | Fixed: weekday classes; or evenings and weekends (in some cases) |
| Learning Style | Independent and self-paced | Structured and instructor-guided |
| Classroom Engagement | Online forums and virtual meetings | Traditional classes, group work, and discussions |
| Student Demographics | Working and distance students of a wide age range | Younger adults and local high school grads |
Online and on-campus programs differ most in their delivery methods. Online programs require more independence and self-sufficiency from students than on-campus programs. Online programs also provide more scheduling and travel flexibility than on-campus programs, which can lead to different student demographics.
When choosing between online and on-campus programs, consider the experience and schedule you want and need.
Delivery Formats for Online Accounting Degrees
Online accounting programs typically come in two formats: fully online and hybrid. Fully online programs allow students to study from any location and, often, during the most convenient times for them. Hybrid programs combine online and on-campus delivery modes, appealing to students who want flexibility and classroom interaction.
Within both formats, online classes may occur asynchronously or synchronously. These modes offer benefits and potential drawbacks.
- Asynchronous: Coursework has deadlines, but students complete assignments on their schedules. While this method provides maximum flexibility and may be ideal for working and busy students, asynchronous learning requires more organization and independence than other formats.
- Synchronous: Classes run virtually at set times to provide a more traditional classroom experience. Students get less scheduling flexibility but more structure, guidance, and interactions with classmates.
While you need to consider your learning style and schedule, it’s also important to think about how the different delivery formats apply to accounting programs. For example, online accounting associate programs feature accounting fundamentals courses and minimal practical requirements. As such, classroom structure and interaction may not be as valuable as in more hands-on programs.
How Much Will an Online Accounting Associate Cost?
The price of an online accounting associate degree can vary significantly. Tuition prices for the degrees on this page range from $76-$398 per credit or $5,016-$25,472 for the entire program.
Many factors influence price, including school prestige, school type, and location. In-state and public school students generally pay lower rates than out-of-state and private school students. Online programs don’t always follow this model, however, as some schools offer standard online tuition rates to all learners regardless of their location.
Online enrollees can also save on travel, campus fees, and even room and board, though hybrid students should factor in commuting and parking fees. Online students may also have to pay additional online learning, technology, and digital subscription fees.
To help cover the costs of their education, online students can pursue financial aid in various forms, including low-interest federal loans and grants. They can also apply for scholarships from government programs, schools, and accounting organizations.
Accreditation for Online Accounting Associate Programs
Accreditation is a critical component of the school selection process. Institutional accreditation demonstrates a school’s overall quality and helps ensure you’ll have access to federal financial aid, transfer credits, and support.
While not mandatory, programmatic accreditation can also prove valuable in your program search. Accredited programs showcase industry standard-meeting curriculums and positive student outcomes. Some of the most recognizable accrediting agencies for accounting programs include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.
Online students also need to consider state authorization, which allows schools to offer distance education to learners from other states. Before applying, make sure any prospective schools have authorization to enroll students from your state.
Why Get Your Associate in Accounting Online?
Earning your associate degree in accounting online can help you fit your classes around your schedule and save money on your education. You’ll cover the same material and even learn from the same faculty as on-campus programs while reducing your travel and enjoying more control over your studies.
However, online learning doesn’t offer the same structure and environment as on-campus programs. You’ll need more organization and self-discipline to thrive in a remote learning environment. Consider the following pros and cons when deciding between online and on-campus programs.
Pros
- Flexibility: Online delivery allows you to study on your own schedule in asynchronous classes or during the evenings and weekends in synchronous classes.
- Affordability: Save on travel and campus fees with distance learning, as well as out-of-state tuition rates in many schools.
- Accessibility: Virtual learning opens access to schools anywhere in the country.
Cons
- Limited Engagement: Online students primarily connect with teachers and students through email and online discussion boards.
- Isolation: Students complete most, if not all, of their programs through independent learning with fewer interactions with peers than in traditional classroom environments.
- Lack of Structure: Without regular class meetings, students need strong organization and time-management skills to stay on pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — you can complete an accounting associate degree online. With limited practical requirements at this level, accounting associate degrees lend themselves well to online learning.
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