An associate in accounting is a two-year undergraduate degree that introduces students to the subject. An associate degree in accounting builds a solid knowledge foundation.
Learners can access both campus-based and online study options. Online associate degrees in accounting tend to offer better scheduling flexibility, matching well with independent learning styles.
The accounting sector was hit hard during the COVID-19 pandemic. Controllers Council, an accounting professional organization, documented a 17% drop in the number of corporate accountants and finance professionals in 2021 alone.
The situation has caused an acute accountant shortage, creating a strong job market for candidates with the right skills.
This degree guide explains what learners can expect from an online associate in accounting. It also includes an updated list of the top two-year accounting programs of 2023.
What to Expect From an Online Associate in Accounting Program
From an academic standpoint, campus-based and online associate degrees in accounting share many similarities. Students engage with the same accounting concepts.
Yet, the online learning experience differs from the traditional classroom in many ways. Varying program structures also lead to significant differences among online accounting degrees. The following subsections offer an in-depth exploration of online accounting degrees and their defining features.
How Does an Online Accounting Degree Differ From an On-Campus Associate?
Campus-based and online accounting programs cover similar if not identical subject matter. However, they do diverge. Students should familiarize themselves with these differences.
The online learning environment offers scheduling flexibility not found in campus-based programs. This flexibility may hold appeal for some learners, especially those balancing schooling with other responsibilities.
Online learning generally demands more independence. It also comes with social trade-offs, as students rarely if ever come face-to-face with their peers or instructors.
The following tables summarize some of the main differences between campus-based and online associate in accounting degrees:
Comparing Online and On-Campus Associate in Accounting Degrees
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Factor
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Online Program
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On-Campus Program
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Credit Requirements
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About 60-64
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About 60-64
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Course Scheduling and Delivery
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Usually asynchronous, allowing students to engage with coursework on their own schedules
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Synchronous lectures and classes take place on set days and times
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Experiential Learning Opportunities
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More likely to be optional, due to the logistical challenges associated with matching non-local students with placements in specific areas
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More likely to offer students a broader set of options
More likely to be recommended or required
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Time to Completion
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About 18-24 months
Some programs offer compact terms that facilitate accelerated learning
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About two academic years (full time)
Accelerated learning options are very limited
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Sources: Florida National University, Southern New Hampshire University, Franklin University, Monroe College, American Public University System, Davenport University
In general, students seeking greater control over their education may prefer online programs. Traditional programs may be a better match for learners seeking interpersonal interaction, networking opportunities, and the benefits that accompany hands-on learning.
Delivery Formats for Online Accounting Degrees
Online accounting degrees break down into two subtypes: 100% online, and hybrid. As its name suggests, the 100% online model requires no campus attendance. Degree-seekers complete all academic requirements via virtual learning platforms.
The hybrid model blends online and classroom-based learning. In some cases, in-person attendance requirements extend only to accounting internships or occasional campus-based learning modules.
Other hybrid programs have more demanding physical attendance requirements. Some schools also allow hybrid learners to choose for themselves how they balance the two formats.
Online learning has unique course delivery formats. Asynchronous formats involve pre-recorded lectures or instructional sessions. Students can log into their online learning platform and engage with coursework on the days and times most convenient for them.
Synchronous online classes require learners to attend virtual classes at set times. Students in synchronous classes can ask instructors questions about course material in real time. For complex subject matter like accounting, this might be a major benefit.
Asynchronous classes maximize scheduling flexibility. They tend to make a better match for degree-seekers who need to work, care for family members, or attend to other external commitments.
Accreditation for Online Associate Degrees in Accounting
Institutional accreditation means that third-party evaluators have examined and approved of the school's academic programming. Accredited institutions meet elevated standards for academic rigor and quality.
Students should consider online associate degrees in accounting from accredited schools only. Accreditation ensures that employers and other accredited institutions will recognize the degree.
Some accounting departments and degrees hold additional accreditation endorsements known as specialized or programmatic accreditation. These do not apply to the institution as a whole, instead specific to a particular department, degree, or program.
The main programmatic accreditors of accounting degrees include:
Degrees endorsed by one of these agencies meet exceptional standards of academic quality.
Finally, students planning to learn online should research a school's state authorization status. State authorization recognizes an institution's ability to deliver online programs to students located in other states.
To qualify for federal funding, online schools must hold valid authorizations in every state in which they operate.
How Much Will an Online Associate in Accounting Cost?
For the 2020-21 school year, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported the following national averages for two-year institutions:
Students can expect their tuition costs to reflect these trends. Notably, some institutions offer in-state rates to all online learners, regardless of their physical locations.
Online learners may face costs and mandatory fees that do not apply to traditional classroom-based learning. These may include:
- Technology fees the institution charges
- Software licenses or subscriptions for completing coursework
- Computer hardware or equipment upgrades
Such costs offset some of the savings online learners gain by not commuting to campus or relocating.
Hybrid learners may find themselves at a disadvantage, potentially facing costs associated with both online and campus-based formats.
Students who need help meeting their educational costs should begin by researching scholarships, fellowships, and grant programs.
These non-repayable forms of aid do not create a debt burden. Consider federal or private loans only if financial need persists after exploring all other options.
Why Get Your Associate in Accounting Online?
Accounting functions well in online learning environments. Course material and academic concepts are standardized.
But online education is not for everyone. It tends to work best for students with complex scheduling needs who are also comfortable with self-directed learning.
Those seeking the social and interactive aspects of the traditional classroom may prefer campus-based programs.
Online associate degrees in accounting also have other pros and cons to consider:
Pros
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Cost and Time Savings: Learners in online programs do not need to physically commute or relocate. This removes two of the most significant financial and time-based costs associated with campus learning.
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Ability to Review Material: Pre-recorded asynchronous lectures allow students to shuttle back and review particularly challenging concepts as many times as necessary.
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Scheduling Flexibility: Students in online programs have much more control over when to engage with their learning.
Cons
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Greater Need for Independence: Online learning often demands more self-direction than classroom-based learning. This may pose challenges for some students.
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Social Limitations: The virtual classroom offers fewer opportunities to interact with peers and faculty. Those who place high value on the social aspects of higher education may prefer campus-based options.
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Fewer Practical Learning Opportunities: Internship requirements can create logistical challenges for students scattered across wide geographic areas. This can limit opportunities and potentially make campus-based programs a better choice for learners specifically seeking to develop their skills in field settings.
Top Online Associate in Accounting Programs
Explore 2023's top five online associate degrees in accounting. Discover the benefits, costs, and requirements of these programs. Explore our ranking methodology with the link below.
#2 Best Online Associate Degrees in Accounting 2023
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Fennimore, WI
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southwest Tech, originally known as the Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education District #3, was founded in 1967 and has grown to offer degrees, apprenticeships, and continuing education courses.
Accounting Associate Degree
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College's accounting associate degree provides the education required to pursue entry-level roles in private, public, and government employment. Enrollees develop their ability to prepare payroll documents, process transactions, and assist with tax preparation.
Each learner receives a technical skill attainment evaluation at the end of the program. The evaluation considers several key skills and assigns a pass or fail grade to each ability. Professors and students can use the evaluation to identify potential areas of improvement.
Applying to Southwest Tech
Interested candidates can apply online and schedule one-on-one visits on campus or virtually.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $143/credit (in state); $215/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 65
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Associate Degrees in Accounting 2023
Olney Central College
- Olney, IL
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
OCC, founded in 1963, enrolled 154 students in its first class. The school has ranked among the top community colleges in Illinois and features many diverse clubs and student organizations.
Associate in Applied Science Degree in Accounting
Olney Central College offers a fully online associate degree in accounting. Students can pursue entry-level roles after graduation or apply to four-year universities to continue their education. Learners looking to transfer to four-year schools from this program may need to take additional courses.
The school offers a professional bookkeeper and QuickBooks certificates to add to the associate degree. Each semester has 5-6 courses, which are mostly predetermined. Courses available to students include business math, managerial accounting, and business law.
Applying to OCC
OCC requires an online application, high school transcripts, and a pre-entrance physical exam or background check. Applicants can submit standardized test scores if the exams were completed within the past three years.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $110/credit (in district); $306/credit (out of district); $375/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 63
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Questions About 2-Year Accounting Degree Programs
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Is an associate in accounting worth it?
Yes. An associate degree in accounting can offer graduates the competitive edge to secure employment in the business industry or pursue further accounting education.
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How many credit hours is an associate degree in accounting online?
An associate in accounting online often requires 60 credits, but some programs offer accelerated options or accept transfer credits.
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Which is better: an associate degree or a certification in accounting?
Certifications in accounting can offer specialized skills and knowledge, but many depend on the fundamental knowledge taught in associate degree coursework, so learners often benefit from earning an associate in accounting first.
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What can you do with an associate degree in accounting?
Graduates who hold an associate in accounting work in various clerical and administrative roles or take their education to the next level with a bachelor's degree.
