Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
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Credit: Xavier Lorenzo / Getty ImagesBachelor’s in accounting programs teach students basic accounting principles to help them pursue roles in accounting, finance, or business. Pursuing an accounting degree may be a good fit for you, whether you just enjoy math, wish to pursue a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification, or want to become an entrepreneur.
Studying online offers greater scheduling flexibility and the opportunity to bolster your technological skills. The number of students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting increased 13.8% from 2024-2025, according to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center.
Read on to discover top online accounting programs, benefits, and delivery formats available.
Top Online Accounting Bachelor’s Programs
Voorhees University
Denmark, SC- 4 year
- Online
What You Should Know
Voorhees' online BS in accounting offers a strong balance of accounting and business coursework, which comprise nearly two-thirds of the program's 121 required credits. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the curriculum emphasizes technical accounting knowledge, applied theory, and business technologies.
A required sequence of personal and career development courses complements the accounting and business curriculum. Students take these classes in each of their eight semesters, building college success skills and career insights.
Voorhees is a historically Black institution that affiliates with the Episcopal Church.
Highlights
- Recognizes alternative forms of transfer credit, including experiential learning, military training, and professional experience
Considerations
- Required internship
- Fewer electives
- In-State$11,630
- Out-of-state$11,630
- In-State$11,070
- Out-of-state$11,070
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled507
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
University of Minnesota Crookston
- Crookston, MN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
U of M Crookston's online BS in accounting features a comprehensive 21-course core that focuses almost exclusively on technical accounting coursework. This immersive structure builds a strong working knowledge of standard accounting and auditing practices, business technologies, taxation, and professional ethics.
Students planning to pursue certified public accountant (CPA) licensure can also take advantage of a unique learning opportunity. Through a partnership with Gleim CPA Review, U of M Crookston offers an optional four-course, 12-credit sequence of CPA Exam prep courses designed to boost exam performance.
Outcome data indicates high levels of student success. According to a 2021 U of M survey, 90.4% of alums were employed within one year of graduation.
Highlights
- Accredited by ACBSP
- Public accounting, management accounting, and auditing certification pathways available to graduates
- Flat-rate tuition policies offer savings opportunities
Considerations
- Students can use a maximum of two "D" grades toward the required major or technology coursework
- Limited electives available
- More intensive credit requirements in early semesters
- In-State$11,362
- Out-of-state$11,362
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate71%
- Acceptance Rate59%
- Students Enrolled2,303
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
SUU's online accounting program offers a BA or BS degree. Both paths share a core accounting curriculum covering a deep 74.5 credits.
The curriculum begins with a 23-credited foundational sequence of pre-business courses. The focused accounting core emphasizes financial and cost accounting, taxation, auditing, data analytics, and accounting information systems.
SUU offers the program through its Dixie L. Leavitt School of Business, which is accredited by the AACSB.
Highlights
- 100% online asynchronous delivery model
- Flat-rate tuition
- Learners matched with a dedicated student success advisor
Considerations
- Must meet foundational requirements for admission to the major
- Students can only repeat a failed course once
- BA path carries higher overall credit requirements
- In-State$6,006
- Out-of-state$19,822
- In-State$7,574
- Out-of-state$23,784
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled15,033
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment58%
- AccreditationYes
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 year
- Online
What You Should Know
ASU Online's BS in accountancy explores accounting principles and techniques and the technologies to apply them. The curriculum features specially developed accounting information systems coursework and uses a collaborative learning model that replicates professional practice.
Students can complete the program as part of an accelerated master's plan, leading to a graduate accounting degree in one additional year of schooling. This path may appeal to aspiring CPAs, as it fulfills the 150-credit educational requirements for CPA licensure.
Highlights
- Accredited by AACSB
- Compact 7.5-week terms support efficient learning
- Self-paced curriculum with six program start dates per year
Considerations
- Advanced standards, including SAT/ACT scores apply to students seeking direct admission to the accounting major
- Higher-cost program compared with others on this list
- "C" grade minimums apply to many required courses
- In-State$10,978
- Out-of-state$13,248
- In-State$9,972
- Out-of-state$9,972
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled62,551
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment98%
- AccreditationYes
Humphreys University
- Stockton, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
HU's online BS in accounting curriculum balances foundational and intermediate accounting coursework with business management classes. It emphasizes accounting knowledge along with the fundamentals of finance, operations management, business law, and marketing.
HU delivers its curriculum in small interactive classes that follow an intensive schedule. Learners complete four 11-week quarters per academic year. The program requires 181 quarter credits, which equates to 120 semester credits.
After acceptance, learners can start the program at the beginning of the next quarter term.
Highlights
- Transfer-friendly program offers extensive advanced standing opportunities
- MBA program available to meet 150-credit CPA licensing requirement
- New students accepted throughout the year
Considerations
- Only authorized to admit students from 32 states and U.S. territories
- No programmatic accreditation
- Few available electives
- In-State$14,760
- Out-of-state$14,760
- In-State$9,360
- Out-of-state$9,360
- Retention Rate100%
- Acceptance RateNot provided
- Students Enrolled393
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment87%
- AccreditationYes
Louisiana State University Alexandria
- Alexandria, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
LSUA's online BS in accounting trains students for the Uniform CPA Examination. This ACBSP-accredited program offers two concentration tracks: one in accounting information systems and data analytics, and another in fraud and forensic accounting. These subjects are covered in both the Core and Discipline sections of the CPA exam.
Coursework emphasizes generally accepted accounting principles, managerial-level financial analysis, auditing, and taxation. LSUA also offers a highly affordable education: The program's total cost including fees is just $39,000. Transfer students who maximize their existing credits can reduce that to less than $10,000.
Highlights
- 100% online delivery model
- Networking opportunities through the LSUA Business Society, accounting club, and the Omega Nu Lambda Online Honors Society
- No specialized admission requirements for the program
Considerations
- "C" grade or higher required for all accounting and business core courses
- Extensive general education requirements account for one-third of total credits
- Accounting technologies not covered outside the accounting information systems concentration
- In-State$4,950
- Out-of-state$5,120
- In-StateNot provided
- Out-of-stateNot provided
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled4,289
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Midway University
- Midway, KY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
Students in Midway's online BS in accounting program complete a rigorous core curriculum that satisfies Kentucky's CPA exam requirements for accounting coursework. Midway's convenient "4+1" path also lets graduates earn an MBA in just one extra year while securing the 150 credits needed for CPA exam eligibility and licensure in Kentucky.
Classes average just 17 students, giving learners plenty of access to their instructors. The program's completion plan includes many slots for electives, giving degree-seekers lots of ways to personalize their education. Major course requirements also cover business management, marketing, and economics, which provides a strong knowledge base for MBA-bound graduates.
Highlights
- Asynchronous online delivery model
- Simple, counselor-assisted application process
- Rigorous coursework covers advanced accounting topics
Considerations
- Higher-cost program than many others listed here
- Business capstone or senior accounting project required to graduate
- Up to one-third of credit requirements cover general education hours
- In-State$24,500
- Out-of-state$24,500
- In-State$7,200
- Out-of-state$7,200
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled1,881
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Columbia College
- Columbia, MO
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
Columbia College's online bachelor's in accounting builds on its focused eight-course accounting core with extensive coverage of general business topics such as economics, finance, management, and information systems. Students also sharpen their quantitative analysis acumen through statistics coursework.
Columbia College additionally offers online MBA and MS in accounting programs, offering multiple options to graduates who elect to upgrade to an advanced degree. Thanks to the school;s nationwide campus network, students also have the option of completing hybrid undergraduate and graduate accounting programs that blend online and in-person learning.
Highlights
- Accredited by ACBSP
- Students can complete multiple internships for academic credit
- High-performing students have early access to upper-division accounting courses, which may accelerate program completion
Considerations
- Highest average net price (before aid) of any school in this ranking
- "C" grade or higher required in all business and accounting courses
- Students from Florida, Texas, and Washington require at least six college credits for program entry
- In-State$12,140
- Out-of-state$12,140
- In-State$8,826
- Out-of-state$8,826
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled952
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
- Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
SMWC's online BS in accounting prepares students for diverse business careers through a dynamic blend of accounting, general business, and liberal arts coursework. This close-knit Christian college also offers optional concentrations in entrepreneurship and professional preparation.
The entrepreneurship track features enriched coursework in small business management, sales, human resources, and accounting information systems. Students in the professional prep track complete an internship, advanced taxation coursework, and accounting certification classes.
SMWC also offers program modification options, which students can use to satisfy the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure. Learners can also select an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's track leading to dual undergraduate and graduate degrees in just four years.
Highlights
- SMWC's Learning Resource Center provides customized academic success support for online students
- Apply at no cost
Considerations
- No programmatic accreditation
- Extensive liberal arts, religious studies, and non-major coursework requirements
- Higher-cost program when compared with others we ranked
- In-State$31,150
- Out-of-state$31,150
- In-State$12,825
- Out-of-state$12,825
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled1,147
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
SUNY College at Plattsburgh
- Plattsburgh, NY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
What You Should Know
SUNY Plattsburgh's online accounting major delivers plenty of customization options. Degree-seekers can personalize their learning in management accounting, forensic accounting, fraud examination, and internal auditing. These paths follow a 100% online asynchronous delivery model that prioritizes convenience and flexibility.
Online accounting students also enjoy remote access to career services and recruitment resources throughout their tenure in the program. In SUNY Plattsburgh's 2023 First Destination Survey, accounting alums reported an average starting salary of more than $61,000.
Highlights
- Accredited by AACSB
- Access SUNY Plattsburgh's IBM job placement and co-op program
- "4+1" bachelor's-to-master's in accounting path available to high-performing accounting and data analytics undergraduates
Considerations
- Must pass a business exit examination to graduate
- Transfer students must complete at least 37 major credits at SUNY Plattsburgh
- In-State$7,070
- Out-of-state$16,980
- In-State$11,310
- Out-of-state$23,100
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate70%
- Students Enrolled4,474
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment67%
- AccreditationYes
What to Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Accounting Program
Both online and in-person bachelor’s in accounting programs typically have similar curriculums and graduation prerequisites. Graduates from either program should understand basic generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), forecasting, and tax planning.
However, your experience while studying depends on your specific program and delivery method. Online programs may offer flexibility, while live courses provide additional opportunities to interact with professors and peers. You must weigh the pros and cons of each program against your personal requirements.
How Does an Online Accounting Program Differ From On-Campus Learning?
Online and on-campus accounting degree programs typically offer similar courses and cover the same material. Online and in-person options at the same school often have completely identical curriculums. The differences between a virtual and campus-based accounting program may include cost, flexibility, timeline, and guidance from professors.
Below, find examples of some differences between online and in-person programs, based on a few specific schools’ offerings:
| Factor | Online Program | On-Campus Program |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $7,500-$30,000 annually | $6,240-$69,000 annually |
| Course Load | Typically 15 credits per semester, or at your own pace | Typically 15 credits per semester |
| Combination Programs | Master of accountancy and data analytics | Master of science in accounting |
| Total Credits | 120 | 120 |
| Concentrations | Data analytics, forensic accounting | Management accounting, finance, healthcare management, marketing |
| Accounting Courses | Accounting ethics, forensic accounting, data analytics, and professional writing | Legal and ethical environment of business, data analysis with spreadsheets, and technical writing |
Tuition rates may vary between online and on-campus programs. Online programs have a smaller range of tuition rates than in-person programs. Virtual programs may charge lower rates to attract students and compete against similar nationwide programs.
Online and in-person programs generally include 120 credits and take four years to complete. Certain online degrees allow students to complete courses at their own pace. Full-time students who enroll in an accelerated online accounting program can complete it within 2-3 years.
Both on-campus and virtual accounting degree curriculums consist of accounting, ethics, and data analytics classes. Course titles may vary by program but focus on the same fundamentals. Applicants should compare programs holistically by assessing available concentrations, cost, and course load.
Delivery Formats for Online Accounting Degrees
While many of the best online accounting degree programs offer classes only virtually, some take a hybrid approach. Hybrid programs require students to attend both online and in-person courses. Fully online programs are quite common, however, as accounting courses do not usually require labs or in-person assignments.
Fully online programs may employ asynchronous or synchronous courses. Asynchronous classes allow students to complete courses at their own pace, while synchronous courses require students to attend live sessions during set times.
Online learning can be advantageous if you would benefit from the flexibility of an asynchronous schedule. You could also choose any school within the U.S., as you do not need to attend physical courses.
However, if you want to improve your time management, then you may benefit from a synchronous or hybrid program. Synchronous programs offer less freedom, but that can also help you develop your organizational and planning skills.
You can also utilize synchronous programs to develop friendships and ask professors questions. Building an in-person relationship with your professors can work to your advantage when tricky class topics come up or when you have specific accounting questions regarding taxation rules, internal controls, and variance analysis.
How Much Will an Online Accounting Bachelor’s Cost?
The best online accounting degrees can cost $7,500-$30,000 annually, depending on your school’s prestige, location, and other factors. As a remote student, you may need to pay additional fees for a computer, Microsoft Office, and high-speed internet.
In-person programs can be more expensive than online programs, charging up to $69,000 annually. On-campus students may also pay additional costs, including for housing, transportation, and campus meal plans. Both online and in-person students can apply for financial aid, including:
- Scholarships: Scholarships may have various prerequisites, including academic, need-based, or skill-based requirements. Scholarship recipients generally do not need to repay funds.
- Grants: Grants usually have need-based criteria, but do not need to be repaid.
- Loans: Loans accrue interest and need to be repaid in the future.
Accreditation for the Best Online Accounting Degrees
You should ensure that any school you attend has received institutional accreditation. Institutional accrediting agencies review schools and offer accreditation to institutions that meet a certain standard of learning.
The U.S. has multiple institutional accreditors, including the Higher Learning Commission and Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Non-accredited institutions may not be recognized by future employers and may prevent you from transferring credits to other universities or accessing federal financial aid.
Individual programs can also receive accreditation from agencies that specialize in certain subjects. Accounting programs can earn accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. The AACSB requires accounting programs to meet nine business and six accounting accreditation standards.
Accredited institutions receive accreditation for all programs within their school, while programmatic accreditation only applies to a single course of study.
Out-of-state students who want to attend an online program should ensure the school has state authorization. State authorization allows a school to teach students in another state. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation offers resources to check a school’s accreditation and state authorization status.
Why Get Your Bachelor’s in Accounting Online?
If flexibility is important to you, or if you have competing priorities that you need to balance while in school, an online bachelor’s in accounting could be a better fit for you than an in-person program. The following list highlights some of the pros and cons of choosing an online bachelor’s in accounting program.
Pros
- Choices: Accounting has multiple disciplines, including managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing. If you wish to pursue a specialized track but no institutions nearby offer it, an online program with a relevant concentration may be suitable for you.
- Self-Paced: You may find specific aspects of accounting easy or difficult to master. Online programs may offer additional flexibility, allowing you to work at your own pace and work on topics as needed.
- Digital Practice: Accounting professionals should feel comfortable with technology, including computers, accounting software, video conferencing, and more. You may practice these skills more frequently in an online program.
Cons
- Networking Opportunities: On-campus students may attend event fairs, networking events, and meetings with professors. Online attendees may have fewer networking opportunities.
- Extracurriculars: Fully online students may have fewer academic and non-academic extracurricular choices, including tutoring sessions, sporting events, and student council.
- Lack of Structure: Online students must be self-motivated to complete lessons and assignments on time.
Questions About Online Accounting Programs
Your individual requirements determine the best online accounting degree. You must consider your learning objectives, scheduling flexibility, and budget to find the program that best suits your needs.
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