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The best online accounting degree programs offer multiple benefits, including cost, flexibility, and course choices. Learn about top programs and available delivery formats.
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Bachelor'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.
Popular Online Accounting Bachelor's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Accounting Bachelor's Programs
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the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
Accounting.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.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Voorhees University
Denmark, SC
4 years
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,630
Out-of-state
$11,630
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,070
Out-of-state
$11,070
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
507
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
35%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, MN
4 years
Online + Campus
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
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,362
Out-of-state
$11,362
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
71%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
2,303
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT
2 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,006
Out-of-state
$19,822
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,574
Out-of-state
$23,784
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
15,033
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#4 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale, AZ
4 years
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,978
Out-of-state
$13,248
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,972
Out-of-state
$9,972
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
62,551
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Humphreys University
Stockton, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,760
Out-of-state
$14,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,360
Out-of-state
$9,360
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
393
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Louisiana State University Alexandria
Alexandria, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,950
Out-of-state
$5,120
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
4,289
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Midway University
Midway, KY
2 years
Online + Campus
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.
Business capstone or senior accounting project required to graduate
Up to one-third of credit requirements cover general education hours
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,500
Out-of-state
$24,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,200
Out-of-state
$7,200
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
1,881
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
76%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Columbia College
Columbia, MO
2 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,140
Out-of-state
$12,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,826
Out-of-state
$8,826
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
58%
Students Enrolled
952
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,150
Out-of-state
$31,150
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,825
Out-of-state
$12,825
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
1,147
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Accounting Degrees 2025
SUNY College at Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh, NY
2 years
Online + Campus
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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$16,980
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
73%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
4,474
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Our Ranking Methodology
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
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:
Comparing Online and On-Campus Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees
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
Accounting ethics, forensic accounting, data analytics, and professional writing
Legal and ethical environment of business, data analysis with spreadsheets, and technical writing
Sources: Arizona State University, Louisiana State University, University of North Texas, University of the Potomac, Southern New Hampshire University, University of North Dakota, Texas Tech University
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.
Online programs have a smaller range of tuition rates than in-person programs.
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.
Out-of-state students who want to attend an online program should ensure the school has state authorization.
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
What is the best online accounting program?
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.
How long does it take to get an accounting degree online?
You can typically complete a full-time bachelor's in accounting program within four years. Online students can complete an accelerated workload and finish the program within 2-3 years.
How much is an online degree in accounting?
Online degrees in accounting programs can cost between $7,500 and $30,000 annually. You can lower tuition costs by applying for financial aid, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
Are online accounting degrees respected?
Yes, online degrees are respected, as online and in-person programs have the same curriculums and graduation requirements. To ensure your online program is reputable, check the school's institutional accreditation and the course of study's programmatic accreditation. Degrees usually do not mention whether a program was completed online or in person.
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