The number of accountants and auditors dropped 17% between 2020 and 2022, according to The Wall Street Journal, creating a need for 300,000 new accounting professionals. With such a high demand for certified public accountants (CPAs), professionals might want to advance their careers with a master's in accounting.
Students with a bachelor's in accounting can use the master's degree to complete the 150-credit requirement for the CPA exam. Professionals without an accounting background can also complete the program to move into the accounting field.
Getting a master's in accounting online offers particular benefits, especially the flexibility to study while still working. Keep reading to learn more about online master's in accounting programs and explore the best program options.
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below
Best Master's in Accounting Online Programs
The following ranking profiles our experts' picks for the top five online master's programs in accounting for 2023. Use it to help guide your research as you consider learning opportunities that match your interests and career plans.
#1 Best Master’s in Accounting Online
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
- Chapel Hill, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Home of the Tar Heels, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was founded in 1789 and opened in 1795. UNC was the first public university in the United States.
Online Master of Accounting
UNC-Chapel Hill's online master of accounting program is built to meet the same high academic standards as its acclaimed campus-based counterpart. Learners emerge ready to take advantage of professional opportunities available through UNC's career recruitment network.
Recruitment partners include all of the "Big Four" accounting firms and multiple major corporations and financial institutions.
The program offers excellent scheduling flexibility. Ambitious full-time students can graduate in one year. Part-time learners can self-pace, taking as little as one course at a time. All students receive complete institutional support, including individual academic advisors and career coaches.
Applying to UNC-Chapel Hill
UNC-Chapel Hill's online master of accounting program accepts students from all academic and professional backgrounds. Application materials include:
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts
- A personal essay and a resume or CV
- Two academic or professional references
GMAT/GRE scores are optional. UNC-Chapel Hill will contact your references on your behalf. They do not need to write formal letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $1,446.36/ credit
- Required Credits: 36-48
- Program Length: 12-36 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous)
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s in Accounting Online
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Salt Lake City-based Western Governors University was founded in the mid-1990s to take advantage of emerging educational technologies. The 100% online institution has since garnered a national reputation for inclusive innovation.
Online Master of Accounting
Western Governors University's online master of accounting degree combines a focused accounting coursework core with finance and strategic management courses. Upon graduating, students hold the 150 semester hours required by most U.S. states for certified public accountant (CPA) exam eligibility.
The program uses a competence model to advance learners through course sequences. This innovative structure trades rigid schedules for self-paced learning. Students begin a course, engage with its content, then take an assessment testing their knowledge as soon as they feel ready.
WGU's model appears to have a positive impact on earning potential. According to WGU, graduates report average salary increases of nearly $19,000 after completing their degree.
Applying to WGU
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree in accounting or a CPA license. Core admission materials include academic undergraduate transcripts from an accredited institution. GMAT/GRE scores are not required.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Tuition: $4,530/ six-month term
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
147,866
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Master’s in Accounting Online
The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
- Edinburg, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley brands itself as "The Future of Texas." The school claims a position as the number two public university in Texas, and as the state's leader in lowest net cost of attendance.
Master of Accountancy Accelerated Online Program
University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley's master of accountancy accelerated online program packs a lot of learning into a compact schedule. Students take courses in seven-week terms and can complete all requirements in as little as one year.
The program combines a rigorous accounting core with electives that allow students to pursue personal interests. Through this structure, learners can craft specializations in auditing, taxation, estate planning, fraud examination, and more.
Graduates leave the program with the academic requirements needed to take the Texas State Board of Accountancy's CPA exam. Applicants who need assistance meeting UTRGV's tuition rates can use the financial aid programs UTRGV offers.
Applying to UTRGV
A strong academic background or a bachelor's degree in accounting is recommended. Candidates must have an undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on the 4.0 scale. Required application materials include academic transcripts and GMAT scores. Application is free.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $472.22/credit
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 12 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s in Accounting Online
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Illinois network has a distinguished history of academic and intellectual excellence. Students and faculty associated with the school have won 29 Pulitzer Prizes and 24 Nobel Prizes.
Online Master of Science in Accountancy
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign brands its online master of science in accountancy program as the iMSA. The Gies College of Business, which holds accreditation from the prestigious Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), houses the program.
U of I describes the iMSA as the first national top-five accounting program to adopt a 100% online format. Coursework emphasizes direct active participation. Students use a practical learning model to apply gained knowledge and skills to real-world situations.
The U of I curriculum focuses on foundational essentials. Learners heavily engage with the principles of financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and analytics.
Applying to U of I
U of I recommends a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on the 4.0 scale. Applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, a personal essay, and two recommendation letters.
A bachelor's in accounting is not required. However, candidates should have college-level coursework in business management and principles of accounting or financial accounting. GMAT/GRE scores are optional.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC), AACSB
- Tuition: $850/ credit
- Required Credits: 32
- Program Length: 18-36 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online, partially asynchronous
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Master’s in Accounting Online
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
- Raleigh, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
North Carolina State University is noted for its strong focus on graduate education. About two-thirds of the school's 300-plus degree programs are offered at the master's or doctoral levels. NC State ranks in the top 1% of global universities as assessed by the Center for World University Rankings.
Master of Accounting
NC State's program for online master of accounting combines a strong accounting core with enhanced customization options. Electives make up nearly one-third of its credit requirements. Students can pursue their interests in risk management, finance, leadership, sustainability, information technology, and other innovative areas.
The program's design focuses on established business professionals looking to advance their careers. Coursework emphasizes the competencies students need to earn CPA licensure. All students are matched with career counselors.
NC State's Poole College of Management holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Applying to NC State
NC State accepts students from all academic backgrounds. However, candidates need college coursework in financial reporting, managerial accounting, intermediate accounting, taxation, business law, and auditing.
The school describes admission standards as competitive. Applicants need academic transcripts and GMAT scores.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), AACSB
- Tuition: $505.28/credit (in state), $1,572.28/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 31
- Program Length: 18-36 months (up to 72 months if needed)
- Delivery Format: 100% online, primarily asynchronous
Percent Online Enrollment
91%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The link below explains the criteria we evaluated in generating the ranking:
What to Expect From an Online Master's in Accounting Program
In general, an online master's in accounting closely compares to on-campus alternatives. Both options can help students meet the 150-credit CPA requirements and may offer specialization options. Many programs hold Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, regardless of their delivery format.
However, the flexibility of online programs often results in some differences. For example, some schools offer rolling enrollment or multiple start dates for online classes rather than following the set fall/spring schedules.
Many schools also offer bridge programs for on-campus students that allow them to complete an accounting bachelor's and master's in just five years. That option typically doesn't exist for online learners.
Take a closer look at how online and on-campus master's in accounting programs compare in the chart below.
Comparing Online and On-Campus Master's in Accounting Degrees
| Factor |
Online Program |
On-Campus Program |
| Cost |
$332-$1,635 per credit |
$398-$3,107 per credit |
| Course Load |
30-48 |
30-48 (plus additional foundational courses if needed) |
| Program Length |
10-60 months |
9-72 months |
| Specialization Availability |
Yes, some online programs offer specializations |
Yes, some on-campus programs offer specializations |
| Bridge Program Availability |
Not common, although prior accounting courses may count toward a master's degree |
Common, although not available at every school |
| Accreditation |
AACSB accreditation possible |
AACSB accreditation possible |
Sources: UNC, UT, UofI, CSU, NC State, DeVry, NIU, UM, Marshall, OSU, Temple, Westfield, Old Westbury, Pitt, U Dallas, Texas A&M, Marquette, WGU, Syracuse, OK State
The program lengths and course loads shown above indicate that online and on-campus programs require students to take a similar number of classes and can be completed within similar timeframes. However, students should understand that some underlying differences exist.
On-campus programs typically require a stricter schedule, keeping the timeline to 1-2 years. Only a few schools offer part-time options where students can take more time to earn their degrees. Online programs more commonly offer flexible study options so students can complete the degree in 1-5 years.
Even though on-campus programs have a tighter schedule, they often include more courses than online programs — especially if students need to complete prerequisites. Online programs typically keep the requirements closer to 30 credits and often count undergraduate courses or professional experience as credit.
Delivery Formats for Online Master's
Master's in accounting programs typically occur completely in person or online. Some schools even offer both learning models so students can choose the most convenient one.
Only a few universities include a hybrid format, which combines on-campus and online learning. This option might work best for a professional who lives near campus and can only attend weekend or evening classes.
The 100% online programs also provide scheduling flexibility for working adults — especially those who do not live near the school. Students can attend asynchronous or synchronous classes from anywhere:
Enrollees study independently. While they must still meet assignment deadlines and discussion requirements, learners complete the work on their own schedules.
Students must attend live lectures, virtual discussions, and/or meetings at a specific time. They still complete assignments independently.
Most online master's in accounting programs occur asynchronously. Some schools let learners stream live lectures or watch the recordings later. Note that some programs may include both asynchronous and synchronous classes.
Accreditation for Master's in Accounting Online
Accreditation matters for an online master's in accounting. Accreditation assures potential employers that a school or program provides high-quality education. Credits from accredited institutions are more likely to transfer to other colleges or universities. To gain accreditation, schools must meet standards set by a third-party accrediting agency.
The U.S. Department of Education recognizes two types of educational accreditation: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation typically applies to the entire institution. Programmatic, or specialized, accreditation usually applies to programs, departments, or schools that are part of an institution.
AACSB International accredits many accounting programs. Another accrediting body for accounting programs is the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
State Authorization
The state authorization process protects distance learners who live in a different state than where their college or university is physically located. State authorization guarantees that the school legally operates in the state(s) where it serves students.
Students at state-authorized institutions may be eligible for state financial aid. If your college does not hold state authorization, you may still be eligible for federal financial aid.
How Much Will an Online Accounting Master's Cost?
The cost of online master's in accounting programs varies greatly. Students can generally expect to pay $300-$1,700 per credit or about $900-$5,100 per course.
The total program price then depends on the required credits. For example, a 30-credit accounting program could cost $9,000-$51,000. Online MS in accounting programs may require up to 48 credits, increasing that range to $14,400-$81,600.
Online tuition rates are comparable to on-campus tuition rates — but for in-state students. Out-of-state learners at public schools should expect to pay more for in-person learning.
Getting a master's in accounting online can reduce tuition costs for out-of-state learners and in-state learners alike. For example, online degree-seekers typically do not need to pay for on-campus housing, meals, transportation, or parking. Schools may also remove certain activity fees for these students.
Regardless of the learning format you choose, you'll likely have to pay some additional fees, however, including for graduation, technology, and books.
Online students can take advantage of financial aid options to help them cover these costs. They can apply for federal grants and loans with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many organizations and schools also offer graduate scholarships and fellowship opportunities.
Why Get Your Master's in Accounting Online?
Getting your master's in accounting online can be worth it, especially for students looking for flexibility. However, applicants should consider potential drawbacks, like limited networking opportunities.
Explore the pros and cons of an online master's in accounting below.
Pros
-
Lower Costs
Completing a master's in accounting online typically costs less than studying on campus — especially for out-of-state learners. Many schools charge a flat rate for all online students, regardless of state residency. Online learning can also eliminate travel costs and additional school fees.
-
Flexible Timeline
Most online programs work around students' schedules and offer a flexible semester course load. For example, master's in accounting enrollees may be able to take just one class per session and finish in a few years or tackle multiple courses simultaneously to finish within a year.
-
Opportunity to Work While Studying
Online master's degree programs generally cater to working professionals who want to advance their careers while maintaining their current jobs. Asynchronous classes let enrollees study independently to still gain critical hands-on accounting experience while pursuing a master's.
Cons
-
Potentially Longer Timeline
Although an online master's in accounting program offers increased scheduling flexibility, it can also lengthen the degree completion time. Learners might spend a year or two more studying, which can delay getting their CPA certification and access to higher-paying jobs.
-
Fewer Networking Opportunities
Online master's in accounting programs often integrate networking opportunities via virtual events or internship requirements. While helpful, these do not offer quite the same experience as in-person learning, which provides daily opportunities to connect face-to-face with other students, faculty, and even recruiters.
-
No Bridge Program
Bridge programs — also called 4+1 or 3+1 programs — allow students to complete both a bachelor's and a master's degree in a shorter timeframe. These work particularly well for accounting students who want to quickly fulfill the 150-credit requirement for the CPA exam. However, schools typically only offer these programs on campus. Online master's programs generally cater to professionals with an undergraduate degree.
Questions About Online Graduate Programs in Accounting
How long does it take to get a master's degree in accounting online?
Online master's degrees in accounting typically have more flexible schedules than on-campus programs. Students can usually complete the program in 1-5 years, depending on semester course load, credit requirements, and prior experience.
Is an online master's in accounting worth it?
Yes, an online master's in accounting can be worth it for students pursuing an accounting career. Just like an on-campus program, online accounting degrees offer rigorous courses and can help students prepare for the CPA exam.
Is it better to have a CPA or a master's in accounting?
Both. Many students use a master's in accounting to prepare for the CPA exam since the 30+ credits help them meet the 150-credit requirement. Having both credentials can also help graduates land jobs.
Is an MS in accounting or an MBA better?
It depends on each student's professional interests and goals. An MBA — even with an emphasis in accounting — offers a broader look at business and managerial topics. A master's in accounting immerses students in accounting and can help them complete the credit requirements for the CPA exam.
Edited by
