Accountants make pretty good money. Accountants with a master's degree make even better money. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the highest-paid accountants earn over $128,000 a year.
"Obtaining a master's degree in accounting has definitely made a difference in my career trajectory, " said Adrian Lawrence, CFO of FD Capital Recruitment.
"I was immediately able to secure a higher-paying job as a senior accountant and eventually became a manager. Having an advanced degree can help you negotiate for better pay."
A master's in accounting provides advanced training in accounting and financial management. Graduates can pursue senior-level careers in public accounting, forensic accounting, and taxation.
"A master's degree in accounting demonstrates a commitment to professional development and expertise — which can lead to titles such as senior accountant, accounting manager, controller, or even CFO," said Jon Morgan, CEO and editor-in-chief of Venture Smarter.
The good news? You won't have to put your whole life on hold to pursue this degree.
There are many excellent online programs that offer the flexibility and freedom you need to learn on your own terms and at your own pace.
Keep reading to learn about online delivery methods, costs, accreditation, and benefits — and explore our ranking of the best online accounting master's degree programs.
What to Expect From a Master's in Accounting Online
Requirements for a master's in accounting vary by school. As with on-campus master's degrees, admission to most online master's in accounting programs requires a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field. Some programs also require the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or a similar exam.
Students can specialize in auditing and financial reporting. They may also focus on areas like tax planning and compliance, business and financial analysis, and government contracting. Curricula also cover accounting software and other technologies.
Featured Online Programs
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.
The link below explains the criteria we evaluated in generating the ranking:
#1 Best Online Accounting Master’s Programs 2023
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 Online Accounting Master’s Programs 2023
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 Online Accounting Master’s Programs 2023
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 Online Accounting Master’s Programs 2023
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 Online Accounting Master’s Programs 2023
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
Is an Online Master's in Accounting Worth It?
That depends — does the boost in earnings you'll get justify the cost of a degree? If you pick the right program, the answer is probably going to be "yes."
In 2022, the BLS reported that the median usual weekly earnings of folks with a master's degree was $1,661, compared with $1,432 for workers with only a bachelor's degree. In the short term, that extra $230 a week should be more than enough to pay down your graduate student loans. And in the long term, you'll be in a better position to compete for the high-paying leadership positions at the top.
One way to make sure your investment in a master's degree pays off is by keeping your buy-in as low as possible. Online degree programs can save you money on commuting costs, room and board, on-campus fees, and sometimes even tuition.
You may also be able to finish faster as an online student if you have access to accelerated courses. According to a 2022 survey by Wiley University Services, 69% of students choose online degrees because of faster completion times.
Pros of an Online Program
-
Able to complete coursework anywhere.
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Can schedule attendance and homework around other priorities.
-
May cost less than traditional programs.
Cons of an Online Program
-
May provide fewer resources than on-campus programs.
-
Some students may lack motivation to complete self-paced work.
-
Some students may require in-person support systems.
The best online accounting master's programs provide the same educational quality traditional programs offer and will be just as attractive on the job market.
Accreditation for Online Master's in Accounting
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 a Master's in Accounting Online Cost?
NCES reports that average graduate tuition and fees at public institutions reached $12,394 in the 2020-2021 academic year, with an average of $26,621 at private institutions.
At either a public or a private school, factors to consider include tuition prices, transfer requirements, alumni support, and employment outlook. In-state or out-of-state residency status can also affect the overall cost. Other program costs may include technology and subscription fees.
Financing Options
Online master's in accounting candidates can apply for financial aid. Types of aid include:
Featured Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Delivery Formats for Online Accounting Degrees
Master's in accounting degree programs are available in in-person, online, and hybrid formats.
Hybrid and 100% Online Accounting Program Models
A 100% online model allows students to complete coursework on their own time and at their own pace. This format also eliminates the need for students to commute to a physical campus. Students interact with classmates and instructors online only.
The hybrid model combines online and classroom learning — students complete some courses remotely and some in a traditional classroom, which allows in-person connection with classmates and instructors.
Synchronous or Asynchronous Learning
Online programs and courses may be offered in synchronous or asynchronous formats. Asynchronous: Students access coursework on their own schedule. Synchronous: Student attendance is required at specific times.
Accelerated
Some institutions offer accelerated online accounting degree programs that enable students to earn their degrees in a shorter time frame.
Questions About an Online Master's in Accounting
How long does it take to get a master's degree in accounting online?
Most accounting graduate students complete their online programs in 12-24 months, depending on the program.
Is an online accounting master's valuable?
Yes! For a few reasons.
First, it gives you more nuanced, specialized training in the field.
"The program solidified my love and knowledge of accounting, deepened my expertise, and broadened what knowledge I previously had," said Jessica Roper, CPA and director at Outsourced CFO. "It helped me dive deeply into new areas and emerge with a more sophisticated understanding of the profession and how to lead other accountants."
Second, it can supercharge your career trajectory.
"The master's program led me to my current position as a practice leader, managing other accountants and helping clients run their organizations," said Roper.
Third, it can help you earn more money. In a 2022 survey from Indeed.com, 77% of respondents said that their accounting master's degrees helped boost their salaries.
"In general, having a higher degree leads to better salaries, so it can help bring you closer to your financial goals," said Roper.
How much is an online degree in accounting?
The cost of an online degree in accounting varies by program and school. On average, a two-year master's degree costs about $62,000 adjusted for 2022 dollars, according to NCES.
Online degrees are often more affordable than that, as they may charge lower tuition rates and allow students to save on transportation and relocation costs.
Are online accounting degrees respected?
Yes — these days, an online degree from a reputable, accredited university plays just as well on the job market as an on-campus degree. In most cases, your employer won't even ask.
Page last reviewed on June 16, 2023.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Accounting.com.
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