Top Online Master's Degrees in Accounting 2025

by

Updated April 1, 2025

check mark Edited by
check mark Reviewed by

Our Integrity Network

Accounting.com is committed to delivering content that is objective and actionable. To that end, we have built a network of industry professionals across higher education to review our content and ensure we are providing the most helpful information to our readers.

Drawing on their firsthand industry expertise, our Integrity Network members serve as an additional step in our editing process, helping us confirm our content is accurate and up to date. These contributors:

  • Suggest changes to inaccurate or misleading information.
  • Provide specific, corrective feedback.
  • Identify critical information that writers may have missed.

Integrity Network members typically work full time in their industry profession and review content for Accounting.com as a side project. All Integrity Network members are paid members of the Red Ventures Education Integrity Network.

Explore our full list of Integrity Network members.

Discover the top online master's degree in accounting so you can advance your career without completely disrupting your schedule.

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.

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Credit: JGI/Tom Grill / Tetra Images / Getty Images

A master's degree in accounting can prepare you for advanced certifications, licensure, and leadership roles in accounting and auditing. Online degree programs are accessible and flexible, making them a great choice for working professionals.

Find out what the top online master's degrees in accounting offer and how they differ from on-campus programs.

Popular Online Master's Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Top Online Accounting Master's Programs

#1 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

UNC-Chapel Hill's online master of accounting degree accepts applicants with any undergraduate major. Students must complete 34-48 credits, depending on previous coursework. The program can be completed within 12-36 months.

The program teaches managerial accounting, spreadsheet modeling, and strategic cost accounting skills. Students can choose among three concentrations: tax, audit, and financial analysis and reporting. They can participate in the global immersion program, which connects students with worldwide business executives. 

Highlights

  • Four start times throughout the year
  • Online students can access career coaching and leadership training services
  • Multiple master of accounting fellowship opportunities

Considerations

  • Each class has two hours of synchronous lectures weekly
  • Residents and non-residents pay $1,446 per credit hour
  • Applicants must complete virtual interviews
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,020
Out-of-state
$37,360
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,844
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
19%
Students Enrolled
32,496
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
25% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

The University of West Florida

  • Pensacola, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

UWF’s master of accountancy program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). The program offers four concentrations: analytics, business analysis and reporting, information systems, and taxation.  

Students must complete 30 credit hours, including 18 core credits and 12 concentration credits. They can typically graduate in 24 months. 

Highlights

  • Third-highest first-time pass rate for CPA exam among all U.S. public schools
  • The school's writing lab can review papers and fix grammatical issues
  • $456 per credit hour for attendees and $425 per credit hour for active-duty personnel, veterans, or spouses 

Considerations

  • Only accepts transfer credits from AACSB-accredited schools
  • Applicants must have a 3.0 GPA or above on the last 60 credit hours of their undergraduate degree
  • Limited graduate scholarship opportunities 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,735
Out-of-state
$16,004
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,088
Out-of-state
$22,166
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
48%
Students Enrolled
13,521
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
79% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

Florida International University

  • Miami, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

FIU's fully online master of accounting program can be completed within 12 months. The program has AACSB accreditation and offers specialization tracks in taxation or assurance. Each specialization track requires 30 credits, which includes 10 pre-selected courses.

The master of accounting program charges a per-semester rate. Online students pay a total of $29,214, regardless of location. Applicants must pay a $200 deposit upon acceptance. 

Highlights

  • Students can access Becker CPA courses 
  • Provides virtual information sessions about the program and financial aid
  • Offers specialized scholarships for master of accounting students

Considerations

  • Applicants must have an undergraduate degree in accounting or business
  • Also offers a hybrid program, which can be completed in 10 months
  • Conditional admission applicants must complete five prerequisite summer courses
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,168
Out-of-state
$18,566
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$911
Out-of-state
$2,003
Retention Rate
92%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
54,085
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

North Carolina State University at Raleigh

  • Raleigh, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

NC State University's master of accounting program is designed for entry to mid-level professionals. The 31-credit program focuses on commercial law, income tax, and auditing. Students can take nine elective credit hours or select a concentration. 

Distance education and in-person students pay the same tuition rate. Graduate students have a maximum tuition cap of nine credits per semester. North Carolina residents pay $546 per credit hour, while non-residents pay $1,701 per credit. 

Highlights

  • Automatically assigns academic advisors for online students 
  • Admits applicants twice per year
  • Offers interactive online courses with videos, assignments, and activities

Considerations

  • Applicants must have completed seven prerequisite courses, including financial reporting and managerial accounting
  • Most financial aid opportunities come from student loans 
  • Courses may be asynchronous or synchronous 
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$6,535
Out-of-state
$29,407
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,095
Out-of-state
$28,301
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
40%
Students Enrolled
37,314
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

  • Edinburg, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

UTRGV's accelerated master's of accounting program can be completed within one year. The 30-credit program includes nine credits of required courses, 18 elective credits, and three capstone credits. 

The required capstone course requires accounting research and communication skills. Students must complete a written and oral report. Program graduates satisfy the 150-credit Texas State Board of Public Accountancy requirement to sit for the CPA exam. 

Highlights

  • Individuals can take online leveling classes to satisfy course prerequisites 
  • Flat fee of $472.22 per credit hour
  • No application fee

Considerations

  • Must meet specific prerequisites for a GMAT waiver
  • October-February application window for graduate scholarships 
  • No concentration choices
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,857
Out-of-state
$20,097
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,002
Out-of-state
$14,562
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
31,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

  • Champaign, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

UIUC's fully online MS in accountancy degree can be completed in 18-60 months. The curriculums include 32 credits, with a minimum 20 credits of accounting coursework. The remaining 12 credits can be in accounting or non-accounting electives. Students must complete at least one non-accounting course. 

The program provides synchronous courses with weekly live classes. Students can work with classmates and discuss issues with professors during online office hours. 

Highlights

  • Average pay increase of 22% for program graduates, reports UIUC
  • Accredited by the AACSB
  • Students can simultaneously earn a graduate certificate or concentration

Considerations

  • Requires prerequisite business management and accounting coursework
  • Transfer credits must come from an AACSB-accredited programs
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,474
Out-of-state
$30,446
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,891
Out-of-state
$29,176
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
44%
Students Enrolled
56,563
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#7 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

The University of Texas at Dallas

  • Richardson, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

UT Dallas' MS in accounting and analytics program teaches corporate accounting, taxation, and internal auditing principles. Online students participate in the 36-credit MS accounting flex program. The flex program's curriculum includes an equal amount of core courses, electives, and accounting analysis courses. 

Students can pursue a double-degree option and choose electives that apply to both programs. The school recommends graduates pursue the certified management accountant certification.

Highlights

  • Open to individuals with any undergraduate major
  • Program can be completed in 12-24 months
  • Offers accounting volunteer programs for students to gain hands-on experience

Considerations

  • Online students can only choose the accounting analysis track
  • Dual degrees require a 3.0 GPA or higher for core courses among both degrees
  • The MS in accounting and analytics program may not qualify for scholarship awards
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,412
Out-of-state
$45,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,088
Out-of-state
$29,252
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
30,885
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

Northern Illinois University

  • Dekalb, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online

What You Should Know 

NIU's online master of accountancy program is designed for  individuals with a non-accounting undergraduate degree. This part-time AACSB-accredited program can be completed within two years. Graduates qualify to sit for the CPA exam in Illinois and most other states.  

Attendees must complete five prerequisite courses before enrolling. Students can take these courses through schools, community colleges, or approved online vendors.  

Highlights

  • $835 per credit hour, regardless of student location
  • Fully online program
  • Online counseling services via Microsoft Teams

Considerations

  • Must maintain a 3.0 GPA in all coursework
  • Maximum of nine transfer credits
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$9,790
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,066
Out-of-state
$9,066
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
15,649
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
67% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#9 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

Auburn University

  • Auburn, AL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

Auburn's master of accountancy program offers pathways for students with or without an undergraduate degree in accounting. Students with an accounting degree must complete 30 credits while other students must complete 42 credits. Graduates who complete the CPA exam within one year of graduation have an 85% pass rate. 

Students must attend a three-day, on-campus residency program during the final spring semester. The residency includes networking events, business speeches, and leadership workshops. Attendees must pay for their own expenses, including hotel, food, and travel. 

Highlights

  • Non-thesis program
  • AACSB-accredited program
  • Applications receive holistic reviews 

Considerations

  • $950 per credit for the 30 and 42-credit programs 
  • No scholarships for graduate programs
  • Eight prerequisite business foundation classes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,704
Out-of-state
$32,112
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,386
Out-of-state
$31,158
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
50%
Students Enrolled
33,015
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Top Online Master’s Degrees in Accounting 2025

California State University, San Bernardino

  • San Bernardino, CA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

What You Should Know 

CSUSB's MS in accountancy degree teaches professional ethics, financial accounting, and advanced tax topics. The curriculum has 33 credits, including core, elective, and capstone classes. The capstone course can be a project or comprehensive examination. 

The school offers an accelerated 3:2 bachelor's-to-master's program. However, students must be a current CSUSB accounting student and receive an invitation to the program. 

Highlights

  • Elective options include an internship, independent study, and seminar in accounting 
  • Military personnel may receive up to $4,500 annually
  • Students can take the CPA preparation course up to four times

Considerations

  • Maximum of nine transfer credits 
  • Non-residents must pay an additional $420 per credit 
  • Eight prerequisite courses
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
18,510
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

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.

This ranking is from 2025. Learn more about our process by visiting our school rankings methodology page.

What to Expect From an Online Master's in Accounting Program

Online master's in accounting programs typically feature the same courses, books, and instructors as a traditional on-campus program. These programs have identical prerequisites and lead to the same career paths. However, differences in course delivery, scheduling, and environment could affect your experience and decision.

The following sections explore some of the unique aspects of online master's in accounting programs.

How Does an Online Accounting Degree Differ From an On-Campus Master's?

An on-campus and online master's degree in accounting may feature the same curriculum, but their delivery formats can affect the cost, schedule, and program length.

Many online courses use recorded lectures and online discussion forums instead of scheduled meetings. This format eliminates classroom space requirements and fixed class times, allowing you to take more classes and study during the times that suit you best.

Comparing Online and On-Campus Master's in Accounting Degrees
Factor Online Program On-Campus Program
Average Tuition and Fees $10,995 $21,974
Typical Course Load 3 credits per eight-week session or 24 credits per year 9 credits per semester or 18 credits per year
Program Length 18-24 months 2-3 years
Standard Class times Asynchronous (anytime) or evenings and weekends 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday
Hands-On Experiences Virtual and in-person internships/practicums (may be local to school) In-class internships and practicums
Sources: NCES PowerStats

An online program may be a more affordable, accelerated, and flexible study option, but it won't suit everyone. Fast-tracking your coursework makes it more rigorous and more difficult to fit around a busy work or home life.

Additionally, asynchronous online classes can feel less interactive and hands-on. Some online learners miss the engagement and hands-on experiences of in-person classes.

When choosing an online program, consider how you learn best and what you want to get from your program.

Delivery Formats for Online Accounting Degrees

Online accounting programs run in different formats to accommodate various student needs. Each format has its benefits and drawbacks, so choosing the right one for you depends on your schedule, learning style, and location.

Here are the three major online formats:

  • Hybrid: Hybrid programs feature a mixture of online classes and in-person residencies. The on-campus portion may include orientations and the most practical courses. While hybrid programs reduce travel, they still require you to live within commuting distance from the school.
  • Asynchronous: Asynchronous programs have assignment deadlines but no set class times and, in most cases, no on-campus requirements. You watch recorded lectures and complete the assignments within a set period. While that flexibility may allow you to balance work and school, asynchronous programs require independence, organization, and self-motivation.
  • Synchronous: Synchronous programs feature scheduled online classes with your instructors and classmates. These programs provide a comparable experience to in-person studies but without the travel. Though many programs offer accommodating evening and weekend class times, you still need a flexible schedule to balance study and your other priorities.

Accreditation for Online Accounting Degrees

Accreditation tells you that a school or program meets the industry's academic and professional standards. Without institutional accreditation, schools may not provide financial aid or transferable credits. Professional credentials like the certified public accountant (CPA) also require degrees from accredited schools.

When choosing an online school, you should look for accreditation from organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education. This includes organizations like the Higher Learning Commission and the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC), which works with online schools.

While not critical for accounting, programmatic accreditation offers quality assurance. Reputable accrediting organizations include: the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, and the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

Along with accreditation, online schools also need state authorization, which allows them to teach out-of-state remote students. A school can apply for authorization with its state government directly or with an organization like the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA).

How Much Will an Online Accounting Master's Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of tuition and fees for an online graduate degree in business was $10,995 for the 2020 school year. Yet, many factors can affect the price you pay, including school prestige, school type, and your location in relation to the school.

For the programs on our list, tuition prices range between $457 and $1,446 per credit for in-state students. With programs featuring 30-48 credits, total tuition prices fall between $13,710 and $69,408. While online programs limit or eliminate travel and room and board costs, they often feature technology, distance education, and subscription fees.

You can offset the costs with financial aid. First, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, which could qualify you for federal loans and grants. You can also apply for national, state, and local scholarships and grants, along with those from your school and accounting organizations.

Why Get Your Master's in Accounting Online?

An online master's degree in accounting may provide the same postgraduate opportunities as an on-campus program, but it adds a new dynamic to the studies. The flexible schedule and limited travel may offer a better work-study balance, lower costs, and more study options.

However, online accounting programs provide a different classroom and learning experience, which may not meet your needs. Before you decide on an online master's degree in accounting, consider the following pros and cons.

Pros

  • Flexibility: Enjoy a better work, life, and study balance with unscheduled, evening, or weekend classes.
  • Affordability: Reduce your travel expenses while maintaining a job.
  • Variety: Access out-of-state programs, often without the out-of-state tuition increases.

Cons

  • Self-Reliance: Manage your coursework without the same level of classroom engagement and/or guidance.
  • In-Person Limitations: Miss out on hands-on training and networking opportunities.
  • Self-Discipline and Time Management: Keep up with a program on your own time.

Questions About Online Master's Degrees in Accounting

Which online master's degree is best for an accountant?

The best online master's degree in accounting depends on your educational and career goals. While an MS in accounting or master of accounting (MAcc) focuses on CPA preparation, an MBA in accounting emphasizes leadership and management training.

An online master's degree in accounting can prepare you for postgraduate credentials, improve your career opportunities, and increase your earning potential while offering flexibility.

Online master's degrees in accounting often take 18-24 months for full-time students to complete. Accelerated programs may offer even faster completion times, while part-time programs will slow them down.

The cost of an online master's degree in accounting varies, but tuition for the programs on this list ranges between $13,710 and $69,408.

Recommended Reading

Search top-tier programs curated by your interests.

Let us know what type of degree you're looking into, and we'll find a list of the best programs to get you there.