Online bookkeeping certificates appeal to students and career-changers seeking an efficient way to build fundamental accounting skills. Certificate programs offer professional credentials that can qualify workers for entry-level careers.
In recent years, advancements in software such as artificial intelligence have impacted bookkeeping and other areas of accounting. Despite these changes, the human element of this profession remains critical. Bookkeepers can find work across many industries.
This guide provides a ranked list of the top online bookkeeping certificate programs of 2023. It also explores courses, financing options, and career paths. Use the information on this page to help you research programs that match your professional goals.
Why Get a Bookkeeping Certificate?
Bookkeeper programs can lead to stable careers in business and finance. Students who pursue bookkeeping courses online can earn a certificate in less time than it takes to earn a degree — often at a lower cost. Bookkeeping certificate programs prepare learners for professional roles as bookkeepers, bill collectors, financial clerks, bank tellers, and administrative assistants. We explore benefits of this credential below:
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Higher Earning Potential
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), bookkeepers earned an average annual salary of $45,860 in 2022, while June 2023 Payscale data reveals bookkeepers with certification earn $55,000 per year — almost $10,000 more than the average for all professionals in this field.
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Broader Job Prospects
While the BLS projects bookkeeping careers will decline 5% from 2021 to 2031, certificate programs can also prepare students for other jobs: Graduates can pursue similar roles that require analytical skills, including administrative assistant positions.
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Faster Graduation
Since many bookkeeping jobs do not require formal degrees, students can complete a certificate to qualify for entry-level roles. Learners typically finish bookkeeper programs online in less than one year of full-time study.
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What to Expect From a Bookkeeping Certificate
Most bookkeeping certificate programs maintain inclusive admission requirements. Schools may let students with prior college experience transfer these credits toward certificate programs. In some cases, learners can apply for bookkeeping certificates simply by submitting their official transcripts and paying an application fee.
Most bookkeeping certificate programs require 20-30 credits and take no more than two years to complete. Certificate programs generally do not include internships. Tuition for certificates typically ranges from $100 to $800 per credit.
Different Certificate Types
There are several types of bookkeeping certificate programs. Students can study in person, online, or through hybrid learning. Online bookkeeping programs may appeal to workers with busy schedules, as the curriculum often includes asynchronous content like prerecorded lectures that allows learners to engage with course materials on more flexible schedules.
Other students may prefer the immersive, structured classroom environment of an in-person program. Hybrid programs combine facets of online and in-person learning, such as weekend in-person meetings or on-campus orientations in addition to online classes.
Application Process
Learning how to become a bookkeeper starts with finding a bookkeeping program. Many online programs accept applications on a rolling basis, allowing candidates to begin bookkeeping courses throughout the year. Some programs' only application materials are transcripts and an application fee. Schools may maintain minimum GPA requirements or require standardized test scores.
Applicants generally do not need bookkeeping experience to apply. However, institutions may require prerequisite coursework demonstrating basic computer skills.
Popular Bookkeeping Courses
Bookkeeping certificate programs introduce students to accounting, business math, and bookkeeping software like Quickbooks. Core courses emphasize career training in bookkeeping, exploring topics like payroll, ledgers, journals, spreadsheets, and reports. Many programs include electives in economics, computer applications, and business administration. Some may require general education coursework in areas like writing and communication.
Common courses in bookkeeping certificate programs include:
- Principles of Accounting: This course introduces enrollees to the basic principles of accounting theory and practice. Students learn bookkeeping and accounting methods for corporations, sole proprietors, and partnership-based organizations. Many foundational accounting courses require prerequisite knowledge in basic math like algebra.
- Quickbooks Accounting: Quickbooks skills are essential for many bookkeeping jobs. Bookkeeper programs may emphasize Quickbooks or Quickbooks Pro coursework, sometimes requiring a two-part class in this subject. Tasks include setting up accounting records and recording transactions in the app.
- Business Math: This course trains students to apply advanced math concepts to practical problem-solving scenarios in accounting and business. Enrollees explore simple and compound interest, payroll, investment opportunities, graphs, and charts.
- Spreadsheet Applications: This course introduces learners to spreadsheet software and applications. Topics include range names, formulas, functions, and formatting. Students also learn to create and use macros, import and export data, and generate charts and templates. Some programs recommend enrollees have computer experience before enrolling in this course.
How Much Do Bookkeeping Certificates Cost?
Students should consider several factors that affect the cost of bookkeeping certificate programs. Learners' preferred school type, location, and financial aid eligibility may impact the cost of bookkeeping courses.
A school's public or private status and enrollees' state residency both impact tuition. Students generally pay more to attend private institutions and out-of-state public schools, while in-state institutions typically charge lower tuition. Some online programs offer in-state or otherwise reduced tuition to all learners.
Students can apply for financial aid to help cover the costs of their program. Since certificates are shorter than degrees, most programs offer limited aid in the form of scholarships or grants. Learners may also qualify for student loans.
Bookkeeping Jobs and Salaries
In addition to bookkeeping roles, professionals with bookkeeping certificates and skills in administration and technology can apply their expertise to other job opportunities within the field, including roles like accounting clerk and bill collector.
Additionally, graduates of bookkeeping certificate programs can pursue an associate or bachelor's degree to prepare for accountant, certified public accountant, or financial executive careers.
Below, we explore job opportunities for workers who hold bookkeeping certificates.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers maintain financial accounts for individual clients, corporations, and organizations. They document all transactions, including debits and credits, to a general ledger. Bookkeepers also prepare bank statements and deposits. Many bookkeepers perform payroll, purchasing, and collections services.
- Required Education: Postsecondary education preferred
- Job Outlook (2021-31): -5%
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $45,560
Financial Clerk
These professionals keep financial records and facilitate transactions. Many clerical jobs in finance also require customer service skills. These workers can specialize their expertise to find work in industries like insurance, gambling, and banking.
- Required Education: Postsecondary education preferred
- Job Outlook (2021-31): -3%
- 2021 Median Annual Salary: $44,760
Bill and Account Collector
Bill and account collectors attempt to recover overdue payments from individuals and businesses. They locate consumers and companies with past-due bills to negotiate payment options and refer consumers to debt counselors or consolidators. Bill and account collectors typically undergo on-the-job training in relevant computer software and negotiation techniques.
- Required Education: High school diploma
- Job Outlook (2021-31): -8%
- Median Annual Salary: $37,700
Should You Get a Certificate or an Associate Degree?
Online accounting certificates are similar — but not identical — to associate degrees in bookkeeping or accounting. Use the table below to compare these two credentials.
Comparing Certificate and Degree Programs
Key Factor |
Bookkeeping Certificate |
Associate Degree |
Program Length |
About one academic year |
Two academic years |
Subjects Covered |
- Basic accounting terms and concepts
- Basic accounting operations
|
- Foundational bookkeeping and accounting methods
- Intermediate-level treatment of cost, financial, and managerial accounting
- Taxation
|
Admission Requirements |
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent |
Applicants must hold a high school diploma or equivalent and submit an application, academic transcripts, and supporting materials |
Career Paths |
- Bookkeeper
- Payroll clerk
- Accounting clerk
|
- Bookkeeper
- Payroll clerk
- Accounting clerk
- Auditing clerk
- Tax preparer
|
Sources: University of the Potomac, Community College of Philadelphia, Temple University, Southern New Hampshire University
In general, certificate programs are a better match for students looking to retrain or build job-ready skills quickly. Associate degrees deliver a more thorough knowledge base. Additionally, associate degrees typically make it easier for graduates to pursue further education, as learners can often transfer credits from their associate degree toward a bachelor's program.
Difference Between Certificates and Certifications
Aspiring bookkeepers should also understand the differences between a bookkeeping certificate and bookkeeping certification. Bookkeeping certificates are educational credentials. Bookkeeping certifications, on the other hand, are professional credentials.
Bookkeeping certificates indicate that you completed postsecondary education in bookkeeping. As such, they can help you qualify for entry-level positions in bookkeeping and accounting.
Professional organizations such as the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers and the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers issue bookkeeping certifications. These credentials verify your skills and can make you more competitive in the job search or increase your earning potential. Common certifications cover topics like Quickbooks or result in credentials like certified public bookkeeper.
Selecting the Right Certificate Program
Factors aspiring bookkeepers should consider as they research bookkeeping certificate programs include:
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Accreditation
All schools on your list should hold institutional accreditation. Accreditation verifies that a college or university meets standards of academic excellence.
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Bridge Programs
If you have interest in pursuing further education beyond a certificate, look for institutions with bridge programs that help you transfer your credits toward a longer degree.
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Modality
You can pursue bookkeeping courses online or on campus.
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Competitiveness/Difficulty of Admission
Most certificate programs accept applicants who demonstrate potential even with minimal college or work experience.
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Program Length
Most bookkeeping certificate programs allow students to graduate in one year or less.
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Student-to-Teacher Ratio
Lower student-to-teacher ratios can help you get individualized instruction from faculty.
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Cost/Financial Aid
Candidates can offset the cost of an online certificate with loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs.
Best Bookkeeper Programs
Bookkeeper certificates develop entry-level accounting and bookkeeper skills through focused, condensed programs. Using the ranking methodology described below, we identified the top certificates available. Discover the five best bookkeeper programs for 2023.
#3 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
William Rainey Harper College
- Palatine, IL
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Since opening in 1967, Harper has grown to enroll more than 35,000 students. The school has 10 academic areas of interest and over 180 programs.
Accounting Bookkeeper/Clerk Certificate
The accounting bookkeeper/clerk certificate at Harper equips learners with basic software tools and application skills. Students take introductory and advanced spreadsheet software courses, along with introductory and financial accounting.
Harper runs this bookkeeper program at its Palatine campus, the Prospect Heights' Learning and Career Center, and online. The school also offers a 20-credit advanced accounting bookkeeper/clerk certificate program. Graduates can use the credits earned in these programs toward associate degrees in accounting.
Applying to Harper
Each candidate must provide transcripts demonstrating they possess a high school diploma or GED certificate, along with a $25 application fee.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $134/credit for in-district students, $391/credit for out-of-district students, and $466/credit (out of state).
- Required Credits: 7-8
- Delivery Format: On campus, online, or hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College
- Johnstown, PA
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Since its founding in 1993, Penn Highlands has educated more than 60,000 students. The school now enrolls over 1,200 students annually in more than 45 degree and certificate programs.
Bookkeeping Certificate
Penn Highlands has a bookkeeping certificate that prepares students to prepare and analyze financial statements. Learners take courses in automated and managerial accounting, plus federal taxation and microcomputer applications.
Along with transferring credits into associate degrees, graduates can qualify for the certified bookkeeper credential with the American Institute of Certified Bookkeepers. Penn Highlands provides graduates with career support, such as access to job fairs and a central job board.
Applying to Penn Highlands
For admission, an applicant needs a high school diploma or a GED certificate. Penn Highlands features no application fees.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $226-$303/credit (in state); $423/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 24
- Delivery Format: 100% online, on campus, or hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Frequently Asked Questions About Bookkeeping Certificates
What kind of degree do you need to be a bookkeeper?
A bookkeeper typically does not need to earn a degree to enter this field. Instead, they often complete on-the-job training. However, employers may prefer candidates with bookkeeping certificates or associate degrees.
How do you get a bookkeeping certificate?
Students can earn a bookkeeping certificate online or in person. Most bookkeeping certificate programs cost less and can be completed more quickly than an associate degree.
What can you do with a bookkeeping certificate?
Though employers do not always require them, bookkeeping certificates can help job-seekers stand out in the application process. These credentials emphasize employer-valued skills in accounting, computers, and administrative tasks.
What's the difference between a bookkeeping certificate and certification?
A bookkeeping certificate is an educational credential, while professional bookkeeping certifications advance workers' skills. To earn certifications, candidates must pass an exam administered through organizations like the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers, the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers, or the National Bookkeepers Association.
Should I get certified as a bookkeeper?
Becoming a certified bookkeeper can lead to broader job prospects. Employers may favor candidates with certification for higher-paying jobs or advancement in fields like accounting, business, and finance.