Accounting Degree Program Rankings

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Updated October 26, 2023 · 2 Min Read

We rank the best accounting schools for a variety of accounting degrees. Learn about our methodology and how we review both on-campus and online programs.

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When finding the right school or degree programs, we recognize that there is no "perfect" ranking methodology. With this in mind, we aggregate what we believe to be the six most important school indicators to provide you with useful and accurate rankings.

Benefits of Online Programs

An online program provides a flexible, accessible path to earning your accounting degree. Often, students complete online coursework asynchronously, without required log-in times. This format allows students who work full-time or have other life and family obligations to pursue their degree on their own schedule, completing coursework anywhere, anytime.

On-campus programs require students to live near campus or commute. Online programs eliminate this requirement and all associated costs, including campus parking and on-campus room and board. Some online programs also offer accelerated options, allowing students to complete coursework more quickly and earn academic credit for work experience, shortening the program and lowering overall costs.

When finding the right school or degree programs, we recognize that there is no "perfect" ranking methodology. With this in mind, we aggregate what we believe to be the six most important school indicators to provide you with useful and accurate rankings.

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

Associate Degrees in Accounting

An associate degree in accounting prepares students for entry-level careers in areas like business, administration, and sales. Earning an associate degree in accounting also provides the foundational skills for careers as bookkeepers, accounting assistants, bank tellers, and other jobs in the financial field.

An associate degree in accounting often serves as a launch point for earning a four-year degree or other advanced certifications. Often, the associate degree covers all general education courses, allowing transfer students to enter the major at a four-year school.

Bachelor's Degrees in Accounting

Earning a bachelor's degree in accounting provides the foundation you need to earn a certification or license in accounting. Prospective certified public accountants (CPAs) must earn a bachelor's degree and sit for required licensing exams. However, a bachelor's in accounting also provides pathways to careers in other areas, including finance and business.

Although graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue a variety of careers, some students may need to pursue further education, depending on their career goals.

Master's Degrees in Accounting

A master's in accounting provides opportunities for more advanced careers in accounting and finance, along with greater salary potential. Earning a master's further qualifies graduates to take on higher roles in the field, pursuing careers in corporate accounting, finance, and auditing.

Professionals with a master's in accounting often land senior-level positions in the field, boosting their earnings and increasing their job qualifications. Some graduates go on to work in other financial fields, including financial advising and management.

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