admin2What Is an Online Accounting Degree?
An online accounting degree program allows you to earn your bachelor’s or master’s degree in accounting from anywhere with an Internet connection. Instead of attending traditional on-campus classes, you complete coursework remotely on your own schedule.
1. Flexibility and Convenience
The biggest benefit of an online accounting degree is flexibility. You can log in and participate whenever and wherever works for you. No commuting to campus or shuffling between classes. You can study on your lunch break, after the kids go to bed, or on weekends. If you need to travel for work or family, you can take your classes with you.
2. Career Opportunities
An online accounting degree prepares you for a career as an accountant or auditor. Accountants prepare and examine financial records, calculate taxes owed and ensure businesses operate efficiently. Auditors review companies’ financial records to check for mismanagement of funds. The job growth for accountants and auditors is faster than average. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6 percent from 2018 to 2028.
3. Accredited Programs
Look for programs accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Accredited schools meet high standards for accounting education. Graduating from an AACSB-accredited program can open up more career opportunities and higher salaries.
Whether you want to prepare for the CPA exam, advance your current accounting career or open up new job prospects, an online accounting degree can give you the knowledge and skills you need, on your own schedule.
Top Online Accounting Degree Programs
Here are some of the top programs available:
1. Western Governors University
Western Governors University offers an accredited online Bachelor of Science in Accounting (B.S. Acc.) and a Master of Science in Accounting (M.S. Acc.).
The programs focus on preparing you for a career as a CPA or CMA. You can complete the courses at your own pace for under $7,000 per year.
2. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University offers online accounting degrees including an A.S. in Accounting, B.S. in Accounting, and M.S. in Accounting. The programs teach both technical accounting skills as well as soft skills like communication and critical thinking.
3. Liberty University
Liberty University has an online B.S. in Accounting and M.S. in Accounting. The programs provide a well-rounded accounting education with courses in financial accounting, managerial accounting, tax accounting, auditing, and accounting information systems.
As a private Christian university, Liberty incorporates business ethics and biblical principles into the curriculum. Undergraduate tuition is $390 per credit hour.
4. Capella University
Capella University offers online accounting degrees including a B.S. in Accounting, M.S. in Accounting, and MBA with an Accounting specialization. The programs teach both theory and practice with courses in financial reporting, budgeting, risk management, and more.
Capella is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Tuition for undergrads starts at $358 per credit.
An online accounting degree can open up many career opportunities. Explore programs that fit your needs and interests, then get started advancing your career today.
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What to Look for in an Online Accounting Program
When evaluating online accounting degree programs, several factors should influence your decision. Look for a program that checks these important boxes:
1. Accreditation
Make sure the school and accounting program are accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Accredited programs meet high standards for quality and will provide you with a reputable education.
2. Course Offerings
Look for a program with a solid curriculum that covers all areas of accounting, including financial, managerial, auditing, and tax accounting. Core courses should provide a strong accounting foundation. Electives in areas like fraud examination, accounting information systems, and international accounting are a plus.
3. Faculty and Support
Look for professors with both academic and real-world experience in the accounting field. They should be committed to student success and support. Look for tutoring help, career services, and tech support available to online learners.
4. Flexibility
An online program should give you the flexibility to balance work, family and your studies. Look for programs that offer multiple start dates throughout the year, self-paced or accelerated options, and courses that can be completed on your own schedule. Some schools offer programs that can be finished in as little as 12 months.
5. Cost and Resources
Compare costs and available resources like scholarships, grants and student loan options. Look for affordable programs and schools that offer tuition rates lower than the national average. Resources like online libraries, lecture capture, and virtual study groups are useful for distance learners.
6. Certification Exam Prep
The best accounting programs will thoroughly prepare you for professional certification exams like the CPA, CMA or CIA. Look for courses that specifically cover exam content and material. Schools may also provide exam review courses and mentoring. Passing these exams can open up more career opportunities.
By evaluating programs based on these factors, you can find an accredited, reputable school offering a flexible, affordable online accounting degree to help you achieve your goals.
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What Career Can i Pursue With an Online Accounting Degree?
With an online accounting degree, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to pursue a variety of rewarding careers. Many of these positions offer competitive pay and strong job security.
1. Accountant
As an accountant, you’ll handle key financial tasks like preparing tax returns, maintaining financial records, and advising clients on business decisions.
2. Auditor
Auditors examine financial records to ensure they are accurate and comply with laws and regulations. Internal auditors work for companies to improve financial and operational controls, while external auditors work for accounting firms to audit clients.
3. Tax Examiner
Tax examiners review tax returns for errors and determine refunds or liabilities. They work for government agencies like the IRS and state departments of revenue.
4. Financial Analyst
Financial analysts evaluate investments, stocks, and businesses to provide financial guidance and recommendations to clients and companies.
Many financial analyst jobs require a master’s degree in finance, business, or a related field in addition to a bachelor’s in accounting.
There are many rewarding career paths you can follow with an online accounting degree. The job opportunities span private companies, public agencies, nonprofits, and accounting firms.
READ ALSO: The Ultimate Guide to Online Business Management Degree Classes
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Accounting Degrees
Here are a few of the common FAQs and answers to help you in your decision making.
1. How much does an online accounting degree cost?
Program costs can vary significantly depending on the school and degree level. Associate’s and bachelor’s degrees typically range from $30,000 to $60,000. Master’s degrees usually start around $20,000 and go up to $50,000 or more for an MBA.
2. How long does it take to complete an online accounting degree?
The time to complete an online accounting degree depends on the specific program and your course load. Associate’s degrees usually take 2 years, bachelor’s degrees 4 years, and master’s degrees 1 to 2 years.
3. What are the admission requirements?
Admission requirements for online accounting degrees typically include:
A high school diploma or equivalent for associate’s and bachelor’s degrees
A bachelor’s degree for master’s degrees and MBAs
A minimum GPA, often 2.5 or higher
An application including personal statements or essays
Official transcripts from all colleges attended
Some programs may require certain course prerequisites, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, or an interview
4. What kind of accreditation should I look for?
Accredited schools or programs have gone through an evaluation process to ensure a high quality education. For accounting degrees, look for schools accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, such as the ACBSP or AACSB.
5. Will I need any licensing or certification?
Some accounting positions require professional certifications like the CPA, CMA, or CIA. An accounting degree from an accredited school is typically needed to sit for these certifying exams.
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