Best Online Accounting Degrees
Updated October 21, 2023
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Online Accounting Programs
Students who seek long-term career stability pursue online bachelor's in accounting degrees. Accounting is a popular career field for its straightforward education requirements and stable job prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of accountants and auditors is projected to grow 4% between 2022 and 2032 thanks to increasing globalization and complex regulatory environments.
One of the most direct pathways to break into the industry is to earn a bachelor's in accounting. This degree prepares graduates for professional certification exams and entry-level careers. Many programs offer concentrations for students who plan to pursue specialized careers like forensic, managerial, or tax accounting.
This guide evaluates 25 of the best online degrees for accounting students, providing information about curriculum content, admission requirements, program formatting, and online support services.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Bachelor's in Accounting Programs
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA - 4 years
- Online
Learners looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Penn State World Campus's online programs. The accounting program is one of 67 online bachelor's programs available through the institution. Learners in the accounting program are prepared for the demands of the accounting field through rigorous study.
The program curriculum enables flexible scheduling. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Learners can benefit from electives, minors, and other modifications to their studies.
The school reports undergraduate tuition as $13,484. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Penn State World Campus at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 207
Online Bachelor's Programs: 67
Admission Rate: 76%
#2 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern New Hampshire University, located in Manchester, enables distance learning across 84 online degree programs. Undergraduates choose from 35 online bachelor's programs at the private, nonprofit, four-year institution. Learners seeking competitive study in accounting in a flexible modality can enroll in the college's online BS in accounting program. Enrollees in the accounting program benefit from flexible study, with the option to enroll full or part time.
Degree-seekers must satisfy a 120-credit curriculum requirement during their studies. This curriculum consists of general education and advanced coursework. Students can work with their academic advisor to customize the program through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The college boasts a median salary of $43,300 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Prospective learners can explore funding opportunities, eligibility requirements, and other opportunities by connecting with the Office of Financial Aid.
Southern New Hampshire University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 106,762
Total Online Programs: 84
Online Bachelor's Programs: 35
Admission Rate: 88%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#3 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Trine University
Angola, IN - 4 years
- Campus
Trine University, located in Angola, Indiana, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. A leader in online education, the institution supports 875 distance learners. Distance learners can enroll in the BSBA in accounting program to complete a college degree online.
The online accounting degree prioritizes flexibility. Students can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework to meet academic and career goals. Students can customize their courses based on their interests.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $32,330 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college.
Trine University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 875
Admission Rate: 82%
#4 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern State University of Louisiana, located in Natchitoches, facilitates online learning through 53 online degree programs. The college offers 16 online bachelor's degree programs, reaching 8,906 distance learners worldwide. The bachelor's degree in accounting is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the accounting field. The program provides flexibility through customizable study options and classes.
Enrollees complete both foundational and advanced coursework, granting them the knowledge and skills needed to advance in the accounting field. Learners can work with their academic advisor to customize their studies through modified courses, electives, minors, and concentrations.
After earning their degree, graduates often benefit from greater access to employment opportunities and higher earning potential. Graduates who have completed their degree earn an average median salary of $35,700 after six years. Accounting students can expect to pay $12,336 in tuition and fees per year. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the accounting department.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 8,906
Total Online Programs: 53
Online Bachelor's Programs: 16
Admission Rate: 82%
#5 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Maryville University
Saint Louis, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Maryville University, a private, nonprofit, four-year college in Saint Louis, Missouri, supports online learning across 52 online programs. Undergraduate degree-seekers can choose from 23 online bachelor's programs. For students looking to advance in an accounting-adjacent career, the online bachelor's degree in accounting is a wise choice. The accounting program provides flexibility to learners from all walks of life through full- and part-time study options.
Degree-seekers must satisfy a 124-credit course load during their studies. This curriculum, which consists of foundational and advanced coursework, equips students with relevant skills needed to succeed in the accounting field. While enrolled, students can customize their studies by choosing electives, minors, and degree concentrations.
Graduates often easily grow their earning potential with a bachelor's degree. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $44,100, according to the college. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements and their eligibility for financial aid should connect with the accounting department.
Maryville University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 7,651
Total Online Programs: 52
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 83%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#6 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Shorter University
Rome, GA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners looking for competitive online learning opportunities should consider Shorter University's online bachelor's degree programs. The institution prides itself on its leadership in online learning, offering 40 online bachelor's degree programs. The online BBA in accounting program supports students learning at a distance.
The program curriculum enables flexible study. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify the curriculum. Students can work with their academic advisor to choose classes that suit their career interests.
Accounting students can expect to pay $21,940 in tuition. Accounting students gain access to internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, through the college.
Shorter University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 565
Total Online Programs: 43
Online Bachelor's Programs: 40
Admission Rate: 60%
#7 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Ottawa University
Ottawa, KS - 4 years
- Online
Ottawa University is a private, nonprofit, four-year institution providing competitive study across 23 bachelor's degree programs. The private college supports distance learners through 23 online bachelor's programs. Distance learners looking to earn an online degree in accounting can enroll in the bachelor of arts in accounting program.
Accounting students can maximize flexibility through modified coursework and the option to pursue part-time study. Learners complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
Undergraduate accounting students typically pay $11,976 in tuition. Distance learners can pursue financial aid opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships, to offset educational expenses.
Ottawa University at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 30
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
#8 Best Online Accounting Degrees
University of Mary
Bismarck, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Mary supports flexible distance learning opportunities across 22 online degree programs. The college offers seven online bachelor's programs, reaching 1,682 distance learners worldwide. Learners hoping to advance in the accounting field can enroll in the college's bachelor of science in accounting program. The accounting program is a flexible option for working professionals and busy students.
Enrollees complete industry-relevant classes throughout their studies, gaining broad and specific knowledge of the accounting field. These classes equip students with knowledge and skills applicable to post-graduate careers. With help from their academic advisor, degree-seekers can modify their course load, choose electives, and declare minors and degree concentrations.
A bachelor's degree often connects graduates with numerous job opportunities and a higher earning potential. The college boasts a median salary of $46,700 for graduates six years after completing their studies. Before applying, prospective students should connect with the accounting department to learn more about admission requirements and application materials.
University of Mary at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,682
Total Online Programs: 22
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 74%
#9 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary of the Woods, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College, located in Indiana, enables distance learning across 33 online degree programs. Of these online programs, 25 offer an undergraduate-level education. The school offers an online bachelor's degree in accounting. The accounting program allows for full- or part-time study, making it a flexible choice for working professionals and busy students.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing accounting-specific coursework. Enrollees also complete general education requirements, gaining a well-rounded education during their studies. Majors choose electives, minors, and concentrations to customize their course of study.
The benefits of a bachelor's degree are varied, including increased job opportunities and higher earning potential. At the college, students can expect to earn a median salary of $28,300 six years after graduation. Students interested in learning more about admission requirements, application materials, and financial aid opportunities should directly contact the accounting department.
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 347
Total Online Programs: 33
Online Bachelor's Programs: 25
Admission Rate: 67%
#10 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Florida Atlantic University, located in Boca Raton, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The public school offers 11 online bachelor's programs from its main campus. The online BBA in accounting is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the accounting field.
The accounting program balances rigor with flexibility, proving beneficial to working professionals, busy students, and other learners. Students complete industry-specific classes, with the option to add electives and modify their coursework. Students can also pursue a minor to further their learning.
When calculating the cost of a degree, students should note the current tuition rate of $14,374. Accounting students gain access to internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, through the college. The school reports an average financial aid award of $10,629 per student.
Florida Atlantic University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 14,613
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 63%
#11 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Dakota State University
Madison, SD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Dakota State University supports 2,206 distance learners across 37 fully online programs. Undergraduates choose from 13 online bachelor's programs at the public, four-year institution. Learners hoping to advance in the accounting field can enroll in the college's BBA in accounting program. The accounting program supports flexible study for distance learners.
Throughout the program, students attend industry-relevant lectures while completing accounting-specific coursework. Students also fulfill general education requirements, gaining additional knowledge. After consultations with their academic advisor, enrollees can customize their studies through electives, minors, and concentration areas.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree often access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $35,400, according to the college. Undergraduates pay a net price of $17,063 per year at the institution. Prospective enrollees can meet with the accounting department directly to discuss admission requirements, application materials, and other relevant information.
Dakota State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 2,206
Total Online Programs: 37
Online Bachelor's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 77%
#12 Best Online Accounting Degrees
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Alabama at Birmingham, a public, four-year college, supports online learning across 17 virtual programs. Online learners seeking an undergraduate-level education can choose from seven online bachelor's programs. The school delivers an online bachelor of science in accounting. The accounting program supports flexible study for distance learners.
Accounting students complete general education and advanced coursework amounting to 120 credits throughout their studies. Enrollees also take general education classes, gaining a well-rounded education. Students can explore electives, minors, and concentrations, with their academic advisor to individualize their degree.
A bachelor's degree enables graduates to access higher-paying jobs and more employment opportunities. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $39,400, according to the college. Though degree costs vary, undergraduate students pay an average of $17,068 per year in tuition and fees. Prospective enrollees can learn more about the opportunities available at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, including admission requirements and financial aid eligibility, by connecting with the accounting department.
University of Alabama at Birmingham at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 13,001
Total Online Programs: 17
Online Bachelor's Programs: 7
Admission Rate: 74%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#13 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Concordia University, St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Concordia University, St. Paul, located in Minnesota, provides numerous top-tier academic programs. The institution offers 18 remote online bachelor's programs. The BS in accounting is one of 18 programs supporting distance learners.
The accounting program balances rigor with flexibility. Students complete general and advanced coursework, with the opportunity to modify their coursework. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $22,800 in tuition. Distance learners at the accredited institution can qualify for federal financial aid programs and other forms of aid.
Concordia University, St. Paul at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,036
Total Online Programs: 57
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 98%
#14 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Davenport University
Grand Rapids, MI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Davenport University, located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provides numerous top-tier bachelor's degree programs. The accounting program is one of 24 online bachelor's degree programs available through the institution. The BBA in accounting is an attractive option for students seeking to advance in the accounting field.
Accounting students can maximize flexibility through modified coursework and the option to pursue part-time enrollment. Learners seeking to modify their studies can work with their academic advisor. Students also have the option to choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduate students can expect to pay $18,408 in tuition. Enrollees can access internal and external funding opportunities to defray the cost of their studies.
Davenport University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 4,707
Total Online Programs: 71
Online Bachelor's Programs: 24
Admission Rate: 82%
#15 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Colorado State University Global Campus
Aurora, CO - 4 years
- Online
Learners seeking competitive online study in accounting should consider Colorado State University Global Campus's online bachelor's degree in accounting. The program is one of 15 online bachelor's degree programs available through the institution. Learners in the accounting program are prepared for the demands of the accounting field through rigorous study.
The accounting program enables flexible study. Learners can also customize their studies, after consultations with an academic advisor. Enrollees can choose electives, minors, and other modifications to individualize their studies.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $8,400 at the school. Learners can access numerous funding opportunities through the accredited institution.
Colorado State University Global Campus at a Glance:
Total Online Programs: 39
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 99%
Transfer Credits Accepted: Accepted
#16 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Misericordia University
Dallas, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
With its main campus in Dallas, Misericordia University provides competitive bachelor's degree programs to learners from all walks of life. Located in Dallas, Pennsylvania, the private institution boasts eight online bachelor's programs. The bachelor's in accounting is one of the top programs in the field supporting distance learners.
The accounting program balances rigor with flexibility. The program curriculum equips students with industry-relevant knowledge. Students also have the option to choose a minor and select electives as part of their curriculum.
Undergraduates pay a tuition rate of $32,800 at the school. The accredited institution connects students with internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships and fellowships.
Misericordia University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 964
Total Online Programs: 18
Online Bachelor's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 86%
#17 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students seeking to enroll in a competitive bachelor's degree program should consider Eastern New Mexico University. The accounting program is one of 18 online bachelor's programs available through the institution. Distance learners hoping to advance in the accounting field will benefit from the college's BBS in accounting.
The online accounting degree prioritizes flexibility. Enrollees can also customize their studies, with the help of an academic advisor. Students can also work with their academic advisor to change classes and select electives.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $5,994. Accounting students can access scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities while enrolled. The school averages financial aid award packages of $7,142 per student.
Eastern New Mexico University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 3,946
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Admission Rate: 58%
#18 Best Online Accounting Degrees
University of Minnesota Crookston
Crookston, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Minnesota Crookston, a public, four-year college, supports online learning across 19 online programs. Of these programs, 15 are available to undergraduate students. Learners looking to advance in the accounting field will find the school's bachelor's degree in accounting to be an attractive option. The accounting program supports flexible study for distance learners.
During the accounting program, students complete foundational and advanced coursework relevant to the accounting field. Students gain industry-relevant and broad knowledge and skills, preparing them for life after their degree. Enrollees can customize their degree by choosing electives, minors, and concentrations.
Graduates possessing a bachelor's degree can access more job opportunities and grow their earning potential over time. The median salary for graduates six years after their degree completion is $42,500, according to the college. Typically, undergraduate students pay $11,483 in tuition and fees each year. Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to learn more about funding opportunities and eligibility requirements.
University of Minnesota Crookston at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 1,266
Total Online Programs: 19
Online Bachelor's Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 68%
#19 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Troy University
Troy, AL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Troy University, a public, four-year college, offers premier educational opportunities across 47 bachelor's programs. Students interested in distance learning will find the school's 19 fully online bachelor's programs to be attractive options for study. The bachelor's in global business with an accounting concentration supports rigorous study.
The accounting program curriculum provides flexibility. In consultation with their academic advisor, students can modify their course load to suit their needs. Students can also choose elective classes or pursue a minor to further their learning.
Undergraduate tuition at the school averages $15,600. Accounting students gain access to internal and external funding opportunities, such as scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid, through the college. On average, enrollees receive $6,594 in financial aid.
Troy University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 9,242
Total Online Programs: 49
Online Bachelor's Programs: 19
Admission Rate: 88%
#20 Best Online Accounting Degrees
Dickinson State University
Dickinson, ND - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in North Dakota, Dickinson State University offers many top-ranked bachelor's programs. The college supports distance learning across 23 remote bachelor's programs. The BBA in accounting program is one of 23 programs supporting distance learners.
The program prepares accounting students for the demands of the accounting field. Students can collaborate with their academic advisor to find classes that complement their career interests. Online students also choose minors and electives to individualize the degree.
At present, undergraduates pay $9,782 in tuition. Enrollees can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid through the college. The school's average financial aid award package amounts to $5,053 per degree-seeker.
Dickinson State University at a Glance:
Online Enrollment: 565
Total Online Programs: 29
Online Bachelor's Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 100%
Online Bachelor's in Accounting Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Our Methodology
Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.
Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.
While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.
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Academics -
Affordability -
Online Enrollment
Data Sources
The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.
The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.
Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.
Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology
About Our Ranking Factors
Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.
Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.
We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.
Academics - 75%
Affordability - 15%
Online Enrollment - 10%
In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.
If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.
We thank you for your readership and trust.
What Is an Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degree?
Online degrees for accounting students provide the knowledge and skills needed to earn professional accounting certification, pursue entry-level careers, or enroll in graduate school. Graduates can apply accepted accounting principles to real-world businesses, analyze financial issues and make recommendations, and assess ethical issues appropriately.
The flexibility and expanded access of online programs attract high school graduates, older students attending college for the first time, and working professionals looking to change careers. Learners with associate degrees who want to become certified public accountants are also excellent candidates for an online bachelor's degree.
Graduates who earn an accounting bachelor's degree online gain skills in mathematics, research, communication, and specialized types of accounting.
Choosing an Online Program
Many top universities offer accounting programs online. With so many options, how do you find the right program for your unique needs and goals? Prospective students must consider factors like cost, course formatting, degree requirements, and learning outcomes.
What Else Can I Expect From a Bachelor's in Accounting Program?
Whether earning their accounting degrees online or on campus, students can expect to encounter the same foundational curriculum components: general education, major core, and electives. In an accounting program, courses cover topics like economics, finance, and business law. Students looking to further specialize their curriculum can often select from concentrations in auditing and forensic accounting; managerial accounting; public accounting; or tax accounting. Each concentration requires courses focused on field-specific knowledge and skills, such as corporate tax accounting, financial statement analysis, or cost accounting. Students may also choose to supplement their degrees with open electives.Accounting Curriculum
- Business Ethics: This course teaches students to apply ethical theory and practice in business contexts. Topics include different ethical systems, cross-cultural variations and similarities, and how organizations develop and implement ethics programs. Courses use case studies to help students recognize and analyze ethical issues in the workplace.
- Auditing: An undergraduate auditing course introduces students to assurance services and the professional and ethical standards required of auditors. By examining audit programs and procedures, students gain skills in audit design, testing methods, and communication strategies for discussing results. Coursework emphasizes risk mitigation and compliance.
- Taxation: Students in this course learn the procedures used to interpret tax information for individuals. Coursework explores the basic concepts of federal income taxation, including gross income, exemptions, deductions, and credits. Undergraduate accounting degrees may also offer courses in corporate taxation, focusing on requirements and procedures for businesses.
Accounting Jobs
A bachelor's in accounting gives students a strong foundation in finance principles, computer applications, and economics. Public accounting may be the most obvious career path for graduates, but an online degree in accounting is equally applicable to many jobs serving businesses, governments, and individual clients.
Undergraduate accounting programs are also an excellent choice for students who plan to attend graduate school before pursuing advanced positions in finance or economics.
Here are three of the most popular careers for accounting graduates. Some careers require additional education or certification.
Certified Public Accountants
| Median Salary: $78,000 | Projected Job Growth: 4% |
|---|
Certified public accountants (CPAs) complete financial tasks for individual, corporate, and government clients. These tasks include bookkeeping and accounting, auditing, tax preparation, and consulting. Accountants generally work independently while completing tasks, but they must communicate effectively with clients to explain their findings.
CPAs may operate their own businesses or work for public accounting firms. To become a CPA, candidates must earn at least a bachelor's degree in accounting and complete a national certification exam from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. CPAs must have keen analytical, organizational, and mathematics skills to excel.
Financial Managers
| Median Salary: $139,790 | Projected Job Growth: 16% |
|---|
Financial managers -- also known as controllers, treasurers, and finance officers -- safeguard the financial health of an organization. These professionals monitor legal compliance, prepare statements and reports, direct investment activities, and help craft long-term financial goals. They often work on management teams and act as advisors to top executives.
Employers typically look for financial managers with a bachelor's degree and several years of relevant experience in business or finance. Many financial managers begin their careers as accountants or financial analysts before seeking advancement. This position requires excellent analytical, communication, and mathematics skills.
Budget Analysts
| Median Salary: $82,260 | Projected Job Growth: 3% |
|---|
Businesses, universities, and governments rely on budget analysts to help organize their finances and develop realistic budgets. Tasks include monitoring organizational spending, analyzing costs and benefits, reviewing funding requests, estimating future financial needs, and making recommendations to managers.
Education requirements vary by employer, but many budget analyst positions require a bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or statistics. Budget analysts should have excellent communication, mathematics, and writing skills.
Learn More About an Online Accounting Degree
How Long Does It Take to Complete a Bachelor's in Accounting?
Earning an accounting degree online typically takes four years of full-time study. Students with significant transfer credits or an associate degree can graduate faster.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's in Accounting?
An online accounting degree program prepares graduates for careers as certified public accountants, budget analysts, financial managers, and financial advisors.
How Much Do You Make in Accounting?
Salary potential varies depending on experience, employer, and position. According to the BLS, accountants earn a median income of $71,550 per year.
What Is Accounting?
Accounting involves the identification, measurement, and communication of economic and financial information to clients. Accountants may specialize in areas like taxation or auditing.
What Is a Bachelor's in Accounting?
A bachelor's in accounting is a comprehensive undergraduate program that prepares students for entry-level employment, industry certification, and graduate study in finance.
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