The Best Online Accounting Programs for Career Advancement
Earning an online accounting degree provides flexibility and accessibility for students and professionals looking to advance their careers in accounting, auditing, taxation, and corporate finance. Many top universities now offer fully online accounting programs, allowing students to complete their studies while balancing work and personal commitments.
Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s, master’s, or specialized certification, online accounting programs can help you gain the technical knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive financial sector.
Why Choose an Online Accounting Program?
- Flexibility – Study at your own pace while balancing work and other responsibilities.
- Accredited Degrees – Many online programs are AACSB-accredited, ensuring high educational standards.
- Career Advancement – Prepares students for CPA, CMA, and CFA certifications and high-paying accounting jobs.
- Cost-Effective – Many online programs are more affordable than traditional in-person degrees.
Top Online Accounting Programs
1. University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Overview: This fully online program prepares students for careers in public accounting, auditing, and management accounting. It provides a strong foundation for CPA exam preparation.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: umassd.edu
2. Purdue University Global
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Overview: This program covers business law, federal taxation, finance, and managerial accounting. It is designed for students looking for an affordable and flexible way to earn an accounting degree.
- Accreditation: ACBSP
- Website: purdueglobal.edu
3. Western Governors University (WGU)
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Overview: WGU’s competency-based learning model allows students to progress at their own pace, making it one of the most affordable and flexible online accounting degrees.
- Accreditation: NWCCU
- Website: wgu.edu
4. Penn State World Campus
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
- Overview: One of the top-ranked online accounting programs, Penn State’s curriculum prepares students for CPA and CMA certifications and offers excellent networking opportunities.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: worldcampus.psu.edu
5. University of Arkansas
- Program: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting
- Overview: This program is cost-effective and designed for working professionals looking to complete their degree online while maintaining their careers.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: online.uark.edu
Top Online Master’s in Accounting Programs
6. University of Connecticut (UConn) – School of Business
- Program: Master of Science in Accounting
- Overview: This fully online MSA program has been offered since 2003 and is one of the top-ranked online non-MBA master’s programs in accounting.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: en.wikipedia.org
7. University of Georgia – Terry College of Business
- Program: Master of Professional Accountancy (MPAcc)
- Overview: Designed for working professionals with a non-accounting background, this program provides a direct path to CPA certification and career advancement.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: en.wikipedia.org
8. Sacred Heart University
- Program: Online Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting
- Overview: Sacred Heart’s online programs are ranked among the top 7% of institutions for academic excellence. The program focuses on financial reporting, taxation, and auditing.
- Accreditation: NEASC
- Website: ctinsider.com
9. Fairfield University
- Program: Online Master’s in Accounting
- Overview: Fairfield University has one of the fastest-growing online graduate business programs, providing a strong pathway for accountants seeking advanced roles in finance and auditing.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: ctinsider.com
10. Florida Atlantic University (FAU)
- Program: Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
- Overview: FAU’s online accounting program is designed for students pursuing careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and forensic accounting.
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Website: business.fau.edu
How to Choose the Best Online Accounting Program
1. Check Accreditation
Ensure the program is accredited by AACSB, ACBSP, or regional accreditation bodies to guarantee quality education.
2. Consider CPA Exam Preparation
If you plan to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), choose a program that meets the 150-credit-hour requirement and provides CPA review courses.
3. Look for Career Support and Networking
Top programs offer career counseling, job placement assistance, and networking opportunities with accounting firms.
4. Compare Tuition and Financial Aid
Online programs can vary in cost. Check for scholarships, financial aid, and employer tuition reimbursement programs.
Final Thoughts
An online accounting degree can open doors to careers in public accounting, taxation, corporate finance, and auditing. Whether you’re a working professional seeking career advancement or a student pursuing an accounting degree, choosing the right online program can make a significant difference in your career success.
