5 Accelerated Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois 2025

Those who wish to pursue careers in the accounting field must typically complete higher education and certification requirements, such as a bachelor's degree and the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exams. An online accounting degree program makes this career path accessible to working professionals with busy schedules, allowing them to complete their courses at their own pace.

With accelerated online accounting degrees, students earn their degrees faster than a traditional four-year program. Let's explore the best online accounting degrees for Illinois residents to advance their careers.

Accelerated Online Accounting Degree Programs in Illinois

Accelerated degrees allow students to finish a bachelor's program in less than four years. In-state school programs may offer online students additional benefits, like tuition discounts and networking opportunities. Discover the top accelerated college degree programs in Illinois to jumpstart your career in accounting.

1. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in accounting degree for online learners. This accelerated program, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), includes seven-week courses focused on building essential accounting skills, such as payroll, account reconciliation, and financial management.

Students enjoy a flexible learning format designed for working professionals with the full support of helpful faculty. The school accepts up to 90 transfer credits, which can help make this degree more affordable.

2. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University offers a 100% online bachelor's degree that works with the schedules of busy, full-time professionals. The coursework consists of essential accounting principles, a capstone project, and preparation for the CMA exam.

As an HLC-accredited program, students learn from a robust curriculum, taking subjects, such as managerial accounting, bookkeeping, and financial reporting. Plus, by learning commonly used accounting software, graduates are ready to jump into the workforce.

You can complete this program in as little as 18 months while gaining valuable skills in accounting technology and management. The program offers live sessions with peers and faculty to support your growth.

3. DeVry University Lisle

DeVry University's campus in Lisle, IL, offers an accelerated accounting degree. Students here can complete the program in less than three years. Courses for the accounting major help students learn essential skills, such as:

• financial accounting
• auditing
• decision-making
• logic

The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) to ensure academic integrity.

4. Illinois College

Illinois College provides an accelerated online bachelor's degree in accounting that may be completed in as few as 15 months. The classes are offered asynchronously, allowing you to fit them into your schedule whenever you have time.

Those looking to advance professionally into rewarding accounting professions can benefit from the personal career advising services available to program participants. To begin this program, you must have a high school degree and a minimum GPA of 2.5.

5. Western Illinois University

Western Illinois University offers an online bachelor's degree for accounting students. Program participants may opt for an integrated bachelor's program, earning an online master's degree in five years.

This program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International) with rigorous coursework to prepare students for careers in managerial accounting, corporate accounting, or forensic accounting.

Other Accelerated Online Accounting Programs

While several online accounting degrees are available in Illinois, residents may also be interested in out-of-state options. Below, we explore top online accounting degrees outside of Illinois.

1. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global offers an accelerated accounting program. Online learners can enroll in a dual degree program, earning a bachelor's and master's degree in one streamlined program.

Students need 120 credits to graduate from this program, which is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Some of the upper-division courses include forensic accounting and cost accounting.

Students will also be ready to sit for the CPA exam at the graduate level.

2. National University

Accounting students at National University may earn a bachelor's degree in accounting online. Participants learn data analytics, auditing, and accountant ethics.

With a generous transfer policy and year-round enrollment, students can finish their degrees quickly. The school has credit transfer agreements with community colleges across the country, allowing many prospective students in different areas to easily transition into the accounting program.

Our Selection Criteria

The programs listed above were selected based on several ranking factors, including:

• Program Length: We chose programs that can be completed quicker than a traditional four-year program.
• Accreditation: The programs listed above are fully accredited and offer a comprehensive course load to prepare students for accounting jobs.
• Program Type: We only chose four-year schools that offer accelerated learning programs.
• Online Learning Support: All schools offer extensive support to online learners to help ensure academic success.

FAQs About Fast Online Accounting Programs

We've answered the most common questions surrounding accelerated online accounting programs. Learn more about this degree type below.

What Can I Expect From an Online Accounting Degree Program?

Program participants learn the basics of financial accounting, preparing them for professional careers at accounting firms, nonprofits, and businesses. Students generally take courses, such as:

• business administration
• information systems
• data analytics
• forensic accounting
• bookkeeping

How Do I Choose the Right Online Accounting Program?

Choosing the right online accounting program depends on several factors, including your career goals. Are you aiming for a specific role in accounting, such as a CPA, auditor, or financial analyst? Your goals will influence the type of program you should pursue.

You should also consider your prior experience and whether the degree programs accept real-world experience. This can include relevant work experience, military service, professional training, or certifications. By earning credits for prior learning, you can save on tuition costs — since you'll graduate sooner and may not need to pay for as many courses.

For those on a tight schedule, flexible learning paths are a must. Look for affordable online accounting degrees that offer asynchronous courses, so you can take your classes anytime.

How Much Does an Online Accounting Degree Cost?

The cost of an online accounting degree varies widely. Tuition may cost anywhere between $250 per credit hour to above $500 per credit hour.

While accelerated online programs help you earn your degree fast, there are several ways to lower the cost of your degree, including applying for scholarships, loans, and grants. Contact your school's financial aid office for more information on ways to save money.

Discover Online Bachelor's Degrees and Apply Today

Accelerated online accounting programs can put you on the path toward a thriving future. Explore more online programs on Learn.org. Reach out to individual schools for more information on their enrollment policies, financial aid, and program requirements.