Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees in Maryland (2025)

The 2024 changes to the higher education sector have expanded the opportunities for pursuing online accounting degrees.

Even though there is only one university with the option to obtain a Maryland affordable online accounting degree, numerous universities and colleges in the country offer online programs that mix quality education with cost-effectiveness.

These programs are designed to equip students with the vital skills and knowledge needed in the accounting field, covering fundamental accounting principles, financial analysis, and modern accounting software.

They eliminate various costs such as commuting, housing, and certain campus fees. Additionally, many of these programs offer financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to further ease the financial burden on students.

Featured Affordable Accounting Degrees Online

Below we highlight the best Maryland affordable online accounting degree for 2024, balancing cost, quality of education, and flexibility.

1. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in accounting program, ideal for individuals aiming to manage finances in various sectors.

This program, comprising 120 credit hours, typically spans four years. However, the university presents an option to transfer up to 90 credits from prior courses, reducing both the completion time and the overall cost.

For Maryland residents, the tuition is $318 per credit hour, while out-of-state students pay $499 per credit hour. Active military members benefit from a reduced rate of $250 per credit hour.

Other Universities Offering Affordable Online Accounting Degrees

Due to only one university offering the option to get a Maryland affordable online accounting degree, below we highlight a list of nationwide universities offering the online program to Maryland residents.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University provides an online Bachelor of Science in accounting program, accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

This intensive program requires 120 credit hours for graduation, allowing the transfer of up to 90 credits from accredited institutions. It offers in-depth knowledge of financial analysis, taxation, and core accounting principles.

This program offers a uniform tuition rate of $330 per credit hour, irrespective of the student's geographic location.

Devry University

DeVry University's online bachelor's degree in accounting is accredited by ACBSP, blending key accounting knowledge with insights into technology, government regulations, and business management.

The program's standard duration is four years, but full-time students enrolling for three semesters annually can complete it in approximately two years and eight months.

Tuition is set at $514 per credit hour, with active military members receiving a special rate of $250 per credit. DeVry also offers various financial aid options for students with transferable credits from other universities.

Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in accounting program that adheres to the rigorous standards set by the ACBSP.

This program allows students to specialize in either fraud and forensic accounting or accounting information systems and data analysis. Graduates will be thoroughly prepared to sit for the CPA exam.

The tuition is $325 per credit hour, excluding additional fees. The curriculum includes courses in managerial accounting, tax accounting, and business law, ensuring a complete education in the field.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University provides an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting. The program requires 120 credit hours, of which 30 must be completed at the institution.

Students have the option to transfer up to 90 credits from previous coursework, reducing both the time to degree completion and overall costs.

The program's curriculum covers macro and microeconomics, managerial accounting, and accounting information systems. Resident students pay $393 per credit hour, while the rate for out-of-state students is $426.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in accountancy, ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report. The program entails 120 credit hours, spread across 40 classes, each lasting seven-and-a-half weeks.

Accredited by the AACSB, the program provides knowledge in business statistics, business analysis, and auditing principles.

For full-time students enrolling in 12 credit hours per semester, the tuition cost is $7,175 for Arizona residents and $8,277 for students residing out of state.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers an affordable online bachelor's degree in accounting that prepares students for the CPA exam. This program includes 41 courses typically completed over 42 months.

The curriculum includes key areas such as the laws of accountants, business ethics, and economic principles. The university promotes enrolling in more courses per term by setting the tuition at $3,755 for a six-month term.

Additionally, Western Governors University provides various financial aid opportunities, including scholarships for which students can apply.

Penn State University

Penn State University's online Bachelor of Science in accounting program is accredited by the AACSB and prepares students for roles in both public and private accounting.

The 120-credit hour program equips students with knowledge crucial for passing the CPA exam, covering topics like cost accounting, taxes, and advanced financial accounting.

Tuition varies based on earned credits: part-time students with fewer than 59 credits pay $626 per credit hour, while those with 60 or more credits pay $671 per credit.

Maryville University

Maryville University offers an online Bachelor of Science in accounting program, perfect for those passionate about this high-demand field.

The program, which doesn't require SAT/ACT scores, consists of 128 credit hours and can be completed in as little as two and a half years, depending on the student's pace and course load.

It covers areas like business law, financial accounting, and auditing, preparing graduates for roles as financial advisors, analysts, and managers. The tuition rate is $525 per credit hour before fees.

University of Minnesota

The University of Minnesota provides an online Bachelor of Science in accounting program designed for careers in public, private, or governmental accounting.

Requiring 120 credit hours, with 63 dedicated to major courses, the program includes studies in auditing, accounting systems, and managerial finance.

The tuition is set at $441.50 per credit hour, excluding applicable fees. The university also offers financial aid options to qualifying students, assisting with the overall cost of the program.

Financial Aid Options for Online Accounting Programs

For students pursuing online accounting degrees, various financial aid options are available to ease the financial burden.

Federal financial aid, accessible through the FAFSA, offers loans and grants, with grants being particularly beneficial as they don't require repayment.

Scholarships, another significant aid source, can be merit-based or need-based, offered by universities, private organizations, or public entities. Work-study programs provide an opportunity to earn money while studying.

Additionally, each university often has unique financial aid options, including special scholarships and grants, tailored to their students.

Tips for Making an Online Accounting Degree Affordable

Making an online accounting degree affordable is achievable with a few key strategies. First, applying for financial aid through FAFSA can provide access to federal grants and loans.

Starting at a community college, known for lower tuition costs, and then transferring credits to a four-year online program can save money. Many community colleges have agreements with universities, making this transfer smoother.

It's also beneficial to choose online programs, which often cost less than traditional on-campus courses.

Is an Online Accounting Degree Worth the Cost?

Assessing the value of an online accounting degree involves considering its affordability and the career opportunities it offers.

They provide essential skills for in-demand, well-paying accounting and finance roles and prepare graduates for certifications like the CPA, enhancing career prospects.

Success in online learning requires self-discipline, a good internet setup, and choosing an accredited program for quality education and job market recognition.

For motivated individuals seeking a flexible and cost-effective path into the accounting profession, an online accounting degree can be a worthwhile investment, offering significant professional and financial benefits.

Start Your Accounting Degree Online Today

Start your preparation for a rewarding career in accounting by enrolling in a Maryland affordable online accounting degree today.

With flexible schedules, lower costs, and intensive curriculums, these programs offer a practical, accessible path to achieving your professional goals.