How Much Does an Accounting Degree Online Cost?

Pursuing an accounting degree online offers flexibility and is often more cost effective than traditional on-campus programs. Costs for these programs vary widely based on the institution and the specific accounting program. On the low end, students will pay $20,000 total, while the average cost typically ranges around $30,000 to $50,000. For those looking at top-tier schools or programs, the cost can be as high as $70,000 or more.

There are ways to find an affordable online accounting degree, including several financial aid options, which we will discuss below.

Accreditation is crucial when considering an online accounting degree. Accredited programs meet established standards of quality and are recognized by potential employers, ensuring that your education investment pays off.

The career outlook for accountants is promising, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting steady job growth in the coming years. This positive job outlook, coupled with the potential for high earnings in the accounting field, can make the investment in an online accounting degree worthwhile.

Prospective students should evaluate the total cost, potential return on investment, and the quality of the program to determine if an online accounting degree is the right choice for them.

Online Accounting Degree Tuition Rates

Tuition rates for online accounting degrees vary significantly and are influenced by several factors, including the institution's prestige, program accreditation, and the specific structure of the curriculum. Generally, students can expect a wide range of tuition costs, allowing flexibility depending on their financial situations and career aspirations.

Community colleges and some universities offer online accounting degrees at lower costs, typically ranging from $15,000 to $20,000. Community colleges keep costs low because you are only completing an associate degree in accounting. Universities can offer these inexpensive degrees if you pay per term instead of per credit.

Usually, accredited online accounting programs will cost between $30,000 and $50,000. These programs offer a more comprehensive curriculum with access to experienced faculty and broader career services, which can be crucial for networking and job placement in the competitive accounting field.

On the other hand, prestigious schools may charge upwards of $50,000 to $70,000. These programs not only cover core accounting principles but also incorporate advanced business and finance courses, offering a broader educational experience that is highly regarded in the job market.

Prospective students should weigh the cost against potential career earnings and advancement opportunities, considering both the immediate financial burden and long-term professional benefits.

How To Make an Online Accounting Degree More Affordable

Pursuing an online accounting degree can be a significant financial investment, but there are numerous strategies and resources available to make it more affordable. Understanding and leveraging these options can substantially reduce the financial burden and make higher education accessible.

Federal Financial Aid

Students should begin by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can qualify them for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Federal grants such as the Pell Grant offer financial aid that doesn't need to be repaid, making them an excellent option for those who qualify.

Scholarships

Numerous business scholarships are available through universities, private companies, non-profit organizations, and professional accounting bodies. Scholarships are highly competitive but can cover a significant portion of tuition costs.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs as a part of their benefits package. Employees studying in fields relevant to their jobs may receive partial or full tuition coverage, which can substantially offset costs.

GI Bill and Military Aid

Veterans or active military personnel can take advantage of benefits like the GI Bill, which covers tuition and fees for educational programs. There are also additional grants and scholarships available specifically for military members and their families.

State and Institutional Grants

Similar to federal grants, state and institutional grants provide need-based funding that doesn't require repayment. Eligibility and amounts can vary widely, so it's important to research what's available in your state or from the institution itself.

Payment Plans

Many online programs offer flexible payment plans that allow students to spread the cost of tuition over several months or years, making payments more manageable.

By combining these resources, students can significantly reduce the cost of an online accounting degree. To maximize affordability, it's important to research and apply for all applicable options.

List of Online Accounting Degrees

Check out this list of online colleges offering online accounting degrees, including both bachelor's and master's degree options, along with their respective tuition rates and brief descriptions of the programs:

University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix is known for its career-oriented programs and flexible online learning options designed to accommodate working adults. It offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in accounting and a graduate accounting certificate that focus on managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation.

• bachelor's degree tuition: $398 per credit hour
• graduate certificate tuition: $698 per credit hour

Capella University

Capella University specializes in online education and offers competency-based learning models that allow students to progress at their own pace. It also offers regular guided degree-completion plans. We'll compare the costs of both types of tuition for the BS in accounting.

• BS in accounting FlexPath typical pace: $20,000 total
• BS in accounting FlexPath accelerated pace: $12,500 total
• BS in accounting GuidedPath with average transfer credits: $43,405 total
• BS in accounting GuidedPath with no transfer credits: $70,620 total

Liberty University

Liberty University is a Christian university offering a wide range of online programs tailored to both traditional students and working professionals. It offers several types of online accounting degrees, including the following. All tuition costs are based on being a full-time student.

• Associate of Arts in accounting: $390 per credit hour
• Bachelor of Science in accounting and data analysis: $390 per credit hour
• Master of Business Administration with a concentration in accounting: $565 per credit hour
• Master of Science in accounting: $565 per credit hour

However, if you are in the military, undergraduate tuition is only $250 per credit hour, and graduate tuition is $275.

Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is one of the fastest-growing universities in the United States, known for its affordability and extensive online program offerings. It offers a bachelor's degree, master's degree, undergraduate certificate, and graduate certificate with multiple concentrations such as auditing, forensic accounting, and taxation.

• bachelor's degree tuition: $330 per credit hour
• master's degree tuition: $637 per credit hour
• undergraduate certificate tuition: $330 per credit hour
• graduate certificate tuition: $637 per credit hour

Colorado State University Global

CSU Global is known for its career-focused education tailored to adults and offers fully online programs with monthly class starts. It offers a BS in accounting and a Master of Professional Accounting designed to align with industry standards and CPA exam requirements.

• bachelor's degree tuition: $375 per credit hour
• master's degree tuition: $675 per credit hour

Walden University

Walden University focuses on professional degrees at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels in fields such as business and management. It has an online BS in business administration (BSBA) with a concentration in accounting that requires 181 quarter credit hours. The tuition is $340 per credit hour; however, the university offers a special scholarship that can reduce your total cost by $18,340.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is a pioneer in competency-based education, allowing students to advance based on their ability to demonstrate skills and knowledge in their field. Students can work quickly through courses they have confidently mastered while taking more time on the ones they need to. Most students are able to finish their degree in around two years.

WGU offers a BSBA in accounting along with a Master of Accounting degree, all online.

• bachelor's degree tuition: $3,955 per six-month term
• master's degree tuition: $4,755 per six-month term

Post University

Post University offers both online and on-campus educational programs and focuses on providing practical and career-oriented education. It has a BS in accounting and a Master of Science (MS) in accounting.

• bachelor's degree tuition: $629 per credit hour
• master's degree tuition: $689 per credit hour

Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus is the online campus of Pennsylvania State University, offering the same high standards as its traditional programs. First, it offers a BS in accounting. The tuition cost varies according to how many credits you have earned and when you decide to start earning your degree. If you are starting in the fall of 2024 as a full-time student, tuition is $7,678 to $8,288 per semester.

You can also earn a Master of Professional Accounting. The cost is $12,325 per semester if you take 12 or more credits as a full-time student.