Online Bachelor's Degree in Accounting: Courses, Careers & Payment

A bachelor's degree in accounting is the basis for a variety of finance roles, including accounting, banking, economics, financial markets, and taxation. You can use this guide to learn more about what courses you'll take and what specific careers you could pursue.

Earning your accounting degree online provides the same level of degree as in-person degrees while giving you the flexibility not to put your life on hold. To learn more, check out the information below.

What Is an Online Bachelor's Degree in Accounting?

An online bachelor's degree in accounting focuses on the principles and practices of financial reporting, auditing, tax preparation, and business law. Students learn how to analyze financial data, prepare financial statements, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards.

By enrolling in courses such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and business ethics, students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Graduates of an online accounting program are well-prepared for various entry-level roles in the accounting field and have the foundation needed to work toward professional certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA).

Online Accounting Degree Core Curriculum

Accounting degrees may have different course titles, but the core content will focus on the following topics.

• Financial accounting: introduction to the principles and practices of financial reporting, including the preparation of financial statements
• Managerial accounting: focuses on the use of accounting information for internal decision-making, budgeting, and performance evaluation
• Taxation: covers federal income tax laws, tax preparation, and tax planning strategies for individuals and businesses
• Auditing: examines the principles and practices of auditing, including risk assessment, internal controls, and audit procedures
• Business law: provides an overview of the legal environment in which businesses operate, including contracts, liabilities, and regulations
• Ethics in accounting: explores ethical issues in accounting, including professional responsibilities and ethical decision-making

Online Accounting Degree Specializations

If you're interested in the accounting field but don't know where to begin, a great starting point can be to explore the specialization available for the field. A few popular routes for future accountants include:

• Taxation: focuses on tax laws, preparation, and planning strategies for individuals and businesses
• Forensic accounting: specializes in investigating financial fraud and disputes, combining accounting knowledge with legal expertise
• Auditing: emphasizes auditing principles and practices, including internal controls and risk management
• Public accounting: prepares students for roles in public accounting firms, with a focus on auditing, taxation, and consulting services

Career Opportunities for an Online Accounting Major

Once you earn an accounting degree, you can pursue the following accounting-focused careers.

• Accountant: prepares and examines financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance with regulations
• Auditor: evaluates financial statements and internal controls, identifying areas for improvement and ensuring compliance with laws and standards
• Tax specialist: focuses on tax preparation, planning, and compliance for individuals and businesses
• Financial analyst: analyzes financial data to help businesses make informed investment and financial decisions
• Management accountant: works within organizations to manage budgets, forecast financial performance, and support strategic decision-making

Certified Public Accountant

If your goal is to become a certified public accountant, you will need to earn more than just a bachelor's degree in accounting. To sit for the exam, you have to have completed 150 credits, but bachelor's degrees are only 120 credits.

Many schools will offer an accelerated track to students who are enrolled in an accounting program, allowing them to complete the 150-credit requirements in five years. If your program does not have that option, then you need to earn a master's degree in accounting, which are 30 credits or more.

How To Choose the Right Online Degree Program

Use the tips below to help you choose the best online accounting program.

Accreditation

Ensure the program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This helps ensure that your degree is respected by lawyers and will prepare for CPA licensure.

Specialization

If you want to focus on a certain type of accounting, see what concentrations or specializations online programs offer. If they don't offer the concentration you want, see if they have online certificates that you could earn.

Cost

Compare tuition rates and fees among different programs, but also consider the overall value of the education you will receive. Investigate financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and student loans, to make the program more affordable.

Read more: Best Online Accounting Programs

Paying For an Online Accounting Degree

To help you cover the cost of tuition, first, fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. This form determines what type of federal aid you qualify for. You can also use the ideas listed below.

• scholarships from the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)
• Pell Grant for undergraduates with financial need
• federal student loans
• transfer credits from a previous degree or community college
• lowered military tuition
• GI Bill for active-duty military members, veterans, and dependents
• CLEP exams for proof of learning
• employer tuition reimbursement

FAQs About Earning an Online Bachelor's Degree in Accounting

Still wondering if you should earn an online degree in accounting? Check out our answers to frequently asked questions below.

Is Earning an Accounting Degree Online a Good Idea?

Yes, earning an accounting degree online is great for those seeking flexibility while pursuing a career in accounting. Online programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as on-campus programs and prepare students for various accounting roles. The flexibility allows students to balance their studies with work or other commitments.

Plus, the demand for more accountants is high. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there are 126,500 accounting and auditing openings each year.

Is an Online Accounting Degree Credible?

Yes, an online accounting degree is legitimate, especially if it's from an accredited institution. Employers recognize the value of online degrees when they are from reputable programs that meet the same standards as traditional degrees. Accreditation ensures the quality and rigor of the education provided.

Is an Online Accounting Major Hard?

The difficulty of an online accounting major depends on your background and commitment. Accounting programs are known for their rigorous coursework, particularly in areas like financial reporting, auditing, and taxation. However, with dedication and effective time management, many students find the program manageable.

How Much Does an Online Accounting Degree Cost?

The cost of an online accounting degree varies depending on the institution and program. On average, tuition can range from $30,000 to $60,000 for the entire program.

Are There Any Free or Affordable Accounting Degree Programs Online?

While you can't earn a degree for free, there are affordable online accounting degree options through public universities. Additionally, some online platforms may offer free courses in accounting topics that can supplement your degree.

What Skills Will I Gain in an Online Accounting Degree Program?

In an online accounting degree program, you will gain skills in financial reporting, tax preparation, auditing, and business law. These skills will prepare you for a variety of roles in accounting and finance, including positions as an accountant, auditor, tax specialist, or financial analyst.