Online Master's Degree in Accounting | Admissions, Tuition & Curriculum

If you want to advance your career in financial analysis, auditing, or tax strategies, earning a master's degree in accounting online is a great way to work toward certain credentials without putting your career on pause.

To help you make an informed decision about earning this degree, we've included admissions requirements, average tuition costs, and common course topics below. There are also a few tips for strengthening your application along with other information that you need to know.

What Is an Online Master's Degree in Accounting?

A master's degree in accounting builds upon the foundational topics mastered in a bachelor's degree program and satisfies the 150-credit requirement for the Certified Public Accountant exam.

The 30-credit program focuses on advanced financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and ethics. You'll learn how to analyze financial statements, conduct audits, develop tax strategies, and navigate regulatory requirements—all while enjoying the flexibility of an online format that allows you to balance your studies with work or other commitments.

Many graduates take the CPA exam to increase their job prospects. CPAs can represent companies in front of the IRS and file financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)— tasks that a regular accountant cannot do.

Other graduates use this degree to better their skills and get into leadership positions in taxation, banking, or other finance fields.

Online Master's Degree in Accounting Admissions Requirements

Admissions requirements vary according to an institution's goals with their accounting master's program. Below, we've explained what you should be prepared for.

Bachelor's Degree

Some welcome students who have earned any accredited bachelor's degree while others require students who have earned a degree in accounting already.

If you don't have an agree in accounting, the program will usually require that you take the following courses:

• introductory financial accounting
• introductory managerial accounting
• intermediate financial accounting (usually two courses)
• US federal income tax
• auditing

These courses may be integrated into your master's degree program, or you may need to take them separately—either as electives while you're earning your undergraduate degree or separately as prerequisites.

You can research graduate accounting certificates that cover those topics and prepare you for a master's degree in accounting.

In whatever degree you have, your GPA will need to be around a 3.0 and you'll need to supply official transcripts outlining all coursework you've completed.

Essay

Nearly all programs require you to write a short personal essay. Some programs provide prompts for you to respond to, while others ask that you explain your motivation for earning this degree and why you'd be a good fit for the program.

References

You usually will need to provide two references that the school can contact to provide feedback on you. Choose professors or supervisors who can speak to your strengths in accounting.

Resume

Your resume outlines your educational and professional background. Be sure to include any internships or certifications that highlight your accounting skills.

GMAT/GRE Scores

These standardized test scores are sometimes optional for accounting master's applications. If you believe your score will benefit your application, you can include it.

Some programs will also have reasons for waiving the need for submitting scores. Always check your program's requirements in advance to give you time to prepare for taking these exams.

Cost of an Online Master's Degree in Accounting

According to U.S. News an online master's degree in accounting costs anywhere from $25,000 to $70,000. On top of tuition, you will need to pay for technology fees, textbooks, and software subscriptions, among other things.

Learn more: Affordable Online Master's in Accounting Programs

Types of Online Master's Programs in Accounting

If you want to earn an accounting master's online, make sure you understand the different available types.

• Master of Science in accounting (MSA): focuses on advanced accounting practices, financial reporting, and auditing. It's ideal if you want to deepen your technical skills and prepare for CPA certification.
• Master of Accountancy (MAcc): similar to the MSA, but often with a broader business management focus. It's great for those aiming to lead within accounting firms or corporate finance departments.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in accounting: blends core business education with specialized accounting training. This program is perfect for those who want to use accounting skills within a broader business framework, such as strategic planning or corporate governance.
• Executive master's in accounting: geared toward senior professionals, this program focuses on strategic decision-making, advanced accounting techniques, and leadership skills

Specializations in Online Master's Programs in Accounting

The following specializations allow you to focus your accounting degree on a specific career field.

• Forensic accounting: focuses on detecting and investigating financial fraud, preparing you for roles in auditing, fraud examination, and legal support
• Taxation: provides deep knowledge of tax laws and regulations, setting you up for a career as a tax consultant or advisor in public accounting or corporate tax departments
• Auditing: sharpens your skills in conducting internal and external audits, ensuring compliance and financial accuracy, which is crucial for careers in auditing
• Financial reporting: specializes in the preparation and analysis of financial statements, ideal for roles in corporate finance and financial management
• Managerial accounting: concentrates on internal processes, cost management, and financial decision-making, perfect for management accounting roles or corporate planning

Online Master's Degree in Accounting Coursework

Although each program slightly differs from the other, most online accounting master's programs will focus on the following topics.

• Advanced financial accounting: explores complex accounting topics like mergers, acquisitions, consolidated financial statements, and international accounting standards
• Managerial accounting: focuses on internal financial analysis, budgeting, and cost management, supporting strategic business decisions
• Tax research and strategy: teaches how to navigate and apply tax laws and develop effective tax planning strategies for various clients
• Auditing and assurance services: provides insights into auditing standards and techniques for conducting thorough internal and external audits
• Accounting information systems: looks at the role of technology in accounting, including software tools for financial reporting, auditing, and data analysis
• Ethics in accounting: discusses ethical standards and challenges within the accounting profession, emphasizing integrity and regulatory compliance

Timeline To Complete an Online Master's Degree in Accounting

Completing an online master's degree in accounting generally takes between one to two years, depending on a few factors. Full-time students often wrap up within 12 to 18 months, while part-time students may take up to two years, balancing their studies with work and personal commitments.

How To Pay for an Online Master's Degree in Accounting

Paying for an online master's degree in accounting doesn't have to be overwhelming—there are several creative strategies to consider.

Accounting-Specific Scholarships

Many professional organizations, like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), offer scholarships for students in advanced accounting programs. Check out these opportunities to find scholarships that fit your career plans.

Employer Tuition Reimbursement

Lots of companies offer tuition assistance or reimbursement for employees pursuing degrees in fields that benefit the organization. Accounting is often a priority area, making employer sponsorship a great option.

Professional Organization Grants

Joining professional organizations can give you access to grants and scholarships. Groups like the AICPA or the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) offer financial aid for continuing education.

Tax Benefits

As an accounting student, you might qualify for tax deductions or credits for educational expenses. Look into options like the Lifetime Learning Credit or the American Opportunity Credit to help reduce your tax bill.

Careers With an Online Master's Degree in Accounting

Once you complete your master's degree, you are eligible to pursue the following careers.

• Certified public accountant: provides services in auditing, tax, and consulting for individuals, businesses, and government agencies
• Financial analyst: analyzes financial data and trends to guide organizations in making sound business decisions and investments
• Controller: manages all accounting operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance, within an organization
• Tax advisor: specializes in tax planning and preparation, helping clients navigate complex tax laws and optimize their strategies
• Internal auditor: assesses an organization's internal controls, risk management, and governance processes to ensure compliance and efficiency
• Chief financial officer (CFO): leads an organization's financial strategy, overseeing budgets, investments, and long-term financial planning

FAQs About an Online Master's Degree in Accounting

To help you make an informed decision, we've answered some frequently asked questions below.

Is Getting an Online Master's Degree in Accounting Worth It?

Completing a master's in accounting online is a smart move for professionals who want to advance in accounting, finance, or auditing. The degree provides crucial skills in financial analysis, auditing, and tax planning, making you a valuable asset to any organization.

Is an Online Master's Degree Respected?

Any degree earned from an accredited university is respected. When you graduate, your degree will not have a special designation that lets employers know you earned it online.

In fact, earning a degree while working on your career is evidence that you have strong traits that many employers want in their employees.

Do I Need Work Experience To Apply for an Online Master's Degree in Accounting?

You do not necessarily need work experience to apply for an accounting master's degree, but you do need accounting course experience. Check the program's prerequisites in accounting to ensure you don't need to take any courses before applying.