Online Bachelor's Degrees in Accounting
Explore online bachelor's degrees in accounting, what they teach, and how they prepare you for careers in finance, auditing, and business operations.
Online bachelor's degrees in accounting give students the flexibility to study financial principles, auditing practices, and business regulations from anywhere. These programs introduce the core skills needed to manage financial records, interpret data, and support organizational decision-making.
Students can complete coursework around work schedules or family responsibilities, which makes online learning a strong option for adults returning to school or those pursuing accounting for the first time. Over time, this path can lead to a variety of well-established roles in business, government, and nonprofit settings.
What an Online Accounting Bachelor’s Degree Includes
Online accounting programs combine general education courses with upper-level accounting classes that build your technical and analytical skills. You may study financial and managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, business law, and accounting information systems. These subjects help you understand how organizations track financial activity, assess performance, and meet regulatory requirements.
You’ll also complete assignments such as case studies, spreadsheet-based projects, tax simulations, or auditing exercises. Many programs introduce widely used accounting software, giving you hands-on experience with tools you’ll see in the workplace. This blend of theory and applied practice prepares you for entry-level accounting roles and long-term professional growth.
Career Paths for Accounting Bachelor’s Graduates
A bachelor’s degree in accounting opens doors to roles that support financial operations across nearly every industry. Depending on the position, you may help with budgeting, financial reporting, compliance, or internal review processes.
These early roles help you build experience and develop a strong foundation for advancement. Common career paths include:
- staff accountant
- tax preparer or tax associate
- internal auditor
- financial analyst
- accounts manager
- budget or payroll analyst
Some graduates also pursue additional coursework or credit hours needed to become eligible for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, depending on state requirements.
Continuing Your Accounting Education
If you plan to move into senior or specialized financial roles, certifications or graduate study can strengthen your qualifications. Credentials such as CPA, Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) are widely recognized and may expand your career options. You might also consider a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an accounting concentration.
Short-term training in areas like forensic accounting, data analytics, or corporate taxation can help you build targeted expertise. These options give you flexibility to deepen your skills as you refine your long-term career goals.
Explore Resources on Online Accounting Bachelor’s Degrees
If you're exploring accounting pathways and want to compare programs, the articles below provide guidance on courses, careers, and long-term advancement options. These resources can help you choose the bachelor’s degree that best supports your professional goals.
Interested in becoming an accountant? Discover the top online accounting degree programs and learn more about earning an accounting degree and becoming an accountant.
Review the top available forensic accounting degree programs to launch your career in the field. Find your ideal program and start achieving your goals today.
CPAs and accountants are very similar in their abilities and work many of the same roles. The difference is that CPAs have the credentials and professional expertise to hold more responsibility, access different roles, and earn a higher salary than non-certified public accountants.
Accounting majors will be prepared to join an industry that is projected to see 4% job growth by 2032. Many accounting jobs have high earning potential and high demand.
An accounting degree typically takes four years to complete. With the flexibility of an online accounting degree program, students may have the ability to finish sooner.
An online accounting degree may cost between $20,000 and $70,000, depending on the college. However, you can make it more affordable by applying for financial aid, scholarships, and grants.