Best Online Certificate in Accounting Programs of 2024
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2024Certificate programs offer fast, specialized training for learners. An online accounting certificate can launch your career as a bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or financial clerk.
Many top-ranked schools offer online accounting programs. An undergraduate certificate program introduces learners to the accounting field and key accounting principles. Certificate programs provide focused accounting training for entry-level roles. After completing a certificate, distance learners can easily transfer into an online accounting degree program.
Earning an accounting certificate at the undergraduate level typically takes one year or less. Most certificate programs range from $1,000-$5,000 for in-state students. In comparison, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that the average cost of tuition and fees at an in-state public institution was $9,750 in 2022-2023. Our ranking introduces the best online certificate in accounting programs to help prospective students find the right fit for their budget, schedule, and career goals.
Featured Online Accounting Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best Accredited Online Certificate in Accounting Programs
Delgado Community College
New Orleans, LA- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,335
- Out-of-state$3,335
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate57%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled12,139
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment76%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan-Cabarrus Community College
- Salisbury, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,432
- Out-of-state$8,576
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,716
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment82%
- AccreditationYes
Campbellsville University
- Campbellsville, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$24,900
- Out-of-state$24,900
- In-State$8,473
- Out-of-state$8,473
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled10,238
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
- Paducah, KY
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,368
- Out-of-state$15,288
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled4,869
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Wake Technical Community College
- Raleigh, NC
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,432
- Out-of-state$8,576
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate67%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled21,299
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment77%
- AccreditationYes
Fletcher Technical Community College
- Schriever, LA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,335
- Out-of-state$3,335
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate58%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,762
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment78%
- AccreditationYes
Washtenaw Community College
- Ann Arbor, MI
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,056
- Out-of-state$5,736
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled10,884
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment86%
- AccreditationYes
University of Alaska Southeast
- Juneau, AK
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$8,460
- Out-of-state$25,440
- In-State$11,183
- Out-of-state$23,522
- Retention Rate65%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled1,923
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
Butler County Community College
- Butler, PA
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,840
- Out-of-state$9,840
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate61%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled2,529
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
Rowan College at Burlington County
- Mount Laurel, NJ
- 2 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,608
- Out-of-state$4,583
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate70%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled6,273
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment65%
- AccreditationYes
What Is an Online Certificate in Accounting Program?
An online certificate in accounting program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices. Its curriculum covers key areas, such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, tax accounting, and audit procedures. Certificate programs take less time to complete than degree programs, making them a good option for students curious about accounting or seeking the fastest route to accounting careers.
The biggest advantage of such programs is their flexibility. Being web-based, they eliminate the need for physical attendance, making it easier for students to balance their education with other commitments.
Certificate programs also arm students with practical skills in the latest accounting software and online research techniques, which are essential for today’s tech-forward accounting professions. However, these programs do require a high level of self-motivation and good time management skills. While they offer more convenience and often cost less compared to traditional in-person programs, they may not provide the immediate personal support and networking opportunities available in a campus setting.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Certificate in Accounting Program?
An online certificate in accounting program immerses students in a variety of courses, introducing them to the major areas of the accounting field. Here are some of the most common courses you can expect to take during such a program:
Accounting Principles
This course provides a fundamental understanding of the basic accounting principles. These principles form the backbone of all accounting operations and include concepts like the matching principle, which stipulates that expenses should be recognized in the same period as the revenues they help to generate, and the consistency principle, which requires businesses to consistently apply the same accounting methods. This foundational knowledge is essential for creating, interpreting, and presenting financial statements, as well as analyzing and understanding data.
Tax Accounting
In a tax accounting course, students explore various topics, including U.S. federal taxes, the basics of payroll and tax, financial markets, and international business taxes. The course equips students with practical skills in tax compliance and planning, financial accounting, and economic and financial analysis. Learners also study generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP). These skills are critical for the accurate preparation of tax documents, payroll management, and making informed business decisions in line with tax laws and guidelines.
Payroll Accounting
A payroll accounting course covers crucial subjects such as business arithmetic, core accounting principles, payroll preparation basics, QuickBooks, and Excel. These topics equip students with the necessary skills to effectively manage payroll processes, ensuring the accuracy of financial records and compliance with payroll regulations. It also familiarizes students with key mathematical applications used in the workplace, standard record-keeping methods, and efficient worksheet crafting and data analysis techniques.
Managerial Accounting
Managerial accounting courses introduce students to key business decision-making concepts. These include presenting, modifying, and analyzing data, collecting qualitative data, forecasting, assisting with organization, planning, coordinating budgets, controlling budgets, aiding in decision-making, and conducting additional studies. The course equips managers with accurate, up-to-date financial knowledge, enabling them to make well-informed decisions regarding pricing, resource allocation, strategic planning, and performance evaluation.
Computerized Accounting
Computerized accounting courses provide students with practical knowledge of a variety of software and tools designed to enhance the efficiency of accounting tasks. These include cloud-based software like QuickBooks, FreshBooks, and NetSuite ERP. Students may also study robotic process automation (RPA) tools for automating routine tasks, machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for automating data entry and detecting anomalies, and data analytics and visualization tools like Tableau and Excel. These technologies can help accountants ensure accuracy, efficiency, and data-informed decision-making.
What Can I Do With an Online Certificate in Accounting Degree?
College-level training in accounting can lead to many career opportunities. With a certificate in accounting, professionals may work as bookkeepers, accounting clerks, bank tellers, or financial clerks.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks was $47,440 in 2023. The BLS projects 174,900 openings for these positions every year from 2022-2032.
After completing an accounting certificate, professionals can also increase their earning potential by pursuing a college degree. A bachelor’s degree meets the educational requirements for accountant and auditor jobs. Per the BLS, these roles earned a median annual salary of $79,880 in 2023.
An accounting certificate can be the first step into a high-paying career.
Bookkeeper
Bookkeepers maintain the general ledger for an organization’s financial accounts, which lists financial transactions, debits, and credits. They use financial data to create statements and reports. They may also handle payroll processing, create invoices, and prepare bank deposits. Bookkeepers need to pay close attention to detail.
Accounting Clerk
Accounting clerks process financial transactions, calculate interest charges, and monitor accounts. They specialize in areas like accounts payable or accounts receivable. With experience, accounting clerks review financial documents for completeness, code financial documents, and balance billing vouchers.
Bank Teller
Bank tellers process transactions at banks. They deposit cash and checks into accounts, process money orders, and exchange currencies. They also help customers by answering questions, ordering bank cards, or preparing savings bonds. A background in accounting and customer service skills can benefit bank tellers.
Financial Clerk
Financial clerks perform administrative tasks that involve financial transactions and records. They assist customers by carrying out financial transactions, calculating charges, and maintaining financial records. A background in accounting can help financial clerks in billing, payroll, insurance, and loan processing.
Administrative Assistant
Administrative assistants perform clerical tasks in office settings. They schedule meetings, file documents, and provide support services. An administrative assistant with a background in accounting might file financial documents, prepare accounting reports, or perform bookkeeping services.
Frequently Asked Questions About Certificate in Accounting Programs
Yes, a certificate in accounting can be a worthwhile investment. This program equips you with foundational accounting skills, such as proficiency in accounting software, auditing, and financial management, which are highly valued across various industries.
An accounting certificate can serve as a stepping stone to further education, leading to an associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting. This can enhance your career trajectory and earning potential.
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