Best Online Accounting Degree Programs 2024

Looking for an accounting degree from a reputable online program? Here are the 10 best online accounting programs of 2024 — with University of Massachusetts Amherst topping the list.

We assessed schools based on their affordability, student outcomes, reputation, diversity, and social mobility. UMass Amherst ranked the highest on our list for its track record of helping students complete their degrees while offering greater affordability than most programs:

Students of all backgrounds tend to do well at UMass Amherst. In fact, Pell Grant recipients have an 80% graduation rate at this school.

Want to become one of the 1.4 million people gainfully employed as number crunchers? Keep reading to find the best online accounting degree programs of 2024.

Accounting is a dynamic field suitable for anyone with a knack for numbers. Graduates can pursue many career paths, most of which are quite lucrative. The median pay for accountants in 2023 was $79,880, according to the BLS.

In certain industries, accounting majors have particularly high earning potential. For example, the top-paying industry for accountants in 2023 was media streaming distribution services, social networks, and other media networks and content providers, with workers earning an average salary of $133,140. Other top industries include computer and peripheral manufacturing and software publishers.

Accounting is a stable career that is relatively recession-proof. The BLS projects 6% job growth for accountants from 2023-2033, which is two percentage points above the average across all occupations. The organization projects roles for financial managers to grow by 17% during the same period. These workers earned a median annual wage of $156,100 in 2023.

Online bachelor’s in accounting programs often appeal to students with strong math and analytical skills. However, the field requires communication and organizational skills as well. An online bachelor’s degree typically requires learners to complete 120 credits over four years.

Some online accounting programs deliver coursework asynchronously, which allows learners to study during the hours that suit them best. Online students may still need to complete practical components, such as practica or internships. Distance learners can often meet these requirements at approved sites in their communities.

Undergraduate accounting programs usually award bachelor of arts or bachelor of science degrees. Humanities-focused BA degrees may lead to more interdisciplinary careers, whereas BS degrees focus more on business and accounting management. Some BS programs offer additional credits that can contribute to the requirements needed to become a certified public accountant (CPA).

While degree type may influence their eventual career paths, students can often choose concentrations in areas like management and financial, forensic, and tax accounting. Concentrations can lead to specific employment opportunities and certifications after graduation.

Admission requirements vary by school and program, but prospective students can still get a general idea of what to expect. For example, many schools require students to possess a high school diploma or its equivalent and a strong GPA. The following section details some other common requirements.

The typical undergraduate application requires prospective students to include their personal information and pay a processing fee. Applicants can submit their applications individually through a school website or apply to multiple schools through The Common Application, typically known as the Common App.

Students’ college entrance exam scores can indicate their preparedness for higher education. Many schools that suspended test score requirements during the COVID-19 pandemic will continue to waive entrance exam requirements in 2024. When ACT or SAT scores are required, strong scores usually lead to higher acceptance rates.

Most colleges require up to three letters of recommendation from former teachers or employers who can speak to the applicant’s readiness for higher education. These letters allow schools to gain insight into the student’s past experiences and qualifications.

College application essays give prospective students room to discuss their personal journeys and reasons for applying to a program. Most applications request personal essays, which give the applicant freedom to write on any topic. However, some accounting programs may ask specific questions about the field.

Official transcripts highlight the applicant’s prior studies. Transcripts may help schools identify a student’s readiness, prerequisites, and outstanding courses. Transcripts can also lead to transfer credit.

Graduates with bachelor’s degrees in accounting can expect a decent job outlook. The BLS projects 6% growth for accountants and auditors between 2023 and 2033, slightly above the rate for all occupations.

Like many of the most popular college majors, accounting offers great career flexibility. In addition to accounting positions, graduates can pursue various business and finance careers. Possible industries include business management and government.

Financially, accounting graduates often perform well. According to the BLS, the median annual salary for accountants and auditors was $79,880 in May 2023. The highest 10% of earners in the field made more than $137,280.