Best Online Certificate in Accounting Programs of 2024

Discover the best online certificate in accounting programs of 2024. Launch your career in accounting with fast, specialized training.
Danika Miller
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Updated December 18, 2024
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At BestColleges.com, we believe in providing accurate and actionable information for students. Our writers, editors, and reporters are constantly asking themselves the question, ”What information is vital to students right now?” Answering this question is what drives us. Our mission is to inform students through straightforward, factual content informed by the latest data and trends.

The freelance Integrity Network at BestColleges is comprised of seasoned professionals who bring their expertise to almost every subject relevant to college students, including admissions, college majors, financial aid, and student mental health. Network members review and author content, pulling from their first-hand industry experience and ensuring content is as accurate and up-to-date as possible.

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Portions of the following article were drafted using an in-house natural language generation platform. The article was then reviewed, fact-checked, and edited by multiple members of our editorial team prior to publishing.


Certificate 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.

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Best Accredited Online Certificate in Accounting Programs

#1

Delgado Community College

New Orleans, LA2 yearCampus + Online

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

76%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

57%

Students Enrolled

12,139

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$3,335

Delgado Community College

New Orleans, LA2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$3,335

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

76%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

57%

Students Enrolled

12,139

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#2

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

Salisbury, NC2 yearCampus + Online

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$8,576

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

82%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

6,716

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,576

Rowan-Cabarrus Community College

Salisbury, NC2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,576

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

82%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

6,716

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#3

Campbellsville University

Campbellsville, KY4 yearCampus + Online

$24,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$24,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

78%

Acceptance Rate

70%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,473

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,473

Retention Rate

61%

Students Enrolled

10,238

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$24,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$24,900

Campbellsville, KY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$24,900

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$24,900

Acceptance Rate

78%

Online Enrollment

70%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$8,473

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,473

Retention Rate

61%

Students Enrolled

10,238

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

#4

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

Paducah, KY2 yearCampus + Online

$4,368

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$15,288

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

49%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

4,869

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,368

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,288

West Kentucky Community and Technical College

Paducah, KY2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,368

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,288

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

49%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

4,869

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#5

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC2 yearCampus + Online

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$8,576

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

77%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

21,299

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,576

Wake Technical Community College

Raleigh, NC2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$2,432

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$8,576

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

77%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

67%

Students Enrolled

21,299

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#6

Fletcher Technical Community College

Schriever, LA2 yearCampus + Online

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

78%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

1,762

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$3,335

Fletcher Technical Community College

Schriever, LA2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,335

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$3,335

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

78%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

58%

Students Enrolled

1,762

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#7

Washtenaw Community College

Ann Arbor, MI2 yearCampus + Online

$4,056

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$5,736

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

86%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

10,884

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,056

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$5,736

Washtenaw Community College

Ann Arbor, MI2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,056

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$5,736

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

86%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

68%

Students Enrolled

10,884

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#8

University of Alaska Southeast

Juneau, AK2 yearCampus + Online

$8,460

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$25,440

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

63%

Acceptance Rate

70%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,183

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$23,522

Retention Rate

65%

Students Enrolled

1,923

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$8,460

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,440

Juneau, AK2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$8,460

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$25,440

Acceptance Rate

63%

Online Enrollment

70%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$11,183

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$23,522

Retention Rate

65%

Students Enrolled

1,923

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#9

Butler County Community College

Butler, PA2 yearCampus + Online

$6,840

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$9,840

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

33%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

61%

Students Enrolled

2,529

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,840

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,840

Butler County Community College

Butler, PA2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$6,840

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,840

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

33%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

61%

Students Enrolled

2,529

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#10

Rowan College at Burlington County

Mount Laurel, NJ2 yearCampus + Online

$3,608

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$4,583

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

65%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

70%

Students Enrolled

6,273

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,608

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$4,583

Rowan College at Burlington County

Mount Laurel, NJ2 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$3,608

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$4,583

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

65%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

70%

Students Enrolled

6,273

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

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:

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    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.

  • minus

    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.

  • minus

    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.

  • minus

    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.

  • minus

    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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    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.

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    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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