Accounting is one of the most evergreen professions you can choose, as most organizations employ accountants to manage their books. However, the rising cost of higher education in the US might make you think twice about getting an accounting degree. The good news is that there are many options you can explore to get the cheapest online accounting degree.
This article is your complete guide to the best and most affordable online accounting degrees. It contains a list of accredited online schools that offer flexible accounting degree programs. Beyond a list of the cheapest online schools for accounting, you will learn about the benefits of an online degree and possible career options for people with these degrees.
Can I Get an Accounting Degree Online?
Yes, you can get an accounting degree online because many accredited institutions offer flexible options for students pursuing accounting degrees. All you have to do is see if you meet the admissions criteria for the school and apply. Online programs are available at different levels, including undergraduate programs and master’s programs.
Why Should I Get an Accounting Degree Online?
You should get an accounting degree online because online education is more flexible, affordable, and versatile than traditional, on-campus education. Whether you are a working professional, busy with family life, or simply enjoy the comfort that comes with remote classes, an online accounting degree will do the trick.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Accounting Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online accounting degree programs in the US are the Associate of Arts in Accounting at West Los Angeles College, the Bachelor of Arts in Accounting at Clayton State University, the Bachelor of Science in Accounting at Franklin University, the Associate of Science in Accounting at Southern New Hampshire University, and the Master of Accountancy at Emporia University.
Cheapest Accounting Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Associate of Arts in Accounting – West Los Angeles College
- Bachelor of Arts in Accounting – Clayton State University
- Bachelor of Science in Accounting – Franklin University
- Associate of Science in Accounting – Southern New Hampshire University
- Master of Accountancy – Emporia University
How Much Does an Online Accounting Degree Cost?
An online accounting degree costs between $84 and $565 per credit, depending on the school, region, and a range of other variables. In-state students at public schools tend to pay less for online accounting degrees compared to on-campus degree programs, thanks to discounted online tuition rates offered by some schools.
Will Getting an Accounting Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, you will save money by getting an online degree in accounting instead of an in-person degree. The tuition rates for online degrees are usually lower than those for on-campus accounting degrees. Beyond tuition, the cost of attendance is also lower with online degrees compared to traditional on-site options.
Online Accounting Programs vs In-Person Accounting Programs
Online accounting programs offer the same quality of education as in-person degrees but there are a few key differences between both options. Understanding the unique benefits of each option will help you decide which one is most ideal for you.
Benefits of an Online Accounting Degree
- Lower cost of attendance. Online degrees in accounting cost less than traditional degrees because you only have to pay for tuition and fees. Other costs attached to attending a university, like transportation, housing, and meal plans don’t apply to online programs.
- Increased flexibility. This is one of the most obvious benefits of an online accounting degree. Since classes are held online, you can access your university’s digital resources and classes from anywhere in the world with a reliable internet connection.
- Improved Internet communication skills. During your online accounting degree, you will become more acquainted with modern technologies for communication, new software, and innovative online formats. In this digital era where remote work is all the rage, sharpening your Internet communication skills is a great idea.
- Reduced feelings of competition. Healthy competition in a learning environment is great for boosting performance. However, some students can take their competition with other students too far. With online learning, there is less pressure on students to fight for the top positions in their classes.
- Less social anxiety. If you struggle to fit in socially or participate verbally during in-person classes, an online degree in accounting will help you reach your full potential. Since you’re studying alone, you can make yourself comfortable by turning off your camera and interacting, or not interacting, as much as you’d like with your classmates.
Benefits of In-Person Accounting Degree Programs
- Sense of community. Most people thrive within a community. When you attend a traditional college you can become part of a school community. Beyond the educational setting, there are clubs, societies, and other on-campus extracurricular activities you can participate in.
- Structured learning environment. Traditional education within the four walls of a classroom provides a type of structure that online learning lacks. The idea of waking up in the morning, following a fixed schedule, and faithfully attending classes might make it easier for you to see school through to completion.
- Diverse networking opportunities. It is possible to network with people you meet over the Internet but it is not as easy as in-person networking. For many people, it is easier to build professional relationships, lifelong friendships, and networking skills when they can see others in person.
- Face-to-face interaction. Sometimes it feels like digitization has removed something human from interaction. While online schools have live video and audio chat options, they still lack the degree of familiarity that comes with face-to-face interactions.
- Healthy competition. Traditional schools provide a setting for healthy competition with your peers. If you are the kind of person who prefers a competitive environment, in-person degree programs will motivate you to stay on top of your studies.
Online Accounting Degree Career Options
With an online accounting degree, you can become an accountant, financial analyst, forensic accountant, management accountant, budget analyst, or certified public accountant. You may also work as a bookkeeper, cost accountant, financial officer, and clerk. Those who earned their degrees in online programs qualify for the same job opportunities as on-campus graduates.
Accounting Job Outlook
The job outlook for accounting positions is fair, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). There is a projected seven percent rise in accounting jobs between 2020 to 2030, with about 96,000 new jobs for accountants and auditors. BLS projects an eight percent rise in all other occupations, so the accounting outlook is comparable to most industries.
Accounting Salary
The average salary for people with accounting jobs is $77,250, according to BLS. The salary varies significantly based on the type of accounting job, years of experience, job description, location, and other factors. Even your salary negotiation skills can affect how much you earn with an accounting degree.
Can I Enroll in an Online Accounting Program for Free?
No, you cannot enroll in an accounting degree online for free. The best thing you can do is apply to one of the cheapest online accounting degree programs and choose the most affordable one. These schools make the cost per credit as low as possible and provide payment plans so you won’t have to pay for everything all at once.
You can also decrease your tuition bill by seeking out financial aid opportunities like grants and scholarships. Another option would be to look for free online accounting courses that teach the fundamentals of the subject, which can often provide enough knowledge for you to get entry-level jobs like bookkeeping.
Cheapest Online Accounting Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| West Los Angeles College | Associate of Arts in Accounting | $84/credit (in state); $299/credit (out of state) |
| Clayton State University | Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting | $165.20/credit |
| Southern New Hampshire University | AS in Accounting | $320/credit |
| Eastern Washington University | MA in Professional Accounting | $350/credit |
| Emporia State University | Master of Accountancy | $363/credit |
| Franklin University | BS in Accounting | $398/credit |
| Bellevue University | BS in Accounting | $440/credit |
| Liberty University | MS in Accounting | $565/credit |
| Western Governors University | BS in Business Administration-Accounting | $3,575/semester |
| Marshall University | MS in Accountancy | $4,467/semester (in state); $10,743/semester (out of state) |
Accounting Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Accounting Programs
We chose the most affordable online accounting degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Accounting Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Common Online Degree Courses
Prospective students should check the curriculum for each online accounting degree program to ensure all of the relevant topics are covered. We’ve outlined some of the online courses you should expect to see, including intermediate accounting, auditing, information systems in accounting, ethics, and business law accounting.
Intermediate Accounting
Undergraduate accounting programs typically teach this course during junior year. This course goes beyond the basics of financial accounting and covers key topics like reporting and revenue recognition. The scope of intermediate accounting is broad, so it is usually taught over two semesters.
Auditing
Auditing is the official name for the financial inspection of an organization’s books to ensure that the numbers are balanced and there are no red flags. Major firms typically employ third-party accounting professionals or firms to audit their books. Students will get an introduction to auditing in the first few years of their undergraduate accounting programs.
Accounting Information Systems
The evolution of information systems is influencing every field, including accounting. Universities often dedicate a few courses to addressing the application of technology to accounting practices. Students learn how technology can be used to collect, analyze, store, and process financial data.
Ethics
Ethics in accounting teaches the rules and regulations that accounting professionals are expected to follow to keep their professional licenses. Ethical codes are usually determined by specific locations or jurisdictions, but there are some universally accepted ethics in accounting to prevent fraud and corruption.
Business Law in Accounting
Business Law in Accounting is a vital subject that makes it easier for graduates to work in the business world as accountants. The course teaches students the legal obligations and responsibilities of business financial advisors, including writing/reading contracts, how to help clients with taxes, and how to help clients in bankruptcy.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Accounting Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal financial aid as an undergraduate or graduate student who cannot afford to pay for tuition out of pocket. All you have to do is fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to qualify for federal grants. You will need your social security number or tax identification number and your salary information to apply.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Accounting Degree
Grants, loans, and work-study programs are some of the most popular ways to pay for your online accounting degree if you do not currently have the funds to pay for tuition directly. Some universities also provide scholarship opportunities for specific degree programs, such as MBA scholarships, so be sure to explore all of your chosen program’s options.
Federal and State Grants
Grants are funds awarded to students and academic professionals who want to pursue research to advance the body of knowledge in a given field. The goal of the organization awarding the grant is to support your ideas for the greater good. While most grants are given for research purposes, some are also offered for general needs.
As an accounting student, you may be able to apply for a federal or state grant if you can demonstrate financial need. The most popular federal grants are the Federal Pell Grant and the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant. State grants vary across states, so you will need to find out what is available in your state.
Federal and Private Loans
Student loans are the most accessible option for funding your undergraduate and graduate education. You can get loans that cover your entire cost of attendance, not just tuition costs. Almost anyone can qualify for a loan because you are required to repay the loan provider after graduating.
Both federal and private student loans accrue interest, but the interest rate for federal loans is usually fixed and lower than the interest rates on private loans. The terms of repayment also vary across lenders, so you should be sure to do your research and choose a loan with lower interest rates and income-pegged repayment plans, if possible.
Work Study
Work-study programs are hosted by universities to allow students to earn a salary and study at the same time. The money you earn can be used to support your education. However, you are more likely to get a work-study position when you are studying on campus compared to studying in an online accounting program.
Cheapest Accounting Degree Programs Online
The most affordable online accounting degree programs for associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs also happen to be some of the most flexible options available. It doesn’t matter if you’re fresh out of high school or a working professional because there are degree programs tailored to every skill level.
Most Affordable Online Accounting Associate Degrees
- West Los Angeles College | Associate of Arts in Accounting. In-state students can earn an associate degree for as little as $84 per credit at West Los Angeles College. Out-of-state students pay a higher rate of $299 per credit, but this is still an affordable tuition rate compared to other programs.
- Southern New Hampshire University | Associate of Science in Accounting. SNHU is known for both its affordability and its flexibility. Students can complete the 60 credits required for graduation at their own pace. The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and costs $320 per credit.
- Florida State College at Jacksonville | Associate of Science in Accounting Technology. This fully-online accounting degree is designed for high school graduates who want to learn the foundations of modern-day accounting. In-state residents pay $104.88 per credit, while the cost for out-of-state students is $401.27 per credit.
- Southeast Community College | Associate of Arts in Accounting. Southeast Community College offers a four-semester Associate Degree in Accounting. The two-year program costs about $9,568 in total. Students learn about bookkeeping, office management, and billing. Students can apply for scholarships if they cannot afford the tuition.
- Northeast Community College | Associate of Arts in Accounting. This school offers a 60-credit associate degree that prepares students for entry-level jobs in accounting. Students learn the principles of accounting, business law, and the principles of macroeconomics. Residents pay about $108.00 per credit, while non-residents pay $151.00 per credit.
Most Affordable Online Accounting Bachelor’s Degrees
- Clayton State University | Bachelor of Arts in Accounting. You can pay for your online accounting bachelor’s degree at Clayton State University with just $165.20 per credit. Students from out of state pay the same amount as in-state residents. Both the school and the specific program are accredited.
- Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Bellevue University is known for providing high-quality online education at affordable rates. The accounting program costs about $430 per credit hour for both in-state and out-of-state students.
- Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – Accounting. The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at WGU costs $3,575 per semester for both in-state and out-of-state students. WGU has an open admissions policy, so you will get accepted if you meet a few basic requirements.
- Franklin University | Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Franklin University allows students to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting for just $398 per credit, whether they are in-state or out-of-state students. The Ohio-based university is known for its solid online platform that offers a wide variety of degrees.
- University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Science in Accounting. UMGC offers a flexible accounting program that costs about $312 per credit for in-state students and $499 per credit for out-of-state students. You will need to take 120 credits across general education, core accounting courses, and elective courses to graduate from the program.
Most Affordable Online Accounting Master’s Degrees
- Liberty University | Master of Science in Accounting. This 100-percent online accounting degree costs $565 per credit for all students. Unlike many online programs, Liberty offers the option to choose a concentration in business, financial services, audit and financial reporting, forensic accounting, leadership, or taxation.
- Emporia University | Master of Accountancy. The cost for the Master of Accountancy at Emporia University is $363 per credit for all online students. The accounting degree covers topics like activity-based testing, inventory management, and information systems in accounting.
- Eastern Washington University | Master of Arts in Professional Accounting. Any working professional who wants to advance their career without quitting their existing job can enroll in this flexible online program. EWU is one of the oldest schools in the region and is known for its early adoption of online education.
- Marshall University | Master of Science in Accountancy. Marshall University is a great option for accountants and those in related fields who want to advance their careers. The school offers affordable tuition, with in-state students paying $4,467 per semester and out-of-state students paying $10,743 per semester.
- The University of Texas-Permian Basin | Master of Professional Accountancy. This 36-credit program is a flexible master’s degree that can be completed in as little as one year. The tuition for the entire program is $12,815.64, but students may be required to pay some additional fees during enrollment.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Accounting Jobs With an Online Accounting Degree
| Accounting Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Actuary | Bachelor’s degree | 24% |
| Financial Manager | Bachelor’s degree | 17% |
| Accountant | Bachelor’s degree | 7% |
| Financial Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | 6% |
| Budget Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | 5% |
Best Jobs With an Online Accounting Degree Explained
Some of the best job titles you can get with an online accounting degree are financial manager, accountant, financial analyst, actuary, or budget analyst. There are plenty of opportunities available for accounting experts. While most of them are in the financial sector, a person with an accounting degree can work in any industry.
Is an Online Accounting Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online accounting degree is worth it for anybody who wants to learn basic or advanced accounting. Online degrees are just as good as degrees that are obtained on-campus, but they offer more flexibility with a lower cost of attendance than traditional degrees.
Working professionals benefit from online degrees the most because they can attend classes and boost their professional reputations without sacrificing their current jobs. Whether you are opting for online colleges or on-campus, make sure that you choose an accredited institution if you want to get a quick return on your investment.
Additional Reading About Accounting
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Cheapest Online Accounting Degrees FAQ
The easiest accounting degree is an Associate Degree in Accounting because it covers introductory aspects of the subject. While most of the courses are designed to prepare prospective students for entry-level jobs in the field of accounting, the highly-complex parts of accounting are covered during bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.
The easiest and quickest degree to get online is a certificate. Certificate programs for online students may take a few weeks to complete and typically cover hands-on technical skills. There are undergraduate and graduate certificates depending on your field and existing skill level.
You can finish an accounting degree in two to four years depending on the degree in question. associate degrees and master’s degrees are usually completed more quickly than bachelor’s degrees in the field of accounting. There are also accelerated degrees that can be completed in 12 to 18 months, online or in person.
No, accounting is not hard because it is about the same difficulty level as other traditional professions. While there are some complex concepts in intermediate and advanced accounting, anyone who is good with numbers should be able to thrive in different public accounting fields.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
