2025 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees
An affordable online accounting degree is designed to teach skills in financial reporting, tax accounting, and auditing at a reasonable tuition price. These online bachelor's programs align with industry standards, offering interactive resources comparable to on-campus options. Graduates gain analytical expertise for careers in corporate finance, accounting firms, and related fields.
Key Takeaways:
- National University comes in first place for affordability, with a yearly tuition of $4,162.
- The University of Arkansas holds the #1 position for graduate earnings, with a median earning of $74,571 among accounting bachelor's graduates.
Our research highlights the most affordable online degrees, verified through a manual tuition review by our team. All listed schools are institutionally accredited and offer fully online programs with transparent costs. See our methodology for details.
2025 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees
Overview of Affordable Online Accounting Degrees
Students conducting a college search for affordable online bachelor's programs will find a number of degree options in accounting. Some colleges offer programs that lead to a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts specifically in accounting, while other schools offer degrees in business administration with a concentration in accounting. At some schools, enrollees can also choose specializations, such as taxation or forensic accounting. These programs are designed to be completed in four years of full-time study, but students may choose to enroll part-time instead. With convenient and affordable online options available, students can choose the program that best fits their interests, career goals, schedule, and budget.
Accounting degrees train students to help individuals and organizations meet their financial and bookkeeping needs. Students may graduate with a solid understanding of mathematical and business concepts, as well as how to apply these in a variety of settings. Prospective students can often specialize in areas such as taxation or managerial accounting, and those enrolled at the bachelor's level can choose between various degree options.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for accountants and auditors is constant, with 126,500 openings for the role each year. The BLS also shared that a bachelor's degree qualifies graduates for most entry-level positions in this field. Some degree programs are also explicitly designed to prepare students to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). This certification equips accountants to offer a range of tax return and financial services.
How Much Does an Online Accounting Degree Program Cost?
Annual tuition rates among the more affordable online accounting programs range from around $5,000 to $8,000.
Students may find that earning a degree online can lower the overall cost. Some schools charge in-state tuition rates for distance learners regardless of residency. There are also some campus-related fees that online students often do not have to pay, including housing and transportation.
Accounting students who plan to become CPAs should also consider the expense of taking additional courses, as well as the various fees associated with taking the CPA exam. These costs vary by state, but the total application, examination, and registration fees can range from $1,150-$1,350.
Funding an Online Bachelor's in Accounting
Online students are eligible for financial aid, just like students attending on-campus schools. There are federal, state, private, and school-sponsored scholarships and grants, which don't have to be paid back, as well as work-study programs. Some online accounting students may need to accept student loans, but they should consider all loan offers with care. Federal student loans are usually preferred because they offer more favorable repayment plans and usually have lower interest rates.
Certain students may also be eligible for other types of aid. For example, active duty military or veterans may be entitled to tuition assistance and GI Bill benefits, and members or employees of a school's partner organization may be awarded tuition discounts. Accounting majors can check with the financial aid office at their school to see if they qualify for any financial aid programs.
Most students begin the financial aid process by submitting a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. The personal financial information on this form is used to determine how much aid a student may be eligible for. When the applications have been evaluated, the schools will provide an offer to the students that details the type and amount of financial aid they can receive. In many cases, it will be a combination of the different types of funding available.
Scholarships
Accounting students interested in funding their higher education can apply for grants and scholarships that cover tuition or living costs, as well as work-study programs that help students pay for college expenses through part-time employment. While students may also apply for loans, they should first consider funding sources that don't need to be paid back.
The first step to applying for funding involves filling out the FAFSA, a form that many government organizations and schools use to determine how much financial assistance an individual qualifies for. While the FAFSA is the most direct way to apply for grants and scholarships, certain noncitizens and undocumented students are not eligible to fill out this form. In general, students should contact the financial aid departments of their prospective schools to learn about the funding opportunities they are eligible for.
They may also consider applying for the following grants and scholarships designed specifically for accounting students:
Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting Scholarships
Several of these scholarships ranging from $1,000-$16,000 are available for women majoring in accounting at all degree levels.
Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
Named for two members of ACFE killed in a terrorist attack in Pakistan while representing their Texas firm in Karachi, this fund offers scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $10,000.
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
Every year, the AICPA awards 25 scholarships, ranging from $3,000-$10,000, to students enrolled full-time in an undergraduate or graduate accounting degree program. These scholarships are open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate financial need, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and plan to become CPAs once they graduate.
Jane M. Klausman (JMK) Women in Business Scholarship
The JMK scholarship of $5,000 is open to female students who demonstrate leadership potential and are pursuing a degree in business. Applicants must be enrolled in at least the second year of undergraduate study and may apply all the way up to the final year of a master's program.
Want to learn more about financial aid? Explore our funding guide for online students.
Applying to an Online Program
The admissions criteria for online and in-person bachelor's programs are fairly consistent from one college to the next. Applicants must have a high school diploma or the equivalent. Other requirements often include a minimum 2.0 high school GPA and favorable scores on common college entrance exams, such as the ACT or SAT. For those enrolling in a degree-completion program, a cumulative 2.5 or higher GPA for completed college-level courses may be required.
When prospective students submit an application to enroll in an online accounting degree program, they may be asked for some of the following items:
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An application fee ranging from $30-$90
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Official transcripts from all previous schools attended
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Test scores from ACT, SAT, or other standardized tests
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Letters of recommendation from former teachers, coaches, supervisors, or clergy who know the applicant well
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A personal essay highlighting the applicant's experiences and goals
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A list of extracurricular activities, including team sports, clubs and organizations, jobs, and volunteer activities
Common Online Bachelor's in Accounting Courses
A bachelor's degree in accounting is designed to give students a strong foundation in financial accounting principles and prepare them for a wide range of careers in business. Students who earn a bachelor's in accounting often go on to become CPAs and pursue roles in public accounting as auditors, work for government or nonprofit organizations, maintain financial records for private companies, or take on individual clients. An accounting degree can also lead to roles in finance, including budget analysts, financial consultants, finance managers, or financial analysts.
Cost Accounting
Cost accounting involves understanding how much it costs to run a business, create a product, or provide a service, and using total costs to guide operations. Courses cover how to use accounting data to determine pricing, inform business decisions, make long-term plans, predict financial outcomes, and create data-driven company policies.
Government and Nonprofit Accounting
This class covers the basics of fund accounting for non-profit organizations and public agencies. Students learn how to manage donor and public funds, which typically have strict requirements for use. They also learn how to prepare financial statements, document funding use, analyze financial data, and adhere to reporting requirements for non-profit organizations.
Managerial Accounting
Managerial accounting refers to the process of gathering relevant financial data and using it to manage a business effectively. Students learn about the different reports and data points managers need to inform business decisions. Practical skills gained from this class include capital budgeting and preparing financial statements, cash budgets, and performance evaluations.
Microeconomics
In this course, students explore how individuals and organizations make decisions about using and distributing resources. Specifically, they learn how people within organizations share information, assign value to goods and services, and collectively work toward the efficient production and exchange of resources. Some common topics include supply and demand, market equilibrium, monopolies, and labor economics.
Tax Accounting
Sometimes called income tax or federal tax accounting, this course gives an overview of income tax laws. Students learn how to prepare taxes for individuals, including determining gross income and itemized deductions. They also learn how to research specific tax laws related to individual circumstances. Some courses may cover how tax laws can impact business decisions.
Accreditation
Accreditation is an important quality to look for when selecting a college. Accounting students must be enrolled in an accredited institution and/or program to qualify for federal financial aid, and in many states, it is a requirement to obtain licensure. Additionally, students who intend to transfer schools or apply to a master's program may only be accepted if their previous college credits were earned through accredited programs.
For accounting programs, the primary accrediting agency is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), although some business programs may be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Accreditation means that a school's academic programs, faculty, research programs, and student services meet educational standards for quality. Schools can also earn programmatic accreditation for individual degree programs. For accounting programs, the primary accrediting agency is the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), although some business programs may be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Students can access databases of recognized schools, programs, and accrediting agencies on the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation websites.
Is an Online Bachelor's in Accounting Worth It?
Whether an online bachelor's degree in accounting will be worth it is ultimately up to each individual, and depends in part on a student's personal circumstances, financial situation, and other responsibilities. There is a significant upfront investment in time and money that may or may not result in a satisfying and lucrative career. It's worth examining the pros and cons of this degree, along with the advantages of earning it online.
Potential Benefits
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Accountants are typically paid well, earning median yearly wages of $78,000 compared to the average of all U.S. jobs ($46,310).
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A bachelor's degree in accounting can qualify you for entry-level positions in a variety of areas, including auditing, bookkeeping, and financial investigation.
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Learning online affords you greater flexibility. Working independently around family or other commitments can be easier when you are in control of your schedule and course load.
Potential Drawbacks
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Day-to-day work as an accountant can be tedious with intervals that bring on high anxiety, such as tax season and end-of-year accounting. According to CareerExplorer, accountants have reported low job satisfaction.
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Competition for jobs may make finding an accounting role challenging because job growth is likely to remain at 4% through 2032, according to data from the BLS.
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Online learning may decrease opportunities for networking, which can be an essential part of the job search after graduation.
Next Steps for Accounting Graduates
After earning a bachelor's in accounting, graduates who would like to qualify for higher-paying positions or job opportunities that require licensure might consider becoming CPAs. To become a CPA, which indicates greater competency in the field, students must complete 150 college credits and pass the four-part Uniform CPA Examination. Although a master's degree is not required, many aspiring CPAs obtain an advanced degree in order to earn the additional credits needed. A few states will accept years of work experience in lieu of some college coursework. Students should check with their state's Board of Accountancy for a detailed list of licensure requirements.
In addition to preparing graduates to pass the CPA exam, a master's degree in accounting offers other benefits. Their advanced training may qualify them for more competitive, specialized roles in the field, such as in auditing or taxation. This expertise could mean higher salaries and greater job security.
Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs
I have enjoyed class I just started bit it's truly a good class good communication first impressions are lasting impressions is what I have always said. So given that I am excited to be apart of the eagle pride team and I hope they continue great work most people here u feel just had more than school work going on and couldn't get right. If you want better do better you get no pity from me I love post U
Review Date: 1/25/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
This school is a joke for distance learning students. I had an issue. I called in to speak with staff and was given different information five times with each staff member I spoke with. They are inconsistent and will lie. I am sure they can see that a student is enrolled in distance learning, and they will still tell you that you have to come to one of the campuses to bring information. Sadly, I live in Florida and will NEVER drive or take a flight to Texas to bring one document. The inconsistency... Read More
Review Date: 6/20/2024
Would Recommend: No
I'm extremely confused by these reviews, particularly the negative reviews associated with the accounting program. If you have never attempted to take an online degree program, please do not blame Rasmussen for your ignorance! This school is 20x easier than other online programs I have enrolled in. I initially questioned the quality of the education solely because of how easy it was until I came here and saw all these terrible reviews saying it was hard and realized the quality was exceptional. That... Read More
Review Date: 1/27/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
This school doesn't give you all the information you need the first time. In fact, after sending in notarized copies of the requested forms they rejected them because they didn't like the ID I used at the notary. Not only did I call to verify the information needed and that I would be providing before having the form filled out, but i specifically asked about my ID. Only after receiving my originals did they send me a special form with "additional" information and requirements that were not originally... Read More
Review Date: 9/4/2023
Would Recommend: No
The University of Phoenix, by all means, is a good school. When put into perspective why this school came to be what it is, it is for the working adult. We have to make the time that works best for us and use that as an opportunity to learn the material and pass our classes. I make this point because there are comments regarding the teaching style. Yet, many need to remember that as working individuals, we cannot attend classes at a specific time along with other students; this idea defeats the purpose... Read More
Review Date: 9/21/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
The experience provided by Purdue.Global allowed me to achieve my degree promptly with relevant materials and instruction. One possible area of improvement lies in the seminar approach which should provide more interactive or hands on opportunities.
Review Date: 3/17/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
I have loved my time here at Purdue Global. I am actually sad to see it come to a close. I have had wonderful professors. If anyone is getting ready to graduate take advantage of you graduation advisor. I love mine she is so helpful preparing me for a new career.
Review Date: 5/21/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
I am currently a student at SNHU. This is only my 2nd term with them and I have had the best support from both my advisor and my instructors. I feel bad for whoever has had a horrible experience here, but I receive call backs same day from my advisor and my instructors have even provided me with their cell phone numbers for quicker response times. Yes, there is alot of reading and assignments but what else would you expect from an online school? Again this is only my 2nd term but I love it.
Review Date: 7/18/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I had been out of the educational system for many years before deciding to complete my degree. My advisor at Purdue Global was fantastic - walked me through the entire process and prepared me for what to expect. All of my professors were available when needed and appeared to be truly interested in our success as students. The course load was not overwhelming and pertained directly to the course objectives. Overall, my experience at Purdue Global was a positive one and I have no regrets on my decision... Read More
Review Date: 2/9/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Felt good about the quality and level of difficulty that I experienced for each course. Yes, they have good instructors and a few bad instructors as well. However, the hood by far out weighs the bad. I am going back for my Masters degree in Accounting for this fall. This school is not a diploma mill. Online is tougher because you have to be willing to put in the work, but you still have to meet the deadlines just like you would if you were in a face to face course.
Review Date: 7/11/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
I started by bachelor's degree at Purdue University's main campus back in 1998. When I decided to finish my degree, Purdue University Global was the perfect fit for me. All of my previous credits, that I had accumulated over two years, transferred. Which left only two years to complete my degree. I enjoyed the virtual atmosphere. Since I work full time and have a family and house to take care of, flexibility was a necessity. I have been inducted into seven honor societies during my two years here.... Read More
Review Date: 8/8/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
I am gaining so much knowledge and the school has so many different help resources. My student advisors are very helpful along with the classroom support. i also can contact the academic team to help me keep up with how good I am doing academically also the instructors are there if you need them.
Review Date: 1/26/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I’m a full time working mom of 4! I graduate in 2 weeks! I did it!! Purdue University Global has created a seamless online learning experience. Each class is set up the same and that’s nice because there’s less confusion when moving from term to term, professor to professor. I highly recommend PUG!
Review Date: 1/12/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
DeVry University has challenged me to excel in the class. My success depends on how much effort I put into my studies; I am consistent with my study habit. Our professors are mostly experts in the field and very knowledgeable, but not only that, they are helpful. DeVry has given me the chance to enjoy learning and apply it in the real world. I will finally receive my diploma and am in the process of applying for their MSA. Thank you, DeVry University!
Review Date: 1/26/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Purdue Global provided an excellent learning environment. The professors provided excellent instruction and were all readily available to provide instructions and feedback. As a father that works full time, I have made multiple attempts to complete my degree. Purdue provided the resources and structure which finally allowed me to complete my goal.
Review Date: 2/8/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
My experience at Purdue was a wonderful. The courses were well guided and easy to follow. It was a great experience to interact with my classmates and Professors even via online. Professors were always available, the learning systems used were also helpful. Since many were in different timezones the assistance through the assignments were easy to follow.
Review Date: 9/25/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Absolutely fabulous experience!!! I not only learned about my program, but also gained the skills to head out into the workforce and secure my ideal job!! The student services do not end with graduation, i have had my resume reviewed and polished, and when i needed, employment opportunities were sent to me. So grateful i took this leap.
Review Date: 10/3/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
The Accounting program at Strayer University is absolutely amazing. The instructors are always there to help in any possible way. Strayer has many programs available to help with tutoring. They provide you with a Student Success Coach to help keep you on track and to help keep you motivated. I have never attended a school that has been so interested in the success of their students. I would recommend this school to anyone that is looking to further their education.
Review Date: 11/21/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
This was an excellent experience. The flexible class schedules worked very well with my full time work schedule. The professors were extremely helpful and the discussion boards were very interesting and a good way to get to know my classmates. I cannot say enough about how great Purdue University Global was.
Review Date: 6/1/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
I love my courses and time management is the key! Not yet finish, but I am staying on the right track. My C.P.A. program is perfect. You have to stay focus and complete all assignments and quizzes. If there's problems teachers and faculty is always there to help.
Review Date: 11/28/2017
Would Recommend: No