We've highlighted several online accounting degrees from accredited schools in Illinois you should consider. These programs are designed to meet the criteria set by the Illinois Board of Examiners, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the CPA exam and other professional certifications.
For inclusion on our list, a school must have a primary campus in Illinois, offer a fully online bachelor's degree in accounting, and publicly available data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). When applicable, we've also highlighted median earnings for graduates and if the school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
List Of Accredited Online Accounting Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | AACSB Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeVry University | $15,420 | $54,099 | No | ||
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | 1,262 | $9,645 | $57,569 | Yes | |
| Western Illinois University | 937 | $10,095 | $60,157 | Yes | |
| Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville | 777 | $16,502 | $65,654 | Yes | |
| McKendree University | 273 | $12,600 | $52,457 | No | |
| Dominican University | 3 | $14,700 | $76,672 | Yes |
2025 Most Popular Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois
DeVry University DeVry University DeVry University
- Online Enrollment: 24,940
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $15,420
- Median Earnings: $54,099
Online degree:
Why we like them: DeVry has one of the largest online enrollments with 24,940 students, which places it among the top 1% of institutions for the most distance learners. This extensive reach in the virtual space is further bolstered by a significant military enrollment of 6,695, situating it similarly in the top 1% for the most military students. This degree is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in accounting and business administration. The program, which can be completed in as few as 3 years or a more traditional 4-year schedule, includes coursework on financial accounting, auditing, and accounting information systems. The school is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Southern Illinois University - Carbondale Southern Illinois University - Carbondale Southern Illinois University - Carbondale
- Online Enrollment: 1,262
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $9,645
- Median Earnings: $57,569
- Accreditation: AACSB
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIU has an impressive online enrollment of 1,262 students, which positions it just below the top quartile, indicating robust participation in virtual courses. Complementing this is its commendable student-faculty ratio of 11:1, placing it in the top quarter, which suggests you could benefit from more personalized interactions. The program, which holds the prestigious AACSB accreditation, aligns with high academic standards, ensuring eligibility for the CPA exam upon graduation. Comprising approximately 64 credit hours, the curriculum is structured to be completed within 18 to 24 months. Courses are delivered in an 8-week modular format, emphasizing flexibility by allowing you to tackle coursework at your own pace.
Western Illinois University Western Illinois University Western Illinois University
- Online Enrollment: 937
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $10,095
- Median Earnings: $60,157
- Accreditation: AACSB
Online degree:
Why we like them: WIU boasts an online enrollment of over 900 students, showcasing its commitment to providing accessible learning in a virtual format. The Bachelor of Business in Accountancy offers specialization options in Management Accounting and Taxation, ensuring focused educational paths for specific career goals. With accreditation by AACSB International and CMA (Institute of Certified Management Accountants), the program will prepare you for the CPA exam. Additionally, the program fosters professional growth through the Beta Alpha Psi organization, which provides networking and outreach opportunities.
Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville
- Online Enrollment: 777
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $16,502
- Median Earnings: $65,654
- Accreditation: AACSB
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIUE's online enrollment, which accommodates almost 800 students at the undergraduate level, showcases its commitment to accessible online education. Additionally, the university attracts a high number of military enrollees. The business school is AACSB-accredited and allows transfer of up to 90 credits. Delivered fully online in 7-week sessions, the program focuses on developing comprehensive financial skills, preparing you for various finance roles such as an accountant or financial analyst. This learning model is designed to support working professionals with six annual start dates.
McKendree University McKendree University McKendree University
- Online Enrollment: 273
- Salary Score: B
- Annual Tuition: $12,600
- Median Earnings: $52,457
Online degree:
Why we like them: We recognize the average financial aid package that McKendree students receive from government grants, loans, or other scholarships; NCES data show students receive an average aid package of over $24,000. This accounting program is tailored for those aiming to meet the CPA exam's 150-hour requirement, accommodating both undergraduate and graduate courses to suit your educational progression. Delivered over eight-week terms, the curriculum leverages Brightspace as the virtual learning platform. Notably, it offers the chance to expand towards an MBA, subsequently enhancing career prospects in sectors such as corporate, not-for-profit, and government.
Overview of Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois
Accounting in Illinois is a vital and growing profession, contributing to the financial stability of businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations throughout the state. In bustling metro areas like Chicago, as well as smaller cities across the state, accountants can find opportunities in a range of industries, including banking, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Accountants are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing tax returns, conducting audits, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
How To Become an Accountant in Illinois
The first step toward an accounting career is typically earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree in accounting or a related business field with an accounting emphasis. When choosing a program in Illinois, it鈥檚 important to select one that is both accredited and within your budget. Most bachelor鈥檚 programs require around 120 credits and take about four years to complete, though some schools offer fully online accelerated tracks that allow students to graduate in two to three years. These programs combine general education with specialized courses in accounting, business, and finance, covering essential topics like auditing, corporate taxation, budgeting, and financial management.
Many Illinois colleges also offer specializations to align with your career goals. Forensic accounting, which focuses on investigating financial fraud, and management accounting, which emphasizes budgeting and strategic planning, are popular paths. Other sought-after specializations include tax accounting and auditing, providing opportunities to advance skills and enter niche areas within the field. With dynamic urban hubs like Chicago offering a variety of accounting roles, Illinois is an excellent place for accounting professionals to grow their careers.
We've found programs that won't break the bank. Review our selected programs from the most affordable online accounting degrees.
How To Become a CPA in Illinois
There are 55 jurisdictions, including Illinois, one can apply for a license and practice as a Certified Public Account (CPA). CPA's are in high demand but require more time and work than becoming an accountant. If you're interested in this career path, you'll need to do the following before earning a license:
- Complete 150 hours of university-level coursework from an accredited program. An online master's degree in accounting can help achieve this requirement.
- Work at least 2,000 hours - approximately one year - in the accounting field.
- Pass the Illinois CPA exam. You'll need to earn a score of 75 on a scale of 0-99 to pass this computer-based exam.
- Pass the ethics exam.
FAQs About Accounting in Illinois
How Much Do Accountants Make in Illinois?
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors residing in Illinois earn an annual median wage of . Salary options will likely vary if you are working in an urban hub like Chicago.
How Hard is the CPA Exam in Illinois?
CPA candidates in Illinois have reported the exam to be difficult, but this is a common report from all states. The test is 16 hours long and divided into four sections. You'll need to answer multiple choice questions and tasked-based assessments, which are questions based on real accounting scenarios you might encounter on the job.
Where can I find more information on the CPA exam in Illinois?
You should review the requirements for Illinois from the . If you're curious about the exam content, please review the .
Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs
The Bachelor's of Science in Accounting at WGU was absolutely outstanding. WGU, as whole, is a fantastic school for anyone, but especially if you are a non-traditional student with a busy work and life schedule. It deserves all the praise and more that it gets--much more. The accounting program at WGU is very thorough, and the bottom line people want to hear--I was able to get a job with my degree. I was actually hired as an accountant seven months before I finished the accounting program at WGU.... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Trinity University is a small institution but has a great network. Students enjoy a small class atmosphere and grow close with fellow students. There are many different organizations for which to get involved in with different objectives, from social to political. Not the best athletics atmosphere despite of awesome athletic team feats. Great campus and on campus resources. Slowly becoming more like high school with school rules and lack of diversity.
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am very satisfied with my educational experience at Florida Atlantic University. The administrative staff are very helpful and friendly, the professors are professional and knowledgeable, the facilities are quiet and clean and the cost of education is very reasonable. I would highly recommend Florida Atlantic University to any student.
Review Date: 12/21/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely love Friends University. It's a little in the expensive, but worth the extra money. The professors really care about you as an individual.
Review Date: 11/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The accounting program is small, which makes it difficult to get into and even more difficult to get the classes you need. But if you are serious about it you will receive some of the best, hands-on instruction from teachers who are truly passionate about your success. Because there are so few of them they really band together to bring their students the most current information, best community resources, and good career and networking opportunities from all over San Diego County.
Review Date: 2/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great small college. Lots of individual attention from teachers, if you want it. Teachers are very kind and know your name and take interest in your life and your future career. Excellent Career Center that really know what its like to get a job in today's market and make sure that you are prepared. Would highly recommend this university to anyone!
Review Date: 11/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The small community was and continues to be very meaningful to me. The school has been well recognized by my peers and employers as having a great reputation. I truly think it has helped propel my career.
Review Date: 11/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I think that WTAMU was a great experience for me. I moved to the Amarillo area to a relocation of my husband for work. It was also a less expensive way to obtain my degree and online classes were not available so i had limited choices. The professors were very helpful and knowledgeable and set me up for great success in my career. I am proud of my degree at WTAMU
Review Date: 7/12/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes