We list three online accounting degrees in Iowa that provide strong options for your college search. These bachelor's programs are designed to meet industry standards and Iowa's CPA certification requirements, equipping graduates for diverse careers in accounting. These programs cover topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation.
To be included in our list, schools must offer a fully online bachelor's program in accounting, have a primary campus in Iowa, and provide publicly available data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). All schools are accredited, and we also note whether a school holds accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). Learn more on our methodology page.
List Of Accredited Online Accounting Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition | Median Earnings | AACSB Accredited | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upper Iowa University | $15,150 | $52,881 | No | ||
| Grand View University | 113 | $14,850 | $59,575 | No | |
| Briar Cliff University | 83 | $11,250 | $53,469 | No |
2025 Best Online Accounting Degrees in Iowa
Upper Iowa University Upper Iowa University Upper Iowa University
- Online Enrollment: 1,555
- Salary Score: B-
- Annual Tuition: $15,150
- Median Earnings: $52,881
Online degree:
Why we like them: UIU is a popular choice with an undergraduate online enrollment of 1,555 students, placing it among the top quarter of institutions in terms of online participation. This program prepares you for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Designed with flexibility in mind, the program accommodates your schedule with an eight-week course format and an accelerated six-week summer session. For those balancing other commitments, the Two-at-a-Time course schedule is particularly advantageous, allowing you to focus intensively on fewer classes. You can also choose a minor in fields such as Economics, Financial Management, or Management to complement your accounting studies.
Grand View University Grand View University Grand View University
- Online Enrollment: 113
- Salary Score: B-
- Annual Tuition: $14,850
- Median Earnings: $59,575
Online degree:
Why we like them: Grand View offers a high average financial aid package, placing in the top 17% nationwide. With an average aid package of $22,893, GV supports nearly all of its students, promoting inclusivity and reducing financial barriers to education. With access to significant internship opportunities in Des Moines, this program emphasizes real-world experience, a key advantage for future accountants. The program is designed to meet the rigorous academic standards required to excel in the CPA Examination, evidenced by their graduates achieving a 75% pass rate, significantly above the national average.
Briar Cliff University Briar Cliff University Briar Cliff University
- Online Enrollment: 83
- Salary Score: N/A
- Annual Tuition: $11,250
- Median Earnings: $53,469
Online degree:
Why we like them: Briar Cliff has a low student-to-faculty ratio of 12:1, fostering personalized attention. This detailed focus in academic mentoring is paired with generous financial support, as the university offers an average aid package over $26,000 per student, according to NCES data. This program is designed to prepare you for the CPA examination while equipping you with comprehensive knowledge across accounting, microeconomics, and macroeconomics domains. The curriculum, which requires 35 credit hours for a major, integrates real-world experience through engagement in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program and internships.
Overview of Online Accounting Programs in Iowa
Iowa鈥檚 online accounting programs combine flexibility with a focus on the state's economic strengths, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and finance. These programs are designed to equip students with skills in financial analysis, auditing, and compliance, tailored to Iowa鈥檚 business environment. For example, students may explore cost accounting to address agricultural supply chain management or financial modeling for manufacturing efficiency.
Schools like Upper Iowa University (UIU) and Grand View University (GV) stand out for their unique program structures and strong student support systems. UIU鈥檚 flexible scheduling, including eight-week courses and a Two-at-a-Time model, caters to working professionals, while GV emphasizes real-world experience through internships in Des Moines, a major financial hub. We also think that UIU鈥檚 focus on CPA exam preparation demonstrates its commitment to meeting industry standards, offering students a solid foundation for licensure. Similarly, GV鈥檚 curriculum aligns with CPA requirements, and its graduates boast a 75% CPA exam pass rate, significantly exceeding the national average.
If budget is a main concern, consider exploring our list of the most affordable online accounting degrees.
Pursuing an Accounting Career in Iowa
In Iowa, accounting careers offer stability and opportunities across various sectors, such as finance, government, and corporate environments. Accountants and auditors are essential for businesses, ensuring compliance with financial regulations and providing crucial insights for decision-making. With a mean annual wage of approximately , accountants in Iowa enjoy competitive salaries, particularly in metropolitan areas. This is only slightly below the national median of $79,880 per year for accountants/auditors, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics ().
In general, accountants and auditors ensure financial accuracy and regulatory compliance. They prepare and review financial records, assess risks, and recommend strategies to enhance efficiency and profitability. There are also many specializations to choose from. For example, we have a whole page dedicated to online forensic accounting degrees, if interested. Importantly, accounting professionals often hold certifications like CPA, especially in roles requiring public regulatory oversight.
The regulates accounting professionals in the state. Its responsibilities include licensing, enforcing disciplinary actions, and ensuring compliance with education, examination, and experience requirements.
Bottom Line
Iowa offers some popular online accounting programs that combine flexibility, affordability, and a focus on preparing students for professional success. Schools like Upper Iowa University and Grand View University provide CPA exam preparation and practical experience through internships, making them excellent choices for aspiring accountants.
With competitive salaries, a growing demand for financial professionals, and support from the Iowa Accountancy Board, pursuing an online accounting degree in Iowa is a smart investment for career stability and advancement. Start your journey today by exploring the programs above that are tailored toward your goals.
If you want to finish your degree faster, check out our list of accelerated online accounting degrees.
Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs
I encourage anyone with even a passing curiosity to learn the history of this non-profit university founded by state governors. The WGU Business degrees are ACBSP accredited, the course of study is rigorous, and the core exams that comprise the degree can be more difficult than at a traditional college. The mentors are helpful, and most of the course instructors are quick to help and extremely knowledgeable. Of course there are a few who should not be there, but you can say that about any school.... Read More
Review Date: 12/11/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I did a lot of research prior to selecting Trident. Additionally, I talked with an individual who obtained his BS and MS from Trident. You need a lot of self-discipline to attend "ANY" online school. If you don't have that, then don't attend because you will fail. Two years and seven months later I graduated with my BS in Leadership. This accomplishment was the last item on my bucket list so I had a lot of determination. The school was great, the professors were great, I had no major issues. The... Read More
Review Date: 10/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
AIU is an excellent opportunity to further your education. I have had an excellent student advisor who has been great support for me. The financial aid department will go above and beyond the call of duty to see you have everything needed. The professors were caring about my education!
Review Date: 6/25/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great school - Challenging and insightful. The mentor program helps you stay on task. The instructors are knowledgeable and extremely helpful. You are able to work at your own pace -speed up and slow down wherever you feel the need to. I highly recommend this school!
Review Date: 6/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Brandman University helped me complete a life long goal of going to college and earning a degree. The faculty and counselors at the Travis AFB location were awesome and a joy to work with. They helped me every step of the way, enrolling for classes, applying for tuition assistance and federal pell grant, culminating with them congratulating me on stage at my graduation.
Review Date: 2/6/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
LeTourneau University is an excellent campus, especially for undergraduate studies. They have a large focus on student activities and growing faith. The School of Business is small, but the amount of knowledge among the professors is large! The professors take time to know you personally and want to see you succeed.
Review Date: 3/12/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Utah Valley University's accounting program is a very well thought out, and progressive program. It demands excellence from its prospective graduates. However, the faculty and staff of this program are wonderful and very helpful individuals. Most professors are willing/ require to meet one-on-one to ensure that students receive all the help and resources necessary to succeed.
Review Date: 11/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The University of North Carolina at Charlotte is an extraordinary campus with limitless potential for students. Located in the banking capital of the United States, UNC Charlotte goes above and beyond connecting their students with opportunities to succeed.
Review Date: 2/16/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
SUNY at Albany had provided me with an incredible experience. As a student of the business school, I have been challenged, rewarded, and presented with opportunitues that are hard to come by. The involvement and networking opportunites have been endless. I've not met a professor or career advisory who wouldn't help with whatever I've needed. Because of them I will be leaving the school with a bachelor's degree, a masters degree in 2017, as well as a full time job starting in fall of 2017. SUNY at... Read More
Review Date: 9/8/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes