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 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 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 .
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs
Every year, the AICPA awards 25 scholarships, ranging from , 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 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 (), although some business programs may be accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (). Students can access databases of recognized schools, programs, and accrediting agencies on the and the 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 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 , accountants have reported low job satisfaction.
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Competition for jobs may make finding an accounting role challenging because 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 . 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 had a very positive experience pursuing my Bachelor's degree in Accounting through the University of Phoenix's online program. From the outset, the enrollment process was smooth, and the advisors were incredibly helpful in guiding me through every step, from credit transfers to financial aid options.
One of the standout features of this program is its flexibility. As someone balancing work and personal responsibilities, I genuinely appreciate the flexibility to study on my schedule without... Read More
Overall, the University of Phoenix has exceeded my expectations.
Review Date: 6/11/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
At 54 years old, I never imagined I’d be going back to school to earn my degree, but here I am! After exploring different options, I found that the University of Phoenix's structure isn’t just genius, but is exactly what I needed. The structure is designed to support your success every step of the way. The five week, one class at a time approach has truly made it easier for me to focus and stay on track. Every instructor I’ve had has been helpful, knowledgeable, and engaging, making my experience... Read More
I’m excited to continue my journey toward earning my degree at the University of Phoenix, and I look forward to being one of the many proud graduates to walk across that stage. Class of 2028!
Review Date: 5/28/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Earning a GPA of 4 out of 4 this semester at DeVry University has been a fulfilling experience for me. The courses were challenging but provided valuable opportunities for growth, both academically and personally. The support from my professors and the resources available helped me stay on track and achieve my goals. I’m proud of this accomplishment and grateful for the education that DeVry offers.
Review Date: 10/3/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
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
Helpful for Career: No
I attended Phoenix to break through the glass ceiling holding back career progression. In that regard, it has met the need. In every other regard, I regret enrolling there. The experience I have had with Phoenix however leaves much to be desired. From start to finish, their financial aid office did not have my financial aid sorted out. My various paperwork was always early and frequently turned in during the first half of February at the latest. My tenure involved almost weekly calls involving payment... Read More
Review Date: 7/16/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
I will for sure be transferring to another school next semester! My experience since starting this school has been horrible! To start, with the application process, I was told either unofficial transcripts or official transcripts would work. Then they came back and told me I needed to send official! Why not just say that during application?! I paid for 2 sets of transcripts (4 colleges). THEN they lost one of my transcripts (the most expensive one!) which was sent electronically! How do you lose... Read More
Review Date: 6/10/2023
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
If you are just trying to check a box for education, WGU is probably a great choice. I felt that the instructors were pretty much doing this as their side gig and also did not find them very helpful when I had questions. They just seemed like maybe I was taking too much of their energy with an occasional question or need. It always cracked me up how they would not help me, but would tell me that if I needed anything else to be sure and contact them. Overall, pretty lame. The last straw was just the... Read More
Review Date: 6/10/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I attended this college for 2 years to obtain my bachelor’s degree. I received a good education with a lot of great knowledge that I was to apply towards my career. The program contains lots of reading and writing. I would recommend APUS for individuals looking for a good quality education.
Review Date: 12/1/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: 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
Helpful for Career: No
My experience was overall satisfactory. I would add the one negative was the clearly biased opinions of the instructors and the college as a whole towards extreme liberalism. As a conservative, I have to share that the tone and messaging from the school hugely turned me off. I would have preferred to simply attend my classes and attained my degree without being bombarded with social justice and politically oriented statements from the professors and school as a whole. I wrote a complaint letter about... Read More
Review Date: 6/29/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
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
Helpful for Career: No
I previously graduated from a large well known brick and mortar state University a couple of decades ago- going the traditional route which some consider "real" college.
I went back to school at WGU to save both a ton of money and to take advantage of working on my second degree at my own pace without traveling to a crowded classroom environment.
For anyone who thinks that this online university is "easy", you are so wrong. I found the online curriculum and testing to be as difficult if not more difficult... Read More
If you do not work well alone and are not self disciplined, online studies are probably not for you. WGU is a good online school and you will get a quality degree.
Review Date: 4/15/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I want to start off by saying my review is purely for the administration side of Lehman College. The professors are some of the most amazing and understanding individuals that you can’t really find anymore. Like most people, a lot of us have a lot of external situations going on, but the professors always meet you halfway if you put the work in only ! Besides that, the administration in Lehman is just bad. It may be bureaucratic reasons or whatever it is, but it can’t be justified. Be prepared to... Read More
Review Date: 3/17/2023
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
SNHU has great career services. They are quick to lean in and help when I need it. The instructors are pretty good. Not sure yet if this degree will help me get the job I want but I'm definitely hoping so. The online format works well because I'm pretty busy.
Review Date: 9/21/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The ability to learn in a small classroom setting where the student professor ratio was in my favor allowed me to make both personal and professional relationships. Ohio Dominican is a small school setting, set in the big city of Columbus. Both of these aspects are what drew me to Ohio Dominican. I was able to use all resources that were afforded to me such as Financial Aid, Student Services, Career Development. In the small schools setting. I was able to build personal relationships with every department.... Read More
Review Date: 12/9/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
As a student athlete, I struggle most with catching up with the chapter's that I've missed, and I feel like the resources on campus to assist us is not very helpful. Despite that, I found that it will be extremely helpful to always be proactive and communicate with my professor (at least in the Accounting program). In addition to that, my advisor always keeps me on my toes when it comes to signing up for classes and making sure I take the necessary classes for my major and in order to pursue my CPA... Read More
Review Date: 2/14/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Sam was a school that allowed for flexibility in learning. As an adult going to school to pivot careers the faculty was easy to work with and provided ample opportunity to speak with them about issues. The main campus is not conveniently located, but The Woodlands campus has many programs available.
Review Date: 2/6/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Brigham Young University-Hawaii is an amazing college. Students at BYUH represent over 70 countries from around the world, making BYUH one of the most diverse campuses in America. It's a very unique experience to go to school with students from such different backgrounds. I have the opportunity to learn about cultures and countries I knew nothing about before coming to college. Aside from the students, BYUH is a great place for learning. The class sizes are small, which gives students the opportunity... Read More
Review Date: 4/30/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The teachers really care about their students. They will do anything to see you succeed if you are willing to put in the work. I loved the small class sizes because I was able to get to know all the students in the class as well as the teacher on a first name basis. I would highly recommend the Accounting program because the teachers are all amazing, and I learned so much from every class.
Review Date: 8/5/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Thoughtful, close-knit family that will be with you for the rest of your life.
Review Date: 11/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes