The cheapest accounting degree online might have tuition rates as low as around $205 per credit hour and could help you secure a highly lucrative salary. This excellent combination of affordable schooling with a potentially high income sets you up for long-term financial success.

AOC affordable online bachelors accounting AOC 1

No matter the state of the economy, there is always a need for qualified accountants. Individuals, businesses, and organizations of all kinds rely on accounting experts to ensure compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

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In some roles, like finance manager, the median salary for an accountant can be more than $130,000 annually. While this is far higher than the national average salary for an accountant, you can still make a nice living, even with an average wage.

With an affordable online accounting degree, you can prepare for competitive roles in small and large organizations, government agencies, and non-profits. Armed with the proper education and credentials, the sky’s the limit for your potential as an accounting professional.

What Will You Learn in a Cheap Online Accounting Degree Program?

Accounting degree programs combine knowledge in various areas, including financial reporting and income taxation. Auditing and financial reporting are two other common areas of study. Some degree programs include more niche courses, too, focusing on fraud, non-profit accounting, or government accounting.

By taking courses like these, you’ll have the skills and knowledge to understand how accounting applies to many different business functions. This includes finance, marketing, management, and more.

Your affordable accounting degree online will also have general education courses, like math, science, and the humanities. These courses give you a well-rounded liberal arts education with exposure to many subjects.

What’s more, you may also have the opportunity to complete an internship. Field experiences like this give you valuable hands-on experience in the industry. Though some internships require campus visits or site-based work, many others are done remotely, too.

What are the Best Affordable Online Accounting Degrees?

Accredited Online College uses the most recent data from the Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics to rank the programs below.

Each program has an individual score. That score is compared to all other universities offering that degree to determine the final score you see by each ranking.

Accredited Online College considers several factors for scoring. This includes affordability, student-to-faculty ratio, and the number of programs offered on-campus and online. To learn more, visit our methodology page.

Let us help you with your search for the most affordable online accounting degree. Get started below!

#1. American Public University

As far as a cheap accounting degree online goes, American Public University (APU) is at the top of our list.

This fully online institution offers a range of distance learning degrees. This includes an Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting, available through the Dr. Wallace E. Boston School of Business.

While this program requires 120 credits to graduate, you can transfer up to 90 credits from other institutions.

Since APU specializes in online degrees, courses for this accounting program start monthly. You’ll study online, with courses varying in length between 8 and 16 weeks. In addition to your general education requirements and electives, you’ll take courses in accountancy.

American Public University also offers some of the most affordable undergraduate tuition rates around. You’ll pay around $285 per credit hour. With a military grant, this could drop to as low as $250 per credit hour. You can read more about the scholarship and private loan options available on the university’s website.

#2. University of Washington

The Foster School of Business at the University of Washington offers a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration (BABA). In this unique program, you can choose between designing your own curriculum or specializing in a preset course of study. The latter includes:

Accounting
Accounting for Business professionals
Entrepreneurship
Finance
Human Resources Management
Information Systems
Marketing
Operations and Supply Chain Management

This AACSB-accredited program focuses on a number of accounting functions, too. This includes auditing, taxes, and managerial accounting. Financial accounting and accounting in the public sector are included as well. If you focus on public accounting, you must complete 225 credits to be eligible for CPA certification.

Another method to gain CPA exam eligibility is to pursue a graduate degree at the University of Washington. UW offers a Master of Professional Accounting (MPAcc) in addition to a Master of Science in Taxation (MST).

Typical undergraduate tuition at the University of Washington is around $11,190 for full-time, in-state students. For non-residents, the total rises to around $39,687. You might have to pay additional fees as well.

#3. University of Arizona Global Campus

This Bachelor of Arts in Accounting is entirely online through the Forbes School of Business and Technology. You’ll gain a thorough understanding of all essential accounting functions, including ledgers and financial statements. Accruals, reporting, and budgets are further topics of study. You’ll also learn how to use the software and tools common across the accounting profession.

This accounting degree program features five to six-week accelerated courses. This means you’ll study one course at a time. Courses for this affordable online accounting program include:

Principles of Accounting
Accounting Information Systems
Cost Accounting
Business Law
Federal Income Taxes

Advanced accounting courses are also part of the curriculum, though they usually occur toward the end of the program.

A prime benefit of the University of Arizona program is that you can transfer up to 90 credits from prior college-level study. This represents three-quarters of the required credits for graduation.

This program has no application fee, which helps you save a little bit of money. Regarding tuition rates, things are straightforward; you pay $510.00 per credit hour regardless of which program you choose. There are, however, other fees that drive up the cost of your education.

#4. University of Arkansas Grantham

At the University of Arkansas Grantham, you can earn a Bachelors in Accounting entirely online. You’ll gain broad exposure to essential accounting theories and practices in demand for today’s accounting professionals. You’ll complete an auditing project in your final year to showcase your new knowledge and skills.

This program lasts just 38 months. In that time, you’ll complete 120 credit hours. The University of Arkansas Grantham has a generous transfer policy, though, so you might have fewer credits to finish.

Most courses in this program begin every month, so you can pursue enrollment when it’s convenient for you. What’s more, no campus visits are required for this online bachelor’s degree.

The undergraduate tuition rate for this online program is $295 per credit hour. If you’re an active-duty military member, a veteran, or a member of a military family, this affordable accounting degree is even more affordable as discounts are available.

Another money-saving feature of Grantham is its laptop program. As a new or returning student, you get a brand-new computer at no additional charge.

#5. Eastern New Mexico University – Main Campus

At Eastern New Mexico University, you can earn your affordable online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This program is entirely online. All your assignments, designated readings, and other work are available via online learning platforms like Canvas, Mediasite, and Collaborate.

The easy access to course materials is just one benefit of this program. Many classes are asynchronous, so they fit around your existing schedule. There are synchronous sessions available, too.

Even though you’re an online student, you still have access to student support services at Eastern New Mexico University. These services include tutoring and access to the ENMU Writing Center, which are helpful for improving your academic skills. You also get access to a broad range of learning resources, including journals, online databases, and the University’s library system.

At Eastern New Mexico University, you’ll benefit from the second-lowest undergraduate and graduate tuition rates in New Mexico. For full-time accounting students enrolled in 12-18 credit hours per semester, tuition comes to $2,096 per semester, in addition to $1,272 in student fees. Non-resident students pay $3,087 per semester and $1,272 in student fees.

#6. Arizona State University

At Arizona State University, you can enroll in a bachelor’s program in Accountancy from the W.P. Carey School of Accountancy. This four-year degree helps you build relevant skills for working as an accountant, including critical thinking skills, communication skills, and information technology skills. Obviously, you’ll also learn about accounting procedures and theories.

Moreover, you can select a three-year, accelerated path if you’d like to earn your bachelor’s degree more quickly. Alternatively, you could earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in as few as five years.

You need a 1230 SAT Reasoning score or 25 ACT for admission. Alternatively, you can gain admission with a GPA of 3.4 or higher (on a 4.0 scale).

Undergraduate students enrolled in an online degree program via ASU Online pay around $561 to $661 per credit hour. Master’s degrees attract a tuition rate of between $543 and $1,343 per credit hour, while certificates cost between $543 and $1,099 per credit hour.

#7. Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University’s (BYU) Bachelor of Science in Accounting features a unique curriculum known as “Junior Core.” Launched by BYU in the early 1990s, this curriculum splits a cohort into five groups, with each group receiving the same teaching. Under different professors, these groups meet regularly to complete lesson planning and assessments together.

This curriculum was reviewed and redesigned in 2020. All instruction was evaluated, compared, and structured according to the key competencies for professional accountants. This redesign process took the specialist knowledge of industry professionals and educators into account. The result is nine highly specialized courses that prepare you for a future of work in this field. These courses include:

Accounting Information Systems
Intermediate Financial Accounting I
Intermediate Managerial Accounting
Fundamentals of Taxation
Critical Thinking in Accounting (Block 1)

At Brigham Young University, you pay $3,152 per semester (if you’re LDS), making it among the cheapest online accounting degree programs on this list. Textbooks and other materials are provided for some courses.

#8. Florida Atlantic University

Within Florida Atlantic University’s (FAU) College of Business, you can choose an Online Bachelor of Business Administration (OBBA) in Accounting. This program prepares you to register as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or pursue other certifications such as CMA, CIA, CISA, and more.

This affordable online program teaches you how to audit financial records and prepare tax returns. You’ll also learn how to maintain compliance with government regulations and file financial reports. Other topics of study include cost accounting, government accounting, and non-profit accounting.

Graduates frequently progress into roles such as:

public accountant
forensic accountant
loan administrator
financial analyst
cost department supervisor

Florida Atlantic University charges only $263.29 per credit hour for undergraduate resident tuition. Tuition per credit for non-resident students is $781.84.

#9. University of Minnesota Crookston

At the University of Minnesota Crookston, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting through fully online study. The program is ACBSP-accredited and prepares you to achieve your CPA or find immediate work in the field of accounting. You’ll have the chance to complete 4 CPA Review courses worth 12 credits in preparation for your CPA exam.

In terms of courses, you’ll cover a broad range of knowledge required by today’s accountants. These topics include auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. Other courses in the 120-credit-hour curriculum explore topics related to:

Cost Accounting
Accounting Systems
Auditing
Income Tax
Principles of Management
Principles of Marketing

If you enroll in an undergraduate online program at the University of Minnesota Crookston and take at least 13 credits per semester, you’ll pay tuition of $437 per credit. You can find more information about tuition and fees on the university’s website. There are also scholarships available, which could reduce the cost of your education in this affordable online program.

#10. Dickinson State University

Dickinson State University’s Bachelor of Business Administration Degree – Accounting requires a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher for graduation. You’ll learn how to apply the concepts, theories, and practices involved in a range of accounting fields, including:

management
international business
strategic decision making
financial accounting and report
financial management

While this accounting program helps you meet the necessary academic requirements for the CMA, CFE, and CPA professional examinations, you will only earn 121 of the required 150 hours’ worth of education to become a CPA. If you want to become a public accountant, you should meet with an advisor to plan accordingly.

Dickinson State University routinely keeps costs low, with a tuition freeze having been in place for a number of years. Undergraduate residents from a vast range of western states pay just $249 per credit hour. Students outside of the listed states pay $319 per credit hour. You can also find information on fees on the university’s website.

#11. Bellevue University

Bellevue University’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting prepares you for the CFA examination through fully online study. This IACBE-accredited program gives you much-needed expertise in many different accounting topics, including financial accounting, cost accounting, and auditing. Tax accounting and analysis are other primary topics of study. You can also choose between an emphasis in Business Finance or a minor in Tax Accountancy.

You’ll apply what you’ve learned to make strategic business decisions in areas such as:

management
finance
marketing

You’ll also gain an understanding of ethical principles and critical thinking in accounting. In total, the Common Business Core includes 45 credit hours’ worth of course study with this accounting degree online.

Undergraduate tuition at Bellevue University costs $440 per credit hour. However, some exemptions and other rates apply. If you’re an active duty member of the United States Military, you could qualify for a rate of just $250 per credit hour.

#12. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida (USF) offers a fully online Bachelor’s in Accountancy. The distance learning curriculum follows the same requirements as the traditional, campus-based program. However, the format is asynchronous, so you can complete coursework at your own pace. You’ll benefit from a course advisor to help you create your degree plan. All of your courses and other resources are available via Canvas.

With the accounting courses available in this online degree program, you’ll study areas like:

auditing
taxation
forensics
corporate compliance
business consulting

Careers for graduates can be found in the same areas as listed above. Nearly 50 percent of recent graduates report that they have full-time accounting jobs within three months of graduation.

Tuition at the University of South Florida is $6,410 (which also includes fees). Out-of-state students pay significantly more – $17,324 for tuition and fees.

#13. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) offers an ACBSP-accredited Bachelor of Science Business Administration – Accounting program that you can follow up with a Master of Accounting. The accounting degree program lasts for four years, though 70% of graduates finish after around 42 months of full-time study.

In addition to learning about fields such as financial accounting, taxation, and auditing, you can also pursue valuable certificates in a range of areas. These include:

Strategic Thinking & Innovation
Leadership
Accounting

All BBA degrees at this institution start with core classes in business basics. From there, you advance to more complex topics like accounting information systems, cost and managerial accounting, and intermediate accounting.

According to WGU, you can earn your bachelor’s degree for around half of the national average cost. The average yearly tuition cost for a bachelor’s degree at this institution is around $7,452, compared to the national average of around $12,112.

#14. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration Degree with a major in accounting. If you have a minimum of 45 credit hours of college-level study under your belt, you can transfer those credits to reduce the time it’ll take to get your bachelor’s degree.

The major courses include topics such as Cost Accounting and Auditing. Income Tax Procedure and Intermediate Accounting are other core courses. You’ll also choose electives from a pool that include Fraud Examination, Ethics for Accountants, and an apprenticeship or internship. For a full list of courses, check out the program page on the university’s website.

Fort Hays State University charges around $226.88 per credit hour for undergraduate degree programs. For graduate programs, this doesn’t rise much; you can study at a master’s level for around $298.55 (except for MBA programs, which are charged at around $350.00 per credit hour).

#15. CUNY Brooklyn College

CUNY Brooklyn College offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. If combined with the Master of Science in Accounting, you could graduate with the 150 required credits to become a certified public accountant in New York State. Before doing so, you should consult a course advisor, as you may need to take other courses to qualify for the CPA Exam.

Courses include accounting, economics, and business, to name a few. You’ll complete a total of 120 credits in this affordable online program to graduate. This institution also includes a Computer and Information Science course in the curriculum, as proficiency in Excel is critical for accountants.

Tuition for undergraduate students at CUNY Brooklyn College is approximately $3,465 per semester for students who enroll in full-time degree programs. A full-time program of study is any student who’s enrolled in between 12 or more credits each semester.

#16. Colorado State University-Global Campus

Colorado State University offers an Online Bachelor’s in Accounting via CSU Global, their online campus. In this online accounting degree program, you’ll complete 120 credits that include general education courses and degree specializations. These cover a range of organizational areas, including:

finance
marketing
leadership
economics
business intelligence

You should bear in mind that if you’ve already completed some college-level courses, you can transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor’s degree at CSU Global. For community college credits, the total is 64. This could reduce the number of hours you’ll need to invest in studying for general education courses, allowing you to focus on your major.

At CSU Global, the cost of undergraduate online degree programs is $350 per credit hour. What’s more, there are no fees due! If you transfer 90 credits, you’ll pay around $10,500, for example. Transfer 30 credits, and you’ll pay around $31,500 in tuition for your degree.

#17. Indiana Wesleyan University

At Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU), you can register for an Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting. With 16 courses and lasting around 18 months, the online accounting degree program is led by highly skilled faculty that includes certified public accountants (CPAs) and IRS examiners, among others.

You’ll gain an understanding of current accounting principles, taxation law, auditing processes, and a range of other skills and knowledge. You’ll also develop your soft skills in the areas of:

critical thinking
business communications
problem-solving

With practical coursework, you will also gain valuable real-world experience that benefits you as a practicing accountant.

Tuition is $405 per credit hour for this program. Financial aid programs are available to help offset this cost. Programs include scholarships, grants, and loans. Discounts for military members and veterans are available as well.

#18. Athens State University

Athens State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting that’s available fully online and with great student support for distance learners. Ninety-eight percent of faculty members in the College of Business have first-hand experience in the industry, so you’ll benefit from experienced professionals who are up to date with the latest standards and processes in accounting.

The average class size in this online accounting degree program is around 18 students, so you’ll also benefit from a personalized learning experience and more readily available support from your instructors. For admission, you’ll need to have at least 36 transferable credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Athens State University is well-known for its low cost of tuition, and you won’t pay any more than a state resident if you’re based elsewhere. Tuition for undergraduate study comes to $241 per credit hour for online learners (exclusive of fees), making it one of the cheapest accounting degree programs currently available. Athens State also offers a flexible tuition payment plan.

#19. Indiana University

At Indiana University, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, which is considered one of the best programs of its kind in the nation. The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, including critical competencies in accounting, such as:

auditing
taxation
accounting systems management

You will also take a blend of communication courses to ensure that you have the written and oral proficiency needed by effective accounting professionals. Additionally, you’ll take accounting electives, general education courses, and business core courses to round out your degree.

Due to the structure of this online accounting degree’s curriculum, you might have to take courses in a specific order. However, all of these are offered online so you can study at your own pace and fit your studies around your work schedule. What’s more, while it’s not a requirement, you can opt to participate in an internship to gain first-hand experience in the industry.

This online program is among the least expensive on this list, with rates of $242.48 per credit for in-state students. Out-of-state students pay much more at $727.44.

#20. Northwest Oklahoma State University

At Northwestern Oklahoma State University, the School of Professional Studies has a Bachelor of Business Administration with a major in Accounting and Business Administration. The affordable online program prepares you for a business career, with training in other areas that include:

economics
finance
management

You’ll complete 121 credit hours for this online accounting degree, which includes 45 credits’ worth of general education study. With your major in Accounting, you’ll also declare a minor in:

Entrepreneurship
Management
Marketing
General Business

For admission, you must be at least 21 years of age, have completed at least 72 hours of college credit, and have a minimum GPA of 2.0.

Northwest Oklahoma State University tuition is affordable, though non-residents do pay more. The approximate cost per credit for Oklahoma residents is $322.50, while out-of-state students pay roughly $559.75 per credit hour. However, the NWOSU GO OK Tuition Waiver could reduce the rate you pay as a non-resident.

#21. Bemidji State University

Bemidji State University’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting gives you yet another affordable online option for getting an education.

Depending on your existing transfer credits and prerequisites, you could complete this online accounting degree program in as few as two years. Alternatively, for working professionals, you can study just a single course per semester to earn a bachelor’s degree. This program is flexible to meet your needs!

The curriculum for this online accounting degree follows the same fully accredited degree plan as the on-campus program. You’ll also benefit from the same credentialed and experienced faculty. With access to the same support services, including the Center for Extended Learning, an office that’s dedicated to supporting distance learning students, you have everything you need for success.

At Bemidji State University, undergraduate students pay full-time tuition of $4,497 for 12 and 18 credit hours per semester. BSU also has a range of loans and scholarships that could help you afford the cost of college. Check out the university’s Net Price Calculator for more information.

#22. Northern State University

Northern State University offers a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting that has both traditional, campus-based, and online modes of study. With this affordable online program, you’ll gain the skills you need to apply for certification and sit for exams that include:

Certified Bookkeeper (CB)
Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

As part of this accounting program, you’ll have support to prepare for a career in accounting. This includes internships that allow you to apply the skills you’ve learned in the workplace. You can find an internship in industries that include taxation, finance, banking, and management, to name a few.

The estimated tuition for students from SD, ND, IA, NE, CO, WY, and MT is around $7,615. For students who are residents of Minnesota, the tuition estimate rises to around $9,149. For non-residents, the tuition doesn’t rise much, at around $10,717 each year. Around four in five students receive some form of financial aid to make Northern State even more affordable.

#23. University of Maryland Global Campus

You can earn your online bachelor’s degree in accounting from a well-respected program at the University of Maryland. This degree requires 120 credits to graduate. However, you can transfer up to 90 credits from prior college-level learning.

This online accounting degree program focuses on theory and practice that will help you prepare for many roles. For example, you’ll explore the processes of analyzing and reporting on economic activities. These are skills you can implement for the companies for which you work.

Some of the common accounting courses that you’ll study in this affordable online program include:

Intermediate Accounting
Cost Accounting
Federal Income Tax
Accounting Information Systems
Auditing Theory and Practice

Something called the “Vertical Pathway” may also allow you to reduce the coursework required for a Master’s Degree in Accounting and Financial Management or Management with an Accounting major.

At the University of Maryland, in-state students pay around $312 per credit for undergraduate degree programs. Tuition for students from out of state is only slightly higher, at around $499 per credit for undergraduate degree programs.

#24. Dakota State University

At Dakota State University, you can enroll in an affordable Bachelor of Business Administration in Business program with a specialization in Accounting. In addition to learning about the fundamentals like taxation, auditing, and financial management, you’ll get a grasp of common accounting software, such as QuickBooks and Sage 50.

The accountancy major is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). The online accounting degree program is also aligned to provide the needed 150 semester hours’ worth of college-level credits that allow you to take the CPA examination.

Unlike many other institutions, Dakota State University doesn’t charge a half-time or full-time tuition rate. Instead, you pay as you go for tuition at DSU, which gives you greater flexibility and financial freedom to pay for your college courses. Tuition is charged at around $354.75 per credit hour.

#25. Shorter University

Shorter University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, which could give you the foundation to progress toward CPA credentials. The curriculum heavily emphasizes business and is taught by faculty with a wealth of experience. Coursework for this online accounting degree also involves practice, with a focus on developing practical skills that you can implement in a real-life work setting.

Studying in small class sizes, you’ll take courses such as:

Income Tax
Governmental Accounting
Micro and Macro Fraud Examination
Swindles and Schemes

Additionally, you’ll learn how to use programs like QuickBooks and gain skills for conducting forensic interviews and interrogations.

This online accounting degree also allows you to participate in an internship, which gives you hands-on experience in the field.

As an online student at Shorter University, you’ll pay $375 per credit hour and $25 in fees per course.

#26. CUNY Bernard M Baruch College

Baruch College’s Zicklin School of Business offers a Bachelor’s in Business Administration with a major in Accounting. The affordable online program also features a general liberal arts and sciences background, with foundation courses in general business. Some of the subjects you’ll study include:

Financial Accounting
Cost Accounting
Principles of Auditing
Federal Income Taxation
Accounting Information Systems

If you’re transferring credits toward your bachelor’s degree, you must have at least eight credits of 3000-level accounting courses. Unfortunately, you can’t apply for this program if you already hold a bachelor’s degree. Instead, you could consider the Master of Science in Accounting, which offers you a pathway to a CPA, even if your undergraduate degree isn’t in accounting.

Typical undergraduate students pay tuition of $3,465 per semester, assuming New York State residency and full-time study. Part-time study costs around $305 per credit hour. If you’re not a New York resident, you’ll pay around $620 per credit for full-time or part-time modes of study. If you choose to take courses without pursuing a degree, you’re charged between $445 and $915 per credit hour, depending on your residency status.

#27. Franklin University

Franklin University offers a Bachelor’s in Accounting Degree that requires 124 credit hours to graduate. You can transfer up to 76% of the credits required to finish the program to help speed up the process of getting your degree.

Accredited by the IACBE, this program is offered both on-campus and online. You don’t have to visit campus for any intensive weekends, internships, or the like as an online student.

In addition to acquiring accounting skills and knowledge, you’ll gain an understanding of general education topics in mathematics, science, and communications. Likewise, you’ll study arts, humanities, history, and various other college-level courses. You can choose major electives to specialize your education as well.

Standard undergraduate tuition at Franklin University is around $398 per credit hour, with current military service members paying a reduced rate of $250 per credit hour. You’ll pay $526 per credit hour if you’re an international student. You can find more rates and fee information on this page.

#28. Central Methodist University

At Central Methodist University, you can enroll in a Bachelor of Accountancy with a minor in Accounting also available. The curriculum for this online accounting degree has a broad scope, including taxes, auditing, management, and marketing. Upon graduation, you can pursue specialized jobs in:

tax preparation
financial consulting
government accounting
financial management

During your studies, you’ll have the chance to improve your skills in areas such as:

Fraud Examination
Business Finance
Auditing
Income Tax
Information systems

Throughout your degree program, you’ll receive hands-on instruction and get the guidance needed to help you move into other areas of study should you so choose, including graduate school or law school.

Central Methodist University has specific tuition rates for students enrolled in the College of Graduate and Extended Studies. You’ll pay just $260 per credit hour as an online student. This is very affordable. In fact, it’s similar to what other universities offer as a discounted rate for military service members.

#29. Maryville University of Saint Louis

Maryville University of Saint Louis offers an Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting Degree that’s fully online. This program requires no campus visit; what’s more, you don’t need to evidence your SAT or ACT scores to apply.

This accounting degree program prepares you for your certified public accounting examination. The curriculum was designed with input from industry leaders, and you can even complete three early-access courses to prepare for a master’s degree in accounting. In terms of graduate programs, this institution offers master’s programs in:

accounting
business administration
management and leadership
Strategic Communication and Leadership

At Maryville University, your tuition rates depend on your program of study. The cost of the BS in Accounting is around $500 per credit for 128 credits. This makes it one of the cheaper online business programs at this institution. More rates can be found on the university’s website.

#30. Columbia College

At Columbia College, you can enroll in a Bachelor’s in Accounting, which offers residential classes, night courses, and online studies. This variety helps you to fit your degree studies alongside your busy working schedule. The residential classes follow a 16-week semester program, while the online and night classes are scheduled in 8-week sessions.

With a foundational education grounded in the liberal arts, this program teaches you how to report, analyze, and manage financial accounts. You’ll have the opportunity to study areas including:

auditing
business analytics
economics
income tax
finance
international business

You’ll pay $375 per credit hour as an undergraduate online student at Columbia College. The rate is $250 per credit and up if you’re in the military. You can get an estimate of the cost for your specific situation by using Columbia College’s Net Price Calculator.

#31. Clarion University of Pennsylvania

At Clarion University of Pennsylvania, you’ll have the opportunity to get a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting Industry. This accounting program best suits those who would rather work in industry than pursue a professional certification such as the CPA. It includes courses designed for large and small organizations and government and non-profit agencies as well.

Alternatively, you can opt for a concentration in Forensic Accounting, which is ideal if you want to be a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). This is a growing field that’s increasing in popularity within the accounting world. There is also a minor in Accounting available.

All courses for both concentrations can be taken online. If you’re interested in forensic accounting, this is one of the best affordable online accounting degrees currently available.

Clarion University charges $3,858 per semester for online, in-state undergraduate students. Non-resident students pay $4,167 per semester. In both cases, you must take 12-18 credits per semester. If you take fewer than 12 credits, the University charges $322 per credit if you’re a resident and $347 per credit if you’re a non-resident student.

#32. Lakeland University

Lakeland University has a Bachelor’s in Accounting degree that ranks fifth on a list of the Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs. It also ranks among U.S. News & World Report’s 2022 list of Best Colleges. Clearly, this program has a high degree of quality and satisfied students.

In addition to the courses that make up your program and major, you have the opportunity to study CPA and CMA preparatory courses. This includes expert instruction from qualified instructors with extensive knowledge in these areas. As an online student, you’ll have round-the-clock access to courses like these via an online learning system.

Lakeland University charges $541 per credit or $1,623 per course. If you decide to continue your studies and get an MBA, you’ll pay online tuition of $708 per credit. On the other hand, if you pursue Lakeland’s CPA/CMA program, the cost is $2,124 per class, plus materials.

#33. Northwestern University

Northwestern University has a number of online courses designed for students interested in accounting. This includes several accounting certificate programs:

Enrolling in one of these certificate programs allows you to get specialized instruction in accounting. What’s more, the credits you earn in a certificate program can combine with other college-level undergraduate or graduate studies. This means you can create a study plan that fits your specific interests.

This institution focuses on learning for professionals who have busy lives. Online courses are designed to make it easy for you to study via distance learning. Some students also attend on-campus courses through evening study at the Chicago or Evanston campuses. You might have that option as well.

Tuition at Northwestern is $2,179 per class, plus a $125 per-course fee for online learning.

#34. Trine University

Trine University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Accounting Major that features courses with practical, hands-on learning experiences. As part of this accounting program, you also have the chance to earn graduate credits toward a master’s degree in accounting or business analytics.

You’ll also benefit from a faculty with corporate management experience in both national and international arenas. While studying for your courses, you’ll gain an understanding of accounting software, including Peachtree, Sage, and QuickBooks.

At Trine University, undergraduate tuition for almost every program is charged at the same rate. You’ll pay around $399 per credit hour, with some additional fees due. These include a $131 per-year charge for certain required screenings.

#35. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting via distance learning. All of your courses are remote – there are no campus visits required. However, you will have the opportunity to getpractical experience that can help you secure positions or promotions in future.

You’ll study a range of accounting subject areas such as financial management, income tax, and auditing, to name a few. Likewise, you’ll develop your problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. What’s more, you’ll gain a general education foundation to help you improve your knowledge in other college-level subjects.

This is a 183-credit program that’s aligned with standards set forth by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Additionally, the program is accredited by ACBSP.

The cost of tuition at Colorado Technical University is $340 per credit. At that rate, you’ll pay $62,220 in tuition over the course of the program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you study accounting online?

Yes, you can study for a bachelor’s in accounting online! When you enroll in an online bachelor’s in accounting program, you can complete your coursework remotely. E-learning platforms like Canvas are very popular amongst colleges and universities.

These platforms make online learning easier in various ways. For example, your study resources, lectures, and assignments are available in Canvas. You can access these materials at any time and place, provided you have a computer and an internet connection. Depending on the format of your courses, your studies might occur synchronously or asynchronously.

Some online programs have internships, though, in accounting, these tend to be optional rather than mandatory. This is unlike healthcare courses, for example, where clinical experience is needed to pass a program or gain credentials. Nevertheless, if you opt to do an internship, you might have to do in-person fieldwork.

Securing an internship can be valuable for your future. In the short term, internship experiences might help you get your first job after graduation. Further in the future, the knowledge, skills, and experience you get during your internship might help you get a promotion or change career paths.

If you’re considering an online accounting degree, rely on our rankings of the most affordable programs rather than simply Googling “accounting degree online cheap.” You can use our methodology to help you identify the best online programs to fit your budget.

What can I do with a bachelors in accounting?

The scope of careers available with a bachelor’s degree in accountancy is very broad. Not only is demand typically strong for qualified accountants, but also for many other professions that relate to accountancy. The experience you gain in your accounting program might lead to any number of lucrative careers.

For example, aside from becoming an accountant, you could find work as a personal financial advisor. This job is about helping clients manage their money, investments, and other financial products. You may also help clients plan for retirement, manage their estate, or save for their child’s college education.

Alternatively, you might find employment as a:

Financial analyst
Forensic accountant
Internal auditor
Budget analyst

Since the skills and experience you get in an accounting degree are so transferable, many other careers are available to you. You may consider the following:

Governmental accounting
Certified management accounting
Managerial accounting
Financial management

This is just a small sample of the career paths you can take. With the appropriate training, the opportunities you can seek are virtually endless.

How much can I earn with a bachelors in accounting?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for accountants is far above the U.S. national average salary, at around $77,250 per year. Over the course of the next decade, the BLS expects job growth for accountants to be about average or six percent per year.

Your specific career goals strongly influence how much money you earn and your job outlook, too.

For example, personal financial advisors earn a median salary of $94,000 per year. However, growth in this area is much more robust, at 15 percent over the next ten years. That represents around 51,000 new positions!

Financial analysts use their accounting background to earn around $95,570 per year. While job growth isn’t expected to be as hot as in other areas, the expected growth rate of nine percent is still above the average.

Meanwhile, budget analysts make slightly more than accountants, at around $79,940. The BLS expects growth in this field to be about three percent, which is much slower than average. At this growth rate, only 1,400 new positions will open over the next decade.

Finally, some graduates pursue work as a financial manager, though this often requires many years’ worth of experience. According to the BLS, the median salary for a financial manager is around $131,710, which makes this one of the highest-paying accounting careers. What’s more, phenomenal growth of around 17 percent is expected in the next decade. If this growth rate holds, around 123,100 new positions will be created.

Regardless of the specific field of work you pursue, other factors affect how much you might earn. Your education level and experience are primary factors in your salary. Certifications or licensure can increase the amount of money you make as well.

Additionally, the geographic area in which you work affects your income. For example, the BLS reports that accountants in Washington, D.C., make the most money in the nation at more than $110,000 per year. New York is the only other location where the mean yearly salary for accountants exceeds $100,000.

So, if you work in Georgia, Oregon, Alabama, Missouri, or points in between, you’re likely to earn less than if you practice accounting in Washington, D.C., or New York.

What are the entry requirements for a degree in accounting?

The admission requirements for bachelor’s degrees in accounting vary from one institution to the next. However, the common requirement is that students need to have a high school diploma or GED. Many colleges and universities require you to have a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or higher. This number differs depending on the school, though.

More competitive schools may require a higher GPA, and they may also ask you to provide SAT or ACT scores that meet or exceed a minimum acceptable score. In some cases, colleges ask you to submit letters of recommendation, a personal statement, or a summary of educational goals along with your application.

Once admitted to college, you’ll complete general education requirements that comprise about half of your undergraduate studies. Courses in accounting and related subjects comprise the other half.

Bear in mind that if you’re a former college student who wants to transfer credits, there are requirements for that process as well. Typically, you need a minimum number of transfer credits, which is usually outlined on the program page. You’ll likely need to have a minimum GPA for your prior credits to transfer as well.

Any credits you want to transfer must also be from a regionally-accredited school if you attend a regionally-accredited school. Credits from a nationally-accredited school are not accepted. However, if you attend a nationally-accredited school, you can transfer credits from nationally and regionally accredited schools.

The transfer process can be a little confusing, so consult this quick guide for more details. You should direct questions about your specific situation to your school’s academic affairs office.

If you’re interested in pursuing higher education, you should check out our articles featuring the 20 Best Online Masters In Accounting Degree Programs and 35 Best Bachelor’s in Accounting!

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35 Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Accounting