A bachelor’s in accounting program can help you build fundamental bookkeeping and finance skills and pursue certified public accountant (CPA) licensure, preferred by employers for accounting jobs. With a convenient and affordable online bachelor’s in accounting program, you can develop academic training and build professional experience simultaneously. Find the perfect online bachelor’s in accounting program to meet your unique career goals.
What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Accounting Degree?
A bachelor’s in accounting can open doors to in-demand jobs with strong growth potential. The rising need for accountants is driven by factors like globalization, a growing economy, and increasingly complex tax regulations.
Below are some career paths you could pursue, along with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
Accountants
Accountants analyze and prepare financial records, ensuring accuracy for tax purposes. Many go on to become CPAs, often specializing in areas like cost accounting, financial accounting, or forensic accounting.
- Median annual salary (May 2023): $79,880
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): +6%
Tax Examiners and Collectors
These professionals evaluate and collect taxes owed to the government by individuals and businesses. Employers like the IRS typically require a bachelor’s in accounting and/or a CPA certification.
- Median annual salary (May 2023): $58,530
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): +2%
Financial Managers
Financial managers oversee an organization’s investments, financial strategy, and reporting. Many start their careers as accountants, financial analysts, or securities sales agents.
- Median annual salary (May 2023): $156,100
- Projected job growth (2023-2033): +17%
What Will You Learn in a Bachelor’s in Accounting Program?
An online bachelor’s in accounting typically focuses on core math, finance, and business courses. Some degrees, like a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), treat accounting as a specialization within a broader business program. Traditional accounting degrees may also offer concentrations such as cost accounting, financial accounting, or tax accountancy.
Most bachelor’s programs require 120 credits and take four years to complete, though many online options provide accelerated tracks and flexible full-time or part-time enrollment.
Online Format
Opting for an online program comes with unique perks, like balancing internships (helpful for CPA licensure) without disrupting your work or personal life. Many online accounting degrees let you choose between synchronous (live) or asynchronous (self-paced) classes.
Admissions Requirements for a Bachelor’s in Accounting Program
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5
- Official transcripts
- Letters of recommendation (from high school or previous colleges)
- Résumé or CV
- Personal essay (optional)
- SAT or ACT scores (sometimes optional/not required)
- Application fee (usually
- 30–
- 30–90)
How to Compare Accounting Programs
Picking the right accounting program depends on your career goals and whether you plan to pursue an advanced degree later. Look for programs that align with your preferred accounting focus and offer pathways to graduate studies if needed.
Also, if you’re aiming for CPA licensure, ensure the program is accredited by agencies like:
- AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)
- ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)
- IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)
Further Education in Accounting
- Master’s in Accounting: Prepares you for higher-level roles like CPA, CFO, financial controller, or financial analyst in major firms.
- Doctorate in Accounting: Best for academic or research careers, such as accounting professor, forensic accounting expert, or policy researcher.