If you are interested in pursuing a degree in accounting, but don’t want to attend traditional classes, online colleges are an excellent option. Online colleges offer a flexible learning experience that allows you to study at your own pace, on your own time and from the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will discuss some of the best online colleges for accounting that you can consider.
First on our list is Liberty University Online. Liberty University is one of the largest Christian university’s in the world. The school has been ranked as a top-tier university by U.S. News & World Report. Liberty University Online offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree program. The program covers topics such as auditing, taxation, financial management, and cost accounting. Students can complete the program in less than four years. The university also offers a Master of Science in Accounting degree program that can be completed in as little as one year. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in auditing, consulting, accounting, or finance.
The Benefits of Online Accounting Degrees
Online accounting degrees offer flexibility, cost savings, and career advancement opportunities.
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The Best Online Colleges for Accounting
The University of Alabama, Indiana Wesleyan University, and Liberty University offer some of the best online accounting programs with rigorous coursework and affordable tuition rates.
Top 10 Online Colleges for Accounting: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you looking for a reputable online college to pursue a degree in accounting? With so many options available these days, it can be overwhelming to choose an online college that suits your needs.
Worry no more! In this article, we have identified the top 10 online colleges for accounting. Our list is based on various factors such as accreditation, curriculum flexibility, quality of faculty, affordability, and student support services. Keep reading to discover your options.
1. University of Minnesota Crookston
The University of Minnesota Crookston’s online accounting program offers a flexible and rigorous curriculum that is designed to prepare you for the ever-changing global business environment. The program has a rigorous curriculum that covers essential accounting principles, taxation, auditing, financial management, and business law. Additionally, the program has a robust internship program that allows you to gain real-world experience in accounting.
The University of Minnesota Crookston boasts of experienced faculty members who have real-world experience in accounting. Students also receive excellent support services such as technical and academic support, career services, and student advising.
2. Liberty University
Liberty University’s online accounting program is one of the most affordable programs in our list. The program is also known for its quality curriculum, which is designed to prepare you for various accounting careers. Liberty University covers all major areas of accounting, including taxation, financial accounting, cost accounting, auditing, and business law.
The program also offers flexibility, with several start dates throughout the year, allowing you to start your studies whenever you are ready. Additionally, Liberty University provides robust career services such as job fairs, resume writing assistance, and interview preparation.
3. Western Governors University
The online accounting program at Western Governors University is designed to be flexible and self-paced, allowing students to earn their degrees at their own pace. The program is also unique in that it uses competency-based learning. This means that you can progress through the program by demonstrating your mastery of the course material rather than putting in a certain amount of time in a course.
Western Governors University’s accounting program focuses on key areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing. Additionally, students have access to a network of accounting experts who can provide guidance and support.
4. Pennsylvania State University World Campus
Pennsylvania State University World Campus’ online accounting program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and business law. Students can also choose electives based on their interests, such as forensic accounting, international accounting, and entrepreneurship.
Pennsylvania State University World Campus also provides excellent support services such as career planning, technical assistance, and academic advising, and the program has a robust internship program that connects students with top accounting firms.
5. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst’s online accounting program is designed to prepare students for a successful career in accounting. The program also offers flexibility, with several start dates throughout the year.
The program covers core areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law. The University of Massachusetts Amherst’s accounting program also has a robust internship program that allows students to gain real-world experience.
6. Indiana Wesleyan University
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online accounting program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all major areas of accounting. The program is also flexible, with four start dates throughout the year.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s accounting program is unique in that it provides students with a solid foundation in financial statements and the latest financial reporting standards, including International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Additionally, the university provides excellent support services such as academic advising, career services, and technical support.
7. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University’s online accounting program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in accounting principles and the latest accounting technologies and software. The program covers major areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing.
The program is also unique in that it offers a variety of concentrations, such as forensic accounting and fraud examination, taxation, and auditing. Additionally, Southern New Hampshire University provides students with excellent career services such as resume writing assistance, interview preparation, and job fairs.
8. Florida Tech University Online
Florida Tech University Online’s online accounting program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices. The program covers all major areas of accounting, including financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law.
Additionally, the online accounting program at Florida Tech University Online provides students with excellent academic and technical support services. Students also have access to career development services such as job fairs, interview preparation, and resume writing assistance.
9. Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University’s online accounting program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices. The program focuses on core areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and business law.
The program also offers several concentrations, including forensic accounting, accounting information systems, and auditing. Additionally, the university provides students with excellent career services such as resume writing assistance, interview preparation, and job fairs.
10. Colorado State University Global
Colorado State University Global’s online accounting program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, practices, and technologies. The program covers core areas such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing.
The online accounting program at Colorado State University Global also offers several concentrations, such as fraud management and forensic accounting. Additionally, the university provides students with excellent support services such as academic advising, technical support, and career services.
Conclusion
Choosing the right online college for accounting can be challenging, but with our list of the top 10 online colleges for accounting, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consider factors such as accreditation, flexibility, quality of faculty, affordability, and student support services.
The online colleges we have highlighted in this article offer quality accounting programs with excellent support services that can help you achieve your career goals.
FAQ: Best Online Colleges for Accounting
Question 1: What are the benefits of studying accounting online?
Studying accounting online offers various benefits that make it appealing to students. One of the major benefits is that it offers flexibility in terms of scheduling. Students can study and complete their assignments at any time, which allows them to balance their studies with other commitments like work or attending to family needs. Secondly, online courses tend to be cheaper compared to traditional classroom-based ones. Lastly, studying accounting online provides students with a chance to interact with students from various parts of the world, which provides opportunities for cultural exchange and networking.
Question 2: How can I determine if an online accounting program is reputable?
There are several ways to determine if an online accounting program is reputable. Firstly, you can research the program to see if it is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Secondly, you can check if the program has qualified lecturers who are experts in the field of accounting, which is a sign of high-quality education. Thirdly, you can also read reviews from students who have formerly studied the program to assess their satisfaction with the course materials and the quality of delivery.
Question 3: What is the estimated cost of an online accounting degree?
The cost of an online accounting degree program varies according to the institution offering the course. However, the estimated cost ranges from $15,000 to $60,000 for a four-year course. The cost may also vary depending on factors such as the number of courses taken per semester, location, and other associated fees such as textbooks, and technology fees. It is essential to do thorough research to identify affordable, reputable institutions offering online accounting courses.
Question 4: Are online accounting courses as rigorous as traditional classroom-based courses?
Yes. Online accounting courses are just as rigorous as traditional classroom-based courses. The course material, workload, and quality of assessment are the same as traditional courses. Online courses are also highly interactive, and students are expected to learn and apply accounting principles through coursework, case studies, and group discussions. The only significant difference is the mode of delivery, which can provide more flexibility but demands independent learning and self-motivation.
Question 5: What type of technology is required for online accounting courses?
Online accounting courses require certain technological requirements to access the course content and to complete assignments. The primary technology needed is a reliable computer with high speeds of internet connection. Other requirements may include headphones, microphone, and video-conferencing software such as Zoom or Skype. Students may also need to purchase specialized accounting software required to complete assignments, analysis, and forecasting work.
Question 6: How long does it take to complete an online accounting degree?
The duration of an online accounting degree varies depending on the specific program and academic level of study. Typically, associate degrees take two years, bachelor’s degrees take four years, and master’s degrees take two years to complete. However, some programs offer accelerated options where students could complete the course within a shorter timeframe, depending on the number of courses they take per semester.
Question 7: Do employers value online accounting degrees like traditional ones?
Yes. Most employers value online accounting degrees just as much as traditional accounting degrees. However, some employers may be skeptical of online degrees. It is critical to research and identify reputable institutions offering online accounting courses, to avoid any unwanted skepticism by prospective employers.
Question 8: What are the admission requirements for online accounting programs?
The admission requirements for online accounting programs vary depending on the specific program and level of study. However, basic requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent certification. For a bachelor’s degree, students need to maintain a minimum GPA, which may range from 2.5 to 3.5, and provide academic transcripts. Master’s degree candidates require a bachelor’s degree in business or accounting or any related field, as well as academic transcripts and standardized test scores like GMAT or GRE.
Question 9: Can I start an online accounting degree at any time?
Most online accounting programs follow traditional academic calendars with fall, winter or spring semesters. Some colleges, however, offer rolling admissions in which students can start at any time throughout the academic year. It is essential to check with the specific institution offering the accounting course regarding enrollment periods and the availability of rolling admissions.
Question 10: How can I finance my online accounting degree?
There are several ways to finance an online accounting degree. Students can apply for federal and state financial aid, such as grants and scholarships, which do not require repayment. Students can also seek out private scholarships and grants offered by business associations and non-profits. Additionally, students can apply for student loans offered by the federal government or private lenders. However, it is critical to conduct thorough research to identify the best options that will not lead to a high debt burden upon graduation.