Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Accounting Programs

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE BACHELOR'S IN ACCOUNTING

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Jenn Finley

Published: Jul 18, 2023
Updated: Apr 1, 2024

Key Takeaways

An online accelerated accounting degree allows students to finish a bachelor’s degree much more quickly than a traditional accounting program.
An online accounting degree opens up numerous career opportunities with a higher-than-average salary.
Graduates who have earned a bachelor’s in accounting degree can continue their education with additional certifications or a master’s degree to advance in their careers.

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degree Programs

Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Thomas Jefferson University
Old Dominion University
Southern New Hampshire University
Wilmington University
Western Governors University
University of Maryland Global Campus
Sullivan University
Indiana Institute of Technology
Colorado Christian University

Thomas Jefferson University
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Old Dominion University
Southern New Hampshire University
Wilmington University
Western Governors University
University of Maryland Global Campus
Sullivan University
Indiana Institute of Technology
Colorado Christian University

Southern New Hampshire University 96%
Old Dominion University 95%
Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
Thomas Jefferson University 89%
Indiana Institute of Technology 65%

Western Governors University 42 to 1
Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
University of Maryland Global Campus 19 to 1
Old Dominion University 16 to 1
Colorado Christian University 16 to 1
Indiana Institute of Technology 15 to 1
Thomas Jefferson University 13 to 1
Sullivan University 13 to 1
Wilmington University 12 to 1
Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1

Thomas Jefferson University $44,350
Indiana Institute of Technology $29,560
Colorado Christian University $17,476
Southern Illinois University Carbondale $15,416
Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
Sullivan University $14,220
Wilmington University $12,030
Western Governors University $8,010
University of Maryland Global Campus $7,488
Old Dominion University $7,239

Thomas Jefferson University $22,509
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
Sullivan University $15,840
Colorado Christian University $13,931
Southern Illinois University Carbondale $11,268
Old Dominion University $10,519
Indiana Institute of Technology $10,224
University of Maryland Global Campus $9,252
Wilmington University $9,216
Western Governors University $7,765

Colorado Christian University
Indiana Institute of Technology
Sullivan University
University of Maryland Global Campus
Western Governors University
Wilmington University
Southern New Hampshire University
Old Dominion University
Thomas Jefferson University
Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Colorado Christian University
Indiana Institute of Technology
Sullivan University
University of Maryland Global Campus
Western Governors University
Wilmington University
Southern New Hampshire University
Old Dominion University
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Thomas Jefferson University

Indiana Institute of Technology 65%
Thomas Jefferson University 89%
Southern Illinois University Carbondale 91%
Old Dominion University 95%
Southern New Hampshire University 96%

Southern Illinois University Carbondale 11 to 1
Wilmington University 12 to 1
Thomas Jefferson University 13 to 1
Sullivan University 13 to 1
Indiana Institute of Technology 15 to 1
Old Dominion University 16 to 1
Colorado Christian University 16 to 1
University of Maryland Global Campus 19 to 1
Southern New Hampshire University 22 to 1
Western Governors University 42 to 1

Old Dominion University $7,239
University of Maryland Global Campus $7,488
Western Governors University $8,010
Wilmington University $12,030
Sullivan University $14,220
Southern New Hampshire University $15,380
Southern Illinois University Carbondale $15,416
Colorado Christian University $17,476
Indiana Institute of Technology $29,560
Thomas Jefferson University $44,350

Western Governors University $7,765
Wilmington University $9,216
University of Maryland Global Campus $9,252
Indiana Institute of Technology $10,224
Old Dominion University $10,519
Southern Illinois University Carbondale $11,268
Colorado Christian University $13,931
Sullivan University $15,840
Southern New Hampshire University $18,900
Thomas Jefferson University $22,509

Table of Contents

Accounting is a dynamic field with many different career options. Accounting specialists are necessary for all Fortune 500 corporations or small nonprofits. Accountants work in every industry, so it is not difficult to find a company that matches your personality and career objectives when you hold a bachelor of science in accounting.

Unlike a traditional four-year accounting degree program, students in an accelerated online accounting bachelors program enroll in faster-paced courses and graduate more quickly. An accelerated accounting degree requires students to accomplish the same amount of work in a shorter time frame. However, these programs intend to provide students with the same amount of knowledge at a lesser cost.

These online accelerated accounting programs appeal to driven students looking for a quicker path to a career or professional certifications. They enable students to waive one to two years of schooling to be ready for the job market more quickly.

accountant sitting at her desk using a calculator

Best Online Accelerated Accounting Degree Programs

Methodology

Fast and accelerated accounting degree programs are only valuable if you earn them from accredited colleges and universities. The featured schools on this list are regionally accredited and reputable. Additional factors included the school’s cost, financial aid and networking opportunities, student support services, and student ratings.

We’ve also included a few on-campus accelerated accounting degree programs to expand your options.

accountant working on sales invoice accounting

Career Outlook for Students with Accounting Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Accounting

Degree Level: Bachelor's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $10,444
Avg. Expenses*: $16,268
Avg. Starting Salary*: $48,492
Avg. Salary after 4 Years*: $61,758
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 9 years
Job Growth: 4.52%
Number of Jobs: 2,051,900
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Financial Managers	15.97%	$125,312
Financial Risk Specialists	8.15%	$89,827
Business Teachers, Postsecondary	7.01%	$86,765
Financial and Investment Analysts	7.63%	$82,451
Budget Analysts	3.30%	$78,432
Financial Examiners	19.66%	$78,354
Accountants and Auditors	4.38%	$71,282
Credit Analysts	-4.25%	$69,568
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents	0.73%	$57,282
Statistical Assistants	-2.70%	$52,481

Average Career Salaries

Bottom 10%	Median	Top 10%
$49,057	$77,714	$129,196

Promising Job Markets

State	Cost of Living	Avg. Salary
#2 New York	5% higher than average	$104,966
#3 Michigan	15% higher than average	$78,409
#4 North Carolina	11% higher than average	$79,756
#5 Texas	10% higher than average	$79,329
#6 Ohio	14% higher than average	$75,885
#7 Virginia	5% higher than average	$83,631
#8 New Jersey	13% higher than average	$99,194
#9 Minnesota	4% higher than average	$83,118
#10 Georgia	13% higher than average	$75,185
#11 Missouri	16% higher than average	$72,131
#12 Wisconsin	7% higher than average	$79,590
#13 Utah	4% higher than average	$81,498
#14 Illinois	7% higher than average	$78,884
#15 Alabama	13% higher than average	$73,308
#16 Delaware	2% higher than average	$84,128
#17 Colorado	3% higher than average	$84,214
#18 Pennsylvania	5% higher than average	$77,547
#19 Tennessee	14% higher than average	$69,666
#20 Kentucky	14% higher than average	$68,416
#21 Indiana	11% higher than average	$70,410
#22 Kansas	9% higher than average	$72,108
#23 District of Columbia	49% higher than average	$116,905
#24 Iowa	9% higher than average	$71,317
#25 Washington	7% higher than average	$83,742
#26 Oklahoma	13% higher than average	$67,730
#27 South Dakota	7% higher than average	$72,225
#28 Arizona	5% higher than average	$73,342
#29 Mississippi	18% higher than average	$62,917
#30 Arkansas	16% higher than average	$64,364
#31 New Mexico	7% higher than average	$70,660
#32 Connecticut	18% higher than average	$89,562
#33 Nevada	5% higher than average	$79,261
#34 Louisiana	9% higher than average	$67,917
#35 Florida	6% higher than average	$70,421
#36 Oregon	11% higher than average	$82,774
#37 South Carolina	8% higher than average	$68,628
#38 Idaho	7% higher than average	$68,296
#39 California	26% higher than average	$92,463
#40 Rhode Island	20% higher than average	$87,540
#41 North Dakota	average	$73,340
#42 Montana	3% higher than average	$70,023
#43 Nebraska	6% higher than average	$67,772
#44 New Hampshire	13% higher than average	$81,071
#45 Vermont	13% higher than average	$80,822
#46 Maryland	18% higher than average	$84,334
#47 Wyoming	2% higher than average	$70,021
#48 Massachusetts	24% higher than average	$87,547
#49 Alaska	23% higher than average	$85,632
#50 West Virginia	11% higher than average	$61,941
#51 Maine	9% higher than average	$72,907
#52 Hawaii	40% higher than average	$71,233

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Financial Managers	$125,312
Financial Risk Specialists	$89,827
Business Teachers, Postsecondary	$86,765
Financial and Investment Analysts	$82,451
Budget Analysts	$78,432
Financial Examiners	$78,354
Accountants and Auditors	$71,282
Credit Analysts	$69,568
Tax Examiners and Collectors, and Revenue Agents	$57,282
Statistical Assistants	$52,481

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

close-up photo of accountant using a calculator

What is the difference between an accounting degree and an accounting certification?

An accounting degree and certification are distinct entities, each serving unique purposes and carrying significance.

An accounting degree is an academic achievement obtained by completing a prescribed course of study in accounting at a college or university. Typically, aspiring accountants pursue a bachelor of science in accounting, such as a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, as a foundational requirement for entering the accounting profession.

This degree program offers a comprehensive education encompassing various aspects of accounting, including accounting principles, financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and related subjects.

By pursuing an accounting degree, students acquire a broad understanding of the fundamental principles and practices in the field. This educational foundation equips graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to secure entry-level positions in the accounting industry.

Furthermore, an accounting degree can also serve as a stepping stone for further educational pursuits, such as a master’s in accounting or an MBA, enabling individuals to deepen their expertise and enhance their career prospects.

On the other hand, accounting certifications are professional credentials granted by recognized accounting bodies or organizations. These certifications validate higher expertise and specialization in specific accounting domains.

There are several notable accounting certifications available, including the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Financial Analyst (CFA), among others. These certifications typically entail meeting specific education requirements, including holding an accounting degree and successfully passing rigorous examinations.

Moreover, maintaining accounting certifications often necessitates engaging in ongoing professional development activities and adhering to a prescribed code of ethics. These certifications are valuable in accounting as they enhance professional credibility, unlock advanced career opportunities, and demonstrate specialized proficiency in auditing, taxation, management accounting, or financial analysis.

Many accountants pursue an accounting degree and one or more certifications to broaden their knowledge base, establish themselves as experts in specialized fields, and bolster their professional standing.

Key Points: To summarize, an accounting degree provides a comprehensive education in accounting principles and serves as an entry point for individuals aspiring to begin a career in accounting. On the other hand, accounting certifications offer a means to acquire specialized knowledge and expertise in specific areas of accounting, opening doors to advanced career prospects.

It is common for accountants to pursue both a degree and certifications to solidify their understanding of core accounting principles while demonstrating proficiency in specialized areas. By combining these educational and professional credentials, accountants can elevate their knowledge, enhance their employability, and position themselves for success in the dynamic accounting field.

Accountant reviewing information on a graph while sitting at a desk

Salary Outlook for Bachelor’s in Accounting Graduates

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 6% increase in accountant and auditor occupations through 2031, which is a faster than usual rate of growth, an encouraging marker for this field. This employment growth can be attributed to several factors, including the expanding global economy and the increasing complexity of tax regulations.

The accounting profession’s stability is closely tied to the economy’s overall health, making it susceptible to the effects of recessions and economic booms. However, despite these fluctuations, accountants and auditors enjoy a resilient job market.

Furthermore, the rise of automation and technological advancements in accounting should not be a cause for concern regarding job security. While automation is expected to streamline routine accounting tasks, it is anticipated that there will still be a demand for skilled accounting professionals.

In fact, automation will enable accountants to focus on higher-value tasks that require critical thinking, analysis, and decision-making. By leveraging automated tools, accountants can enhance their productivity and provide more strategic insights into business financials.

Bottom Line: Accounting offers promising career prospects for individuals with a bachelor of science online accounting degree. With a projected growth rate above the average for all occupations and the assurance that automation will not eliminate job opportunities, accountants can look forward to a stable and evolving profession.

Potential Careers for Bachelor’s in Accounting Graduates

There are numerous career opportunities for those with an online accelerated bachelor of science in accounting. These careers offer a strong median salary as well. The top accounting jobs include:

Accounts Payable Clerk

Accounts payable clerks handle and process bill payments. They meticulously keep track of expenditures, bills, and cash transactions.

Advanced Excel abilities, a keen eye for detail, and proficiency in mathematics are prerequisites. Interacting with clients could also call for effective communication skills.

Median Annual Salary: $43,362

Bookkeeper

An ideal place to start obtaining accounting expertise is through bookkeeping. Responsibilities include maintaining financial records, keeping tabs on revenue, expenses, open bills, and past-due accounts. To conduct analysis or audits, bookkeepers may operate independently or as independent contractors.

Median Annual Salary: $49,523

Staff Accountant

Staff accountants perform functions such as entering transactions in a ledger, balancing the books, and producing financial statements. Along with bookkeeping responsibilities, staff accountants may also assist senior accountants with auditing, processing accounts payables and receivables, and suggesting cost-cutting strategies.

For those with an online accounting degree, this entry-level position offers a variety of experiences.

Median Annual Salary: $55,394

Cost Accountant

Cost accountants concentrate on examining the costs incurred by a business. They are responsible for estimating the expenses of labor, supplies, manufacturing, shipping, and administration.

Cost accountants help diverse departments optimize their budgets by comparing costs and values. They are essential in determining the prices of the company’s goods and services.

Median Annual Salary: $75,221

Internal Auditor

Companies employ internal auditors to evaluate the accounts, procedures, and financial statements of their business. Additionally, internal auditors may point out inefficiencies and recommend adjustments. This position requires the ability to manage huge amounts of data as well as possess an exacting attention to detail.

Median Annual Salary: $78,930

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts operate in the world of purchasing and selling investments. Their main responsibility is to keep an eye on the financial market and spot patterns that can be used to guide corporate choices, boost profitability, and reduce risks. Financial analysts often perform similar tasks in the investment industry’s buy-side and sell-side professions.

Median Annual Salary: $91,580

Accounting Manager

Account management is not considered an entry-level career, so candidates will need experience before seeking out this position. Account managers manage and lead a group of apprentice accountants.

Accounting managers also manage strategic responsibilities like creating annual budgets, monitoring long-term financial data, and developing policies and procedures. Many account managers also perform high-level jobs like recruiting, training, inspiring the team, and communicating with other department managers.

Median Annual Salary: $94,153

Controller

A firm’s most important financial role is that of a controller. Controllers are responsible for various financial tasks, such as risk management, strategic planning, internal auditing, and bookkeeping. Because of the high level of responsibility, this job is not typically for an entry-level accountant.

A solid accounting background is required for financial information to be efficiently translated into insights that other business executives can use. This position combines high-level duties with practical experience in financial operations.

Median Annual Salary: $107,932

Tax Manager

Tax managers are in charge of overseeing a group of accountants and making sure that all local, state, and federal tax laws are followed. This is considered an entry-level position.

Their main goal is to prepare the company’s taxes and implement methods to maximize tax savings. Tax managers are responsible for thorough studies and staying current on tax laws.

Median Annual Salary: $137,685

team of accountants sitting at a conference table reviewing financial information

Can I work remotely as an accountant?

Yes, an accountant may have the opportunity to work remotely. With the help of technological improvements and the rising popularity of flexible work schedules, the number of remote employment prospects for accountants has dramatically expanded in recent years.

Accounting professionals can work from home or other off-site locations thanks to the numerous remote roles offered by accounting firms and businesses. Many of the duties that accountants routinely perform like tax preparation, bookkeeping, and financial analysis, lend themselves perfectly to remote work.

Depending on the work and business, remote roles may be full-time, part-time, or project-based.

Some platforms for accounting software provide online options that let accountants conduct their business from a distance. These solutions allow you to do accounting activities from any location with an internet connection, engage with clients, and access financial data. You can safely handle and process financial information using cloud-based accounting software without being bound to a particular place.

Consider networking, checking out remote job sites, and looking into chances with businesses that support remote work cultures if you’re interested in pursuing a career in remote accounting. You may also stand out as a candidate for remote accounting roles by presenting your expertise in pertinent accounting software and exhibiting good organizational and communication abilities.

accountant sitting in front of a computer reviewing invoices

Can you become an accountant without a bachelor’s degree?

Yes, becoming an accountant without a bachelor of science in accounting is possible. However, the path may be more challenging since the market is very competitive. Here are a few alternative routes to consider:

Associate Degree

You can seek an associate’s degree in accounting or a related degree instead of a bachelor’s. An associate degree gives a foundation in accounting concepts, financial management, taxation, and other pertinent topics and usually takes two years to finish.

Although an associate degree can qualify you for entry-level accounting work, bear in mind that without a bachelor of science in accounting degree, your options for career growth may be limited.

Professional Certifications

A different route to becoming an accountant is to obtain professional credentials. You can show credibility and knowledge by obtaining certification, such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Public Accountant (CPA), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).

These credentials frequently have prerequisites for specific educational attainment, exam success, and professional experience. Be aware that some certificates may demand a bachelor of science in accounting; therefore, thoroughly examine the prerequisites for each certification you’re considering obtaining.

Work Experience and On-the-Job Training

Some accounting companies or employers may consider candidates without a bachelor’s degree if they have relevant job experience. You can build the abilities and knowledge required to become an accountant by participating in internships, entry-level jobs, or apprenticeships where you can gain real-world accounting experience.

It’s crucial to remember that job advancement and opportunities for higher-level roles may be constrained without a bachelor’s degree.

Continuing Education

You can increase your accounting knowledge and skills by enrolling in professional development or continuing education courses. These courses can give specialized instruction in fields like taxation, auditing, or financial analysis and are frequently offered by universities, community institutions, or professional organizations.

It’s critical to understand that accounting has become more competitive and that many accounting careers often require a bachelor’s degree.

In addition to offering a thorough education in the principles of accounting, a bachelor’s degree may also be required for several certifications and higher-level work prospects. As a result, although becoming an accountant is achievable without a bachelor’s degree, it may be advantageous to consider taking other career paths or earning a degree to improve your chances of success.

What to Expect in Accelerated Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Accounting

Compared to typical programs, accelerated online bachelor’s degree programs in accounting are intended to offer a more rapid and flexible path to graduation. The following are some essential features of an accelerated online bachelor’s program in accounting:

Flexible Learning Format

You can create a study plan that works because you can access course materials, lectures, and assignments online. Given that online programs are flexible, learning from home is a great alternative for people who sometimes find it difficult to find the time for traditional education because they have demanding work schedules or young children who need to be watched.

Shorter Duration

Compared to traditional business schools, accelerated programs are made to be finished faster. Accelerated online programs usually compress the coursework and enable you to finish your degree in less time than the conventional 4-year term, such as 2-3 years. However, the precise length may vary.

Intensive Coursework

The curriculum of accelerated programs is frequently more concentrated to cover the same information as standard programs in less time. It means that you can anticipate a demanding and fast-paced educational experience.

The main subjects in accounting, such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, financial and managerial accounting, and accounting information systems, will all be covered in the course material.

Cohort Learning

A cohort model may be used in accelerated online programs, where you advance through the curriculum with other students. Through increased engagement and teamwork, cohort-based learning helps students feel more connected to one another and supported throughout the program.

Prior Learning Assessment

You can gain credits for prior study or professional experience through accelerated programs. Awarding credits for pertinent knowledge of essential accounting principles and relevant abilities you have obtained outside of the classroom can speed up your progress.

Dedicated Support

Online schools frequently offer thorough support services to help you during your studies. To help with job placement and internship prospects, this may include employment services, online tutoring, technological support, and access to academic counselors.

Preparation for Professional Certifications

You can prepare for professional certifications like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) by enrolling in a reputable accelerated online bachelor’s in accounting degree program. The curriculum of these programs may align with the subject areas and specifications of these certifications, offering a solid foundation for exam preparation.

Admission Requirements

Different colleges may have different entry criteria for accelerated online accounting bachelors programs. But the most common admission requirements include:

Application Form
High School Diploma or Equivalent
Transcripts
Prerequisite Coursework
Letters of Recommendation
Personal Statement or Essay

Some colleges and universities have minimum GPA requirements for their online accounting degree programs. While the GPA requirements vary from school to school, the average required GPA is 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. Additionally, proof of English language proficiency may be required for non-native speakers—standardized examinations like the TOEFL or IELTS.

Key Point: While an accelerated bachelor’s in accounting degree online is demanding, it is a great solution for many working professionals who are trying to juggle work, school, and family life. An added benefit of choosing one of the top-ranked online accounting degree programs from our list is that they provide a superior level of student support to ensure success.

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Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor’s of Accounting Programs

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online Bachelor's in Accounting Degree Programs

Best Online Accelerated Accounting Degree Programs

Methodology

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Southern Illinois University Carbondale

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Thomas Jefferson University

Thomas Jefferson University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Old Dominion University

Most Influential Alumni

Old Dominion University’s Online Degrees

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Southern New Hampshire University

Most Influential Alumni

Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Wilmington University

Most Influential Alumni

Wilmington University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Western Governors University

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at University of Maryland Global Campus

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Sullivan University

Sullivan University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Indiana Institute of Technology

Career Outlook for Accounting degree at Colorado Christian University

Most Influential Alumni

Colorado Christian University’s Online Degrees

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Career Outlook for Students with Accounting Degree

Accounting

Degree Level: Bachelor's

Career Salaries

Average Career Salaries

Promising Job Markets

Top Industries

What is the difference between an accounting degree and an accounting certification?

Salary Outlook for Bachelor’s in Accounting Graduates

Potential Careers for Bachelor’s in Accounting Graduates

Accounts Payable Clerk

Bookkeeper

Staff Accountant

Cost Accountant

Internal Auditor

Financial Analyst

Accounting Manager

Controller

Tax Manager

Can I work remotely as an accountant?

Can you become an accountant without a bachelor’s degree?