Accounting associate degree programs teach attendees the skills they need for entry-level accounting jobs. Compared to on-campus degrees, online programs offer additional flexibility and accessibility — online enrollees can often complete coursework on less structured schedules and attend programs across the country.
While upper-level accounting careers, including certified public accountants (CPAs), require at least a bachelor's degree, completing an associate program can help prepare you for entry-level roles in the field. Use this guide to discover top accounting programs, including the admissions process and tuition rates for these schools.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Associate in Accounting Programs
Explore our top five online associate degrees in accounting. Discover the benefits, costs, and requirements of these programs. Explore our ranking methodology with the link below.
#2 Best Online Accounting Associate Degrees
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College
- Fennimore, WI
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
Southwest Tech, originally known as the Vocational, Technical, and Adult Education District #3, was founded in 1967 and has grown to offer degrees, apprenticeships, and continuing education courses.
Accounting Associate Degree
Southwest Wisconsin Technical College's accounting associate degree provides the education required to pursue entry-level roles in private, public, and government employment. Enrollees develop their ability to prepare payroll documents, process transactions, and assist with tax preparation.
Each learner receives a technical skill attainment evaluation at the end of the program. The evaluation considers several key skills and assigns a pass or fail grade to each ability. Professors and students can use the evaluation to identify potential areas of improvement.
Applying to Southwest Tech
Interested candidates can apply online and schedule one-on-one visits on campus or virtually.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $143/credit (in state); $215/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 65
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
33%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Accounting Associate Degrees
Olney Central College
- Olney, IL
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
OCC, founded in 1963, enrolled 154 students in its first class. The school has ranked among the top community colleges in Illinois and features many diverse clubs and student organizations.
Associate in Applied Science Degree in Accounting
Olney Central College offers a fully online associate degree in accounting. Students can pursue entry-level roles after graduation or apply to four-year universities to continue their education. Learners looking to transfer to four-year schools from this program may need to take additional courses.
The school offers a professional bookkeeper and QuickBooks certificates to add to the associate degree. Each semester has 5-6 courses, which are mostly predetermined. Courses available to students include business math, managerial accounting, and business law.
Applying to OCC
OCC requires an online application, high school transcripts, and a pre-entrance physical exam or background check. Applicants can submit standardized test scores if the exams were completed within the past three years.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $110/credit (in district); $306/credit (out of district); $375/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 63
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (synchronous)
Out-of-state
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
What to Expect From an Online Accounting Associate
Accounting associate degrees teach basic accounting skills, including bookkeeping, payroll preparation, and how to use accounting software. Most programs require 60 credits, typically comprising courses in finance, federal tax, and managerial accounting. Enrollees must also complete general education classes. Full-time students can usually earn an associate degree in two years.
Individuals with prior postsecondary credits may be able to transfer them toward an accounting associate program. Similarly, graduates of associate programs can often transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree. Schools may allow up to 75% of credits to come from other institutions. Each institution maintains its own policies for accepting transfer credits, so research these procedures or schedule an appointment with advisors before applying.
Admissions Process
Every school has its own admission requirements, but many institutions stipulate similar guidelines. Associate degree applicants usually need a high school degree or equivalent. Prospective online enrollees should be proficient in basic technology, including Microsoft Office and email.
Applicants typically submit official transcripts and application fees. Institutions may also request SAT or ACT scores for admission or scholarship purposes. Unlike with bachelor's in accounting programs, you may not need letters of recommendation, a resume, or a minimum GPA to apply for an online accounting associate degree.
Online Delivery Formats
Schools offer online accounting degrees through 100% online and hybrid delivery modalities. 100% online programs do not require campus attendance, so degree-seekers complete all academic requirements through virtual learning platforms.
Hybrid degrees blend online and classroom-based learning. In some cases, in-person attendance requirements extend only to accounting internships or occasional on-campus learning modules. Other hybrid programs have more extensive physical attendance requirements. Some schools also allow hybrid learners to choose how they balance the two formats.
Online learning offers two course delivery formats: Synchronous online classes require learners to attend virtual classes at set times. Students in synchronous classes can ask instructors questions about course material in real time. This interactivity can be beneficial for complex subjects like accounting.
Asynchronous delivery uses prerecorded lectures or instructional sessions. Students do not log into an online learning platform, instead engaging with coursework when convenient, often turning assignments in on weekly or monthly deadlines. Asynchronous classes maximize scheduling flexibility. They can benefit degree-seekers with busy schedules, jobs, and family obligations.
Tuition
The total tuition cost for an associate degree in accounting program can range from under $3,000 to over $30,000. Tuition varies based on several factors, including school prestige, public or private institution status, and student state residency. Students can compare programs and costs online to find a program that fits their budget.
Online enrollees should account for expenses like an internet connection, a laptop, and required software licenses. Typically, distance learning students can save on costs that in-person learners pay, including parking and campus facility fees.
Students can pursue a variety of financial aid sources to help cover the cost of their degree. These funding options include:
- Scholarships: Students can receive scholarships based on financial need, merit, or demographics. These awards do not require repayment.
- Grants: Government agencies usually provide grants based on financial need. They do not require repayment.
- Loans: Public and private lenders can offer student loans, which typically require repayment with interest.
Accreditation for Online Associate Degrees
Prospective online accounting associate degree enrollees should ensure their school holds institutional accreditation, a designation from accreditation agencies that verifies whether a school meets standards of academic excellence. Employers, professional organizations, and other schools may not accept courses or degrees from nonaccredited institutions.
Programs and departments can also receive programmatic accreditation, an optional designation that affirms how well a program prepares students for careers in the field. Organizations like the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs and AACSB International provide programmatic accreditation for accounting.
You should also investigate if online programs have valid state authorization in your jurisdiction. Each state maintains their own requirements for higher education institutions, so some jurisdictions may not recognize degrees from schools in other states. Enrolling in a program without authorization can cause problems if you plan to pursue a bachelor's degree or CPA designation later in their careers, so investigate these laws before applying.
How Does an Online Program Differ From an On-Campus Program?
Schools offer online, in-person, and hybrid accounting associate degrees. These programs usually provide similar courses across delivery models. However, the accessibility and flexibility of online programs means factors like tuition cost, graduation timeline, and class size can vary.
Comparing Online and On-Campus Associate in Accounting Degrees
| Factor |
Online Program |
On-Campus Program |
| Cost |
Some schools charge in-state and out-of-state enrollees the same tuition rate for online courses. Online course prices may vary from on-campus programs. |
Public schools typically determine tuition rates based on student state residency. Private institutions usually charge all learners the same rate. |
| Class Size |
Some online programs may include courses with large enrollments, while others maintain small class sizes. |
To maximize classroom spaces, some in-person programs may run introductory classes with large enrollments, while more advanced courses may be smaller. |
| Program Length |
Online programs usually take two years of full-time study, requiring 12-15 credits per semester for two years. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time study options. |
On-campus programs usually take two years of full-time study, requiring 12-15 credits per semester for two years. Some programs offer accelerated or part-time study options. |
| Schedule |
In asynchronous classes, students can finish coursework at their own pace throughout the semester. |
Classes occur at predetermined times throughout the week. |
Sources: Point University, Herkimer County Community College, York County Community College
Because of the added flexibility of asynchronous coursework, students who pursue an online degree can also work while studying or graduate early to start their career faster.
Common Questions About Online Accounting Associate Degrees
How many credit hours is an associate degree in accounting online?
An associate degree in accounting usually takes two years of full-time study and consists of 60 credit hours. In addition to general education classes, students take accounting courses like financial accounting, income taxation, and management principles.
How much does an online accounting associate program cost?
An online accounting associate degree can cost $3,000-$30,000. Tuition depends on many factors, including student state residency, private or public school status, and institutional reputation.
What can you do with an online accounting associate?
Online accounting associate degree graduates can pursue entry-level accounting jobs, including bookkeeper, accounting clerk, and payroll assistant. More advanced jobs typically require credentials like a bachelor's degree or CPA licensure. Graduates who wish to pursue a bachelor's degree may be able to transfer their associate degree credits.
Are online accounting degrees respected?
Yes, potential employers and schools respect online accounting degrees. Most online programs offer identical curricula and degrees as their in-person counterparts. However, students should ensure that their online accounting program holds accreditation and state authorization.
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