Though artificial intelligence and software automation have changed the trajectory of accounting professions, technical accounting skills remain in high demand. Earning an accounting degree online is an efficient, affordable path to building versatile skills that have cross-industry transferability.
According to Payscale data from November 2024, professionals with a bachelor's degree in accounting earn an average wage of $81,000 per year. Thus, affordable online bachelor's programs in accounting reduce your schooling costs while helping you qualify for accounting careers with higher-than-average salaries. This, in turn, generates a positive return on investment (ROI).
In the context of online degrees, "affordable" generally refers to any accredited degree-granting institution that charges below-average tuition. For a quick check of a program's affordability status, compare its costs against the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) nationwide average tuition data.
With online learning, you also save on relocation, parking, and commuting costs. Flexible e-learning schedules make it easier to balance school with work, allowing professionals to pursue a degree without sacrificing income.
Start your journey by reviewing the ranked list of affordable online accounting degrees below.
Explore Featured Online Accounting Programs
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Cheapest Online Accounting Degrees of 2025
#1 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Southern Utah University
- Cedar City, UT
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
SUU's bachelor's in accounting offers both BA and BS options. The BA includes a foreign language requirement, while the BS includes additional math and science courses. The program highlights financial ethics and responsibility and builds skills in accounting technology and business communication.
The accounting program features a 74.5-credit major curriculum. Courses focus on both business and accounting topics, including business analytics, operations management, and auditing. SUU allows students to complete up to 21.5 credits of free electives, which may include additional business courses.
Highlights
- Offers dedicated academic advising for business students
- This degree can lead directly into SUU's master's in accountancy program
- Graduates pass the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Exam at a rate higher than the national average
Considerations
- Requires a minimum 2.5 GPA on core business and upper-division accounting courses
- May require additional upper-division courses beyond accounting major courses
- Students must complete several business prerequisites for accounting major
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
- Scottsdale, AZ
- 4 years
- Online
What You Should Know
ASU's online BS in accountancy emphasizes widely applicable skills in problem-solving, ethical decision-making, and critical thinking. Courses include business statistics, macroeconomic principles, and business database concepts. The program also offers computer information systems courses for accounting majors.
The bachelor's program fulfills credits for ASU's master of accountancy and data analytics. Bachelor's graduates can complete the master's program with one year of additional study. Both the bachelor's and master's programs offer several start dates per year.
Highlights
- Includes a business capstone course that builds management skills
- Most students receive financial aid
- Business school with accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Considerations
- Admissions requirements include SAT/ACT scores, a 3.0 GPA, or graduating in top 25% of high school class
- $70 online application fee
- Leads into a master's degree in data analytics
Percent Online Enrollment
98%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
University of Minnesota Crookston
- Crookston, MN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
U of M Crookston's online BS in accounting highlights both analytical and theoretical skills for accountants. The program follows an asynchronous format, which includes no set class meeting times and allows students to complete coursework at any time of day.
The program offers CPA preparation in partnership with Gleim CPA Review. CPA prep courses count toward education requirements necessary for the exam. The program offers a pathway to CPA licensure without needing to complete a full master's degree.
Highlights
- Students receive an average of $13,288 in grants and scholarships as of 2022-23
- SAT/ACT scores are not an admissions requirement
- Online tutoring available for business courses and other subjects via Zoom
Considerations
- Asynchronous course format requires self-directed study
- Holistic admissions model means high SAT/ACT scores don't always help applicants
- At $448/credit, online tuition is on the higher end of our ranked schools
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Indiana University East
- Richmond, IN
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
IU East's online BS in accounting uses a consortium model, allowing students to take online courses across multiple campuses with many different professors. The program emphasizes values of critical thinking, business ethics, and data-driven solutions. Students also benefit from flexible course scheduling and credit transfer options.
The curriculum includes 24 credits of accounting and business foundation courses and 30 credits of accounting major courses. Courses cover topics including cost accounting, auditing and systems, and financial accounting. Electives allow students to explore specialized topics such as accounting analytics, advanced income taxation, and accounting for government and nonprofit entities.
Highlights
- Dedicated counselors for transfer students
- No SAT/ACT requirement for admissions
- Most students receive financial and many graduate debt-free
Considerations
- SAT/ACT scores required for merit-based scholarships
- Higher tuition rate for out-of-state students
- No specialization or concentration options for accounting majors
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Louisiana State University of Alexandria
- Alexandria, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
In LSUA's online BS in accounting, students learn public and private accounting skills and prepare for the CPA exam. Students complete 30 credits of core business courses and 39 credits of accounting major courses. The program offers two concentration options: accounting systems/data analytics and fraud and forensic accounting.
Distance students can enroll in the Omega Nu Lambda online honor society. The organization offers scholarships, networking opportunities, and a larger community for distance students.
Highlights
- Both fully online and hybrid enrollment options available
- Holds Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accreditation
- Small class size with individualized attention from faculty
Considerations
- Not all degree candidates qualify for financial aid
- Applicants with high school GPA below 2.0 must submit ACT scores
- LSUA does not accept first-year students who are required to take more than one developmental course
Out-of-state
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Lamar University
- Beaumont, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
LU's online BS in accounting covers topics such as cost accounting, taxation accounting, and strategic analysis. The program also includes an international business component, allowing students to choose from courses in international trade, finance, or marketing.
Students can complete a professional internship as part of the accounting curriculum. The internship combines academic learning and professional experience, preparing students for accounting careers. LU can help connect online learners to internship opportunities.
Highlights
- Partnership with the Texas Society of Certified Public Accountants offers professional opportunities for students
- Prepares graduates to sit for certified management accountant (CMA) exam
- The program also leads seamlessly into LU's master of science in accounting
Considerations
- May require SAT/ACT scores depending on applicant's GPA and/or class rank
- Significant tuition increase for out-of-state students
- Most scholarships for incoming first-year students consider SAT/ACT scores, class rank, and high school GPA
Percent Online Enrollment
81%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
SUNY College at Plattsburgh
- Plattsburgh, NY
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
SUNY Plattsburgh's BS in accounting uses a highly flexible, fully asynchronous delivery format. The program curriculum includes 75 credits of accounting major courses, covering topics in cost accounting, business law, and principles of finance. Students can also add a forensic accounting minor.
Accounting graduates can enroll directly in SUNY Plattsburgh's MS in accounting and data analytics, which allows candidates to earn their master's with just one year of additional study. The master's program also meets New York State CPA education requirements.
Highlights
- SAT/ACT scores not required for application
- Prepares students for certifications such as CMA and certified internal auditor
- Career resources and alumni networking opportunities available to online students
Considerations
- Undergraduate application requires a letter of recommendation from a teacher or school counselor
- Must meet minimum GPA requirement to enroll in master's in accounting program
- Students must complete a minimum of 37 accounting major credits at Plattsburgh
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Mayville State University
- Mayville, ND
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Students in MSU's online BS in accounting receive a comprehensive business education, completing 34 credits of core business courses and 39 credits of accounting major courses. The program reports strong professional outcomes, with 97% of graduates either entering accounting careers or pursuing additional education.
All students complete either a strategic decision-making capstone or a business project during their senior year. The capstone takes the form of a business simulation activity, while the project allows candidates to conduct a business research project under faculty supervision. Both culminating options connect program concepts to professional accounting practice.
Highlights
- Offers a double major option in business administration
- Same tuition rate regardless of state residency
- Option to complete an accounting internship in a professional business setting
Considerations
- Minimum 2.0 GPA required for undergraduate applicants
- SAT/ACT scores required for scholarship consideration
- Curriculum may not meet state CPA requirements for out-of-state students
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Northern State University
- Aberdeen, SD
- 2 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
NSU's BS in accounting builds broad skills in information literacy and ethical reasoning, training students to apply accounting concepts to business management. The program includes 48 credits of business courses and 27 credits of accounting courses. Candidates can also complete a professional internship as part of their studies.
The BS program leads directly into NSU's master's in accounting, which students can complete with one extra year of study. The program curriculum also prepares graduates to sit for certification exams including CMA, certified bookkeeper, and certified information systems auditor.
Highlights
- Accredited by the ACBSP
- Career services can help connect students to job opportunities
- Scholarships available specifically for business students
Considerations
- SAT/ACT required for some scholarships
- Admissions may require either SAT/ACT scores or a 2.6 minimum GPA
- School of business requires candidates to take an exit exam
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Most Affordable Online Accounting Degrees 2025
Southwest Minnesota State University
- Marshall, MN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What You Should Know
SMSU's online BS in accounting focuses on finance in public, private, and government organizations. The curriculum prepares candidates for certifications including government financial manager. Graduates can also complete a 30-credit certificate to prepare for the CPA examination.
Candidates complete 57 credits of accounting major courses, including macroeconomics, business statistics, and management principles. Elective courses allow students to gain specialized knowledge in areas such as international business and fraud examination. The program also includes a senior capstone, which brings together major program concepts and combines research with professional applications.
Highlights
- Offers in-state tuition for all students, regardless of state residency
- Rolling admissions and three start dates per year
- Enrollment counseling, success coaching, and dedicated academic advising for online learners
Considerations
- Minimum 2.5 GPA required for application; 3.0 recommended
- Scholarships not offered to all students
- Not accredited by the AACSB or ACBSP
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
This ranking is from 2025. Learn more about our process by visiting our school rankings methodology page.
What Factors Into the Affordability of an Accounting Bachelor's?
The net cost of attendance is the ultimate determiner of a program's affordability. Net cost is defined as tuition minus any nonrepayable forms of financial aid you receive. We explore tuition and other factors that determine affordability below.
Tuition
For online accounting degrees, schools often assess tuition on a per-credit basis. Some programs charge semester or annual rates instead.
According to NCES data from 2020, undergraduate business students paid an average of about $6,017 per year in tuition fees at schools offering fully online instruction. This average compares favorably to NCES data about nationwide averages for all institution types in the 2022–23 school year. These average costs were:
- Public four-year colleges, in state: $9,750
- Public four-year colleges, out of state: $28,297
- Private colleges: $35,248
This data shows that compared to public in-state schools — the category with the lowest average tuition — studying online can save you almost $4,000 per year on average. These savings equate to more than $15,000 over the course of a four-year accounting degree.
Enrollment Status
Studying part time can make it easier to keep working and earning money while you attend school. However, it also extends your graduation timeline. Given the higher-than-average average salaries accounting professionals with bachelor's degrees earn, it may benefit you to finish your degree as quickly as possible.
You should also consider how tuition policies affect your budgeting and financial pacing. If you pay flat rates per semester or year, taking fewer classes per term will cost you more in the long run. In contrast, overloading a full-time schedule can maximize savings.
Location
Public schools almost always charge differential tuition. In this system, in-state students pay less and out-of-state students pay more. However, online programs may offer in-state or online-only tuition rates for all distance learners, meaning an online degree can be more affordable than an in-person one. Beyond tuition, studying online can also help you save on expenses like relocation and transportation.
Some online programs run in hybrid formats, requiring in-person orientations, seminars, or coursework alongside virtual learning experiences. Investigate these requirements thoroughly to understand how they impact your budget, especially for hybrid programs in other parts of the country that may incur expensive travel costs.
Online vs. On Campus
Online courses can use synchronous and asynchronous delivery formats. Asynchronous classes are typically more flexible, as they do not meet at set times and let learners complete coursework on less rigid schedules. This can benefit students who work while they earn their degree. Synchronous classes usually require live webconferencing sessions with instructors and peers, which more closely mirrors on-campus courses.
However, fully online learning comes with some trade-offs. Traditional face-to-face accounting programs often feature internships and other practical learning components. These double as excellent networking opportunities that can help you land a job.
Though some online programs incorporate internships and practicums into their structures, others omit them. Consider this factor as you compare the pros and cons of earning an accounting degree online.
Financial Aid
When considering affordability, consider more than just a school's upfront price. A 2023 CNBC analysis compared standard tuition costs — "sticker price" — at select U.S. schools against the actual net price of attendance.
Among the five private colleges CNBC analyzed, the actual cost of a four-year degree was nearly $58,000 lower than the sticker price once the school applied financial aid. This estimate does not necessarily include indirect costs that won't show up on a university bill, like class supplies or off-campus food and housing.
Not all private colleges offer these levels of financial aid, as private schools often extend larger aid packages to students than their public counterparts.
By pursuing an accredited accounting degree online, you can access federal financial aid, including scholarships, fellowships, and grants. You may also be able to take advantage of work-study programs, especially if you enroll in a hybrid program.
Federal and private loans can also help you meet your schooling costs. However, loans — unlike other forms of aid — require repayment with interest, so use them as a last resort.
Making the Cheapest Online Accounting Degrees Cheaper
There are a number of additional strategies you can use to reduce the cost of an online accounting degree. Creating a personal budget can help you keep track of your expenses and manage your income. Here are a few more things you can do:
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Rent or Buy Used Textbooks
Textbooks can be costly, so renting, buying used, or even acquiring digital copies of required course materials can lower a student's total expenditures each semester. Students should ensure that used textbooks match the current edition.
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Find Free Online Resources
In addition to course materials your instructors provide, look for resources like lectures and open-source textbooks online to supplement your learning at no extra cost.
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Earn Income While Enrolled
Working part time or taking advantage of work-study opportunities can help learners earn income while they complete their degree. They can apply this money directly toward their tuition to reduce the size of the loans they borrow.
How Can You Pay for an Accounting Degree Online?
Scholarships reduce your debt burden. The following section reviews three scholarships specific to accounting students. It is not an exhaustive list, but it can help familiarize you with available scholarship opportunities.
Outside of this list, students should ask their prospective colleges how those institutions treat external scholarships like these. Some schools may adjust their institutional funding depending upon a student's scholarship load.
Scholarships for Accounting Students
Awards from $3,000-$10,000 for outstanding undergraduate or graduate accounting students planning to pursue CPA licensure.
Various awards available for undergraduate women in their third, fourth or fifth year of an accounting or finance degree program.
Awards $7,500 to an outstanding junior or senior student who is pursuing a career in management accounting, financial management, or information technology.
Do Accounting Programs Online Pay Off?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors earned a median annual salary of $79,880 in 2023 — more than $30,000 higher than the average salary across all occupations.
This higher-than-average figure suggests accounting degrees can provide a positive ROI — so long as your salary is enough to pay your student loans when you graduate.
To analyze the ROI of an online accounting program for yourself, you can:
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Research statistics regarding employment outcomes for accounting graduates of the schools you are considering.
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Compare data about the average incomes of people with your current qualifications against those of professionals with the educational credential you plan to pursue.
Job Outlook for Accounting Graduates
An accounting degree can set you up for a variety of interesting jobs that pay well. Take a look at some popular roles for accounting grads and their average salaries as reported by Payscale:
These professionals maintain the accuracy of business records, prepare reports, and develop financial processes and protocols.
Average Annual Salary (October 2024): $64,820
These advisors assist individuals with retirement planning, investments, taxes, and meeting their personal financial goals.
Average Annual Salary (November 2024): $79,020
These workers develop and monitor budgets for companies. They provide information, insight, and recommendations to guide major business decisions.
Average Annual Salary (November 2024): $102,590
Business Consultant
Business consultants work closely with clients to help them understand financial goals, challenges, objectives, and opportunities.
Average Annual Salary (October 2024): $82,410
CFOs oversee the money operations of an entire company, especially those departments involved in purchasing, investments, taxes, and payments.
Average Annual Salary (November 2024): $149,780
Frequently Asked Questions About Studying Accounting Online
How can I save money getting an accounting degree?
You can save money on an accounting degree by taking online classes, which may charge lower tuition than on-campus programs. Online degrees can also reduce or eliminate expenses related to relocation and commuting. Additionally, the flexibility of online accounting programs can help working students continue earning money as they attend school.
What jobs can I get with an accounting degree?
A bachelor's degree helps you meet the requirements for certified public accountant and certified management account licensure. Other accounting roles you can pursue with a bachelor's degree include auditor, personal financial advisor, and financial analyst.
Is an online accounting degree worth it?
Because they offer a favorable balance between affordability and practicality, often online accounting degrees generate positive ROI. For example, Payscale reported the average salary of workers with bachelor's degrees in accounting was $81,000 per year as of November 2024.
Is getting an accounting degree online hard?
Getting an accounting degree online is no easier or harder than completing a face-to-face program — both options require students to explore complex mathematical and economic concepts. Because of the less rigid learning structures of online degrees, succeeding in online learning environments demands self-discipline and independence. If you possess these traits, you may thrive in an online program.
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