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Accounting certificates provide specialized skills in a condensed format. Uncover what schools offer the best certificates in this discipline and how you can pick between them.
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Undergraduate accounting certificates give aspiring accounting and business professionals an alternative to a full accounting degree. These condensed programs feature a fraction of the completion time and cost of traditional degrees, allowing you to develop your skills and pursue entry-level careers.
When offered online, accounting certificates become even more convenient and accessible. If you're actively working, you may be able to pursue these programs without having to travel, relocate, or change your schedule.
As traditional business and accounting positions become more interdisciplinary, the value of certificates could increase even more. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, enrollment in undergraduate certificate programs grew more than 15% from 2019-2023.
This in-depth guide explores some of the best accounting certificates available and the value they can bring to students like yourself. Discover how online accounting certificates differ from on-campus certificates and how to choose the right program for your needs.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Accounting Certificate Programs
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the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
Accounting.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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#1 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
The 15-credit program includes principles of accounting, payroll accounting, and computer accounting courses. Transferable credits allow learners to pursue NIACC's accounting diploma or associate in applied science after graduation.
The online accounting certificate has no campus requirements, and students can complete it on their own schedules. NIACC's open admission policy accommodates applicants from all educational backgrounds.
Highlights
Choice of asynchronous or synchronous delivery
Included instructor-aided computer lab work
Scholarships available to residents of neighboring states
Considerations
Optional and encouraged internships
Minimum 2.0 GPA required
Higher tuition rates for out-of-state students
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,378
Out-of-state
$8,066
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,479
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
64%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
The 16-credit program runs entirely online and features courses in accounting fundamentals, managerial accounting, and mathematics. Along with helping graduates pursue entry-level accounting careers, the program can create a bridge to more advanced accounting degrees.
Online courses at NTC run asynchronously and require no campus visits, opening the door for out-of-state learners.
Highlights
Test out options available in most courses
Provides 26% of the credits for an accounting associate degree
Available at six campus locations as well as online
Considerations
Does not offer financial aid
Requires self-discipline with fully asynchronous classes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,443
Out-of-state
$5,164
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,069
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
Trinity Valley Community College
Athens, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
TVCC's online accounting certificate program can provide a gateway into the accounting profession and more advanced education in the field. The 37-credit curriculum includes courses in computerized accounting, financial accounting, and payroll and business tax accounting.
TVCC offers all classes in its accounting certificate program online, delivering them either asynchronously or synchronously. As a pathway program, this certificate can reduce the credits and tuition required for TVCC's associate degree program in accounting.
Highlights
Awards transferable credits for an associate degree
Some of the lowest per-credit tuition rates on this list
Texas Success Initiative Program (TSI) not required for admission
Considerations
Courses may run at specific times during the day
The longest program on this list
Additional fees for out-of-district and out-of-state students
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,170
Out-of-state
$4,500
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
91%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
5,362
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
Sauk Valley Community College
Dixon, IL
2 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
SVCC's online bookkeeping accounting certificate program prepares students for various entry-level accounting positions. The program also helps students transition into more advanced programs like the school's associate degree program in accounting.
The 16-credit program emphasizes accounting technology and includes courses in financial accounting, spreadsheet software, and computer accounting. Since SVCC charges a standard online tuition rate, all students pay the same rate regardless of where they live.
Highlights
Two-semester program
Asynchronous program delivery
May qualify for financial aid
Considerations
Class placement testing is required
Campus visits may be required
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,800
Out-of-state
$12,060
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,386
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
Learners can take this 36-credit program entirely online and explore courses in basic tax planning, accounting with QuickBooks, and data analytics for accounting. The program also has an optional internship for learners seeking hands-on experience.
YC's online courses run asynchronously and require no campus visits.
Highlights
Training based on generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and international financial and reporting standards
One of the few programs on this list with electives
Four-term program
Considerations
Higher out-of-state student tuition rates
Some courses charge higher tuition rates than others
May require placement tests for admission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,680
Out-of-state
$9,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,997
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
North Arkansas College
Harrison, AR
2 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
NorthArk's online accounting certificate program prepares students to handle accounting responsibilities for organizations of various sizes. The school's open admission policy ensures that applicants from diverse educational backgrounds can pursue this program.
The 30-credit program combines business and accounting courses, covering topics like human relations, business mathematics, personal finance, and accounting principles. Along with pursuing employment, graduates can use the certificate as a bridge to associate degrees in accounting and general technology.
Highlights
Two-semester program
Qualifies for Arkansas Future Grant financial aid
Asynchronous or synchronous classes with no campus requirements
Considerations
Higher tuition rates for out-of-county and out-of-state students
Mandatory online course fee of $20/credit
Self-motivation and time management skills required
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,000
Out-of-state
$4,728
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
54%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
1,856
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
The 16-credit program features courses in principles of accounting, individual income taxes, and accounting software applications. Students can complete all courses in the program online and in an asynchronous format.
SCC also offers payroll accounting, bookkeeping, and tax accounting certificate programs, as well as accounting diploma and associate degree programs.
Highlights
Transferable credits to accounting diploma or associate degree programs
One of the lowest total in-state tuition costs on this list at $1,360
Open-door admission policy that welcomes all students
Considerations
Not eligible for financial aid
Placement test required for admission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,976
Out-of-state
$6,968
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,256
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
The 31-credit program features courses in business technology applications, business mathematics, and payroll and business taxes. KC boasts an open-door admission policy that accepts students from all educational backgrounds.
Along with an associate degree in accounting that graduates can transfer into, KC offers a small business accounting certificate.
Highlights
Offers hands-on experience with accounting software
Program runs asynchronously
Three-semester program
Considerations
Placement testing required for admission
One of the most expensive tuition costs on this list at over $4,000
SAT or ACT scores required
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,530
Out-of-state
$12,330
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
100%
Students Enrolled
3,370
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
The 14-credit program features core courses in principles of financial accounting, managerial accounting, and macroeconomics, along with a federal income taxes specialty course. LCC may deliver online courses using synchronous or asynchronous formats.
LCC also offers online small business and accounting and finance bookkeeping certificate programs.
Highlights
May offer transfer credits for an accounting degree program
Classes start every eight weeks
Pathway program for students in the Career and College Promise initiative
Considerations
May require placement test or gateway courses
Some courses can run at a scheduled time
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
61%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,199
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online Accounting Certificate Programs 2025
Des Moines Area Community College
Ankeny, IA
2 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
DMACC's online accounting certificate program equips students with fundamental accounting and financial skills. Graduates can use this program to enter the workforce or transfer into more advanced programs in accounting or business.
The 14-credit program includes courses in QuickBooks accounting and principles of accounting, plus a choice between Microsoft Excel for entrepreneurs and an information computing class. DMACC's online courses run asynchronously over a 15-week period.
DMACC also offers an online accounting payroll certificate program.
Highlights
Two-semester program
Transferable credits for accounting diploma and associate degree
Covers GAAP and double-entry accounting
Considerations
Course prerequisites needed
Multiple hours of preparation for every class hour
Time management and discipline required in asynchronous online classes
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,550
Out-of-state
$11,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
21,637
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
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.
What to Expect From an Online Certificate in Accounting
Each certificate program has a unique approach, but online programs typically cover the same material and lead to the same outcomes as on-campus certificates. The same faculty members often deliver both program types, with schools typically providing online and on-campus students access to the same resources.
Despite the similarities, online learning offers a different experience and may not suit everyone equally. Here are some ways online accounting certificates differ from on-campus certificates.
Delivery Formats
The biggest difference between on-campus and online accounting certificates is the delivery mode. Online accounting certificates may use fully online or hybrid formats — fully online programs feature no campus visits, and hybrid programs mix online and on-campus classes.
The online classes may run asynchronously, synchronously, or a mix of the two modes. Asynchronous delivery allows you to study during the hours that make sense for you, while synchronous classes often run during evenings or weekends to accommodate busy schedules.
While fully online and asynchronous accounting certificates provide the most flexibility for your schedule, this delivery format typically requires more independence and self-motivation. You may also have fewer interactions with peers and less guidance from instructors.
Hybrid accounting certificates and synchronous online classes can fill the classroom experience void for you. Synchronous classes better simulate on-campus classes, connecting you to your peers in a virtual classroom or possibly even live-streaming lectures. In a hybrid program, you'll join your classmates on campus for certain courses — usually the more hands-on classes.
Tuition
Tuition prices for on-campus and online accounting certificates vary depending on the school type and prestige and your location.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition rates for in-state students during the 2022-23 academic year were $3,598 in two-year public schools and $9,750 in four-year public schools. Out-of-state students paid almost three times that, and private schools charged $35,248.
In an online accounting certificate program, your tuition rates could vary even more than your on-campus counterparts. Some schools charge standard online rates regardless of location, allowing out-of-state students to save on tuition. Online accounting certificates may also feature lower materials and facility fees than on-campus certificates, but they also tend to include distance education, technology, and digital subscription fees.
No matter your tuition rate, you should still investigate financial aid options. Along with federal loans and grants, you may qualify for institutional or third-party scholarships to help cover your costs without worrying about repayment.
Whether you pursue your accounting certificate on campus or online, you must ensure that the program holds the appropriate accreditation. Start by looking for institutional accreditation — this is a requirement for schools to provide federal financial aid and transfer credits. Institutional accreditation comes from third-party organizations recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education.
Along with accreditation, you should also consider state authorization, especially if you plan to attend an out-of-state school. For a school to offer distance education to out-of-state learners, it needs the proper authority. Members of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA), for example, can educate students from 49 member states.
How Does an Online Accounting Certificate Differ From On Campus?
While every program operates independently, on-campus and online accounting certificates can differ in the areas of schedule, student demographics, program length, and cost. The following table explores these differences in more detail.
Comparing Online and On-Campus Certificates in Accounting
Factor
Online Program
On-Campus Program
Study Schedule
Asynchronous classes that you can complete anytime during the week
Classes during the day or evening, in some cases
Student Demographics
Students from across the country, including working professionals
Closely mirrors the campus demographics
Program Length
1-2 semesters, though students may be able to accelerate their studies and start multiple times per year
1-2 semesters with start dates at the beginning of the semester
Cost
About $1,000-$5,000, with many schools offering in-state rates to out-of-state students
About $1,000-$5,000 for in-state residents
Sources: Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, Moraine Park Technical College, Seminole State College of Florida, Richmond Community College, Harper College
When comparing on-campus and online accounting certificates, think about how key differences can affect your learning experience. Online programs, for example, tend to offer more flexibility in schedule and start dates to accommodate your work schedule or busy home life. You might also prefer a heavier course load, which can help you finish sooner.
The limited travel requirements also make out-of-state learning a realistic possibility with online accounting certificates. This accessibility can open the door to more program options for you, especially the schools that charge in-state tuition rates for online students. You may also encounter a more diverse cohort of students from various states and backgrounds.
What's the difference between an accounting certificate and a certification?
An accounting certificate is an educational program or credential offered by a college or university, whereas a certification is a formal recognition awarded by a non-governmental organization. For example, the credits you complete in an accounting certificate at college may help qualify you for a certified management accountant certification.
Is an accounting certificate the same as a degree?
An accounting certificate is not a degree, but it may include some of the same courses as a degree. A certificate typically includes 1-2 semesters of accounting-specific courses.
How much is an online certificate in accounting?
The cost of an online accounting certificate varies by school and program, but they usually cost $1,000-$5,000.
Are accounting certificates worth it?
An accounting certificate may be a valuable option if you want to pursue an entry-level career in accounting, refresh your skills, or build on a previous education without investing the time and money for a full degree.
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