The best online Master’s in Accounting degree programs offer working professionals a flexible option to earn a degree for career advancement. The Information Technology era is booming, and with it, so is the field of accountancy. Universities and Colleges across the nation are opening their doors to students with the desire and also skills to learn what it takes to become a Certified Public Accountant.
CPAs are in need more than ever before. In fact, the projected growth of a CPA position is up to seven percent from 2020 through 2030. Entry-level positions only require a Bachelor’s degree. However, earning an MPA can take a graduate farther up the ladder of success, including possibilities for economic and personal growth. The Best Online master of Accounting degrees is found in states such as Texas, Massachusetts, Indiana, California, and South Dakota.
According to the BLS, the average pay scale for accountants and auditors is around $70,500 a year. Getting the MSA or MPA degree will provide the skills and tools to become a leader in today’s world of Accountancy. So, here is the top ten list of the best online Master in Accounting degree programs.
How We Ranked the Online Accounting Master’s Degree Programs
The editors at Online Schools Guide found schools offering online Accounting master’s degree programs. Then, based on cost and reputation, we ranked the programs.
1. Western New England University
| Degree: Master of Science in Accounting |
Western New England University’s MS in Accounting is one of the best online master’s in accounting degrees. Furthermore, this 30-credit program is for students who are preparing for the CPA exam.
The completion of the program takes approximately four eleven-week terms each academic year. But, most students finish this MS in Accounting in less than one year. Students in the program gain skills in planning, controlling, evaluation, and also analysis in the field. Earning an MS in Accounting provide higher salary increases and also career advancement possibilities. Common courses of the MS in Accounting program include financial reporting, managerial accounting, fundamental concepts of tax structure, and also auditing. Additionally, the online MS in Accounting degree is AACSB accredited and provides flexibility and affordability for students.
WNE offers fifty academic majors and thirty minors for undergraduates to choose from, including accelerated programs for both bachelors and graduate levels. The school offers an engaging campus life for students which includes over seventy campus clubs and also organizations. On occasion, you may even find students playing bubble soccer on the campus lawn.
School Location: Springfield, MA
Program Duration: 30 credits, approximately one year
2. California Baptist University
| Degree: Masters of Science in Accounting |
California Baptist University offers an online Master of Science in Accounting. This program prepares graduates to increase their earnings and also professional development in the accounting field. With the online MS in accounting degree, students will have better career options available to them and may also become educators in academic institutions. Career positions for graduates of the Master of Science in Accounting degree may include CPA’s, finance directors, chief financial officers, human resource specialists, and also financial analysis. The total MS program can be completed in less than twelve months.
Accounting graduate students learn to perform tax research and calculations for business entities, solve critical business problems, and also effectively present information, both in written form and verbally. CBU online offers more than forty degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral education levels. The school’s motto, “Find your degree. Find your purpose” speaks to every student’s desire to find their true calling and profession.
CBU is also known for several rankings on the US News and World Report. One is #34 Best Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs for Veterans. The college also ranks among the best online masters of accounting nationwide.
School Location: Riverside, CA
Program Duration: 30 credit units, twelve months
3. Golden Gate University
The Master of Science in Accounting Data & Analytics (MSADA) at Golden Gate University prepares students for the business profession of accounting. The program is available for graduates, both online and on-Campus. Furthermore, concentrations are available in four areas.
- CPA Applied Accounting
- Taxation
- Advanced Analytics
- Essentials of Leadership
Some required courses in the curriculum include Data Analytics, Accounting Ethics, Auditing, and also Issues in Modern Management Accounting. Real-world skills and also training are applied to each course, guided by prestigious faculty members. This program provides professional career opportunities with instructors who work in government agencies, public accounting, and also private corporations or industries. Many graduates may also find employment within the Big Four Firms of the Midwest.
Golden Gate University has been serving students for over 110 years. GGU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including certificates. The courses at GGU provide flexible scheduling and also affordable tuition costs. Additionally, they focus on preparing adult learners for work-life balance. GGU is also a multi-diverse university. Additionally, the college has one of the best online masters of accounting programs nationwide.
School Location: San Francisco, CA
Program Duration: 30 total units
4. Albertus Magnus College
Albertus Magnus College’s MS in Accounting program provides graduates with both an online option and a hybrid learning opportunity. The MSA is a thirty-credit hour program, that compliments the 120 credit hour BSA program for students in the accounting field perfectly.
The college is also recognized for the launch success of the Personal Financial Planning Program which works to help college students taking the accounting curriculum. This MSA program keeps students engaged in the curriculum by offering excellent teaching methods and smaller classrooms. Furthermore, the affordability of the program makes the college one of the best-value choices among Nationally Accredited Universities.
The Albertus Magnus College campus is no stranger to an exciting campus nightlife. The school provides a wide range of activities throughout each semester, keeping students entertained and involved within the community of New Haven. The AMC offers over fifty undergraduate and graduate programs; including several concentration options.
School Location: New Haven, CT
Program Duration: 30 credits
5. Boise State University
| Degree: Master of Science in Accountancy |
Boise State University’s MS in Accountancy offers graduates an integrated curriculum. This program provides advanced knowledge of accounting techniques, ethical standards in mathematics, financial planning, and also accounting standards.
Courses in the thirty-credit program cover forensic accounting, taxation, auditing, corporate tax law, and also financial reporting. Furthermore, the most common completion time for graduate students of the MS in Accountancy program is one year or less. The University provides affordable tuition costs to many students. However, some financial aid is available to those who are eligible. Other options for tuition assistance are scholarships, employee reimbursement, and also payment plans. Military discounts may also be offered. It is also one of the best online master of accounting programs in the nation.
Boise State University is located on the Boise River in Idaho. Alumni and students are known as the Broncos. BSU offers over 200 areas of study and educational levels of either the bachelor’s, master’s, or certificate options. The school has great outdoor opportunities and also a strong athletic department.
School Location: Boise, ID
Program Duration: 30 credits in 12 months
6. Indiana Wesleyan University
The MS in Accounting at Indiana Wesleyan University offers graduates an Online or Campus option. Each student learns advanced knowledge of accounting dynamics, including standards and practices, understand forensic accounting and auditing services, and also how to create strategic planning of accounting interactions.
The IWE program is one of the best online master’s of accounting degrees in the Midwest. Furthermore, it has accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Students can also complete the program in two years, depending on the concentration they choose. The available specializations include Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, and also Public Accounting.
Founded in 1920, the college focuses on the success of academic excellence in their students. IWE’s Devoe School of Business accounting program ranks number two in Indiana. The school provides over 80 undergraduate degree programs and 38 graduate degrees. Additionally, IWE brings a Christ-centered approach to the school of business and throughout the local business community.
School Location: Marion, IN
Program Duration: 18-26 months
7. Penn State World Campus
The Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) at Penn State World Campus offers a comprehensive degree program. Students learn a sophisticated approach to auditing, knowledge of upgraded tax laws, understanding of complex business methods, and a more efficient way to become a CPA in today’s business world.
The thirty-credit program is available online and is AACSB accredited. The MSA is brought to students by skilled and experienced instructors at Penn State World Campus.
Penn State World Campus serves over 20,000 students and is the second-largest campus in the Penn State system. Other options for graduate students at PSWC are the MBA and the graduate certificate in Accounting. Additionally, tuition rates are affordable to most students, with financial aid available as well. PSWC is a military-friendly college and also offers a diverse student body.
School Location: University Park, PA
Program Duration: 30 credits
8. University of Scranton
| Degree: Master of Accountancy |
The online Master of Accountancy at the University of Scranton is for established working professionals in the accounting field. This specialized curriculum covers everything from standard ethical principles to the introduction to accounting dynamics, economics, and financial management.
The program is a 30-credit-hour degree that students can complete in as little as ten months. The core courses of the MSA program will include advanced auditing, financial reporting, fraud detection and protection, intro to business analytics, and also data mining.
The University of Scranton started in 1888 as Saint Thomas College. Today, it is a nationally accredited school and offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is based on religious faith with a Jesuit perspective. According to the US News and World Report, Scranton University is among the ten top master’s universities in the North.
School Location: Scranton, PA
Program Duration: 30 credits, 10+ months
9. University of Dallas
The University of Dallas provides graduate students with a master of accounting degree that is for both online and on-campus students. The degree includes a specialization in personal finance.
The main goal of UD is to create leaders within the business community and throughout the accounting field. The MSA degree curriculum includes the tools and skills needed for students to receive a deeper understanding of accounting principles, analyzing financial statements, and also research methods of accounting and auditing. The program is thirty-three-credit hours that students complete with eleven courses. So, it takes most students 18-24 months to complete.
Founded in 1966, UD’s Satish and Yasmin Gupta School of Business was named the best online master of accounting by Best Value Colleges. The school accommodates over 1,500 undergraduate and graduate students to help them achieve success in Business. At the University of Dallas, the Student Affairs members work hard to provide a campus life that is full of life.
School Location: Dallas, TX
Program Duration: 33 credits, 11 courses, 18-24 months
10. University of South Dakota
The University of South Dakota’s Master of Professional Accountancy offers an AACSB International accreditation and is available fully online. Courses for the MPA degree teach students to develop judgment abilities related to accounting and how to assist in professional competence.
USD’s program is affordable, provides customized course programs, and also has a low student-to-faculty ratio. Additionally, this program has two online tracks.
- Professional Accountancy with a specialization in Accounting Analytics (MPA)
- Joint Bachelor of Business Administration / Professional Accountancy Fast-Track Option (BBA/MPA)
At the University of South Dakota students are urged to get involved. They can earn paw points for each life event they attend and also earn prizes at the end of each month depending on how many paw points they earn. Established in 1927, the University provides a USDgo app. This app can tell each student’s course schedules, grades, campus map, any important news and events, clubs to join, social media information, and much more.
School Location: Vermillion, SD
Program Duration: 30 credits
What are the Different Accounting Master’s Degrees?
Anyone that is planning to build a career as a CPA or CFO, earning a master’s degree in Accounting is a great step toward a very lucrative and rewarding career path. The best online masters of accounting schools are found throughout the Northeast, Southern, and Western regions of the US.
At most Colleges and Universities, there are common Accounting degree options.
- Master of Accounting (MAcc)
- Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
- Masters of Professional Accounting (MPA)
- MBA in Accounting aka Master of Business Administration
How Long is an Accounting Master’s Program?
The program duration varies depending on where you attend. However, most graduates complete the degree within twelve to twenty-four months. The average amount of program credits are between 30 to 42 at most universities.
With the MBA option, the program may be a little longer, due to the concentration in Accounting. Yet, the degree could bring more opportunities in both the public and private sectors of the accounting field.
Graduate accounting programs teach skills in leadership, critical thinking, and also problem-solving. In addition, for students with skills in mathematics, detail-oriented, and organization, the Master in Accounting degree is something to consider.
How to Choose the Best Online Master’s of Accounting Program for Career Advancement
Whether it is the MAcc, MPA, or the MBA degree option chosen, graduates can find employment opportunities that will benefit their accounting careers. These options will provide both the professional experiences needed to be the best in the field, receive high recognition from their peers, and a chance of a higher salary throughout their life as a Certified Professional accountants.
Why Get a Master’s Degree in Accounting?
A degree in accounting requires more than the ability to add and subtract successfully. To get this degree, you must gain an understanding of financial risk, tax law, spreadsheets, and more. While each person is different, there are a few common reasons why people choose to get a graduate degree in accounting. For example, many people pursue a master’s degree in accounting to gain access to the world of finance.
Other than obtaining a master’s degree, there are other accounting programs you may want to consider as well. If you want to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), you will also need to pass the CPA exam. Before you can even sit for this exam, students must complete 150 semester hours in accredited accounting classes. There are also certification options for different types of accountants. Examples of this include Certified Fraud Examiners, Certified Internal Auditors, and Certified Accountants. If your certification requires a certain number of semester hours, getting your master’s degree in accounting can help students reach that requirement.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s Degree in Accounting?
Whether you want to become a financial analyst or a public accountant, a master’s degree can help. An online degree can be used just like a traditional degree. The only difference is that online schools are more convenient and flexible than their traditional counterparts.
The following are some of the career options available after earning a Master’s in Accounting. All you have to decide is if an online degree is right for you.
Financial Analyst
A financial analyst is in charge of analyzing a company’s financial health. They help the company make smart investment decisions. Depending on the company, your exact job description may vary.
This kind of job is ideal if you love financial modeling, spreadsheet maintenance, financial forecasting, and data gathering. The BLS reports the median pay for financial analysts is $81,410 per year and the job growth is 6 percent.
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
One of the most popular employment options for people who have a master’s degree in accounting is to work as a Public Accountant. Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) may work in private accounting companies, government agencies, or also major corporations. They work with people and companies to assist with tax preparation, financial planning, and revenue statements.
A CPA at a large corporation may be required to make sure the company follows all of the federal regulations that relate to the company’s industry. If you want to file documents with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), then you will need a CPA license. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median pay for accountants is $77,250 per year.
Auditor
An auditor is in charge of checking the authenticity and accuracy of an organization’s accounting records. They review and verify the organization’s financial documents, income, and also expenses.
Many auditors work for state and local governments. However, some organizations hire internal auditors to check the company’s financial records for errors and fraud. External auditors work for outside agencies to make sure financial transactions are reported and also documented according to the law. According to the BLS, the median pay for auditors is $77,250 per year.
Management Accountant
Management accountants and financial managers often handle similar responsibilities in an organization. They are in charge of preparing financial reports and documents for the organization’s internal use. Management accountants partner with business managers to help the company make smart investments, create a healthy budget, and also plan its financial future. Management accountants are sometimes known as industrial, cost, corporate, or managerial accountants.
Financial Manager
A financial manager is in charge of directing a company’s investment activities. They help the business plan its financial strategies and also long-term goals. A variety of industries hire financial managers, but financial managers are especially common in insurance companies and banks.
In order to become a financial manager, you have to have at least a bachelor’s degree and five years of experience. But, getting a master’s degree in accounting can help you find a position in this field. Furthermore, as a financial manager, you can expect to receive excellent compensation for your work. The BLS reports the median pay of a financial manager is $131,710 per year and job growth is 17 percent.
Forensic Accountant
As a forensic accountant, you can expect to work in law enforcement agencies and also accounting firms. Many forensic accountants will work in the forensic accounting division of a public accounting firm. In other cases, you may be hired by a consulting firm that specializes in fraud investigations.
Once hired, you can expect to use your accounting abilities to analyze financial documents and discover potential crimes. The forensic accountant’s job is to spot irregularities in documents. Sometimes, lawyers will hire forensic accountants to help them defend or prosecute a case. Forensic accountants might work with people who have a forensic science degree to solve mysteries that involve large sums of money or also cases of embezzlement.
The BLS median pay for Financial Examiners is $81,410 per year and job growth is 18 percent.
Actuary
To be considered an actuary, the individual may need to complete a licensing program from the Society of Actuaries or the Casualty Actuarial Society. Actuaries earn a median salary of $105,900 per year and job growth is 24 percent.
Your Career and a Master’s in Accounting
With an advanced degree, you can improve your job prospects and also achieve your career goals. Many accounting and managerial positions require a master’s degree in accounting. But, thankfully, you can get this degree online from a top university. Once you enroll in an online program, you can study for your master’s degree in accounting on your own timetable from home.
By earning an online master’s in accounting degree, you can open the door to new opportunities and also rewarding career options. These degree programs can be completed completely online, so it is an ideal option if you need to work while you are in school. If you are talented with numbers and managing budgets, then a career in accounting could be the perfect choice for you.
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