Research.com is an editorially independent organization with a carefully engineered commission system that’s both transparent and fair. Our primary source of income stems from collaborating with affiliates who compensate us for advertising their services on our site, and we earn a referral fee when prospective clients decided to use those services. We ensure that no affiliates can influence our content or school rankings with their compensations. We also work together with Google AdSense which provides us with a base of revenue that runs independently from our affiliate partnerships. It’s important to us that you understand which content is sponsored and which isn’t, so we’ve implemented clear advertising disclosures throughout our site. Our intention is to make sure you never feel misled, and always know exactly what you’re viewing on our platform. We also maintain a steadfast editorial independence despite operating as a for-profit website. Our core objective is to provide accurate, unbiased, and comprehensive guides and resources to assist our readers in making informed decisions.

Best Online Associate Degree in Accounting Programs for 2025

Imed Bouchrika, Phd

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

The accountancy profession is critical to global capital markets. More than handling taxes, complying with laws and regulations, and delivering services that help companies develop strategies, accountants are essential for one important reason—to gain confidence in financial data.

To carve your way into different accounting careers, there are colleges and universities offering an online associate degree in accounting. With an associate degree in accounting, you will learn the foundational concepts in the industry to help you start in entry-level accounting positions. In 2021, there were 1,707,800 employees in the bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk industry. Moreover, there is a positive outlook for employment opportunities from 2021 to 2031, as this position will have 197,600 job openings (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023). Choosing associate online degree programs in accounting will prepare you for a great beginning in the workforce and a seamless transfer to a bachelor’s degree to become an accountant.

In this guide, our team at Research.com has compiled relevant data on the cost, requirements, curriculum, required skills, salary expectations, and what to look for in online accounting degree programs.

Online Associate Degree in Accounting Table of Contents

  1. Can you get a degree completely online?
  2. Will employers take my online degree seriously?
  3. Are online degrees recognized all over the world?
  4. Online vs. Traditional Associate Degree in Accounting
  5. Accelerated Accounting Degree Options for Associate-Level Students
  6. 2025 Best Online Associate in Accounting Programs
  7. How much does an online associate degree in accounting cost?
  8. What are the requirements for an online associate degree in accounting?
  9. Courses to Expect in Online Associate Degree in Accounting
  10. Things to Look for in an Online Associate Degree in Accounting
  11. What financial aid options can help fund my online associate degree in accounting?
  12. What Is the Return on Investment for an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?
  13. Can I Gain Practical Experience While Pursuing an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?
  14. What skills will I gain with an online associate degree in accounting?
  15. Is an Online Associate Degree Enough to Pursue CPA Licensure?
  16. What challenges might online accounting students face?
  17. What career services are available to support online associate degree in accounting students?
  18. Industry Certifications That Complement an Online Associate Degree in Accounting
  19. What Are the Next Steps After Completing an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?
  20. Can an online associate degree in accounting be a pathway to becoming an actuary?

Can you get a degree completely online?

In the United States, there were approximately 3 million undergraduate degrees from 2019 to 2020 conferred by postsecondary institutions. Of these, 1 million were associates, and approximately 2 million were in bachelor’s degree programs. Business studies was a common field of choice, with 387,000 programs completed (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). So yes, you can get an accounting degree online, and at different levelsfrom associate and bachelor degrees to specialized forensic accounting degrees.

Whether you are interested in obtaining accounting certification programs, associate, bachelor, or master degrees, digitalization allows for accessible online learning. With flexible access to learning and education, technology, in general, makes it possible to finish a degree completely online.

An accounting degree online is not only one of the best majors to make money but also adjusts to your target timeframe to finish the program.

Programs for associate degrees in accounting taken online teaches the basic principle of accounting in an open schedule. Generally, the course will take two years to finish, but there are online educational institutions that offer accelerated programs and completion in just a year.

Will employers take my online degree seriously?

While employers take online degrees seriously, not all online credentials are accepted. In general, employers regard online and traditional degrees with similar value. This is more evident when considering online degrees from the best online colleges for an associates degree, which typically have accreditation, a traditional campus, and an established brand. By choosing a reputable online college for your associate’s degree, you can enhance your employability and ensure that your degree is highly regarded by potential employers.

In 2020, 326,810 employees were working in accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services. Other industries that employ a high number of accounting professionals include enterprises (98,100 jobs) and local government agencies (46,900 jobs) (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2020).

Are online degrees recognized all over the world?

People around the world recognize the validity of online degrees. Online education is continually expanding. What’s more, the global online education market has a compound annual growth rate of about 7%. In 2025, its value is projected to be $325 billion (Statista, 2023).

To ensure that students holding online degrees will not encounter problems with relevant authorities, always choose an accredited online university or college. An accredited institution means that the school and its academic program meet the standards that provide students with quality education. If your program is accredited, the courses are legitimate and follow the curriculum as needed.

Having accreditation certifies the credibility and competency of the education you receive. Thus, accredited online degrees are recognized worldwide.  However, it is important to check if the country you wish to practice in accepts accredited online programs.

Online vs. Traditional Associate Degree in Accounting

Education is no longer limited to physical classroom education. Today, students are free to choose between traditional or online education. Noting the key differences between the two will help one decide which educational format works best for the particular demands of a student.

Costs

Affordability is an appealing aspect of online education. When you enroll in an online school, you can expect fewer expenses. Online classes enable students to study from the comfort of their homes, whereas on-campus education requires commuting or paying for moving fees. Additionally, with online education, you do not need to pay extra fees for building expenses and resources available in a physical university or college.

Learning Format, Flexibility, and Time-Saving

With online programs, you can take your course at a pace that is ideal for you. You can go online to learn any time of the day, so it fits your schedule. Also, you may opt for expedited courses to finish the online degree faster. With traditional education, you have to sit in a specific classroom at a particular time to gain knowledge from professors. There is little room for flexibility, given everything is set and scheduled in on-campus learning.

Learning and Interaction

With online education, you learn to be independent to take in as much learning as you can, whereas traditional education makes you more dependent on what the faculty will teach at a particular time. In terms of interaction, an on-campus educational institution gives increased interaction between faculty and classmates. Online learning, on the other hand, may seem like a hindrance to interaction but can actually encourage conversation between students in the long run. As some students are more introverted than others and feel hesitant to participate in the traditional classroom, an online learning modality can help make them feel at ease speaking their minds.

Is an online degree cheaper?

Earning an online degree is generally cheaper than traditional learning. This is due to the lower overhead requirement of online educational institutions. Tuition fees are not the only inexpensive aspect of getting online degrees. Online learning reduces financial costs as it eliminates expenses on transportation, course materials, student meals, and other basic on-campus necessities.

Since online education is flexible, it helps students finish in less time, allowing them to spend less on overall tuition. With the transfer credit option from online programs, the previous academic experience is credited, which in turn, accelerates courses.

Is an online degree as good as a regular degree?

When looking for options for education, online degrees always come up. So, many students wonder if they hold a similar prestige as their traditional counterparts. In terms of academic quality and career opportunities, both an online degree and a traditional degree are on equal footing. Since accredited online degrees follow a similar curriculum as an on-campus educational institution, the same knowledge is expected to be imparted to students.

The difference between online and traditional learning lies in the former being available online while the latter is conducted face-to-face. That said, students don’t mind the delivery format and instead see the value of online degrees. From A.Y. 2020 to 2021, 17% of Americans reported that they were definitely confident with the quality of their online courses, while 24% of them said they probably were (Strada Education Foundation, 2021).

Accelerated Accounting Degree Options for Associate-Level Students

For associate-level students eager to advance their careers in accounting, accelerated programs offer a fast and efficient route to earning a degree. These programs are designed to build on the foundational knowledge gained in an associate's degree and streamline the path toward a bachelor's or even a master's degree. Accelerated accounting programs focus on core subjects such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing, while offering the flexibility of completing the coursework at an expedited pace.

A fast track accounting degree can often be completed in a fraction of the time compared to traditional programs, enabling students to enter the workforce sooner. Many universities and colleges offer these accelerated programs, which may include both in-person and online options to cater to diverse learning styles and schedules. By participating in an accelerated program, students can gain an in-depth understanding of the field, allowing them to advance quickly in their professional careers or pursue certifications like CPA (Certified Public Accountant) after graduation.

2025 Best Online Associate Degree in Accounting

Our team at Research.com collated data from credible sources to create a list of the best universities and colleges that offers associate accounting degree programs online. The educational institutions listed below were included based on their cost, academic rating, program reputation, and other key criteria.

1. Indiana Wesleyan University Global

Indiana Wesleyan University Global is home to over 100 degree programs in different fields of study, which include theology and ministry graduate programs. Here, you can choose to earn a degree in a flexible learning format, online or onsite. This university offers an online associate of science in accounting program that teaches courses such as introduction to business economics, personal finance, fundamentals of contemporary business, and accounting principles.

Program Length: 24 months
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting Assistant, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
Cost per Credit: $305
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

2. Franklin University

Franklin University is a private university offering more than 115 years of accessible education. This university delivers convenient online classes for working adults. The associate degree in accounting is an online program at Franklin University that gives students an understanding of accounting theories and concepts. The program also tackles financial, managerial, and individual income tax.

Program Length: Eight or 12 weeks
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting Assistant, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
Cost per Credit: $398
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

3. Champlain College

Champlain College has been providing top-notch online education for nearly 30 years. This college offers career-focused academic programs and accelerated classes that engage students in the online classroom. Champlain College offers an accounting online associate degree program that can help you launch your career in the accounting field. The program teaches managerial accounting, financial accounting, cost accounting, business law, and principles of marketing.

Program Length: Eight weeks
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting Assistant, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
Cost per Credit: $328
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

4. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University is a private and non-profit institution founded in 1932. This university has over 3,000 on-campus students and more than 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest-growing educational institutions in the nation. Southern New Hampshire University offers an accounting online associate degree program that covers learning how to apply managerial, financial, and cost accounting principles to daily work.

Program Length: Eight weeks
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting Assistant, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
Cost per Credit: $320
Required Credits to Graduate: 60
Accreditation: ACBSP

5. Davenport University

Davenport University is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Michigan. It also has over 20 years of experience in delivering online college degrees. Davenport University offers an associate of business administration accounting program that teaches students the skills required to develop and maintain accounting records and financial statements. In this program, the coursework includes accounting foundations, microeconomics or macroeconomics, accounting information tech, and marketing foundations.

Program Length: Two years
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting Assistant, Accountant, Auditor, Finance Manager
Cost per Credit: $627
Required Credits to Graduate: 64
Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

How much does an online associate degree in accounting cost?

In A.Y. 2020-2021, the average tuition and fees for two-year private non-profit colleges were $18,000 while private for-profit institutions charge an average of $15,800 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2022). On the other hand, you can expect a cheaper cost from online degrees. The cost per credit for an accounting associate degree program ranges from $100 to $320. However, online education students should also factor in technology fees as part of their expenses. Recent data shows that online students should expect total tuition of between $6,000 to $23,000.

Is an online accounting degree worth it?

Gaining an online accounting degree is generally a path worth taking as it opens a gateway to work potential in the business field. Graduates of associate online degree programs may receive rewarding pay from entry-level positions. With this degree, one can work as a bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk and receive a median pay of $45,560 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Should one decide to choose between finance degree vs accounting to further education, one can work as an accountant or auditor with an average annual pay of $77,250. Another work position possible to achieve with an online accounting degree is as a financial manager with a median yearly pay of $131,710 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022).

Careers
Annual Median Salary
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
$45,560
Accountants and Auditors
$77,250
Financial Managers
$131,710

What are the requirements for an online associate degree in accounting?

Accounting online associate degree programs help students to further develop their skills in financial analysis, professional ethics, and accounting basics. But before all that, a prospective student should understand what is associate degree compared with other types of degrees, and take the following into consideration to see if he or she is rightly fitted for the online program.

Admission Requirements

  1. Proof of Graduation. Online education programs will require students to submit a high school diploma. Alternatively, one can pass a GED certificate.
  2. SAT or ACT. While standardized test scores are essential in a bachelor’s degree admission, this does not apply to two-year online programs. But if a student has taken the SAT or ACT, he can freely submit these results.
  3. Personal Statement. Some online schools may ask for the submission of an essay or a personal statement. In the essay requirement, a student is tasked to explain the reasons for pursuing the degree and the goals upon completing the program.
  4. Letter of Reccomendation. A number of online schools may also ask for recommendation letters. Good recommendation letters are generally made by prospective students’ teachers, coaches, professors, supervisors, and mentors.

General Requirements

Analytical Skills

An accountant should be objective in analyzing information and identifying problems. He or she should openly face challenges and develop effective solutions to answer them. This is specifically helpful since 31% of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks reported the occurrence of conflict situations once a month or more but not every week (O*NET OnLine, n.d.).

Decision-making Skills

A bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerk’s daily job requires making decisions 60% of the time (O*NET OnLine, n.d.). A prospective accountant should not be easily swayed by the gravity of the problem but instead use data and strategies to turn out as a strong decision-maker.

Proactive

Budgets and workflow are always present in the accounting field. As such, prospective accounting students must have the initiative to strive for better communication and collaboration with other people so they can easily achieve targets.

Technological Skills

Technology has shifted the way accountants work. As published in Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training titled “Digitalisation in Accounting: A Systematic Literature Review of Activities and Implications for Competences," Pargmann et al. (2023) found that “..the process of digitalisation in accounting more generally suggest the need for improved accounting graduate education and further training or at least for more guidance for both employers and employees. This need applies to concise abilities, such as the assessment of digital technologies and processes, and the criteria-based evaluation of the potential of software implementation. Depending on how quickly corresponding competences can be developed in the company’s workforce, flexibility in competence acquisition for varying technologies and the successful implementation as well as maintenance of technological interfaces is needed. Thus, the field of accounting has reached a level of digitalisation that entails changes in competence profiles to enable both accounting professionals and graduates to manage new demands."

While 94% of the time, bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks deal with electronic mail (O*NET OnLine, n.d.), a deeper competency is expected from prospective accountants since they will be dealing with more sophisticated accounting tools and software.

Work Context
Percentage
Frequency
Occurrence of conflict situations
31
Once a month or more but not every week
Making decisions
60
Everyday
Dealing with electronic mail
94
Everyday

What are the Technological Requirements of Students for Online Learning?

Since online learning heavily relies on technology, it is important for students to invest in a good computer or laptop with decent specifications that can handle robust data. The operating system can be Windows or Mac with a 64-bit multicore processor or better. Choose 16G of RAM or greater to improve the performance and speed of your device.

Essentially, a student must also capitalize on a reliable and stable Internet connection to never miss out on online classes and stay in the loop of virtual communication. Since some online programs may include videoconferencing, students are advised to have cameras, webcams, and audio devices (earphones, earbuds, or headsets) to make communication easier and more effective.

Courses to Expect in Online Associate Degree in Accounting

Online associate degree in accounting students must be familiar with payroll accounting, the use of accounting software, and taxes. In A.Y. 2019-2020, 72,923 students completed a bachelor’s in accounting or a masters degree fields of study (AICPA, 2022). An associate degree can be a stepping stone to pursuing further education in accounting. In line with that, here are some of the coursework a prospective associate in accounting student can expect to help him or her gain knowledge in preparation for different accounting career paths or further education:

  1. Principles of Accounting. This course is an introduction to basic accounting procedures. It tackles the uses of accounting in business and in the government. It also teaches about bookkeeping, the creation of financial documents, and the monitoring of business transactions.
  2. Cost Accounting. In this course, a student will learn about cost accounting methods. This will include product costing, cost management, and cost-volume-profit analysis.
  3. Managerial Accounting. This course trains a student in managerial accounting. The topics will cover information on cost-benefit analysis, budgeting, and performance evaluation.
  4. Financial Accounting. In this course, a prospective learner will explore basic accounting concepts. He or she will also learn about the processes performed by people in financial accounting careers, such as creating financial statements, analyzing financial records, and following accounting regulations.
  5. Income Taxation. This course discusses income tax preparation for businesses and individuals. The topics here are income tax deductions, federal taxation policies, preparation methods, auditing methods, and capital gains taxes.

Things to Look for in an Online Associate Degree in Accounting

Online degree programs in accounting differ depending on the curriculum they offer. Here are some of the factors to consider when choosing an online associate degree in an accounting program:

  1. Accreditation. Accreditation should always be a top priority when searching for online programs. Choose an online school with accreditation from AACSB, Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or similar accrediting bodies to guarantee your accounting program meets the high standards for academic excellence and student learning. This also indicates that your program can prepare you for higher-level degrees that can open more doors for career advancement and bigger pay. The doctorate degree in accounting salary is significantly more than that of an associate’s degree holder.
  2. Program Format. Online programs differ in enrollment options. Prospective students can choose full-time or part-time learning and can also opt for the accelerated option. Classes may also be synchronous or asynchronous. Choose depending on your learning need.
  3. Financial Aid Support. While associate programs are less costly than other education degree types, it helps to lessen the burden of tuition fees by choosing an online education program that supports financial aid. Some scholarship programs for accounting students are AICPA John L. Carey Scholarship Award and John W. Puckett Memorial Accounting Scholarship.
  4. Student Support. 8% of students prefer online education with accessible support services provided by the college or university (Statista, 2022). Choose an online program that comes with strong student support services. This way, you can benefit from academic advising, financial aid advising, online tutoring, internship programs, and mentorship opportunities.

What financial aid options can help fund my online associate degree in accounting?

Prospective students should investigate a range of financial aid resources to offset educational expenses. Accredited institutions often offer scholarships, federal loans, and work-study programs tailored for accounting students. Additionally, community grants and merit-based awards provided by professional associations can further ease financial barriers. It is essential to work closely with the financial aid office of each program to match available options with personal eligibility. Moreover, some employers offer tuition reimbursement plans that may supplement funding. For those planning future studies, reviewing our article Is a masters in accounting worth it? can help in evaluating long-term educational investments.

What Is the Return on Investment for an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?

Evaluating the return on investment involves comparing program costs with long-term earning potential and career advancement. Graduates often secure competitive entry-level salaries that may rise significantly with additional certifications and experience. Data on sectors such as the chartered accountant salary exemplify the lucrative opportunities available as professionals progress. Tailored accelerated programs and cost-effective tuition models further enhance the financial benefits while reducing the economic risk associated with higher education investments.

Can I Gain Practical Experience While Pursuing an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?

Online associate degree programs increasingly incorporate practical learning opportunities to complement theoretical coursework. Many programs integrate virtual simulation labs, case studies, and project-based assignments that reflect current industry scenarios. In addition, several institutions establish partnerships with local businesses to offer internship placements and mentorship initiatives that provide real-world experience. These experiential learning components enable students to apply accounting principles in dynamic environments, aligning academic insights with evolving market requirements. Evaluating industry trends and understanding whether is accounting a good career can further guide students in tailoring their practical experiences to meet future professional demands.

What skills will I gain with an online associate degree in accounting?

An online associate degree in accounting equips students with essential skills that are crucial for success in the accounting profession. One of the key skills students develop is financial reporting and analysis. Graduates learn to prepare and interpret financial documents such as balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements. This knowledge allows them to assess the financial health of an organization and make informed business decisions. Alongside this, bookkeeping becomes a vital skill, as students learn to track financial transactions accurately, ensuring businesses comply with tax regulations and maintain proper records for auditing purposes.

Students will also gain expertise in tax preparation and planning, which is a highly sought-after skill in accounting. They will learn how to prepare tax returns for individuals and businesses, understand tax laws, and explore tax deductions and credits. This prepares them for roles that require a deep understanding of taxation, such as tax preparers or accountants within organizations. In addition to these technical skills, an online associate degree program also focuses on software proficiency, including tools like QuickBooks and Microsoft Excel, which are widely used in the accounting field. This hands-on experience ensures graduates are ready to streamline accounting processes and enhance productivity.

Furthermore, an online associate degree in accounting helps students develop crucial attention to detail and ethical decision-making skills. Since accounting requires a high degree of accuracy, graduates are trained to spot discrepancies in financial records and correct them promptly. Ethical behavior is also emphasized, with students learning the standards that guide professional conduct and ensure integrity in financial reporting. Lastly, graduates will also enhance their communication and collaboration skills, as they often need to explain complex financial information to colleagues in non-financial departments and work together on cross-functional teams to drive organizational success.

For students looking to accelerate their career in accounting, there are accelerated accounting degree programs that allow students to earn their degrees in a shorter timeframe. These programs can help graduates gain these essential skills more quickly, enabling them to enter the workforce and take on more advanced roles sooner. Whether pursuing a traditional or accelerated path, an online associate degree in accounting provides the foundation for a successful career in the growing accounting field.

Is an Online Associate Degree Enough to Pursue CPA Licensure?

While an online associate degree builds a strong foundation in accounting principles, it does not fulfill the complete academic requirements for CPA licensure. Most state boards mandate a bachelor’s degree with specific coursework and credit hours beyond an associate degree. Prospective CPAs should explore transfer and articulation agreements offered by many institutions to advance smoothly toward a bachelor’s program. Additionally, understanding detailed certification requirements is vital—learn more about how to become a licensed CPA to ensure your educational path aligns with state standards and industry expectations.

What challenges might online accounting students face?

Online accounting students often encounter hurdles such as reduced face-to-face interaction, the need for heightened self-discipline, and occasional technical interruptions. These challenges can affect timely feedback, collaborative learning, and the ability to forge professional networks. Reputable programs counter these issues by offering synchronous sessions, interactive discussion boards, and dedicated technical support to ensure consistent engagement and clear communication. Additionally, leveraging further academic opportunities—such as exploring the cheapest online master's in finance—can help diversify skill sets and broaden career prospects without compromising on quality.

What career services are available to support online associate degree in accounting students?

Pursuing an online associate degree in accounting offers flexibility, but to ensure success, it is essential to leverage the career support services available to online students. Many online accounting programs provide comprehensive career resources to help students transition into the workforce. Here are some services you can expect:

  • Resume and Cover Letter Assistance: Many online programs offer support for crafting resumes and cover letters tailored to accounting roles. Career counselors can help students highlight their academic achievements, certifications, and relevant experience.
  • Job Placement Services: Some schools maintain relationships with local businesses, accounting firms, and government organizations. They may provide job boards or direct placement services to help graduates secure accounting positions after completing their degrees.
  • Internship Opportunities: Many online programs provide access to internships that allow students to gain hands-on experience in accounting roles. Even for online students, internships can be arranged locally or remotely, giving valuable exposure to real-world accounting environments.
  • Career Counseling: Dedicated career advisors can offer personalized guidance to help students map out their career goals, identify industry trends, and navigate the job market. They can also assist with deciding whether to pursue further education, such as a bachelor's or certification in accounting.
  • Networking Opportunities: Online programs often host virtual networking events or provide access to alumni networks where students can connect with industry professionals, peers, and potential employers.
  • Interview Preparation: Students can access mock interview sessions and workshops to build confidence and practice common accounting interview questions, ensuring they are well-prepared to succeed in the hiring process.

Industry Certifications That Complement an Online Associate Degree in Accounting

Obtaining an online associate degree in accounting brings numerous advantages, but complementing it with industry-recognized certifications can significantly enhance your employability and career growth. Certifications demonstrate an advanced understanding of specific skill sets, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market.

One crucial certification to consider is the Certified Bookkeeper (CB) credential, offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers (AIPB). This certification validates your expertise in the essential aspects of bookkeeping, such as managing payroll, adjusting entries, and preparing financial statements. Adding the CB credential to your online associate degree can position you for roles like bookkeeping clerk or accounting assistant.

Similarly, the QuickBooks Certified User certification is highly beneficial for entry-level professionals. QuickBooks is one of the most widely used accounting software programs, and obtaining this certification showcases your proficiency in managing financial records, invoicing, and generating reports. Employers often favor candidates with software-specific expertise, as it reduces training time and improves efficiency.

If you're looking to specialize further, exploring the best bookkeeping courses, many of which include certifications in advanced accounting practices and tax preparation, can be a strategic move for career advancement. These courses help refine practical accounting knowledge and align with the latest industry standards.

What Are the Next Steps After Completing an Online Associate Degree in Accounting?

After completing an online associate degree in accounting, students may wonder what the next steps are to further their education and career. One option to consider is pursuing an online masters degree in accounting to gain advanced knowledge and skills in the field. This can lead to more senior roles and higher salary potential. Additionally, students can explore specialized certifications, such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA), to demonstrate expertise and enhance job prospects. By continuing their education and gaining relevant certifications, students can increase their chances of success and advancement in the accounting field.

Can an online associate degree in accounting be a pathway to becoming an actuary?

An online associate degree in accounting lays the groundwork in financial analysis and data interpretation, which are valuable skills in the actuarial field. However, transitioning to an actuarial career involves further specialized study, examinations, and targeted training in mathematics, probability, and statistics. For candidates interested in diversifying their career trajectories, understanding the structured progression through steps to become an actuary can provide clear guidance on acquiring the necessary certifications and advanced competencies.

Chase Career Goals With an Online Associate Degree in Accounting

Graduating with an online associate degree in accounting will help you get started in a rewarding accounting career path. If you want opportunities for advancement and above-average pay, you may achieve them by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in accounting. In this day and age, getting high-quality education is possible through online accounting programs.

For a learning format that can cater to your time, schedule, and responsibilities, choosing an accredited online program is a great option. With the help of online learning institutions, you can chase your career goals without sacrificing the things that matter to you most. It is now easier to build a brighter future in the business industry through affordable and accessible accounting or business management degree online.

 

References:

  1. AICPA. (2022). 2021 Trends Report. https://www.aicpa-cima.com/professional-insights/download/2021-trends-report
  2. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Accountants and Auditors. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm
  3. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2020). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2019/may/oes132011.htm
  4. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm
  5. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2022). Financial Managers. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm
  6. National Center for Education Statistics. (2022). Most Popular Majors. https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts
  7. National Center for Education Statistics. (2022). Price of Attending an Undergraduate Institution. https://nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cua
  8. O*NET OnLine. (n.d.). Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks. https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/43-3031.00
  9. Pargmann, J., Riebenbauer, E., Flick-Holtsch, D., Berding, F. (2023). Digitalisation in Accounting: A Systematic Literature Review of Activities and Implications for Competences. Empirical Research in Vocational Education and Training. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40461-023-00141-1
  10. Statista. (2023). Online Education United States. https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/eservices/online-education/united-states#market-shares
  11. Strada Education Foundation. (2021). Strada-Gallup Education Survey (2020-2021). https://stradaeducation.org/research-education-survey

Related Articles

Best Online Master’s of Science in Nursing Degree Programs for 2025 thumbnail
Degrees SEP 15, 2025

Best Online Master’s of Science in Nursing Degree Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
What Do You Learn in An MBA Program for 2025? thumbnail
Degrees SEP 12, 2025

What Do You Learn in An MBA Program for 2025?

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Best Online DNP Programs for 2025 thumbnail
Degrees SEP 15, 2025

Best Online DNP Programs for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Master’s in Forensic Accounting Programs: 2025 Guide thumbnail
Degrees SEP 12, 2025

Master’s in Forensic Accounting Programs: 2025 Guide

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd
Best Nurse Practitioner Programs in Maryland for 2025 – Accredited Schools Online & Campus thumbnail
Best LPN Programs in Delaware – Accredited Online LPN Programs for 2025 thumbnail

Newsletter & Conference Alerts

Research.com uses the information to contact you about our relevant content.
For more information, check out our privacy policy.

Newsletter confirmation

Thank you for subscribing!

Confirmation email sent. Please click the link in the email to confirm your subscription.