The Importance of Accreditation for Online Accounting Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

For students with strong mathematical and analytical skills, completing an online accounting degree can offer promising career opportunities. However, online accounting degree programs should come from an accredited college or university. This is because 34.5% of hiring managers value where students got their online accounting degree more than how they acquired it (Future Learn, 2021).

When students enroll in a school that underwent online accounting programs accreditation, it increases the chances of hiring managers considering their application. One reason is that accredited accounting programs indicate that graduates have the proper knowledge and skills to be part of the workforce.

Aside from better employment opportunities, enrolling in an accredited and reputable school has other benefits. To help each individual in becoming an accountant, our researchers gathered all the valuable information students could use to find accredited online accounting programs quickly.

What is an online program accreditation?
Are online colleges and universities accredited?
Why pursue an accredited online accounting program?
Different Types of Online Accounting Programs Accreditation
Accreditation for Online Accounting Programs to Look For
How to Search Online Accounting Programs Accreditation
How do professional certifications complement accredited online accounting programs?
What is the importance of professional networking in accounting programs?
What is the role of accelerated online programs in accounting education?
How to manage costs when pursuing an online accounting degree?
What career pathways can I pursue with an accredited online accounting degree?
Do Accredited Online Accounting Programs Provide Practical, Hands-On Experience?
How can professional certifications enhance my accounting career?
What are emerging trends in online accounting education?
Can an Accredited Online Accounting Degree Maximize My Career and Earnings?
How Can I Meet CPA Qualification Requirements Through an Online Program?
How Can I Evaluate the Return on Investment of an Accredited Online Accounting Degree?

What is an online program accreditation?

As future accountants, students will have to spend a significant amount of time on their education. The cost of pursuing a bachelor’s degree is not to be taken lightly, either. Hence, they must ensure that their preferred college or university undergoes accreditation for online accounting programs.

Accreditation is a review process that an academic institution goes through. The online accounting programs accreditation process differs depending on the organization. Nonetheless, its purpose is to evaluate and monitor the quality of an academic institution’s degree-granting programs.

The accreditation process may also vary depending on the degree type and the program. This means that an academic institution may have accreditation from The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), showcasing that it is a recognized postsecondary school. Meanwhile, the same institution may have accreditation from the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The IACBE accreditation shows that a postsecondary school follows best practices in providing quality business education.

Are online colleges and universities accredited?

Not all colleges and universities are accredited. This is common among new academic institutions still waiting to receive accreditation for their online accounting programs.

Another reason is that schools may be having financial difficulties. The eligibility application fee alone costs $2,400 (AACSB, n.d.). Additionally, the annual fee for accredited accounting schools is at least $3,650. Hence, an institution’s financial standing can impact its application for accreditation.

Lastly, some colleges and universities base their coursework on religious teachings. Some of these institutions forego accreditation as they see it as government intervention. Nonetheless, there are national faith-related accreditation agencies that the United States Department of Education (USDE) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognize.

What can happen if I enroll in an unaccredited online accounting program?

Whether students enroll in regular online schools or colleges offering online accelerated programs, they must ensure that the institution offers accredited online accounting courses. One reason is that unaccredited schools do not offer coursework based on a proper academic assessment. This means that their programs may need to be validated, endangering a graduate’s chances of landing their dream job.

Another thing to consider is the scholarships and government grants. Enrolling in an unaccredited online accounting program may hinder students from getting federal or state financial aid. It can also prevent them from receiving scholarships and grants from relevant organizations.

Why pursue an accredited online accounting program?

Accreditation for online accounting programs ensures that a student’s degree and coursework come from a recognized college or university. Meanwhile, academic institutions undergo online accounting programs accreditation to provide the following benefits:

Quality Assurance

Accreditation means that colleges and universities maintain academic standards in providing quality education. That is because they undergo rigorous assessment, including a peer review process conducted by a team of education experts. Thus, students can rest assured that the degree they are paying for will enable them to find a well-paying job upon graduation.

Financial Aid Eligibility

A total of $234.6 billion in student aid was granted to undergraduate and graduate students during the academic year 2021-2022 (CollegeBoard, 2022). The largest of which are institutional grants (35%) and federal loans (65%) for undergraduate and graduate students, respectively.

With this, some financial aid programs are only available at accredited schools. This means that students who need financial assistance must enroll for an accredited online accounting degree to qualify for financial aid.

Ease of Transferring Credits

Colleges and universities can be skeptical of degrees acquired from unaccredited schools. Hence, it will be challenging for students to transfer credits should they decide to move from a non-accredited academic institution to an accredited one. It might also become a problem should the student decide to pursue further studies.

Sometimes, the type of accreditation may also make credit transfers difficult. This is due to the different institutional accreditations that a college or university has.

Better Employment Opportunities

As mentioned, employers and hiring managers value where students acquire their degrees. Whether they are online accounting certificates or a traditional bachelor’s degree in accounting, what matters is that students earned their degree from an accredited school.

Moreover, it can be advantageous when getting accounting certifications. One reason is that earning an accredited online accounting degree is the first step to qualifying for CPA certified public accountant licensure. The online accounting programs accreditation proves that a college or university offers a curriculum that will make them eligible for licensure.

However, it is vital to note that accreditation does not necessarily prepare a student for CPA licensure. Accountancy boards in every state coordinate with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) to administer the certification exam. Moreover, students must have at least 150 hours of qualifying professional experience and meet the educational training requirements set by their state’s board of accountancy.

Meanwhile, joining professional accounting bodies, such as the Association of Chartered and Certified Accountants (ACCA) while completing their degree can be helpful to students. That is because it allows them to develop their employability skills, as explored in a study titled “Enhancing students’ employability skills awareness through the accounting professional body on an undergraduate accounting degree," published in Accounting Education.

It states that “students benefited particularly from the access to information the on-career path of qualified ACCA members and the diagnostic tool that enabled the students to assess their own skills against what is required. It was also clear that associating with a professional body early on in their degree had enabled students to improve their CVs, learn and refine their interview technique, develop ethical awareness and technical awareness, and develop professional networks with more experienced members of the professional body (Mistry, 2021)."

For individuals who prefer CBAs or CBs, there are also certification exams for those. Bookkeeper certification is among the same line as CPA, as they are both accounting but for different aspects of accounting.

Different Types of Accreditation

Different regional and national agencies oversee accounting online accreditation. These agencies have a set of criteria when evaluating the quality of courses that colleges and universities offer. Accreditation also ensures that students benefit from the advantages of pursuing accredited online accounting courses.

Institutional Accreditation

Institutional accreditation is commonly granted to an entire academic institution that offers undergraduate and graduate programs. This ensures that the college or university meets and maintains a set of academic standards, whether they are known for their high tuition cost or for offering the cheapest online bachelor’s degree.

This is also the first accreditation a school should apply for before receiving programmatic accreditation. Relatively, there are two types of institutional accreditation: Regional and national accreditation. Both are guided by the USDE and CHEA.

Regional Accreditation

Academic institutions and employers deem regional accreditation as the gold standard. Hence, it is the most common type of school accreditation. One reason is that regional accreditation is handled in a smaller geographic area.

Regional accreditation is often reserved for non-profit colleges and universities and bestowed by regional accrediting organizations, like the following:

Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Regional accrediting agencies have varying standards of accreditation. Nonetheless, these are strict standards that look into a college or university’s academic budget, facilities, support services, and the education and training level of the faculty members. It also involves periodic site visits and evaluations for traditional and online education by representatives from the accrediting body.

National Accreditation

National accreditation is often reserved for vocational and trade schools. Nonetheless, many for-profit and online schools have national accreditation.

It is considered a lower tier than regional accreditation since the former imposes a lower standard for colleges and universities to achieve accreditation. This explains why regionally-accredited schools do not accept transfer credits from nationally-accredited institutions. On the other hand, nationally-accredited schools can accept transfer credits from regionally-accredited institutions.

Programmatic Accreditation

Programmatic accreditation accredits a single program in a specific department, such as accounting. As such, it has a separate and distinct process.

Colleges and universities may voluntarily apply for online accounting programs accreditation. They can also choose which accreditation organization they would like to apply for. Nevertheless, offering an accredited and affordable online accounting degree assures students that the academic institutions have the faculty members and instructional resources to train them in the professional practice of accountancy.

Accreditation for Online Accounting Programs to Look For

Different regional and national agencies oversee online accounting programs accreditation. These agencies have a set of criteria when evaluating the quality of courses that colleges and universities offer.

Accreditation also ensures students benefit from the advantages of pursuing accredited online accounting courses. These include having a well-paying job and working in various industries.

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

ACBSP gives importance to student-centered learning and continuous improvement. Hence, they look into the following when doing an accounting online accreditation:

Faculty credentials
Strategic planning
Leadership
College or university’s relationships with stakeholders
Academic quality
Student support and resources

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools for Business (AACSB)

The American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) recognize AACSB as a premier accrediting agency for colleges and universities that offer business and accounting courses. One reason is that they are known for their rigorous evaluation of a school’s curriculum, teaching effectiveness, faculty and staff resources, and financial aid resources.

International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

IACBE-accredited postsecondary schools worldwide provide associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in business and accounting. As a mission-driven and outcomes-based accreditation agency, they look into an academic institution’s strategic planning, business curriculum, faculty credentials, student policies, and other instructional resources. However, completing inexpensive online MBA programs with IACBE accreditation does not guarantee that a student’s master’s degree in accounting will be recognized in other countries.

How to Look for Accredited Online Accounting Program

Accreditation for online accounting programs is a rigorous process that showcases a school’s desire to provide high-quality education. Online accounting programs accreditation also demonstrates that a school’s online program carries the same weight as an on-campus degree.

Thus, an institution’s type of accreditation, accreditation status, and accreditation body should be readily available. Otherwise, students must consider it a red flag.

Nonetheless, students can check the CHEA website for their list of CHEA- and USDE-recognized accreditation agencies. The list can lead them to the accreditation agency’s website, where they can search for a list of accredited colleges and universities. This is an excellent way of confirming whether a school offers accredited online accounting courses.

Another resource that students can look into is the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). It is a national organization that accredits schools offering distance learning and online degree programs. Their role is to ensure that online programs and their on-campus counterparts have the same content.

How do professional certifications complement accredited online accounting programs?

Professional certifications can significantly enhance the value of an accredited online accounting program by providing students with specialized skills and recognition in the accounting field. Certifications validate an individual's expertise and can improve job prospects, salary potential, and career advancement opportunities. Here are ways in which professional certifications complement accredited accounting programs:

Enhanced Credibility and Marketability
- Obtaining a professional certification, such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA), in addition to a degree from an accredited program, increases a graduate’s credibility in the eyes of employers.
- Certification demonstrates a commitment to the profession and mastery of specific accounting skills, making candidates more attractive in a competitive job market.
Specialization in Key Areas
- Certifications allow accountants to specialize in areas such as tax, auditing, forensic accounting, or financial management, providing them with niche expertise.
- Popular certifications include Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Enrolled Agent (EA), each focusing on a distinct aspect of accounting.
Alignment with Continuing Education Requirements
- Many certifications have continuing education requirements, ensuring that accountants remain current with industry trends and regulatory changes. Accredited programs often offer courses that count towards these requirements, making it easier for professionals to fulfill them.
- Accredited programs may also provide preparatory courses for certification exams, streamlining the path from graduation to certification.
Networking and Professional Development Opportunities
- Membership in professional accounting organizations, such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA), often accompanies certification.
- These organizations offer networking events, seminars, and conferences, allowing certified professionals to connect with industry experts and stay informed about the latest developments in accounting.
Higher Earning Potential
- Certified professionals often earn higher salaries compared to non-certified counterparts. For instance, CPAs typically command higher wages due to the rigorous requirements and specialized skills associated with the certification.
- Accredited programs that prepare students for certification can thus lead to better financial outcomes for graduates.

What is the importance of professional networking in accounting programs?

Networking is an essential aspect of any career, including accounting. It is important to look for affordable online accounting degree programs, but accredited programs can help in building professional connections to help students transition smoothly into the workforce.

Virtual Networking Opportunities: Many online accounting programs now offer virtual networking events, webinars, and mentorship programs. These events connect students with industry professionals, alumni, and faculty who can provide guidance and career advice. Building these relationships during your studies can lead to internship opportunities and even job placements after graduation.
Partnerships with Professional Organizations: Accredited programs often collaborate with professional accounting bodies such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). These partnerships give students access to exclusive networking events, certification resources, and job boards, enhancing their career prospects.
Peer Networking and Collaboration: Through group projects and discussion forums, students can form valuable connections with peers in their programs. These connections often serve as a support system during studies and evolve into professional relationships that continue throughout their careers.

What is the role of accelerated online programs in accounting education?

For students aiming to fast-track their accounting education without sacrificing quality, accelerated accounting degree programs online provide an innovative and efficient solution. These programs offer a streamlined curriculum designed to help students meet their academic and professional goals in a shorter timeframe.

1. What are accelerated online accounting programs?

Accelerated online accounting programs compress traditional coursework into a shorter duration, often allowing students to complete a degree in as little as 12 to 18 months. These programs are ideal for working professionals, career changers, or students looking to quickly meet prerequisites for certifications like CPA licensure.

2. Benefits of Accelerated Online Programs

Time Efficiency: Students can graduate faster, reducing the time it takes to enter the workforce or qualify for advanced certifications.

Cost Savings: Shorter programs mean fewer semesters, leading to lower tuition costs and minimized expenses for housing and commuting.
Flexibility: Online formats allow students to study from anywhere and often offer asynchronous classes, enabling them to balance education with work and personal commitments.
CPA Preparation: Many accelerated programs align their curricula with CPA exam requirements, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet licensing standards.

3. How Accreditation Enhances Accelerated Programs

Enrolling in an accredited accelerated accounting program online ensures the quality and credibility of your education. Accreditation confirms that the program meets industry standards, increasing employability and eligibility for financial aid.

4. Who should consider accelerated programs?

Accelerated online accounting programs are ideal for:

Working Professionals: Individuals looking to enhance their qualifications while maintaining their current job.
Career Changers: Those transitioning into accounting from another field who want a quick and efficient path.
Aspiring CPAs: Students needing to complete the 150 credit hours required for CPA licensure in a timely manner.

5. Examples of Career Opportunities

Graduates of accelerated accounting programs can pursue a variety of roles, such as:

Staff Accountant
Financial Analyst
Tax Specialist
Internal Auditor

These positions often serve as stepping stones to advanced roles, including Controller or CPA, particularly in high-demand regions.

6. Explore Accelerated Options

For those ready to take the next step, accelerated accounting degree online programs offer a practical and flexible pathway to achieving academic and professional success. These programs combine the convenience of online learning with the rigor of traditional education, ensuring students receive a comprehensive education in less time.

How to manage costs when pursuing an online accounting degree?

One of the most significant considerations when pursuing an online accounting degree is managing the associated costs effectively. As students weigh their options, it's important to account for tuition and additional aspects such as fees, technology requirements, and living expenses. Here are strategies to cut down on costs while still receiving a high-quality education:

Research Affordable Programs

Finding an affordable online accounting degree program can help reduce financial burdens without compromising on accreditation and educational quality. Students should focus on institutions offering financial aid opportunities, low tuition fees, or even career-specific scholarships. For a comprehensive list of options, consider exploring a cheap distance learning degree that aligns with your educational goals.

Take Advantage of Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants can offset the costs of tuition significantly. Accredited schools often provide access to exclusive scholarships, including those for underrepresented groups in accounting. Additionally, federal and state grants can benefit students enrolled in recognized programs.

Leverage Employer Reimbursement Plans

Many employers have reimbursement policies that cover a portion or all the costs of advanced education in high-demand fields like accounting. Ensure your program is accredited to meet eligibility requirements for such assistance.

Opt for Community College Partnerships

Enrolling in a community college for lower-division coursework before transferring to an online accounting program can reduce expenses. Look for agreements between community colleges and your desired institutions to ensure easy credit transfer and program compatibility.

Minimize Living Expenses

Engaging in an online program eliminates housing and transportation costs associated with on-campus learning. However, it's crucial to budget effectively for technology upgrades, such as a reliable computer and high-speed internet, which are essential for online coursework.

Choose an Online Accounting Program Wisely

The average online tuition cost is at least $38,000 (Education Data, 2021). Aside from paying a significant amount, students also have to manage their time. That is because some have to do part-time or full-time work or fulfill their family obligations in addition to pursuing a degree.

This is where looking at online accounting programs accreditation credentials can be helpful. Moreover, it eliminates the need for students to relocate or travel to a school to complete their program. Thus, an online degree makes pursuing a college education less expensive.

However, not all online degrees are created equal. Some schools may not offer some specific courses, or even teach the proper skills. Especially when learning how to become a CPA in NC and every other state, students must understand the importance of accounting online accreditation. Otherwise, it can endanger their chances of landing their dream accounting careers.

What career pathways can I pursue with an accredited online accounting degree?

Accredited online accounting degrees equip graduates with comprehensive technical proficiency and analytical skills applicable across diverse financial sectors. Such programs often pave the way for specialized roles in public accounting, auditing, taxation, internal controls, forensic accounting, and management accounting within public firms, private corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Employers recognize accredited credentials as a benchmark of rigorous curriculum and quality assurance, which can significantly enhance selection prospects for advanced positions. For a deeper understanding of market opportunities, explore types of accounting jobs and salaries.

Do Accredited Online Accounting Programs Provide Practical, Hands-On Experience?

Accredited online accounting programs are increasingly incorporating interactive learning tools and real-world simulations to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Many institutions leverage virtual labs, case studies, and cloud-based accounting platforms that mimic professional financial environments, ensuring that students develop applicable technical skills directly aligned with industry practices. In addition, select programs offer opportunities for remote internships and collaborative projects with experienced professionals, which further solidify a candidate’s readiness to excel in dynamic accounting roles. Students seeking advanced practical training may explore options such as a masters of accounting online, where a well-structured curriculum integrates both the analytical framework and hands-on experience necessary to navigate the evolving financial landscape.

How can professional certifications enhance my accounting career?

Obtaining professional certifications can serve as a strategic complement to a well-regarded online accounting degree by validating specialized skills and broadening career avenues. In the competitive accounting landscape, these credentials demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development, which can translate into higher earning potential and accelerated career advancement. Establishing expertise through certifications also reinforces employer confidence in your capabilities, ultimately supporting a more robust professional profile. For those starting out, exploring accounting certifications for beginners can provide a targeted pathway to build a strong foundation in the field.

What are emerging trends in online accounting education?

Online accounting programs are evolving to integrate advanced technology and innovative teaching methods. Institutions are incorporating modules on artificial intelligence, blockchain applications, and data analytics to enhance technical proficiency and prepare students for dynamic financial environments. This trend also encourages the adoption of cloud-based systems and real-time financial software, providing practical exposure to tools that are transforming the industry. Prospective students should investigate various accounting specializations that merge core accounting principles with modern technological advancements.

Can an Accredited Online Accounting Degree Maximize My Career and Earnings?

Accredited online accounting programs offer a proven pathway toward roles that recognize high academic standards and technical prowess. Employers value the rigorous training offered by accredited institutions, often translating into competitive compensation and positions that lead to the highest paying job in accounting. By aligning with industry benchmarks and ethical practices, graduates can access opportunities that favor long-term career advancement and robust salary potential.

Can an Online Accounting Degree Support a Transition to an actuary career path?

An accredited online accounting degree equips graduates with advanced analytical abilities, financial modeling expertise, and risk assessment skills that are directly applicable in the actuarial profession. Many accounting programs emphasize quantitative analysis and data interpretation, providing a solid foundation for understanding and managing financial uncertainty. With further specialized training and certification exams pertinent to actuarial science, graduates can effectively leverage their accounting background to transition into roles that demand rigorous statistical and risk management capabilities. This approach opens additional career opportunities, such as an actuary career path, in designing insurance models and financial risk strategies, thereby broadening one’s professional trajectory in the financial sector.

How Can I Meet CPA Qualification Requirements Through an Online Program?

Accredited online accounting programs are structured to build a robust foundation in accounting principles that directly supports preparation for the CPA exam. Courses are designed to cover essential topics in auditing, taxation, and financial reporting while incorporating exam-focused modules and practice assessments. Institutions often complement classroom learning with career center resources, dedicated study groups, and mentorship opportunities that help students navigate state-specific educational and experience requirements. For a detailed overview of the necessary steps and requirements, consult CPA qualification requirements.

How Can I Evaluate the Return on Investment of an Accredited Online Accounting Degree?

When assessing the overall value of an accredited online accounting degree, examine both direct and indirect factors that influence long-term career success. Analyze program costs, including tuition, fees, and potential financial aid, against the anticipated increase in earning potential and career advancement opportunities. Consider how accreditation may improve your professional mobility and eligibility for specialized certifications while reducing the risk of pursuing a degree with limited market recognition. Compare these factors to alternative financial education opportunities, such as a cheap online master's degree in finance, to determine which path offers the best alignment with your career objectives and budget.

Key Insights

Accreditation Importance: Accreditation is crucial for online accounting programs as it ensures the quality and credibility of the degree, making graduates more attractive to hiring managers.
Employment Opportunities: Accredited programs are more likely to be recognized by employers, enhancing graduates' job prospects and career advancement opportunities.
Financial Aid: Enrolling in an accredited program is essential for eligibility for federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and grants.
Transfer of Credits: Accreditation facilitates the transfer of credits between institutions, which is beneficial for students who may need to change schools or pursue further education.
Types of Accreditation: Understanding the different types of accreditation (institutional, regional, national, and programmatic) helps students make informed decisions about their education.
Accrediting Agencies: Key accrediting agencies for online accounting programs include the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).

FAQ

What is an online program accreditation? Online program accreditation is a review process that evaluates and monitors the quality of an academic institution’s degree programs. It ensures that the institution meets specific standards of education and maintains them over time.
Are online colleges and universities accredited? Not all online colleges and universities are accredited. Accreditation depends on various factors, including financial stability, adherence to academic standards, and the institution's commitment to quality education. Students should verify the accreditation status of their chosen institution.
Why pursue an accredited online accounting program? Pursuing an accredited online accounting program ensures that the education you receive meets established standards of quality, making you a more competitive candidate in the job market. It also makes you eligible for financial aid and ensures that your credits can be transferred if needed.
What can happen if I enroll in an unaccredited online accounting program? Enrolling in an unaccredited program can limit your job prospects, make you ineligible for federal and state financial aid, and complicate the transfer of credits to other institutions. It may also hinder your ability to obtain professional certifications like CPA licensure.
What are the different types of accreditation for online accounting programs? There are institutional (regional and national) and programmatic accreditations. Institutional accreditation evaluates the entire institution, while programmatic accreditation focuses on specific programs within the institution, such as accounting.
Which accrediting agencies should I look for when choosing an online accounting program? Look for programs accredited by reputable agencies such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), and International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
How can I verify the accreditation of an online accounting program? You can check the accreditation status on the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) website or the website of the specific accrediting agency. Institutions should also provide accreditation information on their websites.
Why is financial aid eligibility important for online accounting programs? Financial aid can significantly reduce the cost of education. Accredited programs are eligible for federal and state financial aid, scholarships, and grants, making education more accessible and affordable.
How does accreditation affect the transfer of credits? Accreditation ensures that credits earned from one institution are recognized and accepted by other institutions. This is crucial for students who may need to transfer to another school or pursue further education.
What should I consider when choosing an online accounting program? Consider the program’s accreditation status, the reputation of the institution, the cost of tuition, the availability of financial aid, the curriculum, faculty qualifications, and student support services.

References:

Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (2022). State of Accreditation Report. Retrieved from https://www.aacsb.edu/insights/reports/2022-state-of-accreditation-report
Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Accountants and Auditors. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes132011.htm
CollegeBoard (2022). Trends in College Pricing and Student Aid. Retrieved from https://research.collegeboard.org/trends/college-pricing
Council for Higher Education Accreditation (n.d.). Programmatic Accrediting Organizations. Retrieved from https://www.chea.org/programmatic-accrediting-organizations
Future Learn (2021). Do employers value online learning? Retrieved from https://www.futurelearn.com/info/do-employers-value-online-learning
Hanson (2021). “Average Cost of Online College," Education Data Initiative. Retrieved from https://educationdata.org/average-cost-of-online-college
Mistry (2021)." Enhancing students’ employability skills awareness through the accounting professional body on an undergraduate accounting degree," Accounting Education. Retrieved from https://doi.org/10.1080/09639284.2021.1950016
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National Center for Education Statistics (2022). Doctor’s degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions: Academic years 2010 11 through 2020 21. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_324.10.asp
National Center for Education Statistics (2022). Master’s degrees conferred by postsecondary institutions: Academic years 2010 11 through 2020 21. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_323.10.asp