An online bachelor’s degree in accounting may provide students with a solid foundation on the general accounting principles. In these four-year programs, students may learn how to utilize business communication and computer applications in accounting management. Program coursework may include general education requirements alongside major-specific courses, such as advanced auditing, supply chain management, and payroll accounting.

Graduates may either seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in graduate-level programs in accounting or finance. Bachelor’s degree graduates may gain employment in accounting, finance, bookkeeping, and tax preparation.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 16% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum for bachelor’s degree programs in accounting may integrate general education classes alongside core accounting courses. These courses may teach students how to interpret financial information, establish accounting systems, and they may prepare them to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. Core accounting classes may include the following:

• Finance
• Supply Chain Management
• Business Law
• Payroll Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Advanced Auditing
• Income Tax

Career Options

Graduates of online baccalaureate-level programs in accounting may find employment opportunities in accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, payroll, and finance. According to the Bureau or Labor Statistics, employment options for those in the accounting industry should increase by 16 % from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Accountant
• Bookkeeper
• Financial Analyst
• Revenue Agent
• Tax Collector

Continuing Education

Once individuals successfully complete an online bachelor’s degree program in accounting, they may either seek entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a graduate-level program in accounting. These upper-level programs may provide students leadership and managerial skills needed for employment in national and international practices. Most employers prefer to hire individuals who hold at least a bachelor’s degree, and those who hold certain certifications within a specific field of accounting may improve their job prospects.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook