collageBy pursuing bachelor’s degrees in accounting, students learn foundational practices in tax preparation, auditing, and financial analysis to qualify for entry-level jobs in the field. Many accountants continue to master’s-level studies, qualifying them to earn certified public accountant (CPA) credentials.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors earned a median salary of $71,550 as of May 2019. Accountants enjoy flexibility and job security in many different industries.
This page highlights the 15 most affordable online accounting degrees for 2021, offering an excellent starting point for prospective accounting students. Readers can also find information about degree expectations, career paths, and tips for choosing the right program.
021’s Top 10 Cheapest Online Accounting Degrees
| RANK | SCHOOL | LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Trine University | Angola, IN |
| 2 | Maryville University of Saint Louis | Saint Louis, MO |
| 3 | Shorter University | Rome, GA |
| 4 | Colorado State University-Global Campus | Aurora, CO |
| 5 | Lakeland University | Plymouth, WI |
| 6 | McKendree University | Lebanon, IL |
| 7 | Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | University Park, PA |
| 8 | University of Minnesota-Crookston | Crookston, MN |
| 9 | Eastern New Mexico University | Portales, NM |
| 10 | Florida Atlantic University | Boca Raton, FL |
What Is Accounting?
The concept of tracking business transactions dates back to 2,000-3,300 B.C., as evidenced by unearthed clay tablets from the period. Luca Pacioli’s 1494 treatise on bookkeeping practices, which measures expenses against income, makes him the “Father of Accounting” in the eyes of historians. The Industrial Revolution saw the development of professional accounting organizations. Emerging technologies continue to catapult the field into the future.
Today, the BLS reports 1,436,100 accountant and auditor positions in the United States, projecting employment in the field to grow by 4% from 2019-2029 and keep pace with the average growth for all occupations.
As of 2019, the largest accounting employers included accounting, tax preparation, bookkeeping, and payroll services; finance and insurance; government; and management of companies and enterprises.
Accountants maintain financial records for organizations and individuals. They oversee tax preparation and ensure their employers adhere to all necessary regulations. Accountants often possess excellent analytical, communication, and math skills, plus a strong eye for detail. With a bachelor’s in accounting, students can hone these skills and qualify for diverse roles in the field.
A bachelor’s often meets the minimum educational requirement for entry-level jobs in accounting. Some organizations offer advancement opportunities to bachelor’s graduates, while others require additional education beyond an undergraduate degree.
Why Get an Affordable Accounting Bachelor’s?
By obtaining online accounting degrees, students enter a job market that continues to grow along with the overall economy. These in-demand professionals enjoy ample choices when it comes to location, business size, and industry.
An aspiring accountant should consider their career goals and ideal professional role before committing to an online accounting degree. Prospective students may want to consider whether the curriculum emphasizes CPA readiness or attractive concentration options. As a common entry-level expectation, a bachelor’s in accounting paves the way to success in the field.
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