Earning a college degree involves many important decisions, and one of the biggest is determining which option fits your budget.
College can be a significant investment, and figuring out the return on investment (ROI) can sometimes feel overwhelming.
To help prospective students, the Affordable Degree Guide team has put together rankings of the most affordable online accounting degree programs.
Before we get into the full list—calculated based on total projected tuition costs—here are a few key benchmarks to consider:
- $59,125 is the average projected tuition cost for an online accounting degree
- $23,880 is the lowest tuition, and $172,360 is the highest tuition
- $55,180 is the median projected tuition cost for an online accounting degree
- 47% of programs are accredited
- $434 is the average cost per credit for an online accounting degree
- 75 to 183 is the range of required credits
- 124 is the average number of credits
- 120 is the most common number of credits needed to earn an online accounting degree
Finding an Affordable Online Accounting Degree Program
Our 2025 list features 25 online accounting degree programs that have earned their spots based on affordability.
The rankings are determined by dividing the total projected cost of the degree by the number of credits required for graduation, giving you a clear picture of the value each program offers.
Some programs come from prestigious institutions known for their academic excellence, while others are from smaller schools that have developed strong, affordable accounting programs.
The 2025 affordability rankings feature programs from across the country, ensuring students can find a program that suits their budget and geographic preferences while still receiving a high-quality education.
Most Affordable Online BS in Accounting Programs
Georgia Southwestern State University
Americus, Georgia
Program: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $23,880
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $199
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Comprehensive Core Courses: Covers essential areas like financial and managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation, providing a strong foundation for students
- CPA Exam Prep: The curriculum helps students meet the requirements to sit for the CPA exam, crucial for those pursuing licensure
- Internship Opportunities: Practical learning through internships provides hands-on experience and industry connections
University of Toledo
Toledo, OhioProgram: Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A.) in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $24,960
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $203 in-state | $208 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Alan Barry Accounting Lab: Provides resources for CPA and CMA exam prep, including tutoring and advanced software for hands-on learning
- Strong Job Placement: UToledo boasts a 93% placement rate, with graduates landing jobs at major firms like Ernst & Young and PwC
- Flexible Curriculum: Offers options to double major or minor in related fields, such as finance or information systems
University of the Cumberlands
Williamsburg, KentuckyProgram: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $26,400
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $220
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Comprehensive Courses: The curriculum covers essential topics like Intermediate Accounting, Taxation, and Auditing, ensuring a solid foundation
- Small Class Sizes: With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from close interaction and guidance from experienced faculty
- Internships: Students can gain up to 15 credit hours of practical experience through internships, enhancing their real-world skills
Eastern New Mexico University
Portales, New MexicoProgram: Online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $30,840
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $175 in-state | $257 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Affordable Tuition: ENMU offers competitive tuition rates, with financial aid options available to support students
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers core areas like financial and managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing
- Career Support: ENMU provides career counseling and networking opportunities to help students transition into the workforce
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UtahProgram: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $31,611
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $257
Credits: 123
Program highlights:- Self-Paced Learning: WGU's competency-based model lets students progress at their own speed, enabling many to finish faster
- CPA Exam Preparation: The degree is structured to help students meet CPA exam requirements, with a pathway to continue toward a Master of Accounting
- Career-Focused Curriculum: The program includes key accounting skills and a capstone project that tackles real-world business problems
Athens State University
Athens, AlabamaProgram: Bachelor of Science - Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $31,744
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $256
Credits: 124
Program highlights:- Affordable Education: Recognized for its low tuition rates, making it a budget-friendly option
- CPA Preparation: The curriculum covers essential areas like auditing, taxation, and financial accounting, helping students prepare for CPA certification
- Industry Partnerships: Includes specialized training in areas like government contract accounting through partnerships
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
Utica, New YorkProgram: BS in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $33,875
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $226 in-state | $271 out-of-state
Credits: 125
Program highlights:- CPA Preparation: The program meets New York State's requirements for CPA licensure
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential accounting areas like auditing, taxation, and cost accounting
- Affordability: Offers competitive tuition rates and merit-based scholarships
SUNY Plattsburgh
Plattsburgh, New YorkProgram: B.S. in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $33,960
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $236 in-state | $283 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- CPA-Ready: The program prepares students to sit for the NYS CPA exam and offers a 4+1 option to meet the 150-credit licensure requirement
- Specialization Options: Students can pursue minors like forensic accounting or a second major in business administration
- Hands-On Experience: Offers practical experiences, such as tax internships where students assist local communities
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Fairbanks, AlaskaProgram: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $34,680
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $289
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- CPA and Certification Ready: Prepares students for CPA and other certifications like CMA and CFE
- High Job Placement: Graduates enjoy nearly 100% job placement, with strong internship and networking opportunities
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through programs like the Student Investment Fund and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA)
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, ArkansasProgram: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $35,040
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $292
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Hands-On Focus: Emphasizes practical, career-oriented training in public accounting, finance, and government
- Strong Career Prospects: Graduates are recruited by top firms like Arvest and Entergy for roles in auditing, forensic accounting, and more
- Internship Support: Provides internships and networking opportunities to gain real-world experience
Trine University
Angola, IndianaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Major in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $35,880
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $299
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- CPA/CMA Exam Prep: The program helps students prepare for certifications like CPA and CMA, with pathways to meet the 150-credit requirement
- Accelerated Dual Degree: Students can earn both a bachelor's and MBA in just four years through the 3+1 program, saving time and money
- Real-World Experience: Offers internships with top firms such as Ernst & Young and Dana Inc. for hands-on industry training
Bemidji State University
Bemidji, MinnesotaProgram: Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $36,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $300
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Affordable: Known for offering quality education at a reasonable cost
- Practical Experience: Provides internships, an Accounting Club, and Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) for hands-on learning
- Career Guidance: Strong career support and faculty mentorship help students succeed in various accounting fields
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UtahProgram: Bachelor's in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $36,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $300
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Strong Job Placement: Almost 100% of graduates are employed right after completing the program
- CPA Exam Ready: The fast-track option allows students to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years
- Real-World Experience: Offers hands-on learning through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program and internships
King University
Bristol, TennesseeProgram: B.S. Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $37,820
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $305
Credits: 124
Program highlights:- Flexible Format: The online program can be completed in as few as 16 months, ideal for busy professionals
- Practical Skills: Offers hands-on experience with computerized tax preparation and accounting systems
- Supportive Faculty: Experienced instructors provide personalized guidance throughout the program
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LouisianaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $39,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $325
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Diverse Career Options: Graduates can work in public accounting, auditing, tax, and more, with a curriculum covering various specialties
- Top Internal Auditing Program: LSU hosts the world’s top internal auditing and cybersecurity risk management program
- Practical Experience: Students gain hands-on experience through internships, case competitions, and organizations like Beta Alpha Psi
Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, MissouriProgram: Online BSBA in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $39,600
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Hands-On Experience: Opportunities through Beta Alpha Psi and the Douglas C. Greene Center for Innovation provide real-world learning
- Career Support: Strong career services help connect students with top employers like Deloitte and the FBI
- CPA Exam Prep: Prepares students for the CPA exam, with pathways to earn additional credits through the MBA program
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New HampshireProgram: BS in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $39,600
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Flexible Scheduling: Available fully online with six start dates per year and 8-week terms, allowing students to tailor their learning pace to fit their schedule
- Affordable Tuition: SNHU is recognized for its affordable tuition rates while maintaining high academic standards through NECHE and ACBSP accreditation
- Practical Experience: Students gain real-world skills through internships, accounting simulations, and programs like the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program
University of West Alabama
Livingston, AlabamaProgram: BBA in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $39,975
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $325
Credits: 123
Program highlights:- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes 30 credit hours in core subjects like Intermediate Accounting, Cost Accounting, and Federal Taxation
- Practical Experience: Students can participate in the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for real-world experience
- Affordable: Competitive tuition rates and financial aid options, with personalized support from success coaches
Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, MissouriProgram: Bachelor of Science in Accounting – Public
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $40,080
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $334
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Experienced Faculty: The program is led by faculty with over 50 years of combined industry and teaching experience
- CPA/CMA Preparation: The program offers tracks in public and managerial accounting, preparing students for the CPA or CMA exams
- High CPA Pass Rate: Northwest students have a CPA exam pass rate 15% above the state average
Champlain College
Burlington, VermontProgram: Bachelor's in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $40,200
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $335
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Fully Online: Offers a flexible, 100% online program with multiple start dates
- Career-Focused: Prepares students for roles like auditors and financial analysts at top organizations, including PwC and the U.S. Treasury
- Specialized Certificates: Provides options for earning certificates in areas like forensic and cost accounting
University of South Carolina
Columbia, South CarolinaProgram: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $41,760
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $173 in-state | $348 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Customizable Curriculum: Students can specialize in areas like Business Analytics, tailoring their coursework to fit career goals
- Strong Community Ties: The program's strong connections with the accounting industry provide valuable internships and networking opportunities
- Hands-On Learning: Students gain practical experience in financial reporting, auditing, and accounting systems
American Public University
Charles Town, West VirginiaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $42,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $350
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Flexible Online Learning: 100% online with both 8-week and 16-week terms, offering flexibility for working students
- Wide Career Options: Graduates are equipped for roles in public, private, and government accounting
- Affordable Tuition: Competitive rates, with discounts for military-affiliated students
Northern State University
Aberdeen, South DakotaProgram: Accounting Bachelor's Degree
AACSB accreditation: No
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $42,600
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $355
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Real-World Internships: Provides hands-on experience through internships in fields like auditing and taxation
- Career Support: Connects students to local businesses through advisory boards and internships
- Flexible Learning: NSU offers both online and on-campus options, allowing students to choose a format that fits their schedule while maintaining the program's rigor
University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, ArkansasProgram: Bachelor of Science Business Administration in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $42,720
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $356
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Flexible Learning: Available both on-campus and online, offering convenience for different learning styles
- Corporate Partnerships: Strong ties with businesses provide students with internships and job placement opportunities
- Diverse Career Options: Graduates are well-equipped for roles in auditing, tax, and financial analysis
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
Dartmouth, MassachusettsProgram: BS in Accounting
AACSB accreditation: Yes
Delivery method : Online
Total tuition : $43,080
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $359
Credits: 120
Program highlights:- Curriculum: Comprehensive coursework integrates accounting principles with vital technology and information system skills.
- Flexibility: The program is designed for working professionals, offering asynchronous online courses and personalized advising.
- Further Education: Provides pathways to advanced degrees and certifications, including CPA qualification.
Scholarships for Online Accounting Degrees
If you’re pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in accounting, you’re making a strategic move to enhance your career prospects.
Scholarships are available to support your academic goals, whether you’re a fresh graduate, a seasoned professional, or a returning student.
By taking advantage of scholarships, you can minimize student loan debt and accelerate your professional advancement.
| Advocates for African Americans Carolinas Scholarship The African American Network Carolinas Scholarship Fund, supported by Duke Energy’s Advocates for African-Americans, awards scholarships to students from North and South Carolina majoring in fields such as engineering, math, science, and business administration. The fund targets college-bound students demonstrating academic achievement, leadership skills, and financial need. Recipients are selected by accredited colleges, universities, or community service organizations based on established criteria. Amount: $2,000 Deadline: February 28, 2025 Awards Available: 3 More information |
| AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs The AICPA Foundation Scholarship for Future CPAs offers financial support ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 to encourage students pursuing accounting degrees and CPA licensure. It’s available for both undergraduate and graduate students who have completed a minimum of 30 semester hours, including accounting courses, and who demonstrate financial need and academic merit. Applicants must be AICPA Student Affiliate members, U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and enrolled full-time for the academic year 2025-26. Amount: Up to $10,000 Deadline: March 15 Awards Available: 26 More information |
| AICPA Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students The AICPA Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students offers $3,000 to $10,000 to support 60 minority students pursuing accounting or related majors, aiming for CPA licensure. This scholarship is available to full-time undergraduate or graduate students who have completed at least 30 semester hours, including accounting courses, by spring 2025 and have a GPA of at least 3.0. The application window is from December 1, 2024, to March 15, 2025, and candidates must demonstrate some financial need and plan to stay engaged with AICPA post-award. Amount: $3,000 – $10,000 Deadline: Mar 15, 2025 Awards Available: 60 More information |
| CPAexcel Student Scholarship The CPAexcel Student Scholarship, sponsored by Wiley, awards a $1,000 scholarship each month to a new student starting their career in accounting or finance. This initiative is part of Wiley’s commitment to support the education of students entering these rapidly evolving professions. Students must be at the start of their career journey and show a need for educational access to qualify for this scholarship. Amount: $1,000 More information |
| EFWA Undergraduate Scholarships The Educational Foundation for Women in Accounting offers several undergraduate scholarships for women pursuing degrees in accounting, with specific scholarships for those facing financial hardship or transitioning in life circumstances. Awards range from $1,500 to $10,000 and are contingent on maintaining a GPA of 3.0 or higher. These scholarships support various stages of education, from freshmen to upper-class students, at accredited U.S. institutions, emphasizing support for diverse backgrounds and financial needs. Amount: $1,500 Deadline: March 30 More information |
| Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship The Frank L. Greathouse Government Accounting Scholarship, established in 1987 by the GFOA Executive Board, aims to support students dedicated to a career in state and local government finance. It offers two $10,000 scholarships to full-time graduate or upper-level undergraduate students studying accounting, with no employment requirements. Applicants must provide a recommendation letter demonstrating their commitment to the public sector. Amount: $10,000 Deadline: December 31, 2024 Awards Available: 2 More information |
| Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation The Fukunaga Scholarship Foundation provides $20,000 scholarships distributed over four years to students from Hawaii pursuing careers in business. Each year, ten deserving students are selected based on their academic achievements, leadership qualities, financial need, and commitment to business careers. This scholarship aims to support the educational and professional growth of students within the local community. Amount: $20,000 over four years Deadline: February 22, 2025 Awards Available: 10 More information |
| Illinois CPA Society Freshman Scholarship The Illinois CPA Society offers scholarships of up to $2,000 to incoming college freshmen from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups who are interested in majoring in accounting. Applicants must be high school seniors planning to attend an Illinois college and should have a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0. Preference is given to students who have taken a high school accounting course. Amount: Up to $2,000 More information |
| Leroy Schmidt 150-Hour Scholarship The LeRoy C. Schmidt 150-Hour Scholarship offers $3,000 to multiple qualified applicants who are selected based on their academic achievements, volunteer activities, and supporting documents including a personal statement and letters of recommendation. Unlike other scholarships in the program, where only one recipient is chosen, this scholarship allows for multiple awardees. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to qualify for this financial support. Amount: $3,000 Deadline: March 7, 2025 More information |
| Matt Fong Asian Americans in Public Finance Scholarship The Matt Fong Asian Americans in Public Finance Scholarship, managed by the Asian Pacific Community Fund, offers two $5,000 scholarships to full-time undergraduate students in California for the 2025-2026 academic year. Eligible students must have Asian heritage, a minimum 3.0 GPA, and be majoring in social science, accounting, business administration, or related fields, with a preference for those interested in public sector work or community service. The application process includes submitting an online form, transcripts, two letters of recommendation, and participating in an online interview if selected as a finalist. Amount: $5,000 Deadline: April 21, 2025 Awards Available: 2 More information |
| NJCPA College Scholarships The NJCPA offers college scholarships for accounting students in their second year at community colleges or sophomore through senior years at four-year institutions in New Jersey. Scholarship amounts are $2,000 for sophomores and $6,500 for juniors and seniors, with recipients selected based on academic performance, a written essay, and a personal interview. The application deadline is January 7, 2025, and requires a 500-word essay on the applicant’s experiences and aspirations in accounting. Amount: $2,000 – $6,500 Deadline: January 7, 2025 More information |
| NJCPA High School Senior Scholarship The NJCPA offers $1,500 scholarships to New Jersey high school seniors planning to major in accounting or pursue a concentration with at least 24 accounting credits. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, New Jersey residents, and have a minimum GPA of 3.2 or satisfactory SAT/ACT scores. The application requires an essay, transcripts, test scores, and an interview for finalists, with a submission deadline of December 9, 2024. Amount: $1,500 Deadline: December 9, 2024 More information |
| Paul S. Mills Scholarship The Paul S. Mills Scholarship program supports students pursuing degrees in financial services, aiming to assist those with financial need who might not otherwise afford education. Established in 1984 and revamped in 2013 to broaden its impact, the program now attracts over 150 applications annually from students across the U.S., including from Ivy League schools and community colleges. The scholarships, totaling over $350,000 awarded, demonstrate the program’s growth and commitment to fostering the next generation of financial professionals. Amount: $1,000 Deadline: March 31 Awards Available: 12 More information |
| Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship The Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship, provided by the ACFE Foundation, supports students aiming for careers in fraud examination. Scholarships of $10,000, $7,500, $5,000, and $2,000 are awarded to students enrolled in relevant majors like accounting or criminal justice at accredited four-year institutions. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in anti-fraud work and meet academic criteria, including a minimum enrollment through the 2025-2026 academic year. Amount: $2,000 – $10,000 Deadline: February 7, 2025 More information |
| Scarlett Family Foundation Scholarship The Scarlett Family Foundation offers scholarships to students from Middle Tennessee’s 40 counties who are pursuing business or STEM degrees at four-year, non-profit colleges or universities. Eligible students must be high school seniors, hold a GED by June 1st, or be current college students with a minimum ACT score of 21 and a GPA of 2.5 or higher. The application period for the 2025-26 academic year runs from September 15 to December 15, 2024. Amount: $2,500 – $30,000 Deadline: December 15, 2024 Awards Available: 165 More information |
| Southwest Georgia Farm Credit Scholarship Southwest Georgia Farm Credit is awarding two $1,500 scholarships to high school seniors who demonstrate scholastic achievement and community involvement. Applicants should be planning to attend college full-time, pursuing degrees in fields like agricultural sciences, business, finance, or related areas crucial for small town infrastructure. The application deadline is January 15, 2025, and submissions can be sent via email or mail, with specific instructions provided on their website. Amount: $1,500 Deadline: January 15, 2025 Awards Available: 2 More information |
| TACTYC Scholarships Teachers of Accounting at Two-Year Colleges (TACTYC) offers $1,000 scholarships to students enrolled at two-year colleges who will continue their education in accounting at such institutions the following year. These scholarships are aimed to assist students with their academic expenses in the upcoming academic year. The deadline for applications is March 1, 2025, and interested candidates can apply online. Amount: $1,000 Deadline: March 1, 2025 Awards Available: 2 More information |
| The Clarke Price Scholarship The Ohio CPA Foundation offers several scholarships, including the Statewide College Scholarship and the Clarke Price Accounting Scholarship, each providing a one-time $2,000 award to eligible students. Applicants must be attending an accredited college or university in Ohio, have completed at least 30 semester hours including accounting courses, and be enrolled in a program that satisfies the 150 semester hours required for the CPA exam. Amount: $2,000 Deadline: December 31, 2024 More information |
| The Missouri Bankers Foundation Scholarship Program The Missouri Bankers Foundation Scholarship Program awards seven $1,000 scholarships annually to high school seniors across seven regions who plan to study banking or related fields in college. This scholarship is funded by contributions to two memorial scholarship funds established in honor of past presidents of the Missouri and American Bankers Associations. Interested applicants must meet specific criteria and submit their applications as outlined on the Missouri Bankers Association website. Amount: $1,000 Deadline: March 3, 2025 Awards Available: 7 More information |