25 Best Accelerated Accounting Degree Online Programs [2025 Guide]
By Joy Miller
Edited by Briana Sukert
Updated on January 23, 2025
An online accelerated accounting degree can help you earn your degree at a faster pace so you have the opportunity to start your accounting career sooner.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the accounting field will grow by 4% in the next 10 years. Plus, the globalization of business is bringing an increase in international trade, finance, and business.
This means that the type of jobs that are coming up may be with prestigious accounting and business firms that are working internationally.
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
The following universities offer either an online bachelor’s in accounting or an online bachelor’s in business administration with an accounting concentration.
Auburn University offers an AACSB-accredited, 30-credit, online BSBA in Accountancy for those with prior business degrees that emphasizes flexibility for working professionals. It’s accelerated compared to traditional 4-year programs and can be completed in 5 semesters.
Courses cover CPA exam topics. Smart classroom recordings ensure online students receive the same instruction as on-campus peers.
Auburn University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
Bemidji State University’s BS in Accounting is a fully online program. It’s accelerated for those with prerequisites, allowing completion in potentially 2 years.
The 120-credit degree includes 71 major-specific credits. Courses cover accounting, business administration, economics, and math. Unique features include flexibility for working professionals and a “2+2” structure for transfer students.
BSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Brenau University offers a BBA in Accounting available online and on campus. This 120-credit program can be completed in 8 semesters. Qualifying transfer credits are accepted. Most online classes are 7 weeks long.
The curriculum covers the accounting cycle, financial and managerial accounting, and CPA exam preparation. Graduates are prepared for roles like staff accountant, bookkeeper, and accounting manager.
Brenau is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Colorado State University offers a 120-credit, online BS in Accounting featuring accelerated, 8-week courses through its Global university. The program focuses on AI-enhanced accounting, automation, and data analytics. The ACBSP-accredited curriculum covers finance, auditing, and business intelligence.
While typically a 4-year degree, alternative credit options can significantly reduce completion time. The program supports CPA exam preparation and multiple professional certifications.
Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, a Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.
Concordia University, St. Paul’s online BS in Accounting is a 120-credit program that can be completed in 2.5 years. It focuses on preparing students for CPA or CMA exams. The curriculum covers accounting trends, regulations, and corporate finance.
Program features include accelerated courses, flexible scheduling, transfer options (up to 90 credits), and industry-experienced faculty.
Concordia – St. Paul has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Florida Atlantic University’s online BBA in Accounting is a 120-credit, AACSB-accredited program supporting CPA exam readiness. Students can transfer up to 75% of their credits, potentially reducing completion time.
The curriculum covers financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and business ethics. Program features include expert faculty and an Accounting Scholars Program. Graduates are equipped for diverse accounting careers in public, private, and governmental sectors.
FAU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Florida Institute of Technology’s BS in Accounting offers an accelerated option that can be completed in 3 years instead of the traditional 4 years. The curriculum includes hands-on experience, internships, and industry connections.
The program also features a 4-year (3+1) option to earn both a BS and MS in Accounting and Financial Forensics, offering preparation for the CPA exam.
Florida Tech is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Indiana State University’s online BS in Accounting is a 120-credit program that supports CPA exam preparation. The curriculum includes accounting courses, business core, and foundational studies.
The degree can be completed in 4 years when attended full-time. Part-time options are available. Transfer credits are accepted, potentially reducing completion time.
Indiana State has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Indiana Wesleyan University’s online BS in Accounting can be completed in 18 months. The 48-credit program features locked-in tuition rates. The curriculum covers financial statements, auditing, and strategic planning, supporting CPA exam preparation.
Program features include faith-integrated learning, expert faculty, and ACBSP-accreditation. Graduates are equipped for diverse accounting roles.
IWU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Liberty University’s online BS in Accounting and Data Analysis is a 120-credit program with 8-week courses and the option to transfer up to 75% of the program’s required credits.
The ACBSP-accredited curriculum covers accounting, auditing, taxation, and data analysis, while offering preparation for the CPA exam. Graduates can pursue careers in accounting, auditing, and financial analysis.
Liberty is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Old Dominion University offers an online BSBA in Accounting. The 120-credit, AACSB-accredited program covers technical accounting knowledge, communication, analytical abilities, and computer skills. The curriculum supports CPA exam preparation.
Qualifying transfer credits are accepted, potentially reducing completion time. An MBA Early Entry program allows students to earn graduate credits while completing their bachelor’s degree.
ODU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Penn State World Campus offers an online BS in Accounting, a 120-credit program with AACSB accreditation. Students can set their own pace, potentially completing the degree in 2 to 3 years with 6 courses per semester or extend it over 5+ years with 2 to 3 courses per semester.
The program offers preparation for CPA certification and various accounting careers.
Penn State Online is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Purdue University Global’s online BS in Accounting is a 180-quarter-credit program supporting CPA and CMA exam preparation. It features four concentrations and an Accelerated CPA Track option.
Time and money can be saved through the school’s ExcelTrack, credit for prior learning, and transfer credits (up to 75% of total credits). The curriculum covers GAAP, financial records, taxation, and business applications.
Purdue Global is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Siena Heights University’s BBA in Accounting is available on campus, online, or in a blended format. This 120-credit program focuses on CPA and CMA exam preparation. The curriculum covers financial reporting, business ethics, and managerial decision-making.
Accelerated options allow completion in potentially 2 years (subject to department approval). The program boasts high placement rates in graduate schools and competitive accounting jobs.
Siena Heights is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
SUNY Plattsburgh’s online BS in Accounting offers an accelerated option that makes it possible to complete it in 2 years. This 120-credit, AACSB-accredited program qualifies graduates for the NYS CPA exam.
The curriculum includes courses in advanced technical skills, like Excel, VBA, and SQL. Program features include asynchronous classes, personalized support, transfer credit options, and strong career opportunities, including IBM co-ops.
SUNY Plattsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Temple University’s BBA in Accounting is a 124-credit program available on campus and online. It features an accelerated, 3-year option for new and continuing students.
The AACSB-accredited curriculum covers financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and data analytics, supporting CPA and CMA certification paths. Graduates can pursue careers in public accounting, corporate finance, consulting, and government sectors.
Temple is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The University of Alabama – Birmingham offers an online Bachelor’s in Accounting, providing the same AACSB-accredited degree as on-campus students. The 120-credit program can be completed in 4 years with full-time attendance.
The coursework is semester-based with flexible 7- or 14-week formats. The curriculum covers accounting principles, financial management, and information systems. Program features include experiential learning options and strong career support.
UAB is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
The University of Mary’s accelerated, online BS in Accounting can provide faster CPA exam preparation compared to traditional programs. The curriculum covers auditing standards, SEC reporting, and IRS regulations.
The program offers a choice of fully online classes, in-person evening classes, or a blended format. It integrates Benedictine, Christian, and Catholic values, emphasizing ethical business practices.
UMary is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Massachusetts – Amherst’s Isenberg School offers an AACSB-accredited, online Bachelor’s in Accounting. The program requires a minimum of 27 transferable credits for enrollment.
The curriculum covers accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and business law. Program features include flexible scheduling, industry-experienced faculty, career services support, and seamless transition to the school’s Master of Accounting.
UMass – Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Massachusetts – Dartmouth offers a fully online, 120-credit BS in Accounting that allows up to 90 transfer credits from accredited institutions. The AACSB-accredited program covers accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and financial management.
Program features include asynchronous courses, one-on-one advising, and internship opportunities. The curriculum offers preparation for CPA certification and various accounting careers.
UMass Dartmouth is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Massachusetts – Global’s online BBA in Accounting is a 120-credit program that allows up to 90 transfer credits. The curriculum covers accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and business law.
Program features include flexible scheduling, personalized academic advising, and a focus on real-world applications. It supports CPA exam preparation and equips students for diverse accounting careers.
The University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WSCUC Senior College and University Commission.
The University of Michigan – Flint offers a BBA in Accounting that supports CPA exam readiness and can be attended 100% online or face-to-face.
Its AACSB-accredited curriculum covers cost accounting, auditing, and taxation and offers opportunities to participate in internships and tax preparation programs. An MSA option is available for further specialization. Graduates can pursue careers in public, private, and government accounting.
UM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of West Georgia offers a BBA in Accounting, partially online for courses below the 3000 level. This 120-credit, AACSB-accredited program covers financial accounting, management accounting, taxation, and auditing.
The curriculum supports CPA exam preparation, offers internship opportunities, and equips graduates for diverse accounting careers. Qualifying transfer credits and credits for prior learning are accepted.
UWG is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Washington State University offers an online, 120-credit BA in Business Administration with an Accounting major. The program accepts qualifying transfer credits, including direct transfer degrees. It features 7-week courses in a rotating schedule.
The curriculum covers financial accounting, auditing, and taxation, is AACSB-accredited, supports CPA exam readiness, and includes a Carson Career Amplifier Program.
WSU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Western Governors University offers an online BS in Accounting requiring 120 competency units (equivalent to 120 credits). Up to 75% of the required credits can be transferred from accredited programs.
This ACBSP-accredited program features a competency-based model that allows for accelerated completion, with 62% of graduates finishing in 24 months. The curriculum supports CPA exam preparation and includes industry-recognized certifications.
WGU is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Depending on your level of education, you may earn an associate’s degree in accounting, as well as a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate level.
You may also concentrate your studies on a particular specialization such as auditing, public accounting, or even forensic accounting.
An accounting degree at the bachelor’s level could come with any of these concentrations, or no concentration for a generalist’s track.
Accountants are often highly valued and needed members of every strong business.
The following Master’s in Accounting is offered online, but it is not considered to be accelerated degree programs.
Whether it is management, public or tax accounting, there may be a spot for you to excel in.
The following online doctoral programs in accounting are not accelerated degree programs, but because they are offered online, they do allow you to have greater flexibility.
Doctoral graduates in accounting (or finance) may be equipped to pursue senior leadership positions in academia, auditing, and accounting.
Accounting classes you can expect to take as part of the curriculum include:
These are the classes that may give you the skills to go far with an accounting degree.
The field of accounting is projected to grow by 4% in the next few years, with jobs in fields like manufacturing, government, and insurance. The average income when you have an accounting degree is $73,560. The top 10% of accountants made more than $128,680 per year, making accounting a strategic business major.
| Careers | Annual Median Salary |
| Chief Financial Officer | $185,950 |
| Financial Manager | $134,180 |
| Personal Financial Advisor | $89,330 |
| Management Analyst | $87,660 |
| Financial Analyst | $83,660 |
| Budget Analyst | $78,970 |
| Accountant or Auditor | $73,560 |
| Cost Estimator | $66,610 |
| Tax Examiner and Collector, or Revenue Agent | $55,640 |
| Bookkeeping, Accounting, or Auditing Clerk | $42,410 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
The annual income you could make with a degree in accounting is over $30,000 more than the average income of all occupations. And it doesn’t matter if you earn an accelerated accounting degree online or if you sat in class on campus for four-plus years. Your degree will be the same either way.
According to a report by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, over half of the companies surveyed responded that they would be interested in hiring a graduate with a degree in accounting.
There are famous people who have pioneered big businesses with a degree in accounting. For example, Arthur Blank, the co-founder of the multi-million dollar chain Home Depot, graduated with a degree in accounting from Babson College.
Another big name accountant is Phil Knight, the founder of Nike shoes. He also made a lot of money after graduating from the University of Oregon with a degree in accounting.
You could be taking the same classes as these big founders did.
But chances are, if you are reading this article, you actually want to speed things up a bit with a fast-track accounting degree online program, with some schools making it possible to earn your bachelor’s degree in two years or less.
Similar to accelerated online finance degrees, accelerated online accounting degree programs at many universities have new start dates each month. Instead of waiting until it is a good time for a school to run its classes, you may start when it is a good time for you or time your graduation so that you are walking into the job market right around tax season when everybody is scrambling for an accountant.
Earning an accelerated accounting degree online may be easy to fit into your life. The reason for that is accelerated online courses. If you thrive with a regular schedule and set due dates, then accelerated online classes may very well be a good fit for you.
Instead of taking a 16-week semester accounting class, you can take an 8-week online course in accounting and be done twice as fast.
Most universities offer traditional online degree programs. With the exception of a few universities, they do not call their accounting degrees “accelerated” programs.
That being said, more and more universities are offering 8 week and 5 week online courses, which can help you finish your classes faster. Add to those accelerated courses some life experience college credits (get college credit for previous experience) or CLEP exams and you may finish even faster.
You do not have to attend class to earn your 120 credit hours. There is a completely valid way to earn college credit that doesn’t involve going to class.
You take a 90-minute multiple choice exam instead.
Over 2,900 universities award college credits for these tests.
Most universities will allow you to earn between 15 to 30 college credits through credit by exam. Depending on the college, that may be a whole year of classes! So, instead of needing 4 years to get your degree, you may shave up to one year off your time to graduation by cramming for a few multiple choice exams in your spare time.
This may work really well for the introductory level classes. For example, it may be fairly easy to cram for Intro to Sociology or Psychology to fulfill your social science requirements. You may also knock out your history and government requirements pretty quickly. Just review the list of exams your college accepts for credit before you cram for the exam.
At most schools, as long as you pass the multiple-choice exam with a grade of 50% or more, they will give you college credit for that course.
If you have been working in the field of finance, business, technology, computers, or even insurance, you may be able to get college credit for prior learning.
You may work together with your university to put together a portfolio outlining your training, experiences, credentials and a few reference letters. Once you submit your portfolio, you may then get college credit for the classes you need.
To give you an example, at Liberty University, you may be able to get college credit for these classes by submitting an acceptable portfolio:
You may also use credit for prior learning to fulfill all your elective classes. In my case, I had 12 years of computer and technology experience. After submitting my portfolio, I received 18 college credits for my documented life experience in this field. That was another 6 classes I was able to get out of the way without sitting in classes.
The American Council on Education recommends colleges and universities grant credit for a variety of courses or training offered by employers. ACE is well-recognized by a large number of colleges.
If you max out the number of college credits you can earn through prior learning, you may be able to knock out another semester of courses you would otherwise have to take.
The third step to accelerating your degree involves the most work.
Typically, a campus student will enroll in 30 credits each year (15 in the Fall semester, 15 in the Spring). But you don’t have to be typical; you can be exceptional. Many universities will allow you to take up to 18 credit hours per traditional semester. Plus, you can enroll during the summer. And in some cases, during a winter (January) session.
Here’s an example of how that could look:
This can bring you to the 48-credit-hour mark in just one year. If your school has a winter (3-week) session, you can add another 3 credit hours to that tally.
It’s a lot of work but doable.
Credit by exam (30 credits) + Life experience credits (15 credits) + One year taking the maximum course load (48 credits) = 93 credit hours in just one year. Only 27 left to go…
Obviously, this pace would be insane for most people. Your social life would be non-existent. But it is possible.
If you have taken any college classes in the past, that may count toward your degree requirements. As long as the credit you have earned is from an accredited college, you may transfer it to your accounting degree program.
Maybe you took an Advanced Placement class in high school and passed the AP exam at the end of the semester. You may add that previously earned college credit to your accounting degree plan as long as your target university accepts AP credit in that subject.
Even if it doesn’t fit into your accounting degree plan, you may use it anyway! Whatever college credits you have leftover may be used to fulfill your elective requirements. That means fewer classes you have to take so you can finish faster.
The biggest expense in an accounting degree will be your tuition. Every class you take will cost you more. So, take fewer classes, pay less.
You may earn 3 credits by taking a College Level Examination Program, which will only cost you less than $100. That’s down from the $1,200 to $1,500 or so taking the class would cost you.
Plus, when you take online classes, you’re eligible for the same financial aid opportunities as on-campus students. See what you qualify for by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also research private organizations that offer scholarships to qualifying students.
As long as your online accounting degree is earned at a regionally accredited college, then it is a real, valid degree.
The regional accreditors listed below are the same agencies that accredit Harvard, Yale, Stanford, and every other prestigious university. So, you can rest assured that your online accounting program will be reputable if it is accredited by one of these agencies.
To go for a higher level of accreditation specific to Business Administration (or Accounting), you may look for schools that are accredited by one of the following agencies (in addition to having regional accreditation):
These accreditors will make sure that the degree you earn is reputable and valid. Many accounting degree holders will seek to also receive designation with the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).
For the right person, an accounting major is a good career option. Accountants are in high demand, and if you’re motivated, you may cut tuition costs and finish your accounting degree faster online. Testing out of classes, credit for prior learning, and accelerated online programs can help you get your accounting degree online fast!
You can start the process by requesting information or applying to a few schools offering online accounting degree programs—hit “Find My Program” today.