If you’ve already earned your Bachelor’s of Business Administration degree or an undergraduate degree in accounting, the next chapter in your educational journey may be to pursue an Accounting Online MBA. This degree is designed to equip accounting professionals for managerial positions. It is also a helpful experience for accounting professionals looking to open their own business.
While many accountants aspire to become a CPA (Certified Public Accountant), this is a challenging feat that often comes with more requirements than just passing the exam. One important requirement for CPA licensure in many states, is to complete 150 hours of education. Accounting Online MBA programs help most students meet the education requirement to sit for the CPA exam. Take your career to the next level and open new doors in the world of accounting by earning your Accounting Online MBA.
What is an Accounting Online MBA?
An Accounting Online MBA is an online Master’s of Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting. This dynamic graduate-level accounting program can be done from your home, on the road, or in your office; allowing busy professionals to balance work and school. The convenient online format makes it possible for students to select prestigious business schools in different geographic regions without the need to relocate. Programs generally consist of a minimum of 30 credit hours, which fulfills the 150 hours of advanced accounting courses required for CPA applicants. Some programs may even consist of up to 54 credit hours.
Students may be wondering if an Accounting MBA or Master’s in Accounting is the best option for them. The MBA option allows students to build knowledge in multiple areas of business. A MAcc offers an in-depth study of accounting but is narrow in other areas. Therefore, students pursuing an Accounting MBA will have a broader range of career paths available to them. MAcc students will be highly specialized in Accounting but may be passed up by recruiters for other business leadership roles.
Curriculum
An Accounting Online MBA offers an exciting array of business courses, with an emphasis on leadership development and accounting principles. Core classes cover a variety of business topics, such as accounting, economics, finance, management, and marketing. Students will also learn how to use financial software tools to write financial reports, complete corporate audits, and create financial forecasts. CPA preparation is also typically built into the coursework.
Some Accounting MBA programs feature a fixed comprehensive curriculum, meaning you must take ten courses that have been pre-selected by the program. Other programs allow you to select electives that fit your interests. Students may select accounting electives or electives from another field of business such as Human Resources, Finance, or Strategic Management. A capstone course may be required during a student’s last semester. Accounting capstone projects may consist of conducting fraud investigations or analyzing business statements for a real company.
History of Accounting Online MBAs
Accounting has been around for thousands of years, but the first formal MBA program was offered at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Administration in 1908. Many other schools followed Harvard by establishing MBA programs.
The first Executive MBA program was launched by The University of Chicago in 1943. Business professionals attended courses two evenings per week for two years. UChicago’s EMBA was a huge success and grew by 70% within the first five years.
As MBAs grew in popularity, business schools began offering specialties so that students could develop an industry-relevant niche. The CPA exam was created in 1917 by a business organization now known as AICPA. Around this time, Accounting became one of the first concentrations offered amongst MBA programs.
Athabasca University in Canada was the first to offer an Online MBA in 1994. The Internet had not yet become a widespread luxury in households or offices at this time, so professors thought the program would fail. The Online MBA became wildly popular not only at Athabasca but at business schools around the world. Today, hundreds of business schools feature an Online MBA, and many allow students to specialize in accounting.
How do I Choose the Right Accounting Online MBA?
With thousands of Accounting Online MBA programs available, it can be difficult to know how to choose the right school. Some of the factors that students should take into consideration when making this important decision include
- accreditations,
- distinctions,
- specializations offered,
- degree completion time,
- format, and
- tuition rates.
Accreditations and Distinctions
An Accounting Online MBA that is backed by a highly trusted accreditation organization should be of utmost importance to you. Corporations are more likely to hire you because they know your program is academically rigorous and is required to maintain high standards.
The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is highly regarded in the business community because of the competitive requirements a business school must pass to earn this accreditation. Just over 900 business institutions in the world, around five percent, have received this esteemed business accreditation. Only 188 schools hold dual AACSB accreditation in business and accounting, which accounts for less than 1% of business schools worldwide. Other accrediting bodies include the International Accreditation Council for Business Education and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.
U.S. News ranks the Best Online MBA Programs Offering Accounting. The rankings for these Online MBA programs featuring a concentration in Accounting are based on five qualities:
- Engagement,
- Expert Opinion,
- Faculty Credentials and Training,
- Services and Technologies, and
- Student Excellence.
The Princeton Review annually ranks the Top 50 Online MBA Programs. Some of these programs feature a specialization in Accounting, but the ranking judges the Online MBA programs overall.
Specializations and Professional Certifications
Boutique accounting firms to Fortune 500 corporations hire accountants. Do you think all accounting positions are the same? Accountants can actually specialize in several different niches. The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants says among the most popular are
- Assurance Services,
- Environment Accounting,
- Government,
- Forensics,
- Management and Technology Assurance,
- Nonprofit,
- Personal Financial Planning,
- International Accounting, and
- Valuation.
If you are interested in building a career in one of these branches, you should find an Accounting Online MBA program that allows you to tailor your degree with a specialization.
CPA Preparation
Accounting Online MBA programs have a vested interest in your success on the CPA exam because high student pass rates increase a program’s reputation and credibility. The CPA is one of the most complex professional exams students ever encounter, but it is possible to pass all sections on the first attempt successfully with proper preparation. Graduate schools often offer students a CPA preparation course for college credits.
Executive Online MBA in Accounting
Practicing accountants can advance their career in accounting while gaining a broader understanding of other functional areas of business. The curriculum features advanced accounting courses with an emphasis on leadership. Students pursuing this degree typically have an average of 10 years of experience under their belt and represent a wide range of accounting careers.
Classes are designed to accommodate the needs of full-time professionals, and the majority of coursework can be completed online. However, students may be required to attend a few weekend residencies on campus. These residencies provide a great opportunity for students to bond with their classmates and to attend networking events. Cohorts are generally small and give students the chance to share their wealth of knowledge and learn from one another through engaging classroom discussions, consulting projects, case studies, and scholarly research.
Many programs feature an optional global experience at the culmination of the degree. Graduates of an Accounting EMBA are prepared to assume senior-level roles within their organization.
Hybrid Accounting MBAs
Hybrid Accounting MBAs feature the perfect blend of face-to-face courses and online modalities. Before enrolling in a hybrid program, it is important to find out how many visits you will be required to make to campus and when these occur, so you can ensure the schedule is feasible with work and other commitments. It is also important to factor in your commute to the campus. Even if the program only meets on the weekends, you may need to take off work on Fridays and even Mondays for traveling. Consider if your job will allow you to take off when needed for classes. If it is necessary to fly, factor this into the expenses you are allocating for your Online MBA degree.
Completion Time
Most students can complete an Accounting Online MBA degree in approximately two to three years. Some accounting programs offer a 4+1 structure, allowing students to begin taking graduate accounting courses during their senior year and earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years. Accelerated programs move at an expedited pace and can be completed in as few as twelve months. Students enrolled in these programs should be prepared to devote several hours to studying each day.
Students who are juggling the demands of work and school should consider a part-time MBA program. Part-time students generally take one or two classes per semester, allowing them to complete the program at a pace that works for them. Students should meet with an academic advisor near the beginning of their program to outline their degree completion timeline and again each semester through graduation. This seemingly small detail can help students stay on track and ensure courses are taken in the appropriate sequence.
Asynchronous v. Synchronous Format
Asynchronous and synchronous courses both offer unique advantages and challenges. Students should be aware of what options are available for their program and select the format that best meets their needs. Asynchronous classes offer the ultimate flexibility because students can work on classwork at any time. Professors generally record lessons and upload them to be watched at the students’ convenience. One challenge of asynchronous learning may be pacing yourself to complete all assignments by their due dates.
Synchronous courses hold students accountable by requiring them to log in for class meetings. This format allows for class discussions and for students to ask for clarification on any confusing topics during the lecture. Though students may feel more connected to their classmates and professors, one drawback is it can be hard to log into classes if you frequently stay at the office late or have an unpredictable work schedule.
Affordability
There are many details that drive up the tuition of an Accounting Online MBA, location, fees, travel requirements, private school tuition, and even factors such as accreditations, awards, and student-faculty ratios. An elite AACSB accreditation or prestigious business school may provide a higher ROI if you are seeking opportunities with other business organizations, especially in a large metropolitan city, or if advancement opportunities with your company are extremely competitive.
If you hope to advance within your current company, find out where managers who work in similar roles as you aspire to earn their degrees. It may not be necessary to pay the added cost often associated with a prestigious school, however, you should still ensure your program is accredited by a reliable accrediting organization. There are plenty of reputable programs that will fit within your budget if you just do your research.
The Best Online Accounting MBA Programs
These Accounting MBA programs are fully online and hold exceptional business accreditation. Schools are listed in alphabetical order.
Bloomsburg University
The Accounting Online MBA at Bloomsburg University is a great program for people who have already finished an undergraduate accounting program but still need to take graduate-level courses to meet the AICPA’s 150-hour requirement for CPA certification. Accounting students at BU gain from direct interaction with professors who have practical knowledge in the field.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Brenau University
Acquire the abilities you’ll need to pass the CPA exam and succeed in public accounting at Brenau University. Because of Brenau’s small class sizes, you’ll work closely with teachers and acquire crucial abilities, information, and professional connections to advance your career. You will practice CPA exam questions as part of your education to ensure you are prepared to ace the test.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Clarion University
Clarion University offers a top Accounting Online MBA. It is known as a top program combining management and accounting education. Tuition, acceptance rates, graduation rates, financial aid, placement services, and career services make it a top choice for students.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Clayton State University
Clayton State offers a top Accounting Online MBA. Students gain technical proficiency in income taxation, cost accounting, managerial accounting, auditing and assurance services, and financial accounting and reporting. While developing your accounting and business software abilities, you’ll also learn about ethical concerns and standards in the accounting industry.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Concordia University, Nebraska
Students looking for a top Accounting Online MBA should take a look at Concordia University Nebraska. Researching complex tax laws, keeping track of earnings and expenses, and ensuring compliance with numerous requirements require a committed individual. This degree is an asset to anyone’s resume.
Accreditation: IACBE, Higher Learning Commission
Drake University
Drake University, regarded as one of the best master’s colleges in quality and value, is now providing its Master of Business Administration program entirely online. As all six-week courses are asynchronous, you can study whenever and wherever suits you best. There are neither planned in-person requirements nor online class gatherings. Choose nine credits from all available specialist courses customized to your interests.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Eastern Kentucky University
The online MBA curriculum at Eastern Kentucky University includes a concentration choice for MBA applicants. Nine-hour concentrations, including accounting, allow students to customize their degrees to fit their employment objectives. Candidates can build on prior education and experience by choosing from various concentrations.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Eastern Washington University
Eastern Washington University offers a top Accounting Online MBA. The core subjects covered in the curriculum are data-driven decision-making, corporate finance, marketing management, leadership and ethics, operations management, and advanced accounting. You will also finish a capstone course as part of the program. This course expands on the information you learned during the program and develops your capacity for strategic thought.
Accreditation: AACSB, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Emporia State University
The Emporia State University’s online Master of Business Administration with Accounting Emphasis is the most excellent resource for developing the leadership skills, fundamental business knowledge, and advanced accounting experience you need to advance in your accounting management profession.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Florida Atlantic University
FAU offers a top Accounting Online MBA for tomorrow’s leaders. Business managers and consultants must be able to handle budgets, perform forecast studies, and even create and audit financial statements and analyze and interpret financial data. Together with accounting-related skills, using managerial abilities and a broader comprehension of the business environment can improve promotability.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida Institute of Technology
Advanced accounting abilities, which are essential for management or executive roles, is taught through Florida Tech’s MBA with an emphasis on Accounting. Students may also earn credits toward state requirements or other accounting profession credentials in this program, which is 100% online.
Accreditation: IACBE, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Idaho State University
A top Accounting Online MBA is offered at Idaho State University. The curriculum emphasizing accounting improves knowledge and abilities for quick managerial or public accounting advancement. MBA graduates should be ready to pass the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant certification exams (CMA).
Accreditation: AACSB, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Jacksonville State University
Thirty semester hours of graduate business courses are required for the MBA focusing on accounting at Jacksonville State. This is the quality education that fast tracks individuals into management careers. Each student receives an intentional experience that is hard to find at other institutions.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
John Brown University
Functional training and instruction in professional accountancy competencies are combined in the John Brown University online MBA in accounting. This program is for those who desire to gain a more comprehensive base in business and administration while deepening their accounting skills beyond what can be learned in a bachelor’s program.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Johnson & Wales University-Providence
The online MBA in Accounting program at Johnson & Wales University is tailored to fit the schedules of working professionals. In your accounting career, you’ll be equipped to pursue management-level positions in any sector worldwide. You’ll become an expert in the fundamentals of business and the most recent accounting and management practices.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
La Salle University
The online accounting MBA program at La Salle offers convenience and flexibility to fit the hectic schedules of working people. The program challenges students to maximize their chances for success by emphasizing integrating academic knowledge with practical experience and shared ideas. The curriculum has an emphasis on real-world applications.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Lindenwood University
An MBA program can help you become a corporate leader by studying case studies and current concerns. You can focus on one of several areas in this ACBSP-accredited program at Lindenwood University. To assist you in achieving your professional objectives, LU’s online MBA program provides several specializations. Get more education and training in sophisticated accounting techniques.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Louisiana State University Shreveport
LSU Shreveport provides an online MBA in Accounting. Students who enroll in this program can better prepare for careers in accounting and management. The accounting program is intended for people who want to seek a career in accounting and current industry workers who need flexibility in their class schedules. This program can assist individuals with an undergraduate degree in accounting to meet the 150-credit requirement to take the CPA exam.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Marquette University
The executive team of commercial organizations benefits significantly from the expertise of accounting professionals. The Online MBA in accounting and finance at Marquette helps professionals hone these critical skills. It also helps students on track to sit for the Certified Public Accountant exam. This program gives great depth and breadth to help students on their journey to their future careers.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Mercer University
The Accounting Online MBA program at Mercer is meant to help students prepare for careers in business management. Their accounting focus offers professionals an in-depth look of the role accounting plays in organizational sustainability. The degree can be pursued in a self-paced manner that offers working professionals flexibility or in an expedited plan. The degree program satisfies the prerequisites for Georgia’s CPA license and the Unified CPA test.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Mississippi College
MC’s two-year Accounting MBA program offers a career-advancing blend of business management and accounting courses. It gives students studying management the educational foundation they need to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), get other professional certifications, or develop more in-depth accounting expertise.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Ohio Dominican University
Students can gain a competitive edge in one of today’s fastest-growing business disciplines by concentrating on accounting as part of the MBA program. The concentration will help make credentials stand out. The courses with this emphasis are centered on knowledge and abilities immediately applicable to the business. The instructors have a track record of professional success and leadership in accounting.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Higher Learning Commission
Ohio University
You will learn about capital budgeting, finance, taxation, accounting information systems, forensic accounting, and government/not-for-profit accounting in Ohio University’s online and hybrid MBAs with an accounting specialization. Specialists teach the extensive accounting program at OU in the field and are dedicated to fostering development. Students might be eligible for a $5,000 scholarship offered by the College of Business as an Ohio MBA student.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Pittsburg State University
Business professionals who wish to deepen their accounting expertise and assume financial leadership responsibilities should enroll in Pittsburg State’s online MBA in Accounting program. A robust skill set is produced when fundamental business knowledge is combined with advanced accounting coursework.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Southeastern Oklahoma State University
With SE’s 100% online MBA in Accounting program, students gain the in-demand skills companies seek. They will be ready to advance to top positions in accounting and business. The accounting MBA education emphasizes forensic accounting, including case studies of corporate fraud and auditing in a commercial setting. SE provides a foundation for success in any business. Core coursework includes finance, accounting, marketing, economics, behavioral management, research, and data analysis.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
Southern Oregon University
Learn more about accounting information systems, financial statement analysis, business valuation, and financial statements to expand your knowledge and critical thinking abilities. The receptive and well-connected faculty at SOU distributes their expertise in ways that have practical applications. You may obtain an online MBA in as little as 16 months while maintaining your current employment and using what you learn.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
St. John Fisher College
After completing the St. John Fisher College MBA Accounting program, students can pursue a public and private accounting career. The field of accounting continues to develop due to changes in the regulatory environment, expansion of the commercial company, and increased financial controls. The Fisher program gives you the skills you need to advance your career in this exciting field.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
SUNY Polytechnic Institute
The SUNY Poly curriculum emphasizes the application of modern approaches to frame, evaluate, and resolve business difficulties to prepare students for upper-level management positions. The online MBA program’s varied coursework is founded on management, finance, accounting, and economic ideas supported by facts. It uses robust experiential learning strategies, design-thinking methodologies, and quantitative and qualitative evaluations.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Texas A&M University Corpus Christi
With the help of this online MBA program, you will learn fundamental concepts in organizational behavior, operations management, and economics—all while receiving a solid accounting emphasis. Forensic Accounting, Advanced Auditing & Assurance Services, Taxation & Business Strategy, and Oil, Gas & Energy Accounting are the four courses that make up the accounting emphasis.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Texas Wesleyan University
You can earn your Texas Wesleyan MBA degree online with specializations in business administration, data analytics, accounting, healthcare administration, or supply chain management. The MBA program gives students the edge they need to succeed in the employment market of today. Accounting Online MBA students study data analysis, fraud investigation, and problem-solving using ethical reasoning.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Union University
Careers can take off when students study accounting from an MBA point of view. Professionals will be well-positioned for management changes in accounting settings. The CPA test can be taken after completing this degree, giving students the widest variety of professional options in accounting and finance.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Colorado Denver
All industries have a significant demand for business executives adept in accounting. When students customize an MBA with an accounting emphasis, they learn to analyze intricate accounting issues and effectively convey financial information to stakeholders and organizational leaders. This specialty prepares students for various demanding and satisfying job options, such as auditing, accounting, and management.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
University of Dallas
In all industries, accounting is a crucial component. The University of Dallas can assist students with achieving career objectives, whether they be expanding their knowledge of accounting principles, getting ready to take the CPA exam, or moving up in the accounting field.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Hartford
The Accounting Online MBA program at the Barney School offers you the top-notch instruction required to fulfill the 150-hour CPA license requirement. This 36-credit hour curriculum is specially created for professionals who want to advance in their careers. The accounting concentration is great for those who need a good foundation and those looking for higher-level accounting courses.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Maine
Everywhere in the world, experts in accounting are regarded as reliable. Enrolling in the Maine Accounting Online MBA may enhance your career and financial prospects. Many students use it as a stepping stone to the CPA credential. The curriculum aims to give graduates the advanced accounting skills and business acumen necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly changing global environment.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
The Charlton School of Business at UMass Dartmouth offers an online MBA focusing on accounting. It specifically strives to adapt to the evolving needs of the world’s technologically advanced economy. This advanced degree also allows students to focus on accounting, with courses taught by top business academics and seasoned industry executives.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Massachusetts Lowell
Graduates of UMass Lowell’s Accounting Online MBA program are prepared for higher-level accounting roles in the corporate, governmental, nonprofit, and public sectors. This graduate-level program is entirely online. Qualified students can obtain the necessary licenses to practice as Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). Accounting courses include topics in cost management, taxation of business entities, sustainability accounting, and forensic accounting.
Accreditation: AACSB, New England Commission of Higher Education
University of North Alabama
Increase your career options in management, public, and governmental accounting while preparing to pursue CPA certification. For individuals seeking a specialized accounting curriculum, an Online MBA with an accounting concentration is offered. This program allows students to advance their accounting knowledge and hone their leadership and management skills.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
With the online Master of Business Administration focused on Forensic Accounting degree, you can develop into a top-tier anti-fraud practitioner by going beyond the numbers. While studying for the examinations to become a Certified Fraud Examiner, add knowledge of financial investigations to your accounting experience.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Scranton
Students can find an online MBA with an Accounting concentration at the University of Scranton. Professionals learn how to solve challenging commercial difficulties and keep their companies financially sound. With the help of knowledgeable instructors, students graduate ready to take the CPA exam or pursue leadership positions in the economics or marketing industries.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of South Carolina Aiken
Graduates of The University of South Carolina Aiken’s online MBA with a Specialty in Accounting degree are prepared for rewarding jobs across various industries. Integrity and other skills relevant to the positions of accountants in areas like audit and tax, financial advice, compliance, forensics, risk management, banking, consulting, information systems, and more are stressed in this online MBA in accounting program.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Southern Indiana
Want to differentiate yourself on the job market with superior business management knowledge? Students can pursue leadership positions in practically any firm thanks to the University of Southern Indiana’s 100% online MBA program. Professionals receive a strong foundation in the functional areas of business from the core MBA online education. Then students dive into accounting-focused courses like Financial Statement Analysis and Accounting Regulation & Compliance.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
University of Texas at Dallas
Managers require the ability to interpret accounting data efficiently and make decisions that provide value in today’s global and technologically driven world. Students at UT Dallas can choose accounting courses to focus on tax management, consultancy, financial analysis, or corporate governance. Internal audit, taxation, and assurance services might be added as subspecialties to this emphasis.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Students can complete the UT Permian Basin 33- to 42-credit online degree in as little as four semesters. They graduate with the specialized knowledge and abilities required to hold competitive leadership positions in accounting. The same business professionals with PhDs who instruct on-campus courses also teach each subject online.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
Students can gain a competitive advantage with the Accounting Online MBA at UT Rio Grande Valley. They develop the skills to be able to examine financial data more thoroughly, use it to gauge performance, and use it to create future strategies. This set of abilities can also be used in business consulting, whether for internal or external clients.
Accreditation: AACSB, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Utica University
The MBA in Professional Accounting at Utica University is a strong academic program that satisfies the AICPA’s new member requirements and the statutory 150-hour educational requirements for CPA candidates in New York State. It is designed for people with a BS in accounting or business with a concentration in accounting.
Accreditation: ACBSP, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University offers an online MBA in Accounting. The program aims to produce exceptional graduates demonstrating the knowledge, abilities, and skills required to lead the accounting field and handle future professional challenges. The Department of Accounting and Finance fosters academic success, personal and professional development, community, and ethical and professional behavior in a student-centered setting. The faculty is dedicated to providing top-notch instruction.
Accreditation: AACSB, Higher Learning Commission
William Paterson University
There is no prerequisite for enrolling in the MBA concentration in accounting at WPU. In addition to other subjects, you will gain a broad basis in managerial accounting, cost accounting, financial accounting, law and ethics, and taxation and auditing. Also, the demanding core curriculum will deepen students’ understanding of corporate sustainability, persuasion and negotiating tactics, global economics, business analytics, and financial operations.
Accreditation: AACSB, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Wilmington University
WU’s MBA with an emphasis on Accounting contains courses focused on equipping students with the pertinent theoretical, practical, and technological abilities required for accounting professionals. This program is 100% online, giving busy professionals the needed flexibility to advance their career and education. The accounting courses involves topics in auditing, fraud prevention, federal taxation, and managerial accounting.
Accreditation: IACBE, Middle States Commission on Higher Education
How do I Apply for an Accounting Online MBA?
Business schools make applying for an Accounting Online MBA a fairly easy process because they know how valuable your time is. Students can fill out a simple online application through either the university or business school where they’d like to earn their degree. You will need to have your official undergraduate transcripts sent to the business school. Some programs require students to have an undergraduate degree in business or accounting. If your undergraduate degree is non-accounting, don’t fret. Many programs accept professional work experience in lieu of accounting courses or accept students into the program but require online modules covering accounting basics to being completed before enrolling in MBA courses.
Many online programs don’t require GMAT scores, but some programs do. GMAT waivers may be granted based on work experience or undergraduate GPA. Additional components that may be required include a statement of purpose, letter(s) of recommendation, and an updated resume highlighting your accounting and management experience. Application fees are generally required to complete the application process. Application fees typically range from about $50 to $125 but may be waived under certain circumstances.
What Career Prospects will I Have After Earning an Accounting Online MBA?
Graduates of an Accounting MBA program are in high demand by top corporations. The most popular companies for Accounting MBA degree holders are J.P. Morgan Chase, Amazon, Ernst & Young, KPMG, and Wells Fargo. Popular career choices include accountant, senior financial analyst, senior accountant, accounting manager, corporate controller, financial controller, and chief financial officer.
Accountants work in many sectors. About a quarter of all accountants work in Accounting, Tax Preparation, Bookkeeping, and Payroll Services. Other industries that employ accountants include Finance and Insurance, Government, Management of Companies and Enterprises, and Self-Employed.
Salary
Earning an Accounting Online MBA is a wise financial investment. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the 2020 median annual salary for accountants and auditors was $73,560, or $35.37 per hour. The highest ten percent of individuals in this profession earned more than $128,680. Those with a master’s degree earn substantially more. In fact, Payscale cites $92,003 as the average salary for professionals with an MBA in Accounting. It is definitely possible to earn over a six-figure income. The average yearly salary for a corporate controller weighs in at $104,000, and chief financial officers make a lucrative salary of $150,000. Some accountants receive annual bonuses, especially following tax season.
In addition to superior salaries, Accounting MBA graduates tend to be highly satisfied with their careers. Accountants enjoy job stability. The BLS predicts a 4% job growth for accounting careers between 2019-2029, which is about average in comparison to other careers. As the economy returns to normal, the number of accounting jobs is expected to increase.
Top Accounting Jobs
| Job | Annual Salary |
| Tax Director | $155,473 |
| Senior Manager Accountant / Auditor | $130,778 |
| Accounting Director | $110,331 |
| Corporate Controller | $108,676 |
| Treasurer | $92,492 |
| Assistant Controller | $81,214 |
| Accounting Manager | $78,394 |
| Certified Public Accountant (CPA) | $73,335 |
| Certified Financial Planner (CFP) | $70,918 |
| Tax Analyst | $61,195 |
How Do I Succeed in an Accounting Online MBA?
In order to excel in an Accounting Online MBA, you must know more than how to crunch numbers. Strong time management and study skills play an equally important role in acing your courses.
Time Management
Your decision to select an online Accounting MBA likely means you have a busy schedule. Many students secretly hope an online program may be less of a time commitment, but the programs hold the same rigor as those on campus. You have the flexibility to decide when you are going to study, but it can be beneficial to designate specific study times.
This is a great time to start time blocking if you don’t already. Write down everything you have to accomplish in a typical week and the days and times these activities generally happen. Include time spent getting ready for the day, commute, work hours, and any family obligations. Now, look and see where you have some blocks of time to work on school assignments and study. Studying can be broken into several short sessions during the week, along with a longer session on the weekend.
If you are struggling with classes, seek out help early in the semester from your professor, the tutoring center, a professional in the field, or create a study group. Your study group can meet through a virtual platform. If you already have a job in accounting, ask someone at your office who has earned their MBA or graduate-level business degree to serve as your mentor. This person may help you understand difficult accounting formulas, give you career advice, or simply encourage you throughout the next couple of years.
Student Services
Though you may never step your foot on campus during your program, you are not alone. Online MBA students have access to some or all of the same services as students who attend in person. Advisors can help students transition smoothly to grad school and answer questions about different specialization and course options.
In grad school, you will do a lot of writing. Even if you are a strong writer, a campus writing center can definitely serve as a great resource. Theses centers offers students an extra set of eyes to read research papers before turning them in to be graded. Research consumes a great deal of your time as a graduate student, so the online library resources will be invaluable.
Grad school is hard work, but that hard work pays off when you land your dream career. Career Services provide many resources, such as workshops, mock interviews, virtual internship and career fairs, and online job boards. Many students wait until they are approaching graduation to visit with a career counselor. But scheduling a visit early in your education journey can help you learn about amazing opportunities you can complete to make the most out of your time while earning your Accounting Online MBA.
Accounting Organizations
Business organizations are an important part of the college experience, even for online students! Business clubs can help you feel connected to other students, develop leadership skills, and strengthen your professional network. Attend a virtual student organization fair if one is offered at your business school. Some of the top student organizations for accounting and MBA students include
- MBA Societies,
- the National Association of Women MBAs,
- the National Association of Black Accountants,
- Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting, and
- Master in Professional Accounting Council.
Virtual students are often welcome to participate in meetings through online conferencing tools and social media pages.
Action Plans
Accounting careers are readily available, but you will have some of the best career prospects by earning an Accounting Online MBA. Rank the criteria most important to you in a program, such as specializations, price point, and completion time. Next, research programs that meet your criteria. Find out the application deadlines, and start applying for programs in the order the applications are due. Set short-term goals, such as completing one application per week for the next month. Applications take time, so dedicate a few hours per week to focus solely on tasks such as writing your statement of purpose, updating your resume, and reaching out to references.
Remember, business schools are forming a first impression of you based on the documents you submit, so put in the effort to put your best foot forward. Check your emails daily for all of the acceptance notifications you will surely receive!
Related Resources:
Guide to an Economics Online MBA
Top Online MBA Programs
Best Marketing MBA Jobs
