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In this article, we profile the top 50 most affordable online master’s in accounting programs.

The United States Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that the employment for accountants and auditors is projected to grow 11 percent through 2024, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This employment increase is closely related to the economy as a whole. As the economy grows, more accountants will be needed to monitor, prepare, and examine financial records. To accommodate the anticipated growth, affordable online master’s in accounting programs are being offered by some of the nation’s most reputable institutions.

Ranking Methodology for the Most Affordable Master’s in Accounting Online Degree Programs

This is a list of the 50 most affordable online master’s in accounting, master of accountancy, or MBA in accounting degree programs offered by regionally and/or nationally accredited colleges and universities. The schools on this list are ranked according to raw affordability. Our list considers accreditation, affordability, and reputation based on regional, national, or program rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, we only considered schools with a graduate tuition (inclusive of fees) lower than $25,000 annually. We looked at 117 accredited colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered at least one of these online programs.

Below is our list of the top 50 most affordable online master’s in accounting programs for 2018.

#50 – Western New England University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Springfield, Massachusetts

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $24,120

The College of Business at Western New England University offers an accredited online master’s in accounting degree program with two completion pathways. The part-time evening program can be completed in as little as 15 months, while the accelerated full-time degree can be completed in just 10 months. Each course consists of eleven class sessions, with most offered entirely online. These courses include accounting theory and contemporary issues, advanced topics in auditing and assurance services, business analysis and valuation, cost-based decision-making, fundamentals of corporate and partnership tax, managerial finance, and municipal and fund accounting. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and satisfactory test scores on the GMAT or GRE. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 64th best regional university in the North and 38th best value school.

For more information: Western New England University

#49 – Albertus Magnus College

Online Master’s in Accounting

New Haven, Connecticut

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,904

Albertus Magnus College offers online accounting master’s programs designed to provide students with the 150 credit hours required by most states for CPA certification. There is also an option for students to take courses that help prepare them for the Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) examination offered by the AICPA. The program offers small class sizes, accessible faculty and staff, flexible online courses that may be taken one at a time, and accelerated eight-week classes with five starting points per year. Online courses include accounting information systems, ethics for accounting professionals, fraud investigation, governmental and nonprofit accounting, and survey of operations management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Albertus as the 116th best regional university in the North.

For more information: Albertus Magnus College

#48 – American InterContinental University

Online MBA in Accounting

Schaumburg, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,375

American InterContinental University offers an ACBSP-accredited online MBA in accounting degree program designed for those with a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or closely related discipline. All classes are delivered online, and the program is structured so that students may earn their MBA in just 12 months. Courses offered include accounting for managers, accounting information systems, business research for decision making, global financial management, leadership and ethics for managers, and strategic management. The school is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News lists American InterContinental as a top national university.

#47 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Manchester, New Hampshire

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810

The accredited online master’s in accounting degree from Southern New Hampshire University is tailored for those seeking career advancements as CPAs, corporate accountants, or fraud and financial examiners. Four available concentrations allow students to tailor their accounting degree toward areas of interest like auditing, forensic accounting, management accounting, or taxation. The degree is designed to complete in just 15 months by taking two courses per ten-week term. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree, but no GMAT or GRE are needed. Also, to add to the convenience of the program, acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 86th best regional university in the North and the #1 most innovative school.

For more information: Southern New Hampshire University

#46 – University of Illinois

Online Master’s in Accountancy

Champaign, Illinois

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,289

University of Illinois offers accredited online accounting master’s programs from one of the nation’s top accounting schools. This 32-credit hour accountancy master’s degree provides flexible learning options that allow students to take classes online over the course of 18 months (4 semesters) or 36 months. Required courses include accounting analysis, auditing, federal taxation, managerial accounting, and statistical analyses in accountancy. Admission to the program requires a bachelor’s degree in any academic discipline, with a recommended GPA of at least 3.0. GMAT or GRE scores are also required. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and best value school.

For more information: University of Illinois

#45 – Upper Iowa University

Online MBA in Accounting

Fayette, Iowa

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,964

Upper Iowa University offers an accredited online MBA in accounting program that is designed to prepare students for long-term careers in business and accounting. The program has no on-campus residency, is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and offers open enrollment so that students may begin their degree during any term. The core courses cover crucial business strategies and applications seen in the current business climate, and the emphasis area explores topics common to accounting systems. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the Midwest, and its online MBA programs have also earned recognition.

#44 – Benedictine University

Online MBA in Accounting

Lisle, Illinois

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,888

Benedictine University’s online accounting degree consists of an online MBA with a concentration in accounting. Through diverse curriculum and online instruction, students become prepared to meet the challenges in business and accounting fields. All courses are taught by university professors and include corporate accounting and theory practice, ethics and leadership in a global environment, managerial accounting, operations management, tax influences on decision making, and theory and practice of financial report. Students may select two completion pathways that are designed to fit the schedules of working professionals. Completion pathways include taking one course at a time or following an accelerated schedule, which requires two courses at a time. Benedictine is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 223rd best national university in the country.

#43 – Golden Gate University

Online Master of Accountancy

San Francisco, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $17,635

The online master’s in accounting, or Master of Accountancy (Mac) degree program at Golden Gate University is intended to meet the needs of current accounting professionals who wish to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) examination. All courses are delivered online and designed around a 12 month completion time, if studying full-time. Courses include accounting research and communication, advanced financial accounting topics, advanced studies in business law, communication and analysis of financial information, federal taxation, introduction to accounting standards, and tax research and decision making. Golden Gate is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West.

#42 – Stetson University

Online Master of Accountancy

DeLand, Florida

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,768

Stetson University offers a master’s in accounting online degree program designed to provide students with the knowledge needed to leverage their professional accounting career. Stetson is one of 180 regarded business schools worldwide with a School of Business Administration that is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). All courses are delivered online by university professors and include advanced accounting theory, advanced auditing, federal taxation of individuals, financial accounting, introduction to business statistics, and managerial cost accounting. Admission to the program requires two letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and GMAT or GRE scores. Stetson is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 6th best regional university in the South and 15th best value school. Also, the online graduate accounting and business programs are ranked #40 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#41 – Edgewood College

Online Master of Accountancy

Madison, Wisconsin

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,164

Edgewood College’s online accounting master’s programs are designed for individuals who want to build a career in public or private accounting. Also, the program can provide students with the foundation needed to become a CPA. The program is structured to complete in two to three years by taking classes on a part-time or full-time basis. The flexible online courses include accounting systems, advanced accounting, cost accounting, fraud and forensic accounting, government and not-for-profit accounting, income tax accounting, and strategic financial management. Admission requires official transcripts for a baccalaureate or advanced degree from an accredited institution with a GPA of at least 2.75. Edgewood College is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 181st best national university in the nation.

#40 – University of Connecticut

Online Master’s in Accounting

Storrs, Connecticut

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,996

University of Connecticut’s online accounting degree programs include the master’s in accounting–an AACSB accredited degree. The program is offered entirely online with classes taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. Also, students have the opportunity to meet the 150-hour educational requirement to become a CPA in most states by taking a series of required courses. Some of the offered courses include advanced assurance services, contemporary financial accounting issues, contemporary managerial accounting issues, forensic accounting and fraud examination, research for accounting professionals, and taxation of business entities. University of Connecticut is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 56th best national university in the country. Also, the online graduate business programs (including accounting) are ranked #4 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Connecticut

#39 – University of Massachusetts

Online Master’s in Accounting

Amherst, Massachusetts

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,613

University of Massachusetts offers a master’s in accounting online program designed for working professionals who want to advance their current accounting careers. The program is offered through the university’s prestigious Isenberg School of Business and is fully accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB-International). All classes are delivered online and include financial statement analysis, information technology for accountants, professional responsibility for accountants, and taxes and business decisions. Admission requires satisfactory GMAT scores, although the test may be waived if the applicant has earned a 3.0 or better in the Isenberg transitions program (a series of required courses). The school is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the online graduate accounting programs are ranked #29 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

For more information: University of Massachusetts

#38 – Keystone College

Online Master of Accountancy

La Plume, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,600

Keystone College offers a 30-credit online master’s in accounting program designed for those interested and ready to take the next step toward a professional accounting career with the goal of sitting for the CPA examination. Students take two courses every seven weeks, and the program is structured to complete in just one year. Courses include advanced auditing, corporate and partnership taxation, corporate law and regulations, forensic accounting, government and fund accounting, and international accounting. Admission to the program is competitive and requires satisfactory GMAT scores of 500 or better. The GMAT requirement may be waived for those with an undergraduate GPA of 3.4 or better. Keystone is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 26th best regional college in the North.

#37 – Capella University

Online MBA in Accounting

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,003

Capella University is one of the few schools on our list to offer an online MBA in accounting degree program. The program is designed for students seeking a CPA specialization pathway toward licensure. Students take a series of accounting classes required to sit for the CPA exam. All classes are delivered online and taught by Capella instructors. These courses include advanced auditing theory, contemporary financial reporting, corporate governance and regulation in accounting, financial accounting, and managerial accounting theory. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as well as other publications. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as a top national institution.

For more information: Capella University

#36 – Maryville University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Saint Louis, Missouri

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,968

Maryville University’s online accounting degree programs include the master’s in accounting. This 100% online degree requires no residencies or GRE/GMAT scores for admission. The program is structured to move at a fast pace and students may complete the degree in just 10 months. All classes are delivered online and include accounting research and communication, data analytics, financial reporting, financial statement analysis, strategic accounting issues, and tax planning and decision making. A series of courses that ready students to sit for the CPA examination are also offered, although additional completion time may be needed. The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution.

#35 – University of the Southwest

Online MBA in Accounting

Hobbs, New Mexico

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,376

The School of Business and Professional Studies at University of the Southwest offers an online master’s in accounting degree specialization. Students earn an MBA with a specialization in accounting by completing a series of online courses. The accounting specialization is specifically designed for individuals seeking CPA certification and a long-term career in accountancy. All classes are delivered online and include accounting and auditing research, accounting and professional ethics, business analytics and econometrics, internal audit theory and practice, organizational design and strategy, and small business accounting. The program may be completed in just 12 months and is fully accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as a top regional university in the West.

#34 – New England College

Online Master’s in Accounting

Henniker, New Hampshire

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,735

New England College’s online accounting master’s programs are designed to prepare students for the CPA examination while gaining knowledge of current accounting practices. The program is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and offers rolling admissions for students to enter the program every seven weeks throughout the year. All coursework and classes are delivered 100% online, and the program may be completed in less than two years. To add to the program’s convenience, GRE or GMAT scores are not required. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as a top regional university in the North and the program as the 80th best online graduate business program in the country.

#33 – Davenport University

Online Master of Accountancy

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,732

Davenport University’s online accounting master’s programs are designed for individuals who want to prepare for careers in highly specialized areas of accounting. Graduate-level concentrations are offered and allow students to specialize their studies in finance, fraud examination, internal auditor, managerial accounting, and professional accounting. All classes are delivered online and include a series of core courses like accounting and financial analytics, accounting information systems, accounting research and communication, and accounting responsibilities and ethics. Davenport is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 122nd best regional university in the Midwest.

#32 – George Mason University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Fairfax, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,724

George Mason University’s master’s in accounting online degree is a 30-credit program that can be completed 100% via distance learning. This AACSB-accredited program is designed to help prepare tomorrow’s accounting professionals by assisting with the 150-credit licensing requirement for key accounting areas. Courses are delivered online and include fraud examination, global accounting environment, identifying and resolving advanced issues in financial accounting, identifying and resolving advanced issues in taxation, and professional accounting. All applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in business, accounting, or an equivalent area of discipline from an accredited institution and meet satisfactory GPA requirements. George Mason is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and best value school. Also, the online graduate business programs, including accounting, are ranked #63 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#31 – South University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Savannah, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,707

South University’s online master’s in accounting program is designed for working professionals looking to advance their current accounting career. For those interested in taking the CPA certification exam, the program provides the courses needed to help you qualify to sit for the exam. All classes are delivered online and include advanced accounting information systems, advanced financial reporting, advanced taxation, ethics and accounting, governmental and not-for-profit accounting, intermediate cost management, and intermediate financial accounting. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, as well as all application materials needed by the program. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as a top regional university in the South.

#30 – University of St. Francis

Online MBA in Accounting

Joliet, Illinois

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,677

University of St. Francis offers an online accounting degree for graduate students. The online MBA with a concentration in accounting program consists of flexible online curriculum that can be completed in just 12-18 months. All courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses include financial statement analysis, fraud examination, international accounting and reporting, and taxes. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 32nd best regional university in the Midwest and 23rd best value school. Also, the online graduate accounting programs are ranked #60 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#29 – Walden University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,555

Walden University offers a master’s in accounting online degree program that is ACBSP-accredited and highly affordable. The program accepts up to 15 transfer credits and is open to individuals with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Classes are completed online, and courses help prepare students interested in completing the education requirement needed to sit for the CPA exam. Some of the courses offered include accounting for the professional, accounting with CPA emphasis, and self designed accounting topics. Walden is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the graduate business programs, including accounting, have earned recognition.

#28 – University of Hartford

Online Master’s in Accounting and Taxation

West Hartford, Connecticut

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,570

University of Hartford’s online accounting master’s programs are offered through The Barney School of Business – an Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accredited business school. Classes are delivered online and taught by dedicated full-time faculty. Courses emphasize accounting and taxation, and the program consists of 30 credits. These classes include advanced corporate taxation, advanced taxation of pass-through entities, research in taxation, and taxation of business organizations. Admission requirements include a regionally accredited bachelor’s with a GPA of 3.5 or better from an AACSB-accredited school of business or a GMAT score of 500 or better. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 176th best national university in the country.

#27 – Shorter University

Online Master of Accountancy

Rome, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,200

Shorter University offers an accredited online accounting degree program that is designed to help prepare students to meet the requirements to sit for the CPA licensure examination. Classes are delivered online and provide flexibility for busy and working students. A total of 31 credits are required to meet degree requirements. Some of the courses offered include advanced financial accounting, current issues in accounting, financial statement analysis, introduction to online graduate studies, legal and ethical issues for accounting, managerial accounting, and seminar in internal auditing and fraud. Admission requires an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or better and GMAT score of 450 or better. Shorter is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 33rd best regional college in the South.

#26 – Baker College

Online MBA in Accounting

Flint, Michigan

School Profile

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,150

Baker College’s online MBA in accounting program is ideal for managers with undergraduate degrees in accounting who are looking to expand their current career opportunities. Flexible online classes led by Baker’s instructors bring both teaching and industry experience. Some of the required courses include accounting for the contemporary manager, financial accounting, global accounting, non-profit accounting, and taxation. The program is IACBE-accredited and one of the most affordable degrees on our list. Also, Baker is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a best regional college in the Midwest.

#25 – California Baptist University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Riverside, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,140

California Baptist University’s online accounting master’s programs are designed to prepare degree candidates to advance their professional business and accounting careers. The master’s in accounting is a fully accredited 30-credit program that can be completed entirely online. Classes are taught by the same professors who instruct on campus and include advanced accounting information systems, advanced business law for accountants, advanced topics in managerial accounting, contemporary issues in auditing and assurance, ethics and professional responsibilities for CPAs, and taxation for business entities. The average degree completion time is just 12 months, although additional time is allowed. The school is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 31st best regional university in the West and 30th best value school. Also, the online graduate accounting programs are ranked #73 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#24 – Brenau University

Online MBA in Accounting

Gainesville, Georgia

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,136

Brenau University’s online MBA in accounting program is designed to prepare those interested in professional accounting careers. Several accounting concentrations are offered so that students may tailor their degree toward areas of interest or to meet career goals. These concentrations include management accounting and public accounting. Online classes add convenience for students with busy schedules and can be accessed at all hours of the day or night. These courses include advanced accounting, advanced auditing and assurance services, corporate risk management accounting, fraud detection and internal control, and taxation. Brenau requires an earned bachelor’s degree in business or related field to be eligible for admission. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 57th best regional university in the South and 41st best value school.

#22 – University of Scranton

Online Master of Accountancy

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,402

University of Scranton’s online accounting degree programs include the master of accountancy degree (MAcc). The online program embodies the same rigor of the on-campus program offered through the Kania School of Management. The program is AACSB-accredited and provides courses and preparation needed for students to be eligible to sit for the CPA certification examination. Classes are delivered online and include accounting integration and configuration, advanced auditing, advanced taxation and regulation, contemporary managerial accounting topics, effective accounting communication, financial reporting and research, and managerial economics. With full-time attendance, students may earn their degree in just ten months, or in twenty months when attending classes on a part-time basis. U.S. News and World Report ranks the institution as the 6th best regional university in the North and 18th best value school in the country. The publication also recognizes the online graduate business programs as among the top tier.

For more information: Ashford University

#21 – Regis University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Denver, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,250

The accelerated online accounting degree from Regis University is designed to equip graduate students for long-term and advanced careers in accounting. The program offers several start dates throughout the year and non-traditional classes taught in eight-week terms. Convenient online courses allow working students the opportunity to earn a master’s degree without giving up daytime obligations. Some of the online courses include accounting for non-profit and government organizations, advanced auditing, business planning and strategy, financial communication, interpreting accounting information, and issues in accounting ethics. Admission requires applicants have a 3.0 GPA in their most recent 30 hours of accredited academic coursework. U.S. News and World Report ranks Regis as the 27th best regional university in the West and 28th best value school.

#20 – National University

Online Master of Accountancy

La Jolla, California

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,232

National University’s online accounting master’s programs are designed to prepare students for a wide range of accounting careers. The program is open to students with little or no previous accounting background but who have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. All classes are delivered online and consist of 63 quarter units. Required courses include accounting for government and NFP entities, accounting information systems, advanced financial accounting, cases in accounting and auditing, cost accounting, financial accounting, foundations of financial accounting, and taxation of business and other entities. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank National University as a top regional university in the West. Also, the online graduate business programs are ranked #89 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#19 – Indiana Wesleyan University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Marion, Indiana

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,937

Indiana Wesleyan University offers an accredited online accounting degree program that is designed for graduate students with leadership career aspirations in accounting. The master’s in accounting degree can be completed entirely online and in just 18-26 months, depending on student pace. The program consists of 30 credit hours with classes in accounting information systems and control, advanced managerial accounting, corporate taxation, critical thinking and business communications for accountants, ethics and business law for accountants, and forensic accounting and fraud examination. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s or master’s from an accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or better. Indiana Wesleyan is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 29th best regional university in the Midwest and 64th best value school.

#18 – Auburn University

Online Master of Accounting

Auburn, Alabama

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,696

Auburn University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting programs on our list. The program is designed for working professionals and mirrors the full-time on-campus option. This AACSB-accredited master’s program also helps prepare individuals with the classes required to sit for the CPA examination. To be eligible for admission, applicants must hold an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Online courses offered include advanced auditing and assurance services, federal tax research, governmental and not-for-profit accounting, integrated accounting applications, and research in accounting. U.S. News and World Report rank Auburn as a top national university and best value school. Also, the online accounting (and business) graduate programs are ranked #10 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#17 – Grand Canyon University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Phoenix, Arizona

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,612

Grand Canyon University’s master’s in accounting online program is designed for individuals interested in advancing their careers in corporate or public accounting. The program is open to those with a bachelor’s in accounting and builds on the foundational studies through a robust curriculum that serves as preparation for the Uniform CPA Examination. Online courses include accounting information systems, advanced managerial and cost accounting, advanced taxation, business law and ethics for accounting, financial research and compliance, and introduction to graduate studies in the College of Business. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Grand Canyon as a top national university, and its graduate business schools have also earned recognition.

#16 – Bellevue University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,335

Bellevue University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting programs on our list. This fully accredited program provides classes necessary to gain advanced knowledge of the accounting field, while preparing students to meet the 150 credit hours required for the Certified Public Accountant exam. Classes are delivered online and include accounting information systems, accounting theory, advanced accounting problems, advanced cost accounting, financial auditing, international accounting, and taxation of business entities. In addition to the master’s in accounting degree requirements, students may also earn a focused concentration in finance or tax accounting by taking an additional nine credit hours. U.S. News and World Report ranks Bellevue as a top institution and its online graduate business programs (including accounting) as among the top tier programs.

#15 – Plymouth State University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Plymouth, New Hampshire

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,738

Plymouth State University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting degree programs on our list. This graduate program is for accounting professionals interested in pursuing licensure as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or certification as a Certified Management Accountant (CMA). All courses are delivered online and taught by Plymouth instructors. These courses include accounting for managers, accounting information systems, accounting research and communication, advanced financial accounting, business law for accountants, federal taxes and business decisions, and operations management. U.S. News and World Report ranks Plymouth State as the 115th best regional university in the North and 35th top public school.

#14 – Saint Leo University

Online MBA in Accounting

Saint Leo, Florida

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,630

Saint Leo University’s online MBA in accounting program is a one-year graduate accounting program designed for working professionals. Students earn an MBA degree with a concentration in accounting. Online classes are taught by university professors and include business law for the accountant, financial statement analysis, fraud examination, fund accounting for government, and using financial accounting information. The online MBA is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 61st best regional university in the South and 23rd best value school.

#13 – Virginia International University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Fairfax, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,344

The affordable master’s in accounting online degree program at Virginia International University provides students with the technical and operational skills necessary in advanced accounting careers. The program offers a series of core courses, electives, an accounting thesis module, and optional CPA preparation course. Some of the online classes include accounting information systems, auditing, business ethics and law, cost accounting, financial reporting and decision making, managerial accounting in finance, and trading and risk management. Admission to the program requires applicants have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and/or have taken prerequisite courses that include intro to statistics, principles of finance, financial accounting, and managerial accounting. Virginia International offers one of the most affordable accounting programs on our list.

#12 – University of Maryland University College

Online Master’s in Accounting and Financial Management

Adelphi, Maryland

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,514

University of Maryland University College’s online accounting degree is a 36-credit hour program designed to help students secure organizational leadership roles, including chief financial officer, following graduation. The program is 100% online with optional classes that help prepare for certification exams in CPA, financial management (CFE and CFP), auditing, and fraud (CFE). Some of the required courses include auditing, behavioral finance, federal income taxation, financial accounting, financial management in organizations, government and not-for-profit accounting, long-term financial management, and strategic financial management. The institution requires applicants hold an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school and its programs. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges recognizes the school as a top regional university in the North.

#11 – Liberty University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,430

Liberty University’s ACBSP-accredited online accounting master’s programs are offered 100% online. For those interested in earning a master’s in accounting and meeting the 150 hours required to sit for the CPA examination, Liberty’s online program can meet your needs. The program consists of 30 credits, with a maximum of 50% that may be transferred. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 to be eligible for admission. Some of the courses offered include auditing, business law for accountant, corporate governance and fraudulent financial reporting, financial statement analysis, strategic leadership and management, and tax research and jurisprudence. U.S. News and World Report ranks Liberty as a top national institution. Also, the online graduate business programs (including accounting) are ranked #92 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#10 – Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Online Master’s in Accountancy

Winona, Minnesota

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,100

Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting programs on our list. The program is fully accredited and designed with the 150 required hours needed to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification examinations. All courses are delivered online and include accounting information systems, advanced audit and internal controls, contemporary and emerging issues, forensic accounting and fraud analysis, strategic management accounting, and taxation and business decisions. Admission requirements include an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with an undergraduate GPA of 2.75 or better. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 47th best regional university in the Midwest and 34th best value school.

#9 – Southern Utah University

Online Master of Accountancy

Cedar City, Utah

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,036

Southern Utah University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting programs on our list. The program is designed to equip professionals with the accounting experience needed to advance their careers while working toward a CPA license. The program moves at a fast pace and can be completed in just one year. All courses are delivered online and include accounting ethics, auditing, business law, forensic accounting, pass through entities, property transactions, and tax practice. To be accepted to the program, students must have completed a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0. If the GPA requirements are not met, GMAT or GRE scores may be submitted. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 76th best regional university in the West. Also, the online graduate business programs rank #49 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#8 – Emporia State University

Online MBA in Accounting

Emporia, Kansas

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,806

One of the most affordable master’s in accounting online programs on our list is the MBA with accounting specialty from Emporia State University. This completely online program requires applicants hold a bachelor’s in accounting or closely related business degree with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. If minimum GPA requirements are not met, students must submit satisfactory GMAT scores. Classes are delivered online and include accounting information for management, advanced financial management, business policy and strategic management, information systems for managerial decision making, managerial economics, special topics in accounting, and tax planning and research. Emporia is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks the school as the 122nd best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online MBA program (including accounting specialization) are ranked #115 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#7 – Gardner-Webb University

Online Master’s in Accountancy

Boiling Springs, North Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,772

Gardner-Webb University offers an online master’s in accountancy that may appeal to those interested in an online MBA in accounting degree. Students deepen their accounting and business knowledge while earning the educational experience required to sit for the CPA certification examination. The program consists of 30 semester credit hours made up of 15 credits of core courses, nine accounting elective hours, and six business electives. These courses include accounting theory and practice, advanced auditing, advanced federal income tax, federal income tax, government and not-for-profit accounting, managerial accounting, and partnership and S corporation taxation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Gardner-Webb as one of the best national universities in the country. Also, the online graduate business programs are ranked #75 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#6 – University of Alabama at Birmingham

Online Master’s in Accounting

Birmingham, Alabama

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,588

One alternative to an online MBA in accounting is an online accounting master’s degree like the one offered at University of Alabama. This 100% online degree is designed for working professionals who want to earn an advanced degree while preparing for professional certification, including the CPA exam. All classes are offered online and taught by award-winning industry experts. Some of the offered courses include advanced auditing and attestation, advanced financial accounting, business law for accountants, corporate governance, current topics in financial accounting, governmental and not-for-profit accounting, and tax entities. To be admitted to the program, a bachelor’s degree is not required. In fact, the master’s in accounting bridge program is offered to meet the needs of those without an undergraduate degree. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 159th best national university and its online graduate business programs (including accounting) #22 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#5 – Post University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Waterbury, Connecticut

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,500

Post University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting degree programs on our list. For those interested in earning preparation to qualify to sit for the CPA exam, the program offers an accounting CPA track. This highly specialized accounting track includes six study labs in addition to the MSA program courses. All classes are delivered online and taught by Post professors. These courses include advanced audit issues, advanced topics in taxes, enterprise risk management, international accounting, non-profit and governmental accounting, and research and writing for the accounting profession. Admission to the program requires students hold an earned bachelor’s from an accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as a top regional university in the North.

#4 – Western Governors University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Salt Lake City, Utah

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790

Western Governors University offers one of the cheapest online master’s in accounting programs on our list. Professionals with the desire to prepare for the Certified Public Accountant exam will find that this program meets the 150 semester hours required to sit for the CPA exam in most states. The program moves at a fast pace with over 60 percent of graduates finishing the degree in six to eighteen months. Classes are delivered online and include accounting research, advanced auditing, advanced financial accounting, advanced tax concepts, fraud and forensic accounting, governmental and nonprofit accounting, management communication, and strategic management. The program is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top regional university in the West.

#3 – Florida Atlantic University

Online Master of Accounting

Boca Raton, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,657

Florida Atlantic University’s College of Business offers an accredited online accounting degree designed with the working professional in mind. All classes are delivered online and include a series of core requirements. These classes include advanced accounting theory, advanced financial reporting and accounting concepts, auditing and assurance services, cost accounting, intermediate accounting theory, and special topics in accounting. Admission to the program requires students hold an earned bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university with an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. GMAT or GRE test scores are also required. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution as a top national university. Also, the online graduate business programs (including accounting) are ranked #32 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#2 – American Public University

Online Master’s in Accounting

Charles Town, West Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,600

American Public University’s online master’s in accounting degree program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) and has earned additional ACBSP Specialized Accounting Accreditation. This 36-credit hour program takes approximately two years to complete a series of core business and accounting classes and electives. These courses are taught by university professors and include accounting theory and concepts, advanced accounting, advanced cost accounting, advanced federal taxation, financial reporting and analysis, forensic accounting, individual tax research and planning, and international accounting. U.S. News and World Report ranks American Public as a top regional university in the South and is one of the most affordable schools on our list.

#1 – Culver-Stockton College

Online MBA in Accounting

Canton, Missouri

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,000

Culver-Stockton College is our #1 most affordable school to earn an accredited online master’s in accounting degree. The online MBA consists of 33 credit hours and a specialization in accounting and finance. All classes are delivered online and include data analysis for decision making, financial reporting and analysis, legal environment, managerial accounting decisions, not for profit accounting and finance, strategic financial management, and taxation of business entities. To be admitted to the program, candidates must hold an earned bachelor’s from an accredited institution. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Culver as the 37th best regional college in the Midwest and 24th best value school. We list the school and program #1 in affordability.

BCO Staff
November 2017

This concludes our list of the top 50 most affordable online master’s in accounting programs.

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