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Online Accounting Degree BS in Accounting / BS in Accounting and Finance

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Cost per credit $330

Total courses 40

Term length 8 weeks

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Program Overview Why get an accounting degree?

Whether you want to pursue a career in accounting, banking, economics, financial markets or taxation, a degree in accounting or accounting finance may be right for you. SNHU offers two accounting programs to meet your unique path and desired educational experience:

  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting
  • Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting and Finance

Skills you’ll learn:

  • Financial analysis
  • General accounting principles
  • Auditing and taxation
  • Broader, business-specific skills
  • How economics impacts profitability
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Courses & Curriculum Online accounting courses to prepare for your career

Gain the skills you need to succeed in the field of accounting and learn career-focused skills that can help you move forward in the fast-paced business world when you enroll in our online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting and Finance.

No matter which accounting degree you choose, you'll complete a combination of major courses, general education classes and free electives. Read on to see which program fits your career goals.

BS in Accounting

BS in Accounting Online courses for aspiring CPAs

If you're looking to become a U.S. Certified Public Accountant (CPA), the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting may be the right program for you.

This online bachelor's in accounting program was designed with the 2024 CPA licensing examination update top of mind, helping you build the accounting, auditing and tax skills needed to become a trusted and knowledgeable contributor within the world of accounting.

Note: SNHU’s BS Accounting program was designed to satisfy 120 of the 150 credit hours needed for educational eligibility in order to sit for the CPA licensure exam in most U.S. jurisdictions. Interested candidates should consult SNHU’s Licensure and Certification Disclosures page for more information about program eligibility in each U.S. jurisdiction prior to enrolling.

Concentrations

Explore the intersection of law and finance with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting with a concentration in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination.

Forensic accountants and fraud examiners can help tip the scales of justice in legal cases such as asset misappropriation, tax fraud and corporate corruption. They help provide accounting firms, law offices and government agencies the evidence they need to uncover, assess and prosecute theft in both criminal and civil offenses.

The concentration also contains content that is intended to support individuals interested in pursing the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) certification exam.

Learn more about the forensic accounting degree concentration.

Courses may include:

  • Auditing and Forensic Accounting
  • Detection/Prevention Fraudulent Financial Statements
  • Interview Techniques/Legal Aspects Fraud
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The Bachelor of Science in Accounting includes an Accelerated BS-to-MS Pathway Option. If you’re planning a future beyond your bachelor's, an accelerated BS-to-MS pathway option for this degree program can help prepare you for your next step. This lets you:

  • Save money: Take up to 4 graduate-level courses (12 credits) during your bachelor's program at the online undergraduate tuition rate
  • Save time: Apply your graduate credits to your master's degree to complete your program in as fast as one year

Plus, the accelerated pathway can help you satisfy the 150 credits required to sit for the CPA exam in most states even faster, for less. This could mean your goal of becoming a U.S. Certified Public Accountant is even closer than you think.

If you're interested in pursuing the BS-to-MS pathway option, discuss it with your academic advisor to ensure you meet all of the academic requirements.

Note: The accelerated option is only available for the BS in Accounting and not the BS in Accounting and Finance.

Courses may include:

Course ID: ACC 315
The course introduces the student to the fundamentals of accounting information systems and how they function within organizations. Students will explore how accounting information systems facilitate business processes, record transactions, and support internal controls, as well as the functionality of accounting applications and software. Students will learn how accounting information systems are used for data analysis and problem solving.
Course ID: ACC 317
In this course, students will take an in-depth look at financial statement elements and the interplay of various financial transactions represented on a financial statement. Students will apply theoretical frameworks and research accounting principles and concepts for the proper preparation and interpretation of financial statements. Students will utilize authentic industry tools and technologies to prepare financial statements and connect concepts learned to the importance of financial information for its users.
Course ID: ACC 318
In this course, students will study the liabilities and equities side of the balance sheet and apply accounting concepts for the proper preparation of financial statements. Students will analyze the inflows and outflows of cash for an organization and prepare accurate cash flow statements using direct and indirect methods. Students will utilize authentic tools and technologies to apply accounting principles to a variety of financial reporting situations.
Course ID: ACC 330
In this course, students will learn about current US tax laws and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), as well as the relevant source documents, associated with federal tax returns for individuals. Students will research and apply the appropriate tax laws in relation to the specific circumstances and tax liabilities. Students will prepare federal tax returns and communicate various tax return information to stakeholders.
Course ID: ACC 345
In this course, students will explore the theories, tools, and techniques used to perform fundamental valuations of publicly traded companies. Students will investigate a corporation's prospects through the analysis of financial documentation. Students will learn how to dissect SEC filings and other financial sources to evaluate organizational health and support business decision making. Students will practice communication skills as they present their analysis to stakeholders to support business decisions.
Course ID: ACC 350
In this course, students will gain an understanding of the guidelines and regulations specific to the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. The course provides students with the opportunity to become certified under the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program sponsored by the IRS. Students will prepare taxes using technology specific to the VITA program and develop communication skills to present information to clients from diverse backgrounds.
Course ID: ACC 405
In this course, students will analyze economic activity of complex business situations as reported within financial statements. Students will evaluate consolidated financial statements for regulatory compliance requirements and accuracy. Students will determine the regulatory requirements needed for the development of financial reports and governmental accounting practices.
Course ID: ACC 430
This course provides students with an understanding of data analytic thinking and terminology as well as experience with data preparation using analytics tools and techniques. Students will gain the skills necessary to translate accounting and business problems into actionable narratives that can be presented to stakeholders.

Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Accounting curriculum.

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Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!

Upcoming term starts: March 3, 2025 | May 5, 2025

Next term starts:
Jan. 6, 2025

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Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?

Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.

What to expect:

8-week terms

Learn around your schedule

24/7 online support

Online Classroom

What does an online course look like?

You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:

  • Schedule of weekly assignments
  • Discussion boards
  • Grades
  • Instructor announcements
How to Take an Online Class at SNHU
5 ways SNHU makes the admission process "easy-peasy" #shorts

Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free

No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.

All it takes is 3 simple steps

It's easy, fast and free.

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Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)

After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.

Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu

Accreditations

SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.

This program and its concentrations are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on the ACBSP accreditation page.

NECHE Logo ACBSP Global Business Acreditation Logo

Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think

As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.

Online undergraduate tuition

Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720

*before previously earned credits are applied

Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.

**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.

Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.

Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:

If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700

If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750

If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800

If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850

If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.

Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900

How we estimate your tuition cost:

We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.

Career Outlook What can I do with an online accounting degree?

Get ready for a variety of accounting, auditing and financial careers in industries like healthcare, government, social service, education, international business and the private sector. If you find yourself interested in finance, you might try a career in banking, financial forecasting, analysis or advising. And if you decide to go the accountancy route, you could find yourself in any number of accounting, auditing, budgeting or tax examination roles.

Many people in the accounting field become Certified Public Accountants (CPA). If professional licensure is your ultimate goal, the BS Accounting program is a great start as you will study competencies covered in the CPA exam.

Occupations

Whether you pursue the accounting or accounting and finance program, you'll be positioning yourself for success in your career. At SNHU, an online accounting degree is affordable, accredited and designed to take you where you want to go in your career – and in your life.

Some accounting and finance roles you could consider include:

Whether or not you earn the CPA designation, as a public accountant you can perform a wide range of tasks including auditing and tax preparation for companies, government entities or individuals. You can open your own agency or work for a large accounting firm.

Note: The online BS in Accounting degree program, revised to meet the requirements of the updated 2024 CPA exam, can help prepare you to become a Certified Public Accountant. Students cannot earn CPA certification through the SNHU program itself, therefore if you wish to follow the traditional CPA track, you should verify that you'll meet the necessary requirements to sit for the exam.

Analyze financial documents and other information for internal use by company management to drive business decisions. They help a company optimize its budgets and spending and can be involved in investment and spending decisions.

Establish risk management procedures or contribute to fraud investigations with a career in forensic accounting. This popular specialty area of accounting allows accountants to utilize their skills to assess financial crimes, audit personal or company records, and aid in criminal and civil investigations.

Ensure an organization's resources are being used properly and find ways to reduce waste. An internal auditor is employed by the organization itself, while an external auditor works for an auditing firm hired by other companies.

Guide businesses and individuals in decisions about expending money to attain profit. Assess the performance of stocks, bonds and other types of investments.

$79,880

Median annual pay for accountants and auditors as of May 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1

$156,100

Median annual pay for financial managers as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1

Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.

What SNHU students are saying

Erika Patrick, who earned her degree from SNHU in 2021.
Erika Patrick, who earned her degree from SNHU in 2021.

My degree was absolutely worth the hard work. I was able to have control over my schedule and that was freedom for me.

Erika Patrick '21

Frequently Asked Questions

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical entry-level education in accounting is a bachelor's degree.1

If you'd like to test the waters, we also offer an online associate in accounting and undergraduate certificate in accounting online. These options can give you the opportunity to explore the field before committing to a 4-year program. The best part is, if you decide to continue on, you can easily transfer your credits to a bachelor's program – saving you time and tuition.

If you're committed to a career in accounting and have done your research, you may have heard of the Certified Public Accountant (CPA). While not required, this highly-regarded certification may help you stand out to employers. Our BS in Accounting can help prepare you for the CPA exam.

If you're interested in both accounting and finance, our BS in Accounting Finance offers a hybrid program that can prepare you for careers in either field, or roles that are responsible for both accounting- and finance-related tasks. Note that this program is not aligned with the CPA exam.

If you're looking to earn your accounting degree online – you've come to the right place. SNHU is a leading provider of online education. And since we started as a business and accounting school when we first opened our doors in 1932, we are confident in our ability to train accountants for real-world success.

Learning online has become much more common for working adults in recent years. Not only do online courses give you more flexibility – they're more affordable, too. Southern New Hampshire University specifically has some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.

It's important to note that our online BS in Accounting program also aligns with the Content and Skill Specification Outlines set by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), meaning the coursework contains content relevant to the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam. It is also accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This means you'll have a credible, respected degree that can help position you for success in the field of accounting.

If you're not interested in the CPA, you might want to consider our BS in Accounting Finance degree, a hybrid program that equips you with skills in both fields, giving you a competitive edge.

For Fernando Franco '15, earning a bachelor's degree in accounting has been a gateway to a better life.

"I was fed up with working at meager jobs where I was not going to go anywhere in life," said Franco, who worked as a package handler, putting in 12-hour days, a back-breaking job with low pay and little job security. "My father did his homework and found out that SNHU was the best university for me."

While earning a bachelor's is an important step to enter the field of accounting, you may want to take your career even further. If that's the case, you may want to consider one of these three major certifications. Please note that each designation will require a bachelor's degree along with additional requirements, depending on location.

Certified public accountant (CPA), certified management accountant (CMA) and chartered financial analyst (CFA) certifications are all valuable distinctions in the fields of finance and accounting. The one you choose depends on which path you'd like to take. Let's take a look:

Certified public accountant (CPA). If your goal is to work closely with clients to advise on financial matters, the CPA can help you get there. SNHU's BS in Accounting program aligns with AICPA, making it an ideal start to the pathway toward CPA licensure. While requirements to sit for the exam vary by state, all states require a minimum of a bachelor's degree or 120 college credit hours to be eligible, but 150 credits, or a master's degree in accounting, is also required for eligibility in many states.

Certified management accountant (CMA). Many struggle to decide whether a CPA or CMA is right for them. Here are a few key differences: For one, the CPA is a state license, while the CMA is a globally recognized credential. The CPA helps prepare you for customer-facing areas of accounting, while the CMA is built for corporate finance. To become a CMA, you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree, complete 2 continuous years of management accounting or financial management experience and pass a 2-part exam.

Chartered financial analyst (CFA). If you're interested in becoming an investment management professional, the CFA is recognized as the industry gold standard. This designation is offered by the CFA Institute and requires many years of work and effort to achieve. Chartered financial analysts must pass a series of CFA exams, hold a bachelor's and complete four years of qualified professional experience.

This answer depends on the kind of accounting degree you're looking for. If you're looking to earn a degree faster, an Associate of Science (AS) in Accounting generally takes about 2 years to complete, and an undergraduate certificate can take less than a year. A Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting or BS in Accounting Finance, by comparison, takes about 4 years.

At SNHU, these shorter programs have the added benefit of easily "stacking" into a bachelor's. This means the courses you take for one program will seamlessly transfer to the next. So for an associate degree, for example, that means you could have 2 degree programs under your belt in the exact same amount of time it takes to earn your bachelor's.

While a bachelor's usually takes about 4 years to complete in many cases, certain factors can help you finish even faster. Namely:

  • The number of classes you take per term
  • The number of credits you transfer into the program

This is all to say that you might be more ahead than you think. If you’ve earned general education credits or have previously taken classes in accounting, business or finance, you could have a considerable amount of your program already completed.

SNHU accepts up to 90 transfer credits for our undergraduate programs and also offers a free credit evaluation upon acceptance. This gives you the opportunity to look at all your previously earned credits and determine what is transferable to a bachelor's-level program. Once you have this information, you'll be able to determine the classes you'll need to take moving forward, as well as the amount of time it will take to graduate.

If you're interested in starting a career in accounting but want to earn a degree that requires a smaller commitment of time and money, consider these online options at SNHU:

  • AS in Accounting. If you opt for part-time enrollment, you should be able to get your associate degree in about 2 years. Plus, if you choose to keep going, you can easily stack your credits into the BS in Accounting program.
  • Undergraduate Certificate in Accounting. If you're looking for an even smaller burst of learning, or simply want to supplement your existing degree, a certificate program can help you build some fundamental accounting skills.

And both of these programs stack seamlessly into either bachelor's program, making them perfect stepping stones in your academic journey.

Related Articles

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at

  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm (viewed June 25, 2024)
  • https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/financial-managers.htm (viewed June 25, 2024)

Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.