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As the financial and accounting aspects of managing a business continues to become increasingly complex due to the evolution of globalization and the advancement of technology, the need for professionals with an expertise in accounting is also increasing. Changes in local and national tax laws, international regulations and changing business venues is significantly affected the nature of accounting. Many businesses not only rely on the services of an accountant, but have to employ a full time accountant to ensure their financial responsibilities and obligations are monitored and appropriately handled. Job applicants possessing a degree in the field of accounting will likely be extended preference because of the substantial need for their expertise and knowledge. Individuals with a degree in accounting will have the opportunity to enter any field, any industry. Obtaining a degree in the field of accounting virtually guarantees job security in any region of the country, even the world, as the need for their services continues to grow. This trend is not expected to decline.

Individuals interested in pursuing a degree in the field of accounting will find a listing of the schools offering the best online programs below.

1. Kaplan University

Kaplan University is recognized as a leading provider of distance learning programs. All of the programs offered at Kaplan University are tailored to suit the education, career and scheduling needs of their working, adult students. The flexible options and high quality curriculum provide students with the educational opportunities which may not have otherwise been available to them. Kaplan University consistently and regularly reviews and updates the course content to ensure students receive the most current knowledge and skills in their field of interest and adds new degree programs for the most in demand careers. Degree, continuing education and professional programs are available at the multitude of Kaplan University’s campus locations or through online content. Students have access to the courses 24/7 and are able to attain support through the dedicated staff and faculty members employed at Kaplan University. Accelerated degree programs are offered along with part time and full time degree schedules.

The School of Business and Management at Kaplan University provides career focused degree programs to ensure students are equipped with the skills necessary to be competitive within their field of study. Students have the option of pursuing an Associate of Applied Science in Accounting, a Bachelor of Science in accounting with emphasis in several areas or a Master of Science in Accounting. Areas of emphasis within the Bachelor program include public accountancy, tax accountancy, managerial accountancy, auditing-forensic accountancy or government-nonprofit accountancy. The curriculum provides students with training in economics, finance, law, information systems, quantitative methods, taxation and management. Students learn the basic, widely accepted principles of accounting including the practical application of learned theories and concepts. Students are required to complete core courses in general education areas, courses within the major and courses for their area of emphasis. Courses included within the major are accounting, intermediate accounting, federal tax, macroeconomics, business law, business math and academic strategies for the business professional.

[Click here for more information about Kaplan's online accounting degree program]

2. Walden University

Walden University, founded in 1970, has earned high regard as a leading institution for distance learning programs. Students are offered flexible learning opportunities utilizing the latest advances in technology and provided with the quality of support necessary to assure their educational success. Students are able to develop schedules tailored to their schedules and professional needs; choosing part time, full time or accelerated programs. The high quality degree programs equip students with the most current knowledge and skills essential to the industry within their area of study. Walden University offers access to extensive resources and support providing assistance with writing and research as well as technical support. Students are able to collaborate with their peers online, benefiting from their insights and professional experiences and developing network connections which are useful in their careers. Additionally, Walden University encourages lifelong learning and encourages their graduates to continue in this trend through tuition breaks and course waivers.

The 181 credit Bachelor of Science in Accounting offered at Walden University provides a comprehensive program which prepares students for the increasingly complex field. The accounting field requires an expertise in a range of areas including finances, business, technology and an understanding of the importance of gaining a global perspective. The curriculum provides students with training in the use of accounting tools within the business setting, an understanding of the accountant’s role within the various business organizations and the skills and knowledge to complete the tasks associated with the profession. The program requires students to complete 45 credits in general education courses and 120 credits in the accounting major. A capstone courses combines all of the knowledge and skills the students gain throughout their degree program and requires the students to demonstrate proficiency through a real world case study. Students who complete the program are qualified to take the CPA exam. The online courses at Walden University are very similar to the brick and mortar class environments. Students receive a syllabus online which guides them through the requirements of the courses. Email and message boards provide easy and regular access to faculty members and online students enjoy the additional benefit of access to experts from around the world.

[Click here for more information about online accounting degree programs]

3. Benedictine University

Benedictine University was originally founded in 1887 to educate men of Czech and Slovak descent. It wasn’t until 1968 that they became a co-educational institution. Their main campus is now situated on a 108-acre, 10-major-building campus in Lisle, Illinois, with five other locations throughout the state. Benedictine provides students with an accredited liberal arts education centered on Roman Catholic values and tradition. Each program consists of rigorous study and curriculum designed to prepare students to become leaders in their communities and have opportunities for professional success. Through Benedictine University’s online division, they offer graduate certificate programs and associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees programs that allow students from around the world pursue their degree without having to attend a physical campus or interfere with their careers, family lives, and other opportunities.

Student’s interested in pursuing an accounting degree online may choose to enroll in the Master of Business Administration in Accounting program through the Moser College of Adult and Professional Studies at Benedictine University. This is a 64-credit program designed to prepare students to work and thrive in a professional environment facing financial scrutiny and oversight. Through a challenging curriculum focusing on theories, practices, methods, and management techniques, students will be equipped with accounting and financial knowledge and skills that can be applied across a wide range of industries and organizations. The accelerated online MBA in Accounting option allows students to earn their degree in as little as one year, depending on their educational background.

[Click here for more information about Benedictine's online accounting degree program]

4. Saint Leo University

Saint Leo University, established in 1889, is a Catholic, liberal arts institution located in Florida which offers a range of academic programs in more than 33 countries to their substantial student body of 15,000 plus. Saint Leo University adheres to a student centered philosophy, dedicated to facilitating the educational and career success of their students. Students are provided with high quality curriculum, instilled with an appreciation for lifelong learning and trained to become ethical leaders within their fields of study. The flexible degree programs allow students to tailor their course schedules around their work and various other time consuming responsibilities. Many of the educational programs include opportunities to attain hands on experience. Saint Leo University is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern association of Colleges and Schools and has received accreditation for their Business programs through the Assembly for Collegiate Business Education.

The School of Business at Saint Leo University offers what the institution refers to as a “value-based education”. Students receive a comprehensive curriculum taught by dedicated faculty members with industry experience, some of whom have received CPA certification. The School of Business offers both a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Business administration with a specialization in accounting. Students also have the option of combining the accounting and computer and information systems majors. The 150 credit BA in Accounting provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Certified Public Accountant or Certified management Accountant. Practical experience is incorporated into the program to ensure students are capable and prepared to meet the demands of the challenging field. Courses include cost accounting, auditing, advanced accounting, accounting information systems, individual federal income taxes, strategic management and can include an accounting internship.

[Click here for more information about Saint Leo's online accounting degree program]

5. Post University

Post University, founded in 1890, is a student focused career institution of higher learning which has earned recognition due to its dedication to providing high quality degree programs for the most in demand career options. Post University offers both traditional on campus degree programs and flexible online degree programs tailored to meet the needs of the adult working population. Students are offered the additional option of completing accelerated degree programs in order to meet their goals based on their individual career and scheduling needs. The online degree programs are interactive and are taught by faculty members who are industry experienced educators. Students can earn a Bachelor degree in as few as eighteen months or a Master degree in as few as twelve months. At Post University, students are equipped with the communication and leadership skills necessary to become successful professionals within their fields. Post University has earned regional accreditation through the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education o the New England Association of schools and Colleges.

Post University offers both an Associate of Science and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. Both degree programs are offered entirely through online courses at Post University. Students enrolled in the accounting degree program will learn the most prevalent principles and methods in accounting. Students will develop skills in communication, critical thinking and problem solving and will learn to utilize the latest technologies being used in the field. Areas of study included in the curriculum include financial accounting, tax, information systems, costs analysis and an examination of the various types of business entities requiring accounting services. The Bachelor degree program at Post University requires students to complete eight week courses, one at a time to ensure students are able to fully immerse themselves in each topic while completing the program at an accelerated pace. Students who complete the program are prepared to sit for the CPA or CMA exams. Courses offered within the degree program include navigating the business environment, principles of management, principles of marketing, financial accounting, managerial accounting, business ethics, principles of finance and macroeconomics.

[Click here for more information about Post University's accounting degree programs]

6. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University was established in 1965 for the purpose of providing career focused education with flexible programs for self motivated students. The degree programs offered at Colorado Technical University are designed to provide the most current skills, concepts and knowledge for the most in demand career fields. Colorado Technical University offers extensive resources and educational support to their students. At Colorado Technical University, students have the option of pursuing associate, bachelor or master degree programs with an emphasis on technology. Much of the focus at Colorado Technical University is on utilizing the latest technologies, application of the most recent research results and the development of problem solving skills which are essential to success in the business setting. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

Colorado Technical University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree program with a concentration in accounting. The curriculum provides a broad foundation in business and accounting. Students enrolled in the degree program have the opportunity to earn certificates in four areas to enhance their credentials; basics of accounting and finance, financial statement analysis, organizational systems and improvement and risk and legal environment. The curriculum for the certificates are incorporated into the bachelor degree program so they can earned simultaneously. Practical application of the skills learned through coursework is achieved through projects and case studies based on real world business experiences intended to prepare students for the professional realm. The curriculum is regularly reviewed by educators and professionals in the various business fields and is revised based on their recommendations to ensure the programs remain industry current. Students at any point in their careers will benefit from the experience and have the opportunity to advance their careers.

[Click here for more information about Colorado Technical University's accounting degree programs]

7. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University, established in the late 1940’s, is a private Christian institution based in Phoenix Arizona. Ranked as a premier online education institution by the Online Education Database and considered among America’s Best Colleges for entrepreneurs by Fortune magazine, Grand Canyon University endeavors to train their graduates to become capable and effective leaders equipped with a global perspective of the business world. Students learn to become ethical and socially responsible professionals capable of balanced and collaborative decision making. The degree programs incorporate the most current information into the curriculum to ensure students are prepared for the complexities of their professions. Students have the opportunity to pursue a range of degree options within the four colleges at Grand Canyon University and are offered an array of specialization options. Grand Canyon University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association.

The Ken Blanchard College of Business within the Grand Canyon University provides a comprehensive degree programs in accounting. The 150 credit Bachelor of Science in Accounting is offered entirely through online courses. The curriculum is developed with the assistance of a research firm to ensure students are provided with the most current information in the field. The program includes coursework in analyzing financial data, fundamentals of managerial and cost accounting, corporate taxation, accounting information systems and accounting for consolidated entities. Students are taught the importance of individual responsibility and collaboration and learn to utilize the latest techniques and methods of the field. Emphasis is placed on effective communication and critical thinking. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared to sit for the Certified Management Accounting Exam and can become Certified Public Accountants if the exam is successfully passed.

[Click here for more information about Grand Canyon University online accounting degree program]

8. Strayer University

Founded in 1892, Strayer University has a long history of excellence as a leader in distance education and strives to exceed the expectations of their students and employers. Strayer University offers working adult students an affordable, high quality education with a range of flexible scheduling and degree options. Strayer University demonstrates their commitment to the success of their students through exceptional support services including academic advisers for guidance, technical support to help navigate the online services and programs and career development assistance; living up to their motto “We fit your life”. Strayer University endeavors to provide cutting edge degree programs that are relevant to current industry needs and standards but will also maintain their relevance for the future. Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and has earned certification approval and/or licensure in every state in which one of their many campuses are located.

Strayer University offers a range of degree options in the accounting major. Students are able to pursue an undergraduate diploma or certificate in accounting, an Associate in Arts degree in accounting, a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, A Master of Business administration with an emphasis in accounting or an executive graduate certificate or Master of Science in accounting, accounting information systems, controllership or taxation. The undergraduate curriculum offers a strong liberal arts content to develop competencies in the essential areas of critical analysis, abstract thinking, communications and to develop social and political awareness. The coursework includes training in the use of accounting software and technologies to ensure students are prepared with the professional skills necessary to perform the tasks associated with the field. Students are able to complete degree programs entirely through online courses or can attend classes at any of the many campus locations which can be found across the country. The programs are taught by experienced faculty members familiar with the challenges which will be endured on the job.

[Click here for more information Strayer's online accounting degree programs]

 

9. Argosy University

Formed in 2001 by the merger of three long established institutions, Argosy University endeavors to provide the busy working adult population with flexible degree options to facilitate career advancement through advanced education. Argosy University possesses four colleges and 19 campus locations across the country and offers a range of degree programs in the fields of business, education, health sciences and psychology and behavioral sciences. Argosy University strives to instill within their students the importance of effective communication and interpersonal skills to assure their success within any field and industry. Faculty members are dedicated educators and experienced practitioners within the fields they teach. Argosy University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, is a member of the North Central Association and has earned licensing and program accreditations for various areas of study offered within the institution.

Argosy University offers both undergraduate and graduate degree programs in business administration with emphasis in various areas including accounting. The College of Undergraduate Studies at Argosy University offers a 120 credit Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program which provides students with a comprehensive and rigorous study of the core business areas. Students learn the foundational business concepts, management techniques and develop skills in communication, problem solving, collaboration and critical thinking. The curriculum prepares students to successfully excel in a global business. Practical application of the theories and concepts are required through team projects and case analysis. Students are required to complete 45 credits in major specific core requirements, 12 credits in their concentration and 42 credits in general education requirements. Accounting courses and business systems are an integral aspect of both the core major requirements and the concentration courses including auditing, strategic cost management, corporate taxation and capital budgeting.

 

10. Stetson University

Stetson University, founded in 1883, is a private university dedicated to providing a superior educational program intended to prepare students to become socially aware and ethical leaders in their communities and professions. The liberal arts education provided at Stetson University develops students’ creative and intellectual abilities through comprehensive cognitive study, thought provoking debates and collaboration. Stetson University endeavors to instill within their students a lifelong commitment to continued learning. The large majority of the 195 full time faculty members who teach undergraduate students have earned Ph.D. degrees. Stetson University boasts an international student body that have the opportunity to select from more than bachelor degree 60 majors offered at the institution. Students have the option of attending courses at the historical campus or completing their degree programs through online courses. Career services offered at Stetson University offers guidance and career related events.

Stetson University offers a unique major in accounting information systems developed to train professionals prepared to meet the evolving needs within the field. The curriculum for the major focuses on the evolution and advancement of computer technologies and software tools. Students are trained in the traditional accounting concepts and principles as well as the cutting edge areas of e-business and Enterprise Resource Planner Systems. Other areas of importance encompassed within the curriculum include new techniques in auditing and the use of Electronic Business Technology models. Recognizing the increasing management role assumed by accounting professionals, Stetson University provides coursework in management, business organizations, finances and develops students skills in decision making. Substantial coursework is dedicated to information systems such as computer center security and pervasive controls/countermeasures such as network and e-commerce controls, systems development controls and operating systems controls. Courses within the program are taught by licensed CPA’s experienced within the accounting field.

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