Choosing the right online master’s in accounting program can make the difference between passing the CPA exam on your first attempt and struggling through multiple retakes. With over 200 online accounting programs available, finding one that combines academic excellence, CPA exam preparation, and career support requires careful evaluation.
Our comprehensive analysis of online master’s accounting programs focuses on the metrics that matter most: CPA exam pass rates, program accreditation, career outcomes, and value. We’ve evaluated programs based on data from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), AACSB accreditation status, and employment statistics to identify the top programs that consistently produce successful accounting professionals.
Contents
How We Evaluate Online Master’s Accounting Programs
Our ranking methodology incorporates multiple factors that directly impact student success and career outcomes:
- CPA Exam Performance: First-time pass rates and overall exam success
- Accreditation: AACSB accreditation and regional accreditation status
- Career Outcomes: Employment rates and starting salaries
- Program Quality: Curriculum comprehensiveness and faculty credentials
- Student Support: Academic advising, career services, and technical support
- Value: Cost per credit hour and return on investment
The national average CPA exam first-time pass rate is approximately 50%. All programs featured here significantly exceed this benchmark.
Quick Comparison of Top Programs
Here’s an overview of our top-ranked online master’s in accounting programs:
The 15 Best Online Accounting Master’s Programs in the Nation
Based on our comprehensive evaluation, these programs offer the best combination of academic excellence, CPA preparation, and career support for online learners pursuing careers in accounting.
College of Business and Economics
Boise, Idaho
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 92%
Online Master of Science in Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $450
- Exceptional Support for Online Students Through the Advising and Academic Support Center, Which Offers Online Tutoring, Academic Coaching, Success Workshops, and More
- Superb Technical Support Offered Through the Educational Center
- Outstanding Career Services Offered through the Career Center
Boise State University’s 30-credit Online Master of Science in Accountancy will prepare you for the next phase of your public accounting career, thanks to a curriculum that’s focused on helping you pass the CPA exam and preparing you for the challenges of a career in an area of accounting. The advanced coursework of this program also allows you to build on your expertise in the audit and attest functions of public accounting. This fully online program, which can be completed in as little as 22 months, offers extensive support for online students, including online tutoring, academic coaching, success workshops, and writing consultations through the Advising and Academic Support Center. The Educational Center helps you with any problems you might run into, and the Career Center is your resource for applying for an internship, searching for a job, or planning your career.
World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 81.9%
Online Master of Professional Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $920
- Options for Self-Study and Peer-to-Peer Interaction
- The program is developed and taught by a Full-Time, Experienced Faculty, all of Whom Have Experience Teaching Online
- Asynchronous Courses Can be Completed Anywhere, Anytime
- Exceptional Online Support Services Include Technical Support, an Academic Advising Staff, and Resources Like Career Counseling, Tutoring, and Exam Proctoring
Penn State’s World Campus enables distance-based learners to benefit from the university’s esteemed programs, including the 30-credit Master of Professional Accounting. This program, comprising 10 courses designed to help students achieve success on the CPA exam, builds on the success of the campus-based accounting graduate degrees. It is developed and taught by an experienced, full-time faculty, all of whom are skilled in online teaching. The online Master of Professional Accountancy allows you to complete courses anywhere, anytime. Many students in the program utilize a combination of self-study and peer-to-peer interaction through a centralized online platform that features video conferencing, chat, and bulletin boards. While the courses are asynchronous, you’ll complete weekly assignments, readings, discussions, and sometimes group work to enhance your learning outcomes. Online learners have access to technical support and an academic advising staff, along with numerous resources, including career counseling, exam proctoring, and tutoring.
Raymond J. Harbert College of Business
Auburn, Alabama
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 72.5%
Master of Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $875
- Raymond J. Harbert College of Business was Ranked 10th in the Nation in 2017 for Its Online Programs Nationally by U.S. News & World Report
- Online Discussion Boards Supplement In-Class Discussion and Encourage Student Engagement
- Online Program Mirrors the On-Campus Program: Same Instruction, Same Exams, and Same Assignments; Campus-Based Classes are Recorded and Streamed to Online Students
- One, Three-Day Campus Residency Required
Like its on-campus counterpart, Auburn University’s Master of Accountancy program is designed for the working professional. Students in the online program receive the same instruction as their campus-based peers, including the same assignments and exams. Plus, the Harbert College of Business features smart classrooms, where campus classes are recorded and streamed to online students. The curriculum of this program provides students with study in advanced technical skills, research, and communication skills, while also preparing them to pass the Uniform CPA exam. This program can be completed in just two years (two classes per term for five semesters) for working professionals, or in one year (three semesters) for full-time students. While the program is offered entirely online, students are required to participate in a three-day, on-campus residency during the final spring semester of the program. The residency includes the Auburn MAcc Leadership Summit, which features social events, business seminars, and leadership workshops.
Kenan-Flagler Business School
Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 71.4%
Master of Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $1,418
- Program Boasts an Exceptional 98% Employment Rate Among Graduates
- Flexible Program Can be Completed in as Little as 12 Months or as Long as 36 Months
- Online Program Features the Same Curriculum and Faculty as the Campus-Based Program
- Program Includes a Required Three-Day Immersion Event, Which Features a One-Credit, On-Campus Leadership Course
- Weekly Classes are Held in the Evenings; Video Lectures and Homework Assignments are Available in the Learning Management
- Exceptional Tech Support Offered 24/7
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has everything the online learner needs—and more! This program boasts an exceptional 98% employment rate among students within three months of graduation. This flexible schedule allows students up to 36 months to complete the program (although it can be completed in as little as 12), and a superb alumni network, which was ranked first in the nation by LinkedIn. The online Master of Accounting program boasts the same high-caliber curriculum as its on-campus counterpart, along with an esteemed faculty, ample peer-to-peer interaction, and outstanding recruitment opportunities. Consisting of between 33 and 48 credits, depending on your previous education, this program offers the best in flexibility, including four start dates each year: January, March, June, and September. Each class meets weekly for two hours through the program’s virtual classroom. Outside of your scheduled class times, you’ll get plenty of peer-to-peer interaction by working on small group projects. Video lectures and homework assignments are all located in one convenient learning management system, accessible at any time from anywhere. There’s even a mobile app for learning on the go!
School of Business Administration
Coral Gables, Florida
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 70.8%
Master of Professional Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $1,960
- Program Includes the Same Curriculum and is Taught by the Same Faculty as the Campus-Based Program
- UOnline’s Virtual Platform Provides Students with Access to Coursework and Faculty Support Anytime, Anywhere
- Optional, On-Campus Events Provide Beneficial Learning and Networking Opportunities
- Exceptional Online Support Includes a 24/7 Student Support Team and an Academic Advising Team
The University of Miami’s Master of Professional Accounting features 32 credits in a 100% online format that mirrors the university’s esteemed on-campus program. This means that as an online student, you’ll have the same curriculum and be taught by the same, hand-picked faculty as the on-campus program. You’ll learn through UOnline’s virtual platform, which is designed to support you anytime, anywhere. We also appreciate that faculty members offer weekly synchronous office hours, where you can receive help with your coursework or discuss your academic and career goals. While this program is completed through a fully online course delivery, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to attend optional, on-campus events where you can network with faculty, students, and the University of Miami community. You can also participate in the university before starting your program, where you’ll receive training on the UOnline’s learning model. There’s also plenty of online support, including a 24/7 Student Support Team and an Academic Advising Team.
College of Business
Boca Raton, Florida
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 70.4%
Executive Master of Accounting with a Concentration in Professional Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $303 (FL resident), $926 (non-resident)
- Program Includes the Same Curriculum and the Same Faculty as the Campus-Based Program
- Online Students Can Stream Weekly Lectures to Their Laptop or Phone or Watch the Recorded Lectures at Their Convenience
- Flexible Program Can Be Started Three Times a Year: Spring, Summer, and Fall
Busy, working professionals, take note: this program is for you! Florida Atlantic University’s Executive Master of Accounting with a concentration in Professional Accounting is a two-year, fully online program specifically designed to meet the needs of working professionals. This program, designed to provide students with specialized knowledge and skills with a focus on the accounting profession and the CPA designation, includes the same high-quality instruction as its on-campus counterpart. The Saturday morning lectures of the program are broadcast through the school’s interactive videoconferencing platform, allowing students to watch the lectures live or stream them at their convenience. This flexible program can be started three times throughout the year—Spring, Summer, and Fall, and applications are accepted year-round. Complete your accounting grad degree here, and you’ll be part of one of the most extensive accounting programs in the U.S., which includes 900 traditional and non-traditional undergrad and grad students.
Eller College of Management
Tucson, Arizona
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 70%
Online Master of Science in Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $1,000
- Program Features a Variety of MBA and Accounting Electives
- Program Offers the Same Curriculum and Faculty as the On-Campus Program
- Flexible Program Features Six Start Dates Throughout the Year
- Superb Summer Internship Opportunities Available
- Outstanding Post-Graduate Career Assistance
- Plenty of Opportunities for Peer-to-Peer Interaction Through Discussion Boards and Chats
The University of Arizona’s Online Master of Science in Accounting is where you’ll prepare for the CPA designation and a career in public accounting through the completion of 18 units of required online accounting courses. But it’s also where you’ll sharpen your business acumen through the completion of 12 units of selected online MBA and accounting electives. Best of all, this program features the same curriculum as its on-campus counterpart, so online students can be sure they’re receiving the same quality education synonymous with the University of Arizona. Each course is eight weeks long, and the program has six different start dates throughout the year for maximum flexibility. As an online student here, you’ll use a variety of technologies to connect with your peers and faculty, including discussion boards and chats. The Online MS in Accounting can be completed in as little as 12 months, and all students are required to pass a written comprehensive exam at the end of the program. It also features an esteemed faculty with both scholarly and professional experience, as well as summer internship opportunities with top firms and post-graduate career assistance.
College of Business
Champaign, Illinois
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 65%
Master of Science in Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $850
- Program Ranked Among the Top 3 in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report and the Public Accounting Report
- Unique, Two-Segment Courses Provide a Fully Online Experience with Plenty of Experiential Learning Opportunities
- Interactive Learning Environment Allows Students to Connect with Faculty, Their Peers, and Industry Professionals
- Flexible Program Features Two Start Dates Each Year and Can be Completed in as Few as 18 Months or as Long as 36 Months
- Online Learning Platform Offered Through a Partnership with Coursera
Seeking a program with a proven track record of success? Look no further than the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which is home to the online Master of Science in Accounting, ranked among the top three such programs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report and the Public Accounting Report. This graduate degree program may be delivered entirely online, but it also offers plenty of hands-on experiences. This is because each course in the program is delivered in two segments: a self-paced, on-demand set of video lectures, along with a hands-on, practice-oriented set that features live sessions where students work directly with faculty, their peers, and even with industry professionals. Students can ask questions, work on assignments together, and make presentations during this time. This program, specifically designed for working professionals, can be completed in as few as 18 months or as long as 36 months, with two start dates per year. Thanks to a partnership with Coursera, the university offers its online students flexible learning experiences that prioritize quality and engagement. Plus, faculty here are available via email or online during live office hours to answer your questions and provide support.
Beacom School of Business
Vermillion, South Dakota
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 64%
Online Master of Professional Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $444
- The program is taught by the Same Faculty as the On-Campus Accounting Programs.
- Outstanding Online Student Support Services Offered Through the Academic and Career Planning Center
- Prepares Students to Pass the CPA
The University of South Dakota’s Online Master of Professional Accountancy program provides specialized training in accounting, complemented by the best in flexibility, convenience, and accessibility. This fully online graduate degree offers in-depth study in accounting, finance, and related subjects for students interested in earning the prestigious CPA designation and pursuing careers in government, industry, or accounting education. While it’s delivered as a distance-based program, it’s anything but second-rate. In fact, the curriculum is taught by the same faculty that teaches on campus. Plus, online students are afforded a wealth of benefits, including outstanding student support, interactive opportunities with faculty and peers, and access to the Academic and Career Planning Center, where the dedicated staff will help them reach their educational and professional goals.
School of Business
Fairfax, Virginia
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 63.6%
Masters in Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $965
- Dedicated Career Management Staff Offers Individualized Career Counseling, Employment and Networking Opportunities, and Online Resources
- Nearly 86% of All Students in This Program Receive a Job Offer Before Graduation
- Program Ranked 56th in the Nation by U.S. News & World Report
- Can be Completed on a Part- or Full-Time Basis
- Flexible Program Offers Specialization in Financial, Forensic, Government, or Tax Accounting
- Outstanding Opportunity for Experiential Learning Through the Program’s Integral Global Residency Program
George Mason University’s online Master’s in Accounting knows how to stand out from the crowd with a master’s in accounting that provides a focused course of study that will get you to those 150 credits you need to earn the CPA designation, including in-depth study in the areas of business ethics and corporate governance. It’s no wonder that this program ranked 56th among all online graduate business programs in the nation, according to U.S. News & World Report. This program also boasts an outstanding record of student success, with nearly 86% of all students securing a position before graduation. The university’s Accounting Advisory Council comprises accounting executives from the federal government, regional firms, and the Big 4 accounting firms. Just like its on-campus counterpart, the online Master’s in Accounting can be completed in less than one year if pursued on a full-time basis or in less than two years if pursued on a part-time basis. We also appreciate that both programs enable students to focus their course of study on a specific track, including financial, forensic, government, or tax accounting, and that they include an integral Global Residency Program—an opportunity to gain professional accounting experience in the competitive global market.
College of Business
Athens, Ohio
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 63.2%
Online Master of Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $1,175 (OH resident), $1,194 (non-resident)
- Ohio U’s College of Business Has Been Consistently Ranked as One of the Best Business Schools by U.S. News & World Report
- Fully Online Program Requires No Online Residency Requirement
- Exceptional Student Support Provided by Personal Student Support Advisors
Ohio University’s Online Master of Accounting offers students the best in graduate education (The College of Business has been consistently ranked as one of the Best Business Schools in the country), all with the benefits of 100% online course delivery. This program requires no on-campus residencies or workshops, making it a truly online program for the busy working professional. Students with an undergraduate degree in accounting can complete the program in five semesters, while those with an undergraduate degree in another discipline can complete it in seven semesters. We also appreciate the university’s excellent student support services, which include a personal Student Support Advisor who is available to assist you throughout the program.
Lumpkin College of Business and Applied Science
Charleston, Illinois
Websit
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 62.1%
MBA – Concentration in Accounting
Cost Per Credit: $600
- Exceptional Career Services Provide Centralized Career Development and Experiential Learning services to Students and Alumni
- Fully Online Program Can Be Completed in Six Semesters (Two Calendar Years)
- Flexible Asynchronous Curriculum Allows Students to Study on Their Own Schedule
- Program Features the Same Faculty as the On-Campus MBA Programs
Eastern Illinois University’s MBA with a concentration in Accounting will prepare you for a career in accounting, finance, operations management, consulting, marketing, sales, and more—all from the comfort of your home! This fully online program can be completed in two calendar years over six semesters, with two classes offered each term. For a truly flexible course of study, all classes are offered through an asynchronous approach that allows students to upload assignments, listen to lectures, and complete reading assignments on their own time. Plus, the faculty of this online program is the same faculty that teaches on-campus students, thereby ensuring the highest quality instruction.
School of Business
Cedar City, Utah
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 61%
Master of Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $785
- Nearly 100% of Program Graduates are Employed Right After Graduation
- Outstanding Student and Career Support Through the Business Recruiting and Career Development Center
Southern Utah University’s online Master of Accountancy program boasts an impressive accolade: it is one of the most affordable online master’s programs in accounting nationwide. It remains one of the very best by any measure, including the first-time pass rate for CPA Exam candidates who completed the program. And the proof of this program’s history of excellence is clear: nearly 100% of graduates are employed right after graduation, and many are recruited before they graduate! This 30-credit, fully online program also comes with its share of support through the Business Recruiting and Career Development Center. Students here can get assistance with job placement, job searches, career coaching, resume reviews, and more.
Naveen Jindal School of Management
Dallas, Texas
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 59.4%
Master of Science in Accountancy
Cost Per Credit: $1,453 (resident), $2,205 (non-resident)
- CPA Review Courses and Advising Appointments Ensure Students are Prepared to Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
- Outstanding Career Services Offered Through the Career Management Center Include Internship Placement and Professional Development Assistance
The University of Texas at Dallas’ Master of Science in Accounting, offered in a fully online format, is designed to prepare students to pass the Uniform CPA Exam through a rigorous and contemporary curriculum, CPA review courses, and CPA advising appointments. The Jindal School of Management’s Career Management Center is an excellent resource for online students who need assistance in completing the work experience required to obtain their state CPA license. The Career Center also helps students prepare for their internships and enhance their professional development via workshops, mock interviews, and many employer-supported events.
Arthur J. Kania School of Management
Scranton, Pennsylvania
Website
CPA First-Time Exam Pass Rate: 59.1%
Online Master of Accountancy, MBA with a Specialization in Accounting
Cost Per Credit: N/A (call program managers. At 1-866-373-9547 during business hours)
- University Consistently Ranked Among the Top 10 Master’s Universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report
- Strong Alumni Network with Connections in Regional and Local Public Accounting Firms and the Big 4
- Open to Both Accounting and Non-Accounting Majors; A Fully Online Bridge Program Allows Non-Accounting Majors to Take the Necessary Prerequisites to Enter the Program
- Program Can Be Completed in as Little as 10 Months and as Long as 6 Years
- 24/7 Teach Support and a Designated Mentor Offered to All Online Students
There’s plenty of reasons why the University of Scranton should be on your short list for online master’s degree accounting programs: This university has been consistently ranked among the top 10 master’s universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report…the rigorous curriculum prepares students with aspirations of CPA certification, management, and leadership positions…and the program’s alumni hold esteemed positions in regional and local public accounting firms and the Big 4. The online MBA with a specialization in accounting combines advanced study in business foundations and the accounting profession. The 30-credit, fully online Master of Accountancy is open to both accounting and non-accounting undergrad majors, with an MAcc bridge option allowing non-accounting majors to complete the necessary prerequisite courses to enter the program. We also appreciate the excellent CPA exam preparation services offered here, the round-the-clock support provided for all online students, and the interactive Engage Learning Management System, which enables the best in dynamic distance learning.
Salary Outlook for Master’s in Accounting Graduates
Pursuing a master’s degree in accounting can significantly impact earning potential. According to the latest data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors with advanced degrees earn higher salaries across all experience levels.
National Salary Overview
Top-Paying States for Accountants
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for accounting professionals:
Master’s degree holders typically earn 15-25% more than bachelor’s degree holders in accounting roles, with faster advancement to senior positions.
Graduates from top-ranked online programs often secure positions with competitive starting salaries, particularly those who pass the CPA exam. Accounting salary potential varies by specialization, with areas like forensic accounting and financial analysis commanding premium compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do online master’s in accounting programs compare to on-campus programs?
Top-ranked online programs offer the same curriculum, faculty, and accreditation as their on-campus counterparts. Many programs feature identical coursework with additional flexibility for working professionals. The key difference lies in the delivery method, not in quality or rigor.
What accreditation should I look for in an online accounting program?
Look for programs with AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation, which is the gold standard for business education. Regional accreditation is also essential for eligibility of federal financial aid and for the transfer of credits.
Can I become a CPA with an online master’s degree?
Yes, graduates from accredited online master’s in accounting programs are eligible to sit for the CPA exam and pursue licensure. Many programs are specifically designed to meet CPA education requirements.
How long does it take to complete an online master’s in accounting?
Most programs can be completed in 12 to 36 months, depending on the course load and prior education. Full-time students typically complete their studies in 12-18 months, while part-time students may take 24-36 months.
What are the admission requirements for online accounting master’s programs?
Common requirements include a bachelor’s degree (not necessarily in accounting), minimum GPA (usually 3.0), GMAT or GRE scores (some programs waive this requirement), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Prerequisites in accounting fundamentals may be required.
Do online accounting programs offer the same networking opportunities as on-campus programs?
Many online programs provide virtual networking events, alumni connections, and optional on-campus residencies. While different from traditional networking, these opportunities can be equally valuable for career development.
What technology do I need for an online accounting program?
Most programs require a reliable internet connection, an updated computer with a webcam and a microphone, and specific software applications. Some programs offer software licenses for accounting tools such as QuickBooks or Microsoft Excel.
Are online accounting master’s degrees respected by employers?
Yes, employers increasingly recognize and value online degrees from accredited institutions, especially when the program maintains the same standards as on-campus offerings. Focus on program accreditation and university reputation rather than delivery method.
Last updated: January 2025. Program details and costs are subject to change. Always verify current information directly with universities before making enrollment decisions.
May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.
