Accountants earn above-average salaries. According to the BLS, accountants earn a median annual salary of over $71,000. Accountants in finance and management organizations typically earn higher salaries.
Best Accelerated Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs 2021
Accountants create financial records, like tax returns and corporate financial reports. They also advise clients on accounting matters and help identify financial fraud. A bachelor’s degree in accounting prepares graduates for roles like government accountant, auditor, management accountant, and public accountant.
Accountants and auditors earn a median annual salary of $71,550, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects nearly 62,000 new accounting jobs to open up between 2019-2029, making accounting a growing field.
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Our list ranks the best accelerated bachelor’s programs in accounting. Prospective applicants can use these rankings to find the right fit for their career goals and timeline. This page also introduces accounting degree requirements and scholarships for accounting majors.
See Our Rankings MethodologyTop 10 Accelerated Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs
FAQ
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Do accountants make good money?
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How long does it take to earn an accounting degree?
Earning a bachelor’s in accounting typically takes four years for full-time students. Transfer students and those who choose an accelerated program can complete their degree faster.
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Does accounting involve a lot of math?
Accountants use basic math and statistics skills to calculate financial reports and evaluate their accuracy. Typically, an accounting degree does not require advanced mathematics courses.
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How quickly can you get an accounting degree?
Transfer students with an associate in accounting who choose an accelerated bachelor’s program can complete their degree in 1-2 years.
Best Accelerated Bachelor’s in Accounting Programs 2021
What Are the Goals of an Accounting Degree?
Accounting majors learn how to create financial documents, review tax filings, and identify accounting improvements to increase efficiency. During an accounting bachelor’s degree, students can often specialize their training by studying topics like auditing procedures, fiscal accounting, forensic accounting, and personal financial planning.
Most accelerated accounting programs also incorporate business courses on topics like organizational behavior, strategic planning, and economics. These classes prepare graduates for careers as management accountants, budget analysts, and management consultants.
Why Get an Accounting Degree?
An accounting degree offers several personal and professional benefits, including specialization options, higher earning potential, and career training.
- Career Training
- A bachelor’s degree in accounting builds the knowledge and skills required for jobs like accountant and auditor.
- Specializations
- During an accounting degree, undergraduates can specialize their education through electives and concentrations. Specialization options may include public accounting, internal auditing, and management accounting.
- Accelerated Timeline
- An accelerated accounting program allows students to expedite graduation and enter the workforce sooner.
- Flexibility
- Online accounting programs give students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations.
- Increased Earning Potential
- Professionals with a bachelor’s degree earn a median of $26,000 more per year than those with a only high school diploma.
What Are the Requirements for an Accounting Degree?
Prospective accounting majors must meet certain requirements. Most programs require a high school diploma or the equivalent. Colleges often require SAT or ACT scores for first-time, first-year applicants. Transfer students with prior college experience typically must submit college transcripts. Applicants may also need to submit recommendation letters, a resume, and a statement of purpose.
After gaining admission, accounting majors complete coursework in their major along with general education requirements and electives. Some programs require a capstone project and/or internship.
Professional Organizations for Accounting Students
Professional organizations connect degree-seekers with professionals in their field through conferences and events. They may also offer professional development opportunities, continuing education programs, and discounts on professional resources. The following list outlines several professional organizations for accounting students and professionals.
- American Institute of CPAs Established in 1887, AICPA administers the certified public accountant exam. The institute hosts over 431,000 members and offers professional development support, CPA resources, and scholarship opportunities. Accounting students and professionals can also strengthen their skills through AICPA webcasts and publications.
- Institute of Management Accountants IMA publishes research on management accounting and offers over 1,000 courses and 50 webinars for members. Members also gain access to local chapters, professional certifications, and publications.
- National Society of Accountants NSA represents tax and accounting professionals, particularly those who work in a small practice. Members receive access to professional development resources and discounts. NSA also awards scholarships to accounting students.
Scholarships for Accounting Students
Accounting majors may qualify for a variety of scholarships. Professional associations, like the AICPA and NSA, award scholarships, as do private foundations. In addition to the following opportunities, majors should research scholarships based on factors like their state, school, and career goals.
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AICPA/Robert Half Student Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports full-time accounting students. Applicants need at least 30 college-level credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA. The award supports aspiring CPAs.
Amount: $10,000
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AICPA Foundation Two-year Transfer Scholarship Award
Who Can Apply: Students who transfer from a two-year institution to a four-year college or university qualify for this award. Applicants must major in accounting or a related field with a minimum 3.0 GPA. The scholarship encourages accounting students to pursue careers as CPAs.
Amount: $5,000
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AICPA Minority Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This scholarship supports undergraduate minority students majoring in accounting and planning to pursue their CPA license. Applicants need at least 30 college-level credits and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Amount: $5,000
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