Online MBA programs in Accounting have become increasingly popular in recent years. These programs are designed to provide students with a well-rounded business education that emphasizes accounting principles and practices. Students who complete an online MBA in Accounting can expect to gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in a variety of accounting-related careers.
When looking for the best online MBA programs in Accounting, there are several factors to consider. These include the program’s reputation, accreditation, curriculum, faculty, and cost. It’s important to choose a program that is accredited by a reputable organization, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
Best Online MBA Programs for Accounting
Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business)
Program Description
Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business) offers an online MBA program that is accredited by AACSB International. The program is designed to provide students with the essential business skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of accounting. The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields.
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program at Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business) is a 51-credit program that can be completed in as little as two years. The curriculum includes courses in accounting, finance, marketing, operations, and management. The program also offers a variety of elective courses that allow students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the online MBA program at Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business), applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum of two years of professional work experience. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for the online MBA program at Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business) is $1,490 per credit hour, which makes the total cost of the program approximately $76,000. However, the program offers a variety of financial aid options, including scholarships, grants, and loans, to help students offset the cost of tuition.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Accredited by AACSB International
- Experienced faculty members
- Flexible online format
- Opportunities for specialization
- Strong career services
Cons:
- Relatively high tuition costs
- Requires a minimum of two years of professional work experience
Reviews and Rankings
Indiana University Bloomington (Kelley School of Business) is consistently ranked among the best online MBA programs in the world. According to U.S. News & World Report, the program is ranked #3 in Best Online MBA Programs, #1 in Best Online MBA Programs for Veterans, and #1 in Best Online MBA Programs in Accounting. The program is also ranked #2 in the Financial Times’ Global Online MBA Rankings.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (Kenan-Flagler Business School)
Program Description
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) Kenan-Flagler Business School offers an online MBA program with a concentration in Accounting. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the accounting industry. The program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program in Accounting at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School consists of 66 credit hours. The program is divided into three main sections: core courses, concentration courses, and electives. Core courses cover topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, business statistics, and financial management. Concentration courses cover advanced accounting topics such as auditing, taxation, and financial reporting.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the online MBA program in Accounting at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. They must also have at least two years of professional work experience. Applicants must submit their official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, a resume, and two letters of recommendation.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The total cost of the online MBA program in Accounting at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School is approximately $125,589. Financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- The program is fully accredited by the AACSB.
- The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all aspects of accounting.
- Students have access to a wide range of resources, including career services, academic advising, and tutoring.
Cons:
- The program is quite expensive.
- Students must have at least two years of professional work experience to be considered for admission.
Reviews and Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report, UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School is ranked #1 in Accounting among online MBA programs. The school is also ranked #1 in General Management and #2 in Entrepreneurship. Students and alumni praise the program for its rigorous curriculum, supportive faculty, and strong alumni network.
University of Southern California (Marshall School of Business)
Program Description
The University of Southern California (USC) Marshall School of Business offers an online MBA program that is recognized as one of the best in the country. The program is designed to equip business leaders with time-tested, forward-thinking skills to advance not only their own careers but their respective industries. The program is entirely online, which means that students can complete the coursework from anywhere in the world.
Curriculum Overview
The curriculum of the USC Marshall online MBA program covers areas such as analytics-driven decision-making, efficient communication, and effective virtual and remote collaboration. The program is designed to be completed in 21 months, and it consists of 51 units of coursework. The program includes core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The core courses cover topics such as financial accounting, marketing management, operations management, and organizational behavior.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the USC Marshall online MBA program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must also submit official transcripts, GMAT or GRE scores, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The program does not require work experience, but it is preferred. International students must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for the USC Marshall online MBA program is $112,728. However, there are several financial aid options available, including scholarships, loans, and grants. The school also offers a Yellow Ribbon Program for veterans. Applicants are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible online format
- Reputable business school
- Strong curriculum
- Wide range of electives
- Access to USC’s alumni network
Cons:
- High tuition fees
- Requires GMAT or GRE scores
- Not accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Reviews and Rankings
The USC Marshall School of Business is ranked No. 19 (tie) in Best Business Schools and No. 9 in Part-time MBA by U.S. News & World Report. The school is also ranked No. 3 in Best Online MBA Programs by the same publication. The program has received positive reviews from students and alumni, who praise the quality of the curriculum and the flexibility of the online format.
University of Texas at Dallas (Naveen Jindal School of Management)
Program Description
The Naveen Jindal School of Management at the University of Texas at Dallas offers a highly ranked online MBA program in Accounting. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles, financial reporting, and taxation. The program is fully online and can be completed in as little as 16 months. Students will receive rigorous training in accounting principles and will also gain a deep understanding of business strategy and management.
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program in Accounting at the Naveen Jindal School of Management consists of 53 credit hours. The program is divided into two parts: core courses and accounting electives. The core courses cover topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, business strategy, and leadership. The accounting electives cover topics such as taxation, auditing, and financial reporting. Students will also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of elective courses to tailor their degree to their specific interests.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the online MBA program in Accounting at the Naveen Jindal School of Management, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also submit GMAT or GRE scores, a resume, and two letters of recommendation. International students must also submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for the online MBA program in Accounting at the Naveen Jindal School of Management is $1,525 per credit hour. The total cost of the program is $80,825. Financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, loans, and grants. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Highly ranked program
- Fully online program
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Flexible elective options
Cons:
- Relatively high tuition cost
- Requires GMAT or GRE scores for admission
Reviews and Rankings
The online MBA program in Accounting at the Naveen Jindal School of Management is ranked #6 in Best Online MBA Programs in Accounting by U.S. News & World Report. The program has also been ranked #4 in North America for its Master of Science in Supply Chain Management STEM program by Gartner. Students have praised the program for its rigorous curriculum, knowledgeable faculty, and flexible scheduling options.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Gies College of Business)
Program Description
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Gies College of Business) offers an online MBA program that is highly flexible and affordable, making it a popular choice for students seeking an MBA in accounting. The program is designed to be completed in 24-60 months, giving students the ability to set their own pace. The curriculum is taught by top faculty members and industry experts, providing students with real-time application to their job.
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program at Gies College of Business consists of 54 credit hours and offers a specialization in accounting. The curriculum includes courses in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and accounting information systems. Additionally, students are required to complete a capstone project where they apply their knowledge to a real-world business problem.
Admission Requirements
To be admitted to the online MBA program at Gies College of Business, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum of three years of professional work experience, and a GMAT or GRE score. International students are required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The total tuition and fees for the online MBA program at Gies College of Business is $23,040, which can be paid as you go. Financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. Students are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible and affordable program
- Specialization in accounting
- Real-time application to job
- Top faculty members and industry experts
Cons:
- Requires a minimum of three years of professional work experience
- GMAT or GRE score required
Reviews and Rankings
The online MBA program at Gies College of Business has been ranked #1 by U.S. News & World Report for three consecutive years. Students praise the program for its flexibility, affordability, and real-world application.
Pennsylvania State University (Smeal College of Business)
Program Description
Pennsylvania State University’s Smeal College of Business offers a 48-credit online MBA program that can be completed in two years. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in business fundamentals, as well as the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the accounting industry. The program is delivered online through Penn State World Campus, which offers students the flexibility to complete coursework from anywhere in the world.
Curriculum Overview
The Penn State Online MBA program in Accounting covers a wide range of topics, including financial accounting, managerial accounting, and auditing. The program also includes courses in business law, economics, finance, marketing, and operations management. In addition, students can choose to specialize in areas such as business analytics, finance, or real estate by taking elective courses.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the Penn State Online MBA program in Accounting, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and at least two years of professional work experience. Applicants must also submit GMAT or GRE scores, a resume, transcripts, and two letters of recommendation.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for the Penn State Online MBA program in Accounting is $1,270 per credit, which includes all fees and course materials. Financial aid is available to eligible students in the form of scholarships, grants, and loans. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible online format allows students to complete coursework from anywhere in the world
- Strong foundation in business fundamentals
- Specialization options in areas such as business analytics, finance, or real estate
Cons:
- Relatively high tuition compared to other online MBA programs
- Requires GMAT or GRE scores for admission
- Minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 may be a barrier for some applicants
Reviews and Rankings
The Penn State Online MBA program in Accounting has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the No. 8 MBA program in the marketing specialty and the No. 9 MBA program in the business analytics specialty. The program has also received positive reviews from students and alumni for its strong curriculum, knowledgeable faculty, and career support services.
University of Massachusetts Amherst (Isenberg School of Management)
Program Description
The Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers an online MBA program that is AACSB-accredited and has been ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report, Financial Times, and Poets&Quants. The program is designed for professionals who want to become leaders in the accounting industry. The online format provides flexibility for students to complete the program while working full-time.
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program at the Isenberg School of Management consists of 36 credits and can be completed in as little as 21 months. The curriculum includes core courses in accounting, finance, marketing, and management, as well as electives in areas such as business analytics and entrepreneurship. The program also includes a capstone course that allows students to apply their knowledge to real-world business problems.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the online MBA program at the Isenberg School of Management must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum of three years of professional work experience. The program does not require the GMAT or GRE for admission, but applicants must submit transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The total cost of tuition for the online MBA program at the Isenberg School of Management is $42,000. Financial aid is available for eligible students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible online format for working professionals
- Highly ranked and accredited program
- No GMAT or GRE requirement for admission
- Opportunities for networking and career advancement
Cons:
- Relatively high tuition cost compared to other online MBA programs
- Requires a minimum of three years of professional work experience
Reviews and Rankings
The online MBA program at the Isenberg School of Management has consistently earned recognition from ranking institutions such as U.S. News & World Report, Financial Times, and Poets&Quants. The program has been praised for its quality curriculum, flexible format, and opportunities for networking and career advancement. Students and alumni have also given positive reviews of the program, citing the supportive faculty and engaged student community.
University of Connecticut (School of Business)
Program Description
The University of Connecticut (UConn) School of Business offers an Online MBA program with a concentration in Accounting. The program is designed for experienced professionals, managers, and executives who have significant work experience in their field. The program is offered online, providing students with the flexibility to enhance their career from anywhere in the world.
Curriculum Overview
The UConn Online MBA program in Accounting requires 42 credits, or 14 graduate-level courses, comprising 9 core classes and 5 electives. Students may choose from seven concentrations: Business Analytics (STEM Designated), Business Ethics and Compliance, Finance, General Business, Management, Marketing (STEM Designated), and Supply Chain Management. The Accounting concentration includes courses such as Financial Statement Analysis, Taxation of Business Entities, and Advanced Auditing.
Admission Requirements
Applicants to the UConn Online MBA program in Accounting must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum of three years of professional work experience, and a GMAT or GRE score. International students must also provide TOEFL or IELTS scores. The application deadline is rolling, and applicants are encouraged to apply early.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for the UConn Online MBA program in Accounting is $1,450 per credit, with a total cost of $60,900 for the entire program. Financial aid is available in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. UConn also offers a payment plan option to help students manage their tuition costs.
Pros and Cons
Pros of the UConn Online MBA program in Accounting include the flexibility of online classes, the option to take in-person classes at three UConn campuses in Connecticut, and the opportunity to choose from seven concentrations. Cons include the high tuition cost and the requirement for a GMAT or GRE score.
Reviews and Rankings
The UConn School of Business is ranked #6 in Business Programs (tie) by US News. The school has a strong reputation for its accounting program, and graduates of the program are highly sought after by employers. Reviews from current and former students are generally positive, with many praising the quality of the faculty and the rigor of the coursework.
Ohio University (College of Business)
Program Description
Ohio University’s College of Business offers several MBA programs with a concentration in accounting. The programs are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in accounting principles and practices, as well as advanced knowledge in areas such as finance, taxation, and accounting information systems. The curriculum is delivered through online and hybrid formats, allowing students to balance their studies with work and other commitments.
Curriculum Overview
The MBA in Accounting program at Ohio University consists of 36 credit hours, with courses covering topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation. Students also have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as forensic accounting, government/not-for-profit accounting, and accounting information systems. The program is designed to prepare students for high-level accounting roles in a variety of industries.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the MBA in Accounting program at Ohio University, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. They must also submit GMAT or GRE scores, a resume, and a personal statement. International students must provide TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The tuition for Ohio University’s MBA in Accounting program is $1,047 per credit hour. Financial aid is available to eligible students, including scholarships, grants, and loans. Students are encouraged to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible online and hybrid formats
- Strong foundation in accounting principles and practices
- Specializations in areas such as forensic accounting and government/not-for-profit accounting
Cons:
- Relatively high tuition costs
- GMAT or GRE scores required for admission
Reviews and Rankings
Ohio University’s MBA programs have been consistently ranked among the best in the nation by publications such as U.S. News & World Report and Fortune. The online MBA program was named top 34 in the nation in the Poets&Quants 2023 Top Online MBA rankings. Students have praised the program’s flexibility and the quality of the faculty.
Arizona State University (W. P. Carey School of Business)
Program Description
Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business offers an online MBA program with a concentration in accounting. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices, as well as the skills needed to succeed in today’s fast-paced business environment. The program is fully accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), which is the highest standard of achievement for business schools worldwide.
Curriculum Overview
The online MBA program in accounting at ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business consists of 49 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 21 months. The curriculum includes core courses in accounting, finance, management, marketing, and business law, as well as elective courses in advanced accounting topics. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a capstone course that focuses on strategic management.
Admission Requirements
To be considered for admission to the online MBA program in accounting at ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA of 3.0. Applicants must also submit GMAT or GRE scores, a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Tuition Fees and Financial Aid
The total cost of tuition for the online MBA program in accounting at ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business is approximately $58,000. However, financial aid is available to eligible students in the form of scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. Applicants are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine their eligibility for financial aid.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Flexible online format allows students to balance work and school
- Comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of accounting topics
- Program is fully accredited by AACSB
Cons:
- Tuition is relatively expensive compared to other online MBA programs
- Admission requirements are competitive
Reviews and Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report, ASU’s W. P. Carey School of Business is ranked #29 in the nation for Best Online MBA Programs. The school is also highly regarded for its research productivity and distinguished faculty members, including a Nobel Prize winner. Online MBA students at ASU have access to a range of resources, including career services, academic advising, and online tutoring.
Comparison of the Top 10 Online MBA Programs in Accounting
Curriculum Similarities and Differences
The top 10 online MBA programs in accounting share many similarities in terms of curriculum. All programs offer core business courses such as accounting, finance, marketing, and management. However, there are differences in the number of required courses, electives, and concentrations. For example, some programs require more accounting courses than others, while some offer concentrations in areas such as taxation or forensic accounting. Prospective students should carefully review each program’s curriculum to determine which best aligns with their career goals.
Admission Requirements and Selectivity
Admission requirements and selectivity vary among the top 10 online MBA programs in accounting. Some programs require a minimum GPA or GMAT score, while others do not. Some programs require work experience, while others do not. Selectivity also varies, with some programs accepting a high percentage of applicants and others accepting a lower percentage. Prospective students should review each program’s admission requirements and selectivity to determine their chances of being admitted.
Faculty and Student Support
Faculty and student support is an important consideration for prospective students. All of the top 10 online MBA programs in accounting have experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields. However, there are differences in the level of student support offered. Some programs offer dedicated academic advisors and career services, while others do not. Prospective students should review each program’s student support services to determine which best meets their needs.
Accreditation and Rankings
All of the top 10 online MBA programs in accounting are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accreditation ensures that a program meets high standards of quality and rigor. In terms of rankings, there are differences among the programs. Prospective students should review each program’s rankings to determine their reputation and standing in the business community.
Cost and Financial Aid Options
Cost and financial aid options vary among the top 10 online MBA programs in accounting. Tuition rates range from around $6,000 to $17,000 per year. Some programs offer financial aid in the form of scholarships, grants, or loans, while others do not. Prospective students should review each program’s cost and financial aid options to determine which best fits their budget.
Student Outcomes and Alumni Network
Student outcomes and alumni networks are important factors to consider when choosing an online MBA program in accounting. All of the top 10 programs have high graduation rates and strong job placement rates. However, there are differences in the types of jobs and industries that graduates enter. Additionally, some programs have more robust alumni networks than others. Prospective students should review each program’s student outcomes and alumni network to determine which best aligns with their career goals.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
Overall, the top 10 online MBA programs in accounting are all high-quality programs that offer strong curricula, experienced faculty, and excellent student outcomes. Prospective students should carefully review each program’s curriculum, admission requirements, student support services, accreditation and rankings, cost and financial aid options, and student outcomes and alumni network to determine which program best meets their needs and goals.
Conclusion
Emphasis on the Importance of Research and Due Diligence When Choosing a Program
It is crucial for individuals to conduct extensive research and due diligence when selecting an online MBA program in accounting. Factors to consider include program reputation, accreditation, curriculum, faculty, student support services, and cost. Prospective students should also evaluate their own personal and professional goals and determine if the program aligns with those objectives.
Final Thoughts and Future Outlook for Online MBA Programs in Accounting
Overall, online MBA programs in accounting offer a flexible and convenient option for individuals seeking to advance their careers in the field. As technology continues to advance, it is expected that the popularity and accessibility of online MBA programs will continue to grow. However, it is important for individuals to carefully evaluate and select a program that meets their needs and provides a high-quality education. With the right program and dedication, individuals can achieve their career goals and excel in the field of accounting.
