An online master’s degree in accounting gives working professionals a flexible and affordable way to advance their careers. These programs teach advanced accounting skills and concepts that prepare students for leadership roles. Read on to learn what online accounting master’s programs offer and how to choose the right one.
What is an Online Master of Science in Accounting?
A Master of Science (MS) in accounting is a graduate degree program that provides advanced training in accounting. The coursework builds on undergraduate accounting knowledge and covers financial reporting, analysis, auditing, and taxation.
An online MS in accounting delivers this material fully through distance education. This allows students to complete their degrees from anywhere without travelling to a campus.
Benefits of Earning an Online MS in Accounting
Pursuing an online master’s degree in accounting has many upsides:
- It is more affordable since you avoid housing/transportation costs.
- You can keep working full-time while taking classes part-time.
- Class times are flexible to fit your schedule.
Online master’s programs are popular among accounting professionals because they help them get better jobs with more responsibility and higher pay.
What You Study in an Online Accounting Master’s Program?
In an online master’s in accounting program, you’ll learn about advanced financial and managerial accounting. Some of the standard courses cover the following:
- Financial reporting
- Business law
- Tax planning
- Auditing
- Forensic Accounting
- International Accounting
Some educational programs let you choose specific areas to focus on by taking different classes. For instance, you could concentrate on analysing financial data, investigating financial matters, or studying taxes.
Some educational programs let you choose specific areas to focus on by taking different classes. For instance, you could concentrate on analysing financial data, investigating financial matters, or studying taxes.
Accreditation for Online Accounting Master’s Programs
When looking into online accounting master’s programs, remember to focus on accreditation. Employers take degrees from accredited schools more seriously.
The two key accreditors that evaluate accounting programs are:
- AACSB
- ACBSP
See if your target program holds accreditation from one of these agencies. Regional institutional accreditation is also essential for qualifying for financial aid.
Finding the Right Online MS in Accounting Program
When looking for an online accounting master’s program, it’s essential to consider the cost, quality of education, and how successful students are after they finish the program. As you look at different programs, keep these essential things in mind:
Cost
- Determine the total tuition cost.
- Explore available discounts or financial aid.
Academics
- The accounting topics and skills covered.
- Opportunities for specialisation or electives.
- Compliance with the requirements for taking the CPA exam.
Outcomes
- Assessing student satisfaction with their learning experience.
- Analysing the graduation rate.
- Evaluating the success rate of graduates in securing accounting jobs.
Things to Consider Before Enrolling
An online MS in accounting is only the ideal choice for some students. Assess whether you have the right skills and resources by asking:
- Manage time effectively in online classes
- Learn well through reading/writing or lectures
- Afford tuition and any required technology
If you’re comfortable with distance learning, consider an online accounting master’s program. Otherwise, consider hybrid programs that combine campus and online classes.
What can you expect in an online MS in accounting program?
While online and on-campus accounting master’s share similar content, online students experience more self-guided learning. You often:
- Watch video lectures on your schedule
- Participate in message boards rather than class discussions
- Complete assignments with remote access to university resources/support
When choosing an online accounting master’s program, consider the flexibility and the need for self-discipline to keep up. While online, networking and making connections may be easier in person. The right online program can make a big difference in your accounting career.
Conclusion
Pursuing an online MS in accounting helps working professionals upskill while accommodating their busy lives. These flexible programs teach the advanced accounting knowledge needed for leadership roles. Research multiple options carefully to find an accredited online accounting master’s degree that fits your goals and budget. The investment of time and money can certainly be worthwhile.
