Online Accounting Degrees

Whether you are considering a career in accounting or are an experienced professional looking to refine and gain new skills, GCU offers an accounting program suitable for you. Our online accounting programs are designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge needed for this important field. We also help you focus on building upon your existing strengths. This can allow you to achieve competence, confidence and excellence in accounting.

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Explore Accounting Degrees Online at GCU

We offer both undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to enroll in accounting programs. Explore our online options to learn more about which programs can best prepare you for your career goals.

Bachelor’s Degrees

Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Our BS in Accounting program can prepare you for professional accounting work in private and government organizations. In this program, you can expect to cover key areas in accounting such as job order costing systems, budgeting and financial statement preparation.

Master’s Degrees

A master’s degree builds upon the foundational knowledge taught in an undergraduate degree and can provide further training in specialized areas of accounting. Our master’s degrees in accounting cover topics such as financial reporting, data analytics and accounting research.

Bridge Programs

The bridge program is designed for students who have an interest in earning a Master of Science in Accounting and already have a bachelor’s degree in business in an area other than accounting. These students can take introductory accounting courses through the bridge program to gain the foundational knowledge needed before applying to the master’s degree in accounting.

Experience the Flexibility of Online Learning

Our online accounting programs provide flexibility, allowing you to balance your education with personal and professional commitments. You can interact with instructors and peers from nearly anywhere and access online resources at any time. This approach can enable you to gain a deep understanding of accounting concepts without compromising the quality of your learning.

Apply for Your Online Degree

All our accounting degree programs have set requirements that need to be met to gain admittance. You can help determine your eligibility by visiting our admissions page. Get in contact with a university counselor and learn more about your next steps by filling out the form on this page.

Earn Your Degree From an Accredited University

Since 1968, GCU has proudly maintained institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. We strive to provide a comprehensive and enriching education for all students, no matter which program they choose to enroll in.

Innovative Tools To Support Your Online Education

GCU’s online resources and intuitive learning platform are designed to enhance your educational experience as an accounting student. These include interactive course materials, online library resources, the Student Success Center and a user-friendly learning platform that fosters collaboration and engagement with faculty and other students. With access to your online resources from anywhere, you can feel connected, supported and immersed in your educational journey, even as you complete it online.

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Frequently Asked Questions

We invite you to explore these questions and answers to gain helpful information regarding accounting degrees and careers.

Pursuing an accounting degree can be worth it for aspiring accountants and those hoping to enter or progress in the field. These programs can instill you with the knowledge and specific accounting techniques that can prove useful to your career. Alongside various career options, there is also faster-than-average job growth expected for the profession. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook estimates job growth for accountants and auditors to increase by about 6% from 2023 to 2033, accounting for an estimated increase of 91,400 jobs in the field.1

There are various similarities and differences between accounting and financially focused degrees. Accounting programs typically focus on the principles and practices of accounting, such as financial reporting, taxation and data analysis. These programs are designed to provide specific skills and knowledge related to accounting standards, helping many students reach their goal of becoming certified public accountants (CPAs).

Meanwhile, finance programs cover broader topics within the financial sector, such as investments, corporate finance, risk management and financial markets. A finance degree can equip you with an extensive understanding of financial analysis and the strategies businesses use to manage their economic resources.

Earning your accounting education online provides you with the same caliber of education as you would earn from a traditional, on-campus program. The added flexibility and convenience of online degree options may make them an appealing option for many students. When searching for accounting degree programs online, be sure to review the accreditation of the university offering the program. A university’s accreditation status is more indicative of the quality of its programs rather than the modality in which you complete them.

Accounting Graduate Career Paths

As an accounting graduate, there are various career paths that can guide you in your professional growth. Understanding your potential career options can help shape your educational decision-making as you prepare for the workforce. Keep in mind that prospective employers may require you to become a CPA in order to be eligible for certain accounting positions.

Those who complete their accounting degree may go on to explore careers such as:

  • Accountants and auditors
  • Budget analysts
  • Financial risk specialists
  • Tax examiners and collectors, and revenue agents
  • Tax preparers
  • Cost estimators
  • Compensation, benefits, and job analysis specialists
  • Compensation and benefits managers
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Online Student Resources

If you're new to accounting or looking to deepen your understanding, you'll find a range of resources available to you as you progress through your program. Explore the numerous support options we provide to help you in your studies.

1 COVID-19 has adversely affected the global economy and data from 2020 to 2023 may be atypical compared to prior years. Accordingly, data shown is effective September 2024, which can be found here: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Accountants and Auditors, retrieved May 9, 2025.

Embrace the opportunity to transform your future with an accounting degree and pursue your dreams.