5 Benefits of Earning an Accounting Degree Online

No matter what is happening in the economy, an accountant will always be able to find work. An accounting degree can result in long-term job security. If you’re already working in the field, increasing your knowledge through an online program can be done at your convenience. If you’re just getting started, you can gain experience working at an entry-level position while developing your skills further through online courses.

Below are five benefits to earning an accounting degree online.

Comprehensive Preparation

Whether you’re studying for a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you’ll be required to gain general knowledge from core classes. Basic courses will give you a foundation in tax law, bookkeeping, tax filing and accounts receivable. You can go on to develop concentrations in other areas. Different online colleges and universities will offer various specializations, such as marketing, statistics, auditing and business systems. If you take classes with an accredited institution, you should be able to transfer credits if you decide to switch to a different school that offers a different option for you down the road.

Salary Potential

According to PayScale, the median salary for an accountant is about $47,000 per year. While a bachelor’s or associate’s degree can help you get an entry-level or mid-level job as a staff accountant, earning a master’s degree can help you secure managerial positions. Earning a master’s degree can often provide you with enough credit hours to take the CPA exam, which can also boost your earning potential.

Flexibility

A 2011 study reported that, as of the time the study was conducted, 65 percent of students had taken an online course, and 71 percent of students saw flexibility as one benefit of online learning.

• Top 10 Best Online Accounting Degree Programs

If you’re working as a bookkeeper full time, enrolling in an online degree program can help you increase your skills and knowledge during your free hours. You’ll be able to continue to earn a salary while completing your degree. With almost 30 percent of distance learners also holding down full-time jobs, flexibility is a crucial concern.

Save Money

Although the tuition of online schools is not always cheaper than that of traditional colleges or universities, you can still save money by getting an accounting degree online. Tuition is typically higher for out-of-state and private institutions than for online schools. Living at home and not having to commute to classes can also save you money.

Save Time

If you’ve already completed an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, you can earn a master’s degree at many online universities in less time than it would take at a traditional school. Many Masters of Accountancy programs prepare you to work at a higher level so that you can earn a practical salary while continuing your coursework to complete the remaining number of hours necessary to sit for the CPA exam.

Online learning allows you to obtain a quality education no matter where you currently live or work. If you’re in the accounting field, you can improve your earning potential and get the necessary knowledge to succeed in your career with an online accounting degree.