Accounting is the language of business, and Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) are the experts who speak it best. Every company from small startups to global corporations needs accountants to track finances, prepare taxes, and ensure legal compliance.
But here’s the challenge: to become a licensed CPA, you need both the right education and state-approved coursework. That’s where online accounting degrees designed for CPA licensure come in.
These programs combine academic theory with practical training to prepare you for the Uniform CPA Exam. They’re flexible, affordable, and accepted across the United States.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
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The best online accounting programs that meet CPA requirements.
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The step-by-step process to become a CPA.
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The expected salary, career paths, and ROI of an online accounting degree.
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Common mistakes to avoid and FAQs about CPA education.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to choose the right online degree and confidently begin your CPA journey.
Key Benefits of an Online Accounting Degree with CPA Preparation
Here’s why earning an online accounting degree that meets CPA standards is one of the smartest career investments:
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CPA Exam Eligibility – Courses align with the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure.
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Flexible Online Learning – Study at your own pace while keeping your job.
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Accredited & Respected – Many online programs are AACSB-accredited, the gold standard in business education.
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Career Mobility – CPAs qualify for senior roles in auditing, tax, consulting, and finance.
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High Salary Potential – CPAs earn 25–40% more than non-certified accountants.
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Strong Job Security – Every business needs financial experts, even during recessions.
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Diverse Career Paths – Work in public accounting, government, or corporate finance.
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Preparation for Advanced Credentials – The degree also builds the foundation for CMA or MBA programs.
Who should choose this path?
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Working adults seeking a professional license.
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Recent graduates wanting a flexible route to CPA eligibility.
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Career changers aiming for financial stability and advancement.
What You Need to Know About CPA-Ready Accounting Degrees
Before you choose a program, it’s important to understand what makes an accounting degree CPA-eligible.
1. The CPA Licensure Requirement (150 Credit Hours)
To become a CPA in the United States, most states require:
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150 semester hours of college coursework.
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A bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field.
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Courses in auditing, taxation, ethics, and business law.
Since a typical bachelor’s degree covers 120 hours, many students complete an online master’s in accounting or additional credits to reach 150 hours.
2. Accreditation Matters
Choose programs accredited by:
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AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) – most recognized.
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ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs) – practical focus.
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Regional accreditation – ensures degree acceptance for CPA licensure in your state.
Accreditation guarantees your coursework meets national standards for accounting education.
3. CPA Exam Preparation
Top online programs integrate CPA review materials into the curriculum, often in partnership with leading prep providers like Becker or Wiley.
This means you graduate already prepared to take the four parts of the CPA exam:
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Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
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Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
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Regulation (REG)
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Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR)
4. Key LSI Terms You’ll Learn
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Financial Reporting
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Auditing and Assurance
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Taxation
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Managerial Accounting
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Business Law and Ethics
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Cost Accounting
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Financial Analysis
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Forensic Accounting
These keywords form the technical foundation for CPA success and appear throughout your coursework.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Earn an Online Accounting Degree and Become a CPA
Becoming a CPA is a structured process. Follow these six steps to ensure success.
Step 1: Choose an Accredited Online Accounting Program
Select a university that offers a CPA-aligned curriculum and regional or AACSB accreditation.
Look for programs that clearly state: “meets CPA education requirements.”
Step 2: Complete the 150 Credit Hours
You can meet the 150-hour requirement by:
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Earning a Bachelor’s in Accounting + Master’s in Accounting, or
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Taking extra electives beyond your bachelor’s degree.
Some online programs combine both paths into an accelerated 4+1 dual degree.
Step 3: Apply for CPA Exam Eligibility
Each state has its own Board of Accountancy. You must:
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Submit transcripts for approval.
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Pay the exam application fee (typically $100–$200).
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Verify your coursework includes core accounting subjects.
Step 4: Prepare and Pass the CPA Exam
Plan to study 300–400 hours total.
Many online degrees offer CPA review courses with built-in mock exams and study guides.
Tip: Take one section at a time to maintain focus and momentum.
Step 5: Gain Work Experience
Most states require 1–2 years of supervised experience under a licensed CPA.
Online students can fulfill this requirement while working full-time in accounting or finance.
Step 6: Apply for Licensure and Maintain Continuing Education
After passing the CPA exam and gaining experience:
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Apply for state licensure.
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Complete CPE (Continuing Professional Education) each year to keep your license active.
Comparison Table: Top Online Accounting Degrees That Prepare for CPA Licensure (USA)
| University / Program | Accreditation | CPA Preparation Included | Degree Type | Approx. Tuition per Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois (Gies) | AACSB | Yes (Becker Partnership) | Master’s | $850 |
| Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) | NECHE | Yes | Bachelor’s | $330 |
| Penn State World Campus | AACSB | Yes | Bachelor’s | $626 |
| Arizona State University (ASU Online) | AACSB | Yes | Bachelor’s | $720 |
| University of Massachusetts – Amherst | AACSB | Yes | Bachelor’s | $675 |
| Purdue Global University | HLC | Yes | Bachelor’s | $371 |
| Western Governors University (WGU) | NWCCU | Yes | Bachelor’s | $340 |
Detailed Reviews of Top Online Accounting Programs
1. University of Illinois – Gies College of Business
The University of Illinois offers a Master of Accounting (iMSA) designed for CPA candidates.
It’s one of the most prestigious online accounting programs and is known for its partnership with Becker CPA Review.
Highlights:
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100% online and AACSB-accredited.
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CPA exam-focused curriculum.
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Live sessions with professors and peer collaboration.
Ideal for: Working professionals or bachelor’s graduates seeking advanced CPA-level coursework.
2. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU offers an affordable, flexible Bachelor of Science in Accounting with CPA readiness built in.
Students can take CPA-aligned electives and earn credits that count toward the 150-hour requirement.
Highlights:
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Low tuition and generous transfer credit policy.
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CPA preparation courses integrated into core curriculum.
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No application fee or GMAT requirement.
3. Penn State World Campus
Penn State’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting is regionally accredited and fully online.
Its strong reputation and business network make it a top choice for CPA aspirants.
Highlights:
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AACSB-accredited business school.
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Includes CPA and CMA preparation materials.
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Supportive career services and alumni network.
4. Arizona State University (ASU Online)
ASU’s online accounting degree combines technology-driven learning with CPA-focused coursework.
Students gain access to virtual labs and interactive CPA prep modules.
Highlights:
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AACSB accreditation.
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CPA-aligned curriculum with accounting analytics.
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Career placement services included.
5. Purdue Global University
Purdue Global’s program is designed for busy adults seeking flexible online learning.
It includes CPA review support, career advising, and credit for prior work experience.
Highlights:
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Affordable tuition with pay-per-term model.
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Optional CPA readiness track.
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Personalized degree planning.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Choosing a Non-Accredited Program – Without accreditation, you may not qualify for CPA exams.
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Ignoring the 150-Hour Requirement – Plan early to meet credit hours efficiently.
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Delaying CPA Exam Preparation – Start reviewing while you study, not after graduation.
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Overlooking State-Specific Rules – Each state’s board has unique requirements; always verify.
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Skipping Practical Experience – Work experience is essential for licensing and career confidence.
Cost, Earnings, and ROI of a CPA-Focused Accounting Degree
| Category | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition per Credit Hour | $300 – $850 | Depends on university and level |
| Total Program Cost | $25,000 – $45,000 | Bachelor’s or combined 150-hour path |
| Average CPA Starting Salary | $65,000 – $80,000 | Entry-level accountant |
| Mid-Level CPA Salary | $90,000 – $120,000 | With 3–5 years of experience |
| Senior CPA / Manager Salary | $120,000 – $150,000+ | With 7+ years and leadership roles |
ROI Insight:
Graduates typically recover tuition costs within 2–3 years due to high job demand and strong CPA salaries.
Tools and Resources for Accounting Students
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Becker CPA Review – Industry-standard CPA prep platform.
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Wiley Efficient Learning – Offers test banks and mock exams.
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AICPA (American Institute of CPAs) – Licensure and CPE resources.
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QuickBooks & Excel Labs – Practical accounting software practice.
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LinkedIn Learning – Courses on taxation, audit, and data analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best online degree for CPA preparation?
An accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s in Accounting that meets the 150-hour requirement.
2. Do online degrees qualify for CPA licensure?
Yes, as long as they are regionally or AACSB-accredited and meet state board criteria.
3. How long does it take to become a CPA?
Typically 5–6 years, including bachelor’s studies, additional credits, and exam preparation.
4. Can I work while studying online?
Yes. Most online accounting programs are flexible for working adults.
5. What subjects are covered in CPA-focused accounting degrees?
Auditing, taxation, financial reporting, ethics, and business law.
6. Are scholarships available?
Many universities and organizations offer scholarships for accounting and business students.
7. What software skills are required?
Proficiency in Excel, QuickBooks, SAP, and accounting analytics tools.
8. Can I take the CPA exam before finishing my degree?
Some states allow you to take parts of the exam before completing all 150 hours.
9. What is the demand for CPAs in the USA?
Extremely high — the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth through 2035.
10. What other careers can I pursue with this degree?
Financial analyst, auditor, tax consultant, controller, or CFO.
Conclusion: Start Your CPA Journey Today
Earning an online accounting degree that prepares you for CPA licensure is one of the smartest steps toward a secure and rewarding career.
It offers flexibility, credibility, and a direct path to professional certification.
Whether you’re a working professional, a recent graduate, or a career changer, the time to start is now.
Choose an accredited program, stay committed to your 150-credit goal, and prepare strategically for the CPA exam.
With discipline and the right education, you’ll soon join the ranks of licensed CPAs shaping America’s financial future.