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ONLINE BACHELOR'S DEGREE INACCOUNTING

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Bachelor's Degree in Accounting Program Sheet

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Bachelor's Degree in Accounting PDF

Download the Program Sheet

Secure Your Future with an Online Accounting Degree from an Accredited University.

Accountants are trusted, valued, and crucial to almost all businesses, organizations, and industries. Regardless of where you find your role, an accounting professional may be responsible for the following:

 

Career Outlook

HIGHER THAN AVERAGE JOB GROWTH Accounting positions are projected to grow 10% through 2026. The average growth rate for all occupations is 7%.

90% OF ALUMNI WORKING IN THEIR FIELD Bachelor’s of Accounting alumni from CSU Global report extremely high rates of working in the field of accounting after completing the program.

$67,310 ESTIMATED STARTING SALARY Bachelor’s of Accounting alumni from CSU Global report an estimated annual starting salary above $65k.

ACCOUNTANT, BOOKKEEPER, STAFF ACCOUNTANT Top three job titles held by CSU Global Bachelor’s of Accounting alumni.

Accounting Responsibilities

PREPARING, ANALYZING, AND CONFIRMING ACCURACY OF FINANCIAL RECORDS.

ENSURING TAXES ARE PAID PROPERLY AND ON TIME.

ORGANIZING AND MAINTAINING FINANCIAL RECORDS.

IDENTIFYING WAYS TO INCREASE VALUE, REDUCE COSTS, AND IMPROVE THE BOTTOM LINE

Watch a Quick 2-Minute Overview

This 2-minute overview video covers these points, and more:

  • Degree specialization options.
  • Career paths and industry employment options.
  • Program accreditation and endorsement details.

What will I learn in online undergraduate accounting courses?

As a B.S. in Accounting online student, you gain the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute successfully to an organization from an accounting perspective. Develop an understanding of accounting fundamentals when you earn a CSU Global accounting degree and a comprehensive view of organizational management issues, including:

  • Legal Compliance and Ethics
  • Finance
  • Marketing
  • Leadership
  • Economics
  • Qualitative Decision Making
  • Business Intelligence

Use your CSU Global accounting degree to get your dream job in the private, public, not-for-profit, or government sectors. With an ACBSP accredited degree in accounting, you’ll be in high demand.

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accountants looking at graphs

Learn Valuable Skills

As a student in the online B.S. in Accounting program, you will develop the problem-solving skills to address accounting, data analysis, and business intelligence issues and strategies. Specific learning outcomes include:

  • Apply accounting principles, standards, and practices to analyze data in an environment of artificial intelligence (AI).
  • Collaborate using automation, business intelligence, and data analytics to perform business functions, communicate information, and facilitate workplace solutions.
  • Analyze relevant ethical and regulatory trends affecting domestic and international accounting in the global business environment.
  • Evaluate accounting processes, systems, and financial data to identify opportunities for continuous improvement of business processes and application of business intelligence (BI).
  • Demonstrate accounting and leadership skills using automation, business intelligence, and data analytics.

What Accounting Courses Will You Take?

CSU Global’s Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting program requires the completion of 120 total credits, including a mix of Core Degree Courses in Accounting, General Education Courses, Elective Courses, and optional Degree Specializations and Certificates.

Classes Start Feb 8th

Get Started Today →

General Education Courses (31 Credits)

CSU Global’s General Education Courses are more than a bachelor’s degree requirement. They are designed to help you develop and strengthen valuable skills demanded in the workplace.

Already taken some courses? Up to 90 total credits (and 64 from community colleges) can be transferred into a bachelor’s degree at CSU Global. Request a Transcript Evaluation Summary to see how close you already are to graduation!

Learn More About General Education

Core Degree Courses (51 Credits)

  • ORG300 Applying Leadership Principles
    The opportunities for students, in this first course, for all majors are to learn personal and professional leadership styles and drivers by providing an overview of leadership basics. Leadership skills are utilized across fields of study. Regardless of the roles individuals assume in an organization, they will need to communicate effectively, influence others, and understand the way they respond to others and why. The course engages students in discussion, exploration, and application of leadership skills, principles, and practices. Students will learn about the relationships and connections leaders have with individuals and organizations. Topics include leadership communication, motivation, style, and characteristics. Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit.
  • MKG310 Introduction to Marketing
    This course provides a general introduction to marketing principles and policies. Topics such as marketing functions, price policies and controls, distribution channels, merchandising, and market research as well as competitive practices and government regulations, product development, and integration of marketing using digital technology are presented. Students also gain a basic understanding of the 4Ps (product, place, price, promotion). Students who completed MKG300 cannot earn credit for MKG310. In this course, the student will obtain a general introduction to marketing principles and policies. Course units include marketing functions; price policies and controls; distribution channels, merchandising, and market research; competitive practices and government regulations; product development; and integration of marketing with technology, a basic understanding of the 4Ps (product, place, price, promotion), and current issues.(This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • MGT315 Business Law
    This course focuses on the tools for understanding the principles underlying the legal environment of business. The course identifies the current legal rules and regulations affecting businesses and students become familiar with the new developments and trends that will greatly affect future transactions. This course introduces the U.S. legal system, coverage of the major components of contract law, employment law, accounting law, and an examination of business liability issues under tort law. In addition, the intellectual property issues of trade secrets, trademarks, patents, and copyrights will be covered. The impact of digital technology and business globalization will be integrated into each topic discussed.This course is a replacement course for MGT20 as of the 2016-2017 Spring A term. Students in the Bachelor of Science in Business Management program cannot receive credit for both these courses. Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit. (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • COM420 Strategic Communication of Data Analytics
    This course teaches the important skills of distinguishing types of data and communicating scientific and mathematical information in presentations by visualizing data. Students will learn ways to systematically collect, analyze, and interpret data, then translate technical, data-driven information to a lay audience. Students will examine how data analytics contributes to the formulation of policy decisions and the subsequent communication to stakeholders. Students will recognize how analytics applies to return on investment (ROI) within any career or field. Students prepare presentations using narrative strategies to create compelling, interesting talks based on data.
  • ACT300 Principles of Accounting I
    Students will apply understanding of accounting standards and practices in preparing, analyzing, and interpreting financial transactions relevant to businesses in today's world of automation, business intelligence, and data analytics. Primary emphasis is on the financial accounting system for corporations and the procedures for recording, summarizing, reporting, and interpreting results of business activities. This course will cover the development of basic financial accounting statements, ethical considerations, and the application of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • ACT325 Principles of Accounting II
    This course expands on financial accounting concepts presented in ACT300 Principles of Accounting I. Using automation, students will take a systematic approach in analyzing financial and nonfinancial data to assist managers and other users of accounting information in the decision-making process of an organization. Concepts presented include managerial accounting concepts of cost flows through a business, cost accounting systems, cost-volume-profit analysis (CVP), product costing, capital budgeting, operational budgets, variance analysis, performance measurement, balanced scorecard, content and preparation of the statement of cash flows, and financial statement analysis. (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.) Prerequisite: ACT300
  • ACT350 Intermediate Accounting I
    This course provides a comprehensive study of accounting principles and financial statements using automation, business intelligence, data analytics, and other digital technologies in performing measurement and valuation related to the assets and current liabilities on the balance sheet. Students will develop an understanding of the intersection of artificial business intelligence with financial reporting and the codification of accounting standards. Students will use automation in financial statement analysis through the interpretation of data and financial statement disclosures. Students will analyze real-world situations through case studies, research accounting and automation concepts, and apply IFRS standards to GAAP standards. Students will present an assessment of the effect each standard may have on a situation, communicate findings, and facilitate workplace solutions in a team-based environment. Recommended Prior Course: ACT325 (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • ACT360 Intermediate Accounting II
    This course extends knowledge gained in ACT350 involving measurement and valuation related to the assets and current liabilities on the balance sheet and provides a comprehensive study of accounting principles and financial statements using automation, business intelligence (BI), data analytics, and other digital technologies in performing measurement and valuation related to liabilities and stockholders’ equity section of the balance sheet. Primary emphasis is on the financial accounting system for corporations and partnerships. Students will develop an understanding of the conceptual framework of financial reporting, the codification of accounting standards, financial statement analysis including the interpretation of data and financial statement disclosures. Students will analyze real-world cases, research accounting concepts, apply IFRS standards to GAAP standards and present an assessment of the effect that each standard may have on a situation, communicate findings, and facilitate workplace solutions in a team-based environment. Recommended Prior Course: ACT350 (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • FIN300 Principles of Finance for the Private Sector
    A study of the financial aspects of businesses, including the costs of capital, fund acquisition sources, time value of money, efficient management of assets, and investment decisions. Particular emphasis is on determining the optimal capital structure between utilization of debt and equity financing.
  • ACT406 Business Intelligence in Taxation
    This course covers the federal income tax laws, regulations, and tax policy for individuals, partnerships, corporations, non-profits, estates, and trusts as it relates to accounting and artificial intelligence (AI). Students will demonstrate mastery by preparing tax returns using the most recent tax preparation software and conduct tax research covering topics such as tax planning, tax reform, and ethical considerations. Recommended Prior Course: ACT350.
  • ACT410 Government and Nonprofit Accounting
    This course introduces specialized accounting standards for governmental and not-for-profit entities using artificial intelligence (AI) applications. Students will record transactions using the latest trends in accounting software programs designed for government and nonprofit accounting. Students will develop an understanding of the financial reporting and analysis of state and local governments, governmental operating statement accounts and budgetary accounting, accounting for general capital assets and capital projects. Additional concepts include specialized accounting practices for various types of non-governmental, not-for-profit organizations. (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • ACT425 Information Systems for Accounting
    This course provides a hands-on approach using information systems in accounting. Students will apply automation using artificial intelligence (AI), predictive analytics, and other digital technologies in performing business functions, communicate findings, and facilitate workplace solutions in an accounting information system. Recommended Prior Course: ACT350. (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.) Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit.
  • ACT450 Auditing
    This course offers a study of systematic process of external financial statements and management assertion verification and reporting. Students will examine internal and external auditing processes through the application of artificial intelligence (AI). Students will develop an understanding of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX), IFRS implications, internal controls, risk assessments, and professional ethics and legal liability. Based on current trends in the auditing profession, students will use software programs used extensively in the auditing profession to analyze data. Students will complete a simulation involving an independent audit of a company to include statistical sampling involving current AI technology. Recommended Prior Course: ACT350 (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • ACT460 Cost Accounting
    This course incorporates advanced concepts in managerial accounting using automation and business intelligence (BI). Students will develop an understanding of decision-making, budgeting, performance evaluation, costing methods, activity-based costing (ABC), profit analysis, forecasting, and variance analysis. Students will use case analysis and simulations of real-world situations involving current business intelligence (BI) technology to identify solutions for managerial decision-making. Prerequisite: ACT325.
  • ACT465 Forensic Accounting and Business Valuation with Artificial Intelligence
    This course introduces the fundamentals of forensic accounting and business valuation in the world of artificial intelligence. Students will develop an understanding of fraud examination, fraud investigation, litigation support services, and business valuation approaches and methods. Students will examine the role of artificial intelligence in fraud detection, business valuation, and learn how to apply techniques used to collect and analyze data and communicate findings through business valuation reporting. Prerequisite: ACT460.
  • ACT470 Advanced Accounting
    This course focuses on the use of business intelligence (BI) in accounting practices and procedures involved with special accounting and reporting situations for corporations and partnerships. Students will develop skills in analyzing business combinations, financial statements consolidations, accounting and analysis of international transactions, measurement and translation of financial statements of foreign subsidiaries, foreign currency accounting, and hedging; accounting for partnerships; and corporations in financial difficulties. Recommended Prior Course: ACT360 (This course is also offered through SSA. Credits earned using this option will appear on transcripts with an “S” suffix.)
  • ACT480 Capstone – Accounting Research and Analysis
    In this capstone course, students will complete Capstone Assignments to demonstrate and apply learning accumulated throughout the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program. Students will apply leadership, critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and creativity to real-world situations in the era of artificial intelligence.
  • ACT495* Accounting Practicum
    This course is designed for students to participate on the staff of an accounting firm or in the accounting function of a business or non-business organization as an opportunity to demonstrate application of skills learned in the Bachelor of Science in Accounting program under the supervision of both faculty and accounting personnel. Assignments are designed to combine theory and professional practice and include weekly journals; a mid-term conference with the instructor, faculty internship coordinator, and on-site supervisor; and a final report. Prerequisite 3 Core Courses. Course not eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) credit.

* ACT495 is an optional course that will provide students with practical experience in organizations specific to accounting. This course may not be available in all states; see the State Specific Authorization Policy under Admissions Policies.

Degree Specialization (Optional) (15 Credits)

When you earn your bachelor’s degree through CSU Global, you can choose to customize it with an undergraduate specialization in a subject that matches your professional goals or personal interests. 

Most Popular Specializations:

Additional Available Specializations for this Program:

Download the Specializations Chart
View a list of all CSU Global specializations and the degree programs they can be paired with.

Elective Courses (Remaining credits to reach 120 total credits)

The remainder of your online accounting degree is comprised of courses of your choice that support your educational goals and needs. Including a specialization reduces the number of elective credits you'll need to complete your bachelor's degree.

Why Get a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Accounting?

If you’ve always had a sharp mind for numbers and weighing the long-term implications of the decisions you make today, then you’re exactly the sort of professional that can reach your potential with an Accredited Online Accounting Degree from CSU Global.

Prepare for Advanced Accounting Licenses and Certifications

CSU Global’s B.S. in Accounting can be used as a stepping-stone toward more advanced financial professional Licenses and Certifications. Our program provides fundamental skills and education useful for building a foundation that can help prepare you for advanced Certifications, like:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
  • Enrolled Agent (EA)
  • Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
  • Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an accounting degree?

Typically, it takes 4 years to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting. However, if you choose to study Accounting at CSU Global, you may be able to get your Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Accounting substantially faster. Why? Because we offer several paths toAlternative Credit Options, includingCredit by Exam,Self-Study Assessments(SSA) and ourPrior learning Assessment (PLA). PLAs alone have been known to save our students 75% on our already lowTuition Rates.

How much does an accounting degree cost?

Costs vary depending on how long it takes you to complete your Bachelor’s Degree Program, and whether you choose to study at a Public School or Private University. As a Not-for-Profit Public University, CSU Global is dedicated to making your Bachelor’s Degree affordable. We offerLow Tuition Rates, aTuition Guaranteethat locks your rate in for the entirety of your program, a 10%Employer Discount, andFinancial Aidopportunities to help reduce the costs of your degree.

How much can I make with an accounting degree?

Incomes vary by position, experience, location, and other factors, but the Bureau of Labor Statistics provides some excellent information about the average annual income for Accountants and other types of Financial Professionals. Their 2019 reports provide the following estimates of annual incomes:

What jobs can I get with an accounting degree?

Earning your BS in Accounting will open a whole host of career paths and job opportunities to you, including a wide variety of positions as a Financial Professional. Some of the most common roles for graduates of Accounting Bachelor’s Programs include:

  • Accountant
  • Financial Examiner
  • Tax Examiner
  • Budget Analyst
  • Auditor
  • Credit Analyst

By combining your BS in Accounting with additional credentials, licenses and certifications, you may also be eligible for a more advanced role, such as in any of the following positions:

  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Financial Analyst (CFA)
  • Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
  • Enrolled Agent (EA)
  • Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
  • Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
  • Chartered Global Management Accountant

Is an accounting degree worth it?

Absolutely! While it may take hard work and dedication to complete your Accounting Degree Program, this is an excellent industry to get into and CSU Global’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting is one of the best ways to enter the field. Why should you consider becoming an accountant?

  • Accounting roles show higher than average job growth, with accounting positions projected to grow 10% through 2026. The average growth rate for all occupations is just 7%!
  • 90% of CSU Global’s Alumni from the BS in Accounting Program report working in the accounting field, with the most common job titles being Accountant, Bookkeeper, and Staff Accountant.
  • Graduates from our Bachelor’s of Accounting Program report an excellent starting salary, with our alumni reporting an estimated annual starting salary above $65,000.

How much will my degree cost?

Tuition Rates

Your education should increase your earning potential, not your monthly bills.

Learn More →

Employer Discount

Your employer may be one of 3,000+ we partner with to offer a 10% discount on tuition.

Learn More →

Financial Aid

You may be eligible to receive financial aid to help cover the cost of your education.

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Finish Faster and For Less with Alternative Credit Options

Credit By Exam

You can get credit by taking exams for what you have already learned.

Learn More →

Self-Study Assessments

Earn course credits for taking a proctored exam for specific content areas.

Learn More →

Prior Learning Assessment

Earn credit for what you’re learned in your career or other educational experience.

Learn More →

Why Should You Choose CSU Global?

CSU Global provides more than just a diploma. Our career-driven programs are based on real-world concepts designed to help you excel in the workplace from day one. Our Tuition Guarantee ensures that your rate won’t rise from enrollment to graduation, and because we know how hard it can be to juggle education, work, and family responsibilities, our programs can be completed entirely online, with no set times or locations, monthly class starts and accelerated courses.

100% Online Degrees

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No Set Times or Locations

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Monthly Class Starts

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Accelerated Courses

Prepare Yourself for the Future of Accounting

REGIONALLY ACCREDITED

Regional accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) means your degree comes from a top quality, trusted university.

ACBSP Accredited logo

ACBSP ACCREDITED

Your Bachelor’s in Accounting from CSU Global is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs (ACBSP)

IMA Higher Education Endorsement Seal

IMA Endorsed

Your Bachelor’s in Accounting from CSU Global is endorsed by the IMA Higher Education Endorsement Program.

#1 - The 50 Best Online Bachelors in Accounting Programs

Accounting.com ranked CSU Global’s online Bachelor’s in Accounting program #1 out of 50.

RANKED #2 BEST ONLINE BACHELORS IN ACCOUNTING DEGREE

Great Business Schools ranked CSU Global’s B.S. in Accounting degree #2 in their determination of The 20 Best Online Bachelors in Accounting Degrees.

RANKED #2 BEST ONLINE ACCOUNTING DEGREES

CSU Global earned a #2 ranking on the College Choice Best Online Accounting Degrees list.

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“My greatest accomplishments have been being able to go back to school and manage a work-life balance. The schedule is challenging by gives me confidence that I can obtain my degree even in my thirties!”

KARIE WELKER

Business Management

Improve Your Accounting Career Opportunities

CSU Global’s Undergraduate Accounting Degree will prepare you for employment or a promotion in positions critical to the financial health of any organization. You won’t just be training for a simple job, but a lifelong career, assuming positions like the following:

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