The success of every business is measured in dollars and cents. That’s why business owners need a truly knowledgeable professional they can trust at the helm of their company’s finances. Enter accountants.

Money managers have been around since the earliest of ancient civilizations. As long as there has been barter, trade and currency, there has been a need for someone to keep track of it. The scope of this role, however, has grown alongside advancements in technology.

Bookkeeping has remained a major focus of this position over time. However, digital records, algorithms and other automations have simplified some tasks that used to make up the bulk of the job. Today, accountants are in a uniquely powerful position: they’re able to analyze and advise on money matters where once they simply recorded and reported.

Accountants help businesses navigate complex financial landscapes. Their expertise allows companies to make informed decisions and build a foundation for long-term success. A skilled accountant doesn’t just ensure compliance and crunch numbers; they’re responsible for fostering growth and deciding how to invest. If that sounds like something you’d like to learn more about, you’re in the right place.

What is an online associate degree in accounting?

An associate degree in accounting is a two-year degree program that provides a foundational understanding of accounting principles, financial management and related business concepts. This level of education can open doors to entry-level positions in accounting and related fields.

You might think that accountants are people who gravitate naturally to numbers or math, but that’s not necessarily the case. Caitlynn Eldridge, a successful CPA and business consultant, was originally on a different career path when she discovered her interest in accounting. She began college as a business major with a minor in French, but an elective accounting class shed some light on future possibilities.

“During my Accounting 101 class,” she recalls, “I mentioned to the professor that some of the assignments were pretty fun. She then walked me through the employment rate of accountants and the type of work I could do. Before I even left her office, I had switched to an accounting major.”

Accountants are good problem-solvers. They’re trustworthy, detail-oriented and creative. Where others see just numbers, percentages and ratios, accountants see a puzzle. Solving those puzzles can yield some amazing results. For instance, forensic accountants can help discover discrepancies that point to criminal activity. And tax specialists can find major deductions that help companies seriously increase revenue. Casinos, airlines, celebrities, universities—every industry needs an accountant to manage their loss and revenue stream.

“Accounting is a very flexible career,” says Caitlynn, “and one that has so many places you can work: auditing, tax, bookkeeping, A/P, A/R, internal controls, fraud investigation. And, with emerging technology, there are a lot of options available.” Studying for your associate degree is the perfect opportunity to explore where your interests in accounting lie.

Types of online accounting associate degrees

Associate degrees are often seen as a stepping stone towards higher education. Most of the credits that make up the two-year AA or AS consist of core education requirements in subjects like math, science, English or humanities. One benefit of this academic pathway is that it leaves room for students to move into a different career if they have any doubts that accounting is for them. A downside, however, is that there are few advanced-level careers in accounting that will accept less than a four-year bachelor’s degree.

Still, an associate degree program provides foundational knowledge of the accounting industry that every professional needs to know. This makes this degree option a great choice for students interested in beginning their entry-level career quickly. There are a few different options to choose from when it comes to pursuing your associate degree in accounting online.

After completing an associate degree, you may qualify for entry-level positions such as accounting clerk, bookkeeper or payroll clerk. Once you’ve gained some working experience, you may consider advancing to a bachelor’s degree. The credits from an accredited associate degree in accounting program may transfer directly to these degrees, and earning advanced credentials could qualify you for complex and higher-earning roles in this field.

What to expect in an associate degree online

Earning an associate degree in accounting typically involves a combination of general education courses, core accounting coursework and electives. This program usually consists of 60 credit hours, which takes a full-time student around two years to complete. The coursework is designed to provide you with a foundational understanding of accounting principles and prepare you for entry-level positions in the field.

Core accounting coursework

While a health and/or human services degree is offered in some form in almost every college or university, there are many different specialties and concentrations that may or may not be right for you. For instance, if you’re looking to start a career in social work, a human services degree that emphasizes helping people in the justice system is not going to set you up for the job you want.

• Your curriculum will include fundamental accounting courses, touching on topics such as financial accounting, managerial accounting and basic principles of auditing. These courses will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills you need to succeed in entry-level accounting roles.
• You may take courses in business and economics to gain a broader understanding of the business environment. This can include subjects like business communication, business law and introductory economics
• Given the quantitative nature of accounting, you can expect to take courses in mathematics and statistics. These courses will help you develop the analytical skills necessary for working with financial data.
• As technology is integral to modern accounting practices, you might have courses that focus on accounting software, spreadsheet applications and other relevant technology tools used in the field.

General education requirements

Associate degree programs typically include general education requirements. This means that whether you pursue an Associate of Science or an Associate of Arts, you’ll still have the same foundational education as other college-educated candidates. Some of the required subjects include English, communication, social sciences and humanities. These courses contribute to a well-rounded education.

Some programs offer elective courses that allow you to explore specific areas of interest within accounting or related fields. For example, you might have the option to take additional courses in taxation, cost accounting or business ethics. Before selecting electives, consider your career goals and interests. Speak with academic advisors or faculty members to get guidance on which electives align with your aspirations and complement the core requirements of your associate degree program.

Experiential learning

While it’s not common at the associate degree level, there are a few programs that incorporate practical experience or hands-on learning opportunities. Ask program directors or academic advisors about what kind of internships or cooperative education opportunities students have access to before you enroll. If they’re available, these real-world experiences will enhance your understanding of the practical applications of accounting concepts.

Associate degree programs are designed to stand alone, but they are also a great choice if you plan to continue your education. These degrees facilitate seamless transfer to a bachelor’s degree. Advanced degrees steer away from general education and focus on accounting science and application.

It’s important to note that program structures can vary, and the specifics of your experience will depend on the institution you choose. Additionally, while an online associate degree can provide you with a solid foundation in accounting, pursuing further education or gaining professional certifications will enhance your career prospects in the long run.

Browse our vetted selection of programs

Eligibility requirements

The process for admission to an online associate degree program can vary from one college to another. However, most schools will require that you:

• Have a high school diploma or a GED (Note: Some schools may also require you to have high school math or algebra, while others allow students to take these classes concurrently with your program’s coursework)
• Have a high school grade point average of at least 2.0
• Have passing scores from the ACT or SAT test

Some institutions may request letters of recommendation too. These are letters from teachers or employers written in support of your application. In addition, some colleges may ask for a personal statement or essay as part of their application process. These essays call for applicants to discuss their goals, experiences and reasons for pursuing an associate degree in accounting.

Career pathways

An associate degree in accounting can qualify you for various entry-level positions in the field. While advancement opportunities may be more limited compared to having a bachelor’s degree, gaining practical experience and pursuing additional certifications can contribute to career growth. Here are some accounting jobs that may require only an associate degree:

• Accounting Clerk: An accounting clerk’s main responsibilities include data entry, maintaining financial records, processing invoices and handling basic bookkeeping functions.
• Bookkeeper: Bookkeepers record and organize financial transactions, maintain accurate ledgers and prepare financial statements. They may also reconcile bank statements and assist with payroll.
• Payroll Clerk: This position’s focus is on processing employee payroll, and ensuring accurate calculations of wages, deductions and taxes. Payroll clerks may also handle timekeeping and maintain payroll records.
• Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk: This role entails processing invoices, verifying payments and maintaining records of money owed by an organization. Accounts receivable clerks manage payments received, post transactions and follow up on overdue accounts.
• Tax Preparer: Those who work in tax preparation help individuals and businesses file their tax returns. They may work for accounting firms, tax preparation services or as independent agents.
• Audit Assistant: Audit assistants support auditors in examining financial records for accuracy and compliance. They may also participate in audit fieldwork and help gather relevant documentation.
• Junior Cost Accountant: In manufacturing or production-oriented industries, junior cost accountants help track and analyze production costs, including materials, labor, and overhead.
• Junior Budget Analyst: Budget analysts assist in preparing and monitoring budgets. They may analyze financial data, track expenses, and provide reports to support budgetary decisions.
• Financial Assistant: These junior-level professionals provide support in various financial activities, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. They may also assist in preparing financial presentations.
• Accounting Technician: This position entails a diverse range of accounting tasks. A few examples include maintaining financial records, reconciling accounts or supporting financial reporting.

While an associate degree is often sufficient for these roles, gaining relevant work experience and considering professional certifications (such as the Certified Bookkeeper or Certified Payroll Professional) can enhance your qualifications and career prospects. Additionally, continuing education and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the future may open up more advanced opportunities in the accounting field.

Salary and job outlook

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks was $49,210 in 2024. The median annual wage for accountants and auditors, however, was in 2024. For these occupations, there was an upward trend in median income that reflected a higher education threshold.

Advancements in technology have automated many of the core responsibilities for accountants. The BLS projects that globalization (the growing interdependence of the world’s economies) and an increasingly complex tax and regulatory environment will lead to continued demand for intermediate- and senior-level accounting professionals. Accountants and auditors are expected to see 4.6% growth through 2034, which is slightly higher than the overall growth (3%) for all jobs.

In general, employment growth of accountants and auditors is expected to be closely tied to the health of the overall economy. As the economy grows, these workers will continue being needed to prepare and examine financial records. In addition, as more companies go public, there will be greater need for public accountants to handle the legally required financial documentation.

Professional resources

Just as with any career path, there are always professionals who have blazed a trail before you. Here are just a few places you might want to turn to connect with other professionals and learn more from experts.

• American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA): This organization offers resources for all accounting professionals, including those with associate degrees. They conduct webinars, hold conferences and host an online community focused on professional development and networking.
• National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB): The NACPB serves a community of professional bookkeepers and offers various certifications, continuing education courses and networking opportunities.
• Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA): This institution provides resources for internal auditors such as online courses, certifications and publications.
• Accounting Today: This site and magazine provides news and information for accounting professionals. Check here for insightful articles, webinars and other resources on various accounting topics.

Earning an associate degree is a great start, but continuing education and professional development are important in order to stay competitive in the accounting field. Utilize the resources mentioned above to stay updated, expand your network and advance your career.

Next steps

Traditional colleges typically accept new students in the fall. Online degree programs, however, often come with the benefit of flexible start dates. That means that, once you’ve considered all your options, you can begin your accounting education in a matter of days instead of months.

Accounting is a stable career with steady demand. You can search for schools and programs using the school search tool on this page. Remember to consider factors like tuition, program length and financial flexibility as you weigh your options.

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