Earning an MBA in Accounting online can be a game-changer for recent graduates, busy professionals, and those looking to switch careers. Not only do MBA holders enjoy higher earnings than those with lesser degrees, but accounting and finance roles remain in demand. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can fit an MBA into your life or if it’s worth it, this guide will help you explore the benefits, discover program options, and learn how an online MBA in Accounting can help you pivot toward new opportunities.
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - Career Options
What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
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Inside 3 Popular Online Accounting MBA Programs
Below, we explore three accredited universities offering online or hybrid MBA programs with an accounting focus. Read on to explore each program’s format, curriculum highlights, cost, and admissions criteria.
Southern New Hampshire University — MBA in Accounting Online
SNHU’s online MBA in Accounting is a 30-credit program combining seven core MBA courses with three specialized accounting courses. The curriculum focuses on practical financial management, data analysis, budgeting, and strategic decision-making based on accounting principles. The program is accessible to students without business backgrounds through foundation modules and features an asynchronous online format for working professionals. Students receive comprehensive support services and career guidance, and financial aid and military discounts are available.
Duration: One to two years
Mode: Online
Cost: $637/credit, $19,110 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75
- Attestation form
- Official transcripts
- Completed (free) online application and a resume. (Note: SNHU’s open admission policy and foundation courses make the program accessible to non-business majors.)
Louisiana State University Shreveport (LSUS) — Online MBA with
Accounting Concentration
LSUS offers an online MBA with Accounting Concentration comprising 30 credit hours including 21 credits of MBA core coursework and 9 credits of accounting concentration courses. Accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the program features seven-week accelerated terms with multiple start dates, making completion possible in under a year. Accounting electives cover topics like Fraud Detection, International Accounting, and Taxation, aligning with CPA exam content. The program is noted for its affordability and practical “learn it today, apply it tomorrow” approach.
Duration: 10 to 24 months
Mode: Online
Cost: $479/credit, $14,370 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s or graduate degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in last 60 semester hours (see exceptions)
- Transcripts
Ohio University — Online MBA (Accounting Concentration)
Ohio University’s College of Business offers a 35-credit online MBA with an Accounting concentration, designed for early to mid-career professionals seeking finance or accounting leadership roles. The program combines core MBA coursework with specialized accounting and financial decision-making electives. Delivered primarily through asynchronous online classes with optional live virtual sessions, the program features experienced campus faculty and practical business applications. As an AACSB-accredited program, it maintains high academic standards and includes a strategic capstone project. Students also receive career coaching and access to alumni networking opportunities.
Duration: Two years
Mode: Online, with optional hybrid elements
Cost: $1,051/credit, $36,785 total
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 3.0 GPA
- Transcripts
- Two years of professional experience
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
FAQs from Prospective Accounting MBA Students
Q: Is an online MBA in Accounting respected by employers?
A: Online MBA programs in Accounting from accredited institutions carry strong credibility with employers, with many schools issuing identical diplomas to online and on-campus graduates. Employers increasingly value the skills developed through these programs, including strategic thinking and financial expertise, along with the demonstrated ability to balance work and advanced studies. The key is choosing a well-accredited program and being ready to showcase your project work and leadership experiences.
Q: Do I need a bachelor’s in accounting to get into an MBA in Accounting program?
A: No, most accounting MBA programs welcome students from all academic backgrounds. While you’ll need a bachelor’s degree, it doesn’t have to be in accounting or business. Programs typically offer foundation courses or modules to help non-accounting majors build the necessary baseline knowledge. Some prerequisites may apply, but these can usually be satisfied through preliminary coursework or relevant work experience.
Q: Can an MBA in Accounting qualify me to become a CPA?
A: While an MBA in Accounting can contribute toward CPA requirements, it’s not a direct path to certification. Most states require 150 credit hours with specific accounting coursework, plus passing the CPA exam. An MBA (typically 30-36 credits) can help meet the credit requirement, and it provides relevant knowledge. But verify your state’s specific requirements, as you may need additional accounting courses. Consider consulting your State Board of Accountancy for exact requirements.
Q: How can I finance my Accounting MBA?
Several funding options are available: federal student loans, employer tuition reimbursement programs, graduate assistantships, and merit-based scholarships from schools. Many universities offer payment plans to spread costs across terms. Professional organizations also offer specialized accounting scholarships. Veterans have access to various scholarships and financial aid, and some companies partner with schools for corporate discounts. Always start by submitting the FAFSA to explore federal aid options.
Q: What accreditation should an online MBA in Accounting have?
A: You should look for regional accreditation of the university and Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation for the business school, if possible. Regional accreditation—like Middle States, Higher Learning Commission (HLC), etc.—is a basic must-have for legitimacy. On top of that, programmatic accreditation in business is a key quality indicator. The AACSB is considered the gold standard for business programs, as it means the MBA curriculum, faculty, and outcomes are rigorously reviewed. Before enrolling, check the program website for accreditation info or use AACSB’s website to verify the school’s status.
Understanding Cost: Pricing the Online MBA in Accounting
MBA in Accounting programs typically require 30-36 credits, with total tuition ranging from $15,000 at public universities to $40,000+ at private institutions. Fixed costs include tuition and mandatory fees, while variable expenses cover textbooks, materials, and potential technology fees for online delivery. Online programs may offer cost advantages by eliminating relocation expenses and allowing students to continue working.
If finances are a critical concern, OMD offers several guides to assist with your planning. Our broad financial aid guide offers insights on how to apply for aid as well as an overview of financial aid options. Take a deeper dive with our guide to top grad school grants and explore 68 scholarships for master’s students. And for those who need help budgeting for their education, explore College Budgeting 101 guide.
Below is a comparison of the credit requirements and tuition costs for the three example programs we discussed.
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University—MBA in Accounting | 30 | $637 | $19,110 |
| Louisiana State University Shreveport—Online MBA (Accounting Concentration) | 30 | $479 | $14,370 |
| Ohio University—Online MBA (Accounting Concentration) | 35 | $1,051 | $36,785 |
The tuition costs above are illustrative and based on the latest published rates.
After Graduation: What Can You Do with an MBA in Accounting?
An MBA in Accounting equips graduates with financial expertise and leadership skills, opening doors to diverse career opportunities beyond traditional accounting roles. This degree prepares professionals for high-level decision-making in fields like financial management, consulting, and analytics, or even executive positions. Graduates often step into management roles where they apply strategic thinking and advanced accounting principles, making them valuable in roles such as accountants, auditors, financial managers, or consultants.
Financial Manager — Financial Managers ensure an organization’s financial health by creating reports, managing investments, and guiding long-term financial strategies. An MBA in Accounting provides the expertise and leadership skills needed for this role, often paving the way to positions like corporate controller, finance director, or CFO. The median annual salary for Financial Managers is $156,100, with projected job growth of 17% from 2023 to 2033. Many start as financial analysts or accounting managers, using their MBA to advance into leadership roles where they advise executives on fiscal strategy and manage finance teams.
Management Analyst — Management Analysts, or consultants, help organizations enhance efficiency, profitability, and processes. With an MBA in Accounting, you can analyze data to recommend cost-saving or profit-boosting strategies. This role suits those who enjoy problem-solving and working on diverse projects. The median annual salary for a Management Analyst is $99,410, with 11% job growth from 2023 to 2033. MBA graduates excel in consulting on financial operations, risk management, or performance improvements, qualifying them to provide strategic business advice across industries and tackle complex organizational challenges.
Accountant or Auditor — An MBA in Accounting helps accountants and auditors advance to senior or management roles, such as an auditing manager or finance manager. These professionals prepare financial statements, ensure regulatory compliance, and analyze records. Account and auditor median salaries are $79,880, with top earners exceeding $137,000. Job growth is projected at 6% from 2023 to 2033. With an MBA, you bring strategic insight to complex accounting tasks and can lead teams, manage corporate budgets, or transition into advisory roles, especially when paired with a CPA certification.