Business is the most popular graduate degree field. In 2022, nearly one in four master's graduates earned a degree in business, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). An online MBA in accounting allows students to earn degrees from a distance to pursue new career opportunities and increase their earning potential.
An MBA in accounting blends strategic decision-making with advanced accounting skills. Graduates with accounting MBAs can qualify for management and executive roles or specialize in accounting fields like public accounting or auditing.
The number of MBA applications dropped 5% in 2023, according to the Application Trends Survey from the Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) — following a 3.4% drop in 2022. In addition, more than half of the top-ranked schools saw a decline in applications. With the demand for MBA graduates continuing to rise, declining application rates indicate that it could be the right time to apply to a top business school.
This ranking of the best online MBA in accounting programs can help you find the right fit for your goals.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Accounting MBA Programs
Why Get an Online MBA in Accounting?
Boost Earning Potential: An MBA can increase your earning potential. In the 2023 GMAC Corporate Recruiters Survey, employers estimated that the starting salary for MBA graduates will hit $125,000. In comparison, those with a master's in accounting can expect a $75,000 starting salary.
Advance Career Opportunities: With an MBA in accounting, you can meet the educational requirements for the certified public accountant (CPA) exam and licensure. You can pursue managerial roles, including financial manager and accounting manager. Some employers prefer to hire managers with graduate degrees, too.
Strong Demand: Demand for MBA graduates remains high. According to GMAC, 92% of finance and accounting employers plan to hire more MBAs, compared with 78% who plan to hire those with master's degrees in accounting.
What to Expect From an Accounting MBA Degree
An accounting MBA blends core business courses with an advanced accounting curriculum. While strengthening data analytics, strategic decision-making, and leadership skills, you'll also explore advanced accounting principles and managerial accounting during your MBA program.
Earning an MBA takes 1-2 years, depending on the program. If you choose a part-time format, your degree will likely take 2-3 years. During that time, you'll complete 30-54 credits.
When choosing a business school for your accounting MBA degree, you'll want to check the school's accreditation status. Business schools that hold accreditation from one of three major programmatic accrediting agencies meet the highest standards for education in the field. Credits earned at an accredited business school will more likely transfer to other business schools, as well.
Degree and Format Options
You have several options for earning your MBA in accounting. You can choose an online, in-person, or hybrid format, depending on your schedule and preferred learning style. Within online programs, you may encounter synchronous and asynchronous course formats. Many MBAs offer accelerated, one-year tracks.
In addition to MBA programs that offer an accounting concentration, you can consider a general MBA or a master's in accounting. A general MBA incorporates accounting and finance courses with a generalist approach to the field. You'll also take marketing, strategic operations, and human resource courses. In contrast, a master's in accounting emphasizes graduate-level accounting coursework without generalist business classes.
Should You Get an Accounting MBA or a General MBA?
A general MBA builds the knowledge and skills required for many management-level roles. So, should you earn an online MBA in accounting or a general MBA?
The choice depends on your professional goals and the program. Some general MBA programs emphasize accounting and finance in the curriculum, which may fit your goals. If you're interested in specialized coursework in auditing, corporate fraud, or taxation strategies, an accounting MBA might be a better fit. Similarly, if you want to become a CPA, an accounting MBA offers focused coursework for your career path.
| Key Factor | Accounting MBA | General MBA |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Business core; advanced accounting courses | Business core |
| Program Length | 1-2 years | 1-2 years |
| Credit Requirement | 36-54 credits | 30-54 credits |
| Admissions Requirements | 2.5-3.0 GPA; GMAT scores; resume; statement of purpose; recommendation letters | 2.5-3.0 GPA; GMAT scores; resume; statement of purpose; recommendation letters |
| Common Courses | Advanced financial reporting; financial disclosure analytics; taxes and business strategy; accounting for entrepreneurs | Marketing management; organizational behavior; managerial finance; business analytics |
| Common Career Paths | CPA; accounting manager; financial manager; senior accountant | Management consultant; marketing manager; operations manager; HR manager |
Sources: UTRGV; University of Maryland; UT Dallas; FAU; SNHU
Admissions Process
Getting into an MBA program can be stressful. You'll need to complete an online application and provide materials like transcripts, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Common admission requirements include:
Bachelor's Degree: You don't need to major in business, but you will need a bachelor's degree to get into an MBA program. Many programs set minimum GPAs for admission.
Standardized Tests: Most business schools require standardized test scores. Prepare for the GMAT or GRE with our guides.
Professional Experience: Some MBA programs require or prefer work experience. Check each program to make sure you meet requirements.
Popular Accounting MBA Courses
During an online MBA in accounting, you'll take core business courses and accounting concentration courses. Depending on the program, you may select electives and complete a capstone or project.
While each MBA program offers a unique curriculum, here are some popular accounting MBA courses:
Financial Accounting: Explore the role of financial analysts and managers in accounting, including financing approaches, corporate investments, and financial reporting. Students strengthen their technical skills by analyzing financial statements, creating disclosure reports, and interpreting financial records. This course may incorporate risk management, financial reporting regulations, and investment analysis.
Cost Management: In a cost management course, MBA students learn to strengthen cost efficiency and position organizations for growth. The course emphasizes strategic management skills, analyzing cost structures, and the best practices in cost management. Learners gain hands-on skills by forecasting costs and completing case studies focused on competitive cost analysis.
Taxes and Business Strategy: MBA students analyze the relationship between taxes and business decision-making. Topics may include the tax implications of mergers, tax-sheltered investments, and corporate tax regulations. The course emphasizes public accounting and strategy, preparing graduates for careers as CPAs and financial managers.
Financial Planning and Analysis: This course enhances financial planning and analytical skills. Learners examine financial planning approaches, including investment modeling, profitability analysis, and managerial accounting. The class also covers strategic investing and financial forecasting. MBA students interested in careers as financial advisors, portfolio managers, or managerial accountants benefit from this course.
How Much Do Accounting MBA Programs Cost?
The cost of an online MBA in accounting varies widely depending on the program. For example, the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley charges just $472 per credit for its online MBA program. In contrast, the University of Maryland Global Campus' MBA costs $1,733 per credit.
When researching tuition, consider the total cost for any given program, along with any available financial aid opportunities. Online MBA students qualify for many forms of assistance, including scholarships and federal loans. You can also compare online programs to find the most affordable option.
Jobs for MBAs in Accounting
With an MBA in accounting, you can pursue roles like accountant and auditor. You can also move into specialized titles like CPA, comptroller, or tax accountant. Other accounting career paths include financial manager, budget analyst, risk manager, and financial planner.
Learn more about common career paths for accounting MBA graduates, including salary and job growth data, below.
Accountant
Accountants prepare financial statements, recommend financial and accounting strategies, and prepare corporate tax returns. Some accountants also evaluate organizations' finances to identify areas to improve efficiency. An MBA can lead to specialized careers as a CPA, fraud examiner, or internal auditor.
Job Outlook (2022-32): +4%
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $79,880
Source: BLS
Financial Manager
Financial managers direct investment strategies and implement financial plans for organizations. They oversee financial analysts, evaluate financial forecasts, and analyze trends to boost profits. Within the financial management field, some professionals specialize as corporate controllers, treasurers, risk managers, or insurance managers.
Job Outlook (2022-32): +16%
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $156,100
Source: BLS
Budget Analyst
Budget analysts evaluate financial records to help organizations make budgetary decisions. They create budget reports based on their research, track spending throughout the year, and evaluate funding requests. Budget analysts need a strong understanding of accounting and finance, along with familiarity with financial regulations and forecasting.
Job Outlook (2022-32): +3%
Median Annual Salary (May 2023): $84,940
Source: BLS
Selecting the Right Concentration
Choosing a quality MBA can shape your education and career. But how can you find the best MBA for your schedule, budget, and career goals? Consider the following factors.
Career Goals: Keep your professional aspirations in mind as you research programs. For example, if you want to become a CPA, look for a program that offers relevant coursework in taxation and auditing.
Curriculum: Check course descriptions, concentration requirements, and elective options as you explore prospective schools. Prioritize programs that align with your interests and professional goals.
Total Cost: You can find an online MBA program that fits your budget. In addition to checking the tuition rate, calculate the total cost, including fees, textbooks, and other expenses. Remember to factor in financial aid to determine the total cost of the program.
Schedule: The program's delivery method needs to match your schedule. If you plan to work while earning an MBA, you should consider programs with no required meeting times. You can also look for programs with night and weekend classes.
Questions About Online MBA in Accounting Degrees
Which MBA is best for accountants?
Many business schools offer MBAs with a concentration in accounting, which prepares accountants for advancement. You can also consider a general MBA with accounting electives. When researching programs, make sure to check the curriculum to learn more about specific accounting courses.
What is an MBA in accounting?
An MBA in accounting is a specialized business degree that emphasizes advanced decision-making and leadership abilities with a focus on accounting. These programs incorporate courses in managerial accounting, tax strategy, cost management, and financial reporting to prepare graduates for the workforce.
What is better: an MBA or a master's in accounting?
An MBA and a master's in accounting can lead to management-level careers in business. However, an MBA provides broad training in several areas of business, while a master's in accounting focuses on accounting courses. You can also earn an MBA with an accounting concentration, which blends the two options.
Is an MBA in accounting worth it?
An MBA in accounting can pay off. According to 2023 GMAC research, corporate recruiters estimate that MBA graduates will receive a starting salary of $125,000. The report also indicates strong demand for MBA graduates.
