The 15 Best Online Schools for Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Accounting

Almost any company, organization, or corporation needs competent, professional individuals with a firm understanding of finances and the examination of financial records. So, if you are looking for Associate degrees in Accounting programs, you’re in luck!

An Associate Degree in Accounting is a two-year academic program designed to provide students with foundational knowledge in accounting. With this degree, individuals can pursue a career as an accountant or taxation preparer. You can also pursue a bachelor’s degree in accounting and other business-related fields.

In addition, an Associate of Accounting gives students the necessary foundation upon which to begin a career in the management, analysis, and manipulation of fiscal matters.

This type of curriculum offers coursework that approaches many areas, such as business, leadership, communication, law, and ethics, as well as accounting principles and financial management.

There are numerous positions of employment for which this degree program prepares students, such as:

• accounting
• bookkeeping
• payroll clerk
• auditor
• or CPA.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the job outlook for these professionals at about 4% over the next 10 years, which is much faster than average.

Annual salaries begin at around $78,000 per year with much room for advancement and the opportunity to increase your salary. Earning an online Associate of Applied Science in Accounting program is the perfect start.

METHODOLOGY

These online schools offering Associate degrees in Accounting are primarily made up of community colleges, which gives students the benefit of small class sizes and intimate virtual environments that include:

• A significant amount of one-on-one time with professors,
• Acceptance rates are generally 100%, giving applicants excellent opportunities to choose the right school for them,
• 100% Online distance learning format; providing efficiency and flexibility,
• Financial Aid options; offering grants, scholarships, military discounts, and work-tuition programs,
• Provides coursework specific to the foundations of Accounting practices,
• Prepares graduates for entry to mid-level positions in accounting or bookkeeping within the private, public, or governmental sectors,
• Designed to utilize innovative business-related technology used in today’s world of accounting,
• Easy transfer of credits into a Bachelor’s degree program in Accounting,
• and, Lays groundwork for additional education to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

To learn more, please see our Methodology page!

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BEST ONLINE SCHOOLS FOR ASSOCIATE DEGREES IN ACCOUNTING

NORTHWEST IOWA COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

Northwest Iowa Community College has received numerous recognitions for its online programs, one of which is its Associate’s Degree in Accounting program. The 63-credit curriculum lasts four semesters and can be finished within two years and introduces basic skills in algebra and reasoning.

The program includes all of the most pivotal accounting-based skills and knowledge such as courses in:

• Finance,
• Business Law,
• and Communications.

Furthermore, there is an optional concentration in Clerical Accounting, which takes another two semesters to complete and provides graduates with a diploma in addition to their degree.

Graduates are expected to have a solid foundational understanding of accounting and other key business concepts, which prepares them to either join the workforce or pursue higher education.

Coursework Sample:

• Financial Analysis
• Cost Accounting
• Income Tax Accounting
• Accounting Spreadsheets
• Payroll Accounting

Campus Location: Sheldon, IA

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• National Alliance of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships (NACEP)

Acceptance Rate: 100% Retention Rate: 69% Graduation Rate: 68%

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHWEST IOWA COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE IN ACCOUNTING

Did You Know?

Northwest Iowa Community College celebrates a lot of firsts, one of which is becoming the first school in Iowa to develop into a community college. The institution started out as a vocational school and was granted college status in 1966.

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HUTCHINSON COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

Hutchinson Community College supplies opportunities for students to earn a background in the field of accounting through its associate’s program.

The 60-credit curriculum provides a good foundation for students who are planning to pursue a bachelor’s in the same field in the future.

The program’s pathway is laid out with basic accounting courses, paired with mathematics and economics. It aims to introduce key courses in communications and psychology, which may be helpful for anyone pursuing a corporate career.

This program is an excellent choice for those who plan on pursuing different accounting-related entry-level roles such as payroll clerks or accounting assistants.

Coursework Sample:

• Managerial Accounting
• Macroeconomics
• College Algebra
• English Composition
• Elements of Statistics

Campus Location: Hutchinson, KS

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 100% Retention Rate: 60% Graduation Rate: 44%

LEARN MORE ABOUT HUTCHINSON COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREES IN ACCOUNTING

Did You Know?

The Hutchinson Community College aims to be an inclusive institution through its student services. For students with disabilities, the college offers accessibility services which include sign language options and use of specialized equipment in-campus.

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NORTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

The Northeast Community College offers one of the best online accounting associate’s degrees in the country. With this course, you’ll be taking the prescribed general education courses, such as social sciences and communication, as well as essential accounting courses needed for the concentration.

The coursework is pivotal to the success of today’s finance professionals since it aims to improve one’s communication and analytical skills.

Additionally, the course on Information Technology aims to ensure that graduates have a firm understanding of crucial accounting software and business tools. You’re sure to get quality mentorship since NCC only employs well-seasoned faculty instructors with decades of experience in the accounting industry.

Students who have successfully completed the 60-credit program will have the opportunity to apply for entry-level accounting positions in auditing firms.

Coursework Sample:

• Business Communications
• Principles of Accounting I and II
• Fundamentals of Information Technology
• Business Law
• Excel Spreadsheet Applications

Campus Location: Norfolk, VA

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440

Acceptance Rate: 100% Retention Rate: 67% Graduation Rate: 52%

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTHEAST COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ACCOUNTING ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE ONLINE

Did You Know?

The Northeast Community College is the product of a merger between the Northeast Nebraska Technical College and the Northeastern Nebraska College in the early 1970s. The merger resulted in the expansion of the institution’s course offerings and facilities.

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UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS

Prominent Program Features:

The University of Alaska Fairbanks is an excellent provider of online business programs such as an Associate of Applied Science degree in Applied Accounting.

It can be earned 100% remotely and includes vital courses in accounting including bookkeeping, payroll, and banking. These are necessary courses to be able to prepare for financial statements and tax computations.

Another reason to earn an associate’s degree in Fairbanks is that it offers exciting topics in business and finance that delve deeply into the roots of the profession. Get to learn practical skills and computer tools like Microsoft Excel.

The 60-credit program aims to prepare its graduates for entry-level positions in government agencies, small businesses, corporations, and even non-profit organizations.

Coursework Sample:

• Microcomputer Accounting
• Financial Management
• Payroll Accounting
• Fund Accounting for Nonprofits
• Customer Service

Campus Location: Fairbanks, AK

Accreditation:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite200
  Redmond, Washington 98052
  www.nwccu.org, (425) 558-4224
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Acceptance Rate: 67% Retention Rate: 73% Graduation Rate: 37%

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF ALASKA FAIRBANKS’ FULLY ONLINE AAS IN APPLIED ACCOUNTING

Did You Know?

The University of Alaska Fairbanks’s location makes it an ideal institution for conducting arctic research. Currently, the school has several research fields including arctic biology, geophysics, and engineering.

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INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

Indiana Wesleyan University is well-known for its high-quality online programs, like its Associate program in accounting. A devoutly Christian institution, IWU incorporates biblical and religious coursework within the major curriculum that gives students strong moral values while acquiring the right knowledge and skills.

Aside from being popular online, it is also one of the most affordable at $299 per credit hour and even offers scholarships and tuition assistance. With its 60-credit program, you’ll surely get the best foundation in accounting while exploring different software tools and developing your decision-making skills.

Graduates will be equipped to take on finance and accounting roles such as working as an auditing clerk or bookkeeper. Work in small businesses, banks, firms, or even in government agencies. This program will surely open many doors for you in the finance world!

Coursework Sample:

• Foundations of Global Business
• Payroll Accounting and Taxation
• Legal Environment of Business
• Basic Economics
• Spreadsheets in Accounting

Campus Location: Marion, IN

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• International Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Acceptance Rate: 91.5% Retention Rate: 79% Graduation Rate: 62.2%

LEARN MORE ABOUT INDIANA WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY’S A.S. IN ACCOUNTING ONLINE

Did You Know?

Indiana Wesleyan University was built with a strong foundation on diversity and inclusion. It has several events throughout the school year that celebrates this including Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Women’s History Month. 

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HAYWOOD COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

If you’re into analyzing data and comfortable with numbers, Haywood Community College’s associate’s degree in Accounting and Finance may be the right program for you. The 65 to 67-credit program comprises coursework that’s incredibly in-depth and touches on key topics in:

• business law,
• information technology,
• insurance,
• financial planning,
• and real estate.

Known as one of the best community colleges throughout the entire state of North Carolina, HCC offers an outstanding educational experience while equipping students with excellent decision-making skills and exposing them to ethical business practices.

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CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

Champlain College offers one of the best online associate degrees in accounting in the country. Through their program, students may get the needed knowledge and background to pursue a career in accounting.

Take up a variety of courses ranging from humanities, general education, and core accounting while acquiring decision-making and leadership skills.

Finish the program remotely in two years through seven-week terms per semester. With this 60-credit program, you’ll be prepared to take different accounting roles such as an auditing clerk, administrative assistant, or bookkeeper.

For those seeking financial assistance, the school offers different programs to provide tuition aid and scholarships. 

Coursework Sample:

• Managerial Accounting
• Cost Accounting 
• Business Law
• Principles of Marketing
• Managing Behavior in Organizations

Campus Location: Burlington, VT

Accreditation:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

Acceptance Rate: 73% Retention Rate: 69% Graduation Rate: 68%

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE’S ASSOCIATE ONLINE DEGREE iIN ACCOUNTING

Did You Know?

The Champlain College has received accreditation and recognition from different bodies since its establishment in 1878. In fact, the U.S. News and World Report has ranked the institution as one of the Best Online Bachelor’s program providers. 

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LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

Liberty University is a well-celebrated and accredited online institution for higher education in the country, offering an exceptional Associate’s Degree in Accounting. This online accelerated program provides coursework that can be completed within eight-week terms in less than two years.

If you have a previous degree, you can transfer as much as 75% of the credits you’ve covered. The program’s comprehensive curriculum is composed of courses aimed to introduce the basics of accounting, marketing, and finance while instilling managerial and leadership skills.

Get to learn from industry experts and pursue a career in accounting firms, the government, or non-profit organizations. You can even choose to continue into a bachelor’s and transfer all of your 60 credits from this associate’s degree.

Coursework Sample:

• Financial Accounting
• Principles of Marketing
• Managerial Accounting
• Business Law

Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Acceptance Rate: 50% Retention Rate: 82% Graduation Rate: 54%

LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN ACCOUNTING

Did You Know?

Liberty University offers benefits for serving military members and veterans. Some of the benefits include tuition discounts of as much as $250 for undergraduate takers and possible credit transfer from military training. Talk about inclusivity!

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SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

While Saint Leo University only offers a Business Administration-focused associate’s degree, specifically, it can easily be shaped to align with the academic and professional pursuits of future accounting professionals.

Well-known for its great online program, Saint Leo has been repeatedly recognized for its achievements in distance education.

The 60-credit program consists of fundamental courses on accounting on top of the business and finance ones. It also offers hands-on experiences in accounting through internships and conferences.

The program is taught by competent faculty specialists so graduates can seamlessly transfer into one of SLU’s leading online bachelor’s degrees or land impressive entry-level positions like a retail manager or accounting clerk.

Coursework Sample:

• Principles of Financial Accounting
• Principles of Managerial Accounting
• Principles of Management
• Business Law
• Basic Computer Skills

Campus Location: Saint Leo, FL

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs  (ACBSP)

Acceptance Rate: 73% Retention Rate: 67% Graduation Rate: 50%

LEARN MORE ABOUT SAINT LEO UNIVERSITY’S BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION ACCOUNTING DEGREE ONLINE

Did You Know?

Saint Leo University has been educating students as a college since 1959 and eventually became a university in 1999. It has produced graduates who have become prominent figures in the fields of entertainment, sports, and politics.

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FOOTHILL COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

Foothill College’s online Associate of Arts in Accounting degree aims to prepare students for their accounting career, which may include pursuing higher education or certification examinations upon graduation.

Some of the most pivotal classes in this curriculum include those surrounding topics in decision-making, financial statement analysis, and taxation.

The program also equips students with skills in computerized accounting hardware and software. You’ll need to complete 53 credits of accounting courses along with English and Mathematics proficiency courses.

At the end of the program, you may be able to communicate complex information to clients and examine financial reports using industry-standard methods and procedures.

Coursework Sample:

• Financial Accounting I and II
• Managerial Accounting
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Business Law
• Computerized Accounting Practice Using Excel

Campus Location: Los Altos, CA

Accreditation:

• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges 
• US Department of Education
• Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Acceptance Rate: 80% Retention Rate: 5% Graduation Rate: 58%

LEARN MORE ABOUT FOOTHILL COLLEGE’S ONLINE AA IN ACCOUNTING DEGREE

Did You Know?

Foothill College offers different student services such as tuition aid for those needing financial assistance. In a recent year, the institution helped more than 6,000 students with the total financial aid amounting to $15M. 

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ALASKA PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

The Alaska Pacific University’s online associate of arts in accounting program is an excellent choice for anyone interested in entering the world of finance. This flexible program is perfect for adult learners, high school graduates, and even current accounting professionals seeking further certification and education.

The 64-credit curriculum is designed to meet four professional competencies: written and oral communication, theory and practices, functional integration, and quantitative skills.

Build a solid accounting foundation and get to work in an entry-level accounting or finance position or pursue a bachelor’s degree in the future. 

Coursework Sample:

• Principles of Managerial Accounting
• Financial Accounting
• Organization Behavior
• Statistical Foundations
• Payroll Accounting

Campus Location: Anchorage, AK

Accreditation:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
  8060 165th Avenue NE, Suite200
  Redmond, Washington 98052
  www.nwccu.org, (425) 558-4224
• International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE)

Acceptance Rate: 91+% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 56%

LEARN MORE ABOUT ALASKA PACIFIC UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ACCOUNTING, A.A. DEGREE

Did You Know?

The Alaska Pacific University was founded in 1960 under a different name- Alaska Methodist University (AMU). It was not until 1978 that it was renamed to its name today while maintaining its affiliation with the Methodist Church.

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STANLY COMMUNITY COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

Stanly Community College is committed to providing students completing an associate’s degree in accounting and finance with the best training and mentorship from well-trained instructors. Learn the essential accounting courses to effectively process financial data and prepare analytical reports in the future.

To graduate, you’ll need to finish 67 to 68 credits, with courses ranging from general education to finance and accounting. Additionally, graduates land better roles with the needed computer and communication skills.

In addition to the Associate of Applied Science, there’s also a diploma and a certificate track available online, which you can pursue afterward. 

Coursework Sample:

• Principles of Financial Accounting
• Accounting Software Applications
• People Skills
• Business Communication
• Federal Income Taxes 

Campus Location: Abermarle, NC

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Acceptance Rate: 100% Retention Rate: 62% Graduation Rate: 33%

LEARN MORE ABOUT STANLY COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ACCOUNTING AND FINANCE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE ONLINE

Did You Know?

The Stanly Community College offers a Career and College Program where High School juniors and seniors can take up advanced college courses for free, which can be credited when they start their coursework for a certificate or bachelor’s degree. 

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FLORIDA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Prominent Program Features:

Florida Tech is one of America’s premier online schools that aims to provide a well-balanced education while equipping its students with the right skills to succeed in their chosen industry. The institute offers one of the best associate’s students in accounting through online learning.

The 64-credit program covers different liberal arts topics while offering enough exposure to some of the essential areas of accounting and finance. What’s more, the flexible coursework is a great choice for working adult learners.

Successful program finishers may be able to fill in-demand roles such as payroll administrators, junior staff accountants, and financial data analysts. 

Coursework Sample:

• Cost Accounting
• Principles of Management
• Business Computer Skills
• Global Business Perspectives
• Communication

Campus Location: Melbourne, FL

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Acceptance Rate: 66% Retention Rate: 81% Graduation Rate: 59.7%

LEARN MORE ABOUT FLORIDA TECH’S AA IN ACCOUNTING 100% ONLINE

Did You Know?

Florida Institute of Technology has been accredited by different agencies and has received several recognitions for its educational programs. It has received the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs and Best Online MBA Programs by the U.S. News and World Report. 

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SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY

Prominent Program Features:

Southern New Hampshire University is one of the most popular online schools in America for providing affordable yet quality education. Its Associate Degree in Accounting Online provides a mix of standard courses and core accounting topics which are vital in succeeding in the world of finance.

This 60-credit degree is focused on equipping students with the skills and knowledge for entry-level industry positions such as accounts receivable clerk, accounting assistant, billing clerk, and bookkeeper.

It’s also a perfect curriculum for transferees since you can transfer up to 45 credits, which drastically reduces the amount of time spent earning a well-respected SNHU degree. 

Coursework Sample:

• Business Systems Analysis and Design
• Human Relations in Administration
• Managerial Accounting
• Principles of Finance
• Applied Marketing Strategies

Campus Location: Manchester, NH

Accreditation:

• New England Commission of Higher Education
  3 Burlington Woods Drive, Suite 100
  Burlington, Massachusetts 01803
  www.neche.org, (781) 425-7785
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

Acceptance Rate: 94% Retention Rate: 62% Graduation Rate: 39%

LEARN MORE ABOUT SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY’S ASSOCIATE DEGREE IN ACCOUNTING ONLINE

Did You Know?

Southern New Hampshire University offers many ways to lower your costs in getting a degree. Aside from accrediting transfer credits, you may apply for different tuition aids like scholarships, military discounts, and employer tuition assistance.

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NORTH ARKANSAS COLLEGE

Prominent Program Features:

North Arkansas College attracts forward-thinking, energetic individuals with the self-discipline to complete a rigorous, two-year associate’s degree in accounting. It’s an excellent choice for students seeking to acquire up-to-date accounting practices and the needed skillset to excel in the corporate world.

Learn about analyzing financial data and preparing financial statements by going through different courses tailored within the 60-credit program.

What’s more, the school offers different scholarships and grants to help those with financial needs. Additionally, the program can be finished completely online to accommodate working and stay-at-home individuals.

Coursework Sample:

• Accounting Principles
• Business Mathematics
• Computerized Accounting
• Human Relations
• Technical Report Writing

Campus Location: Harrison, AR

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
  230 LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
  Chicago, Illinois 60604
  www.hlcommission.com, (800) 621-7440
• Arkansas Department of Higher Education

Acceptance Rate: 70% Retention Rate: 54% Graduation Rate: 31%

LEARN MORE ABOUT NORTH ARKANSAS COLLEGE’S 100% ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTING DEGREE 

Did You Know?

The North Arkansas College acknowledges the mental health needs of its students. Through the school’s Virtual Care program, students can access unlimited counseling and therapy sessions, free of charge.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How much does it cost to earn an online Associate Degree in Accounting?

Depending on the required units, an Online Associates Degree in Accounting may cost around $3,000 for public institutions, while tuition for private schools may reach up to $23,000 every school year. Online programs range from 48 to 64 units that may be finished within two years.

What is included in an online Associate’s degree in Accounting program curriculum?

Most online associate accounting programs come with general education modules, which usually include courses in business, math, statistics, and economics. The curriculum also includes an extensive selection of accounting courses, such as:

• Managerial Accounting,
• Financial Accounting,
• Cost Accounting,
• and Payroll Accounting.

With the demands of modern companies, more courses are centered on introducing different accounting tools and applications, such as Microsoft Excel.

Some programs also include courses that are focused on preparing students for state examinations and skills development, such as portfolio reconciliation and valuation. 

How are the online courses delivered in an online Associate’s program?

With online courses, most schools adopt a flexible learning format where lessons are delivered in pre-recorded videos, and lecture notes are digitally available anytime. In terms of assessments, there are usually time-sensitive exams and reports. Some programs require a research paper or capstone to culminate the program.

What can I expect from my online Associate’s degree in Accounting in the marketplace?

An Online Associate’s Degree in Accounting is your ticket to sought-after entry-level positions in corporations, banks, accounting firms, and the government. The demand for accountants isn’t only high, it’s also recession-proof.

Tax accounting provides a high demand for accounting professionals so you’re likely to see a steady rise in the number of clients throughout the years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the accounting industry is expected to grow by 4% between 2022 and 2032. 

Is getting an Associate’s degree a good investment?

Pursuing an associate’s degree will help you jumpstart your career in accounting. You’ll be introduced to a wide range of courses related to the industry, so you’ll have a good accounting foundation.

This may help you land great starting jobs in big and established firms and businesses. However, it’s also best to note that you may need to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree to move up the corporate ladder.

What entry-level positions are available with an Associate of Accounting degree?

Here are some possible entry-level positions available with an associate degree in accounting:

• Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk
• Bookkeeper
• Accounting Assistant
• Auditor
• Tax Preparer
• Financial Analyst
• Payroll Clerk
• Credit or Collections Analyst
• Budget Analyst
• Accounts Manager

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