Online Accounting Degrees in Pennsylvania

• Author: Rosa Tiemann (B.S. Accounting)
• Expert Reviewer: Deborah Wadsworth (M.S. Accounting)
• Last Updated: November 6th, 2023

An online accounting degree opens doors to a career with a resilient job market, attractive salary prospects, and applicability across multiple sectors. When coupled with the convenience and flexibility of online learning, this path becomes especially appealing for prospective students in Pennsylvania, a state with a burgeoning finance and business landscape.

But the bright future an accounting degree promises is not without its financial hurdles. The soaring cost of education is a significant concern, adding layers of complexity to an otherwise favorable educational atmosphere. As per the data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), tuition costs for four-year universities have continued their upward trajectory, amplifying the stress of financial commitment for students. For 2024, the concern around affordability remains pressing; many Americans already grapple with student loan debt, and the mounting costs further exacerbate this issue. Against this backdrop, we present our guide to the six most affordable online Bachelor of Accounting programs in Pennsylvania for 2024. Our intent is to guide you toward an academic decision that offers quality education without compromising financial stability.

Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Accounting Degrees in Pennsylvania

For this guide, we gathered raw data from trusted sources like the Common Data Set and directly from the administrators of the accounting programs. Our selection criteria took into account crucial factors such as accreditation from reputable bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Accreditation assures that your investment flows into a program meeting stringent academic requirements.

From an initial list of 20 online accounting programs in Pennsylvania, we pared it down by scrutinizing academic quality, eliminating those that failed to meet the high standards for ethics and academic excellence we uphold. Our final list features only public and non-profit institutions, aligning with our philosophy that education should place knowledge above profit. We also evaluated tuition costs per credit hour to give you a concrete measure of cost-effectiveness.

This guide serves multiple audiences: high school graduates, working adults contemplating a career switch, and those already in the accounting field looking to advance. Our mission is to simplify your decision-making process by sifting through the data and presenting you with the most financially sensible options. Next, we will dive into the specifics of each program, offering insights to help you find an academic path that aligns with your career goals and respects your financial limits. Stay tuned for an in-depth look at these six budget-friendly alternatives for acquiring your online Bachelor of Accounting degree in Pennsylvania.

1. Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania

Online BSBA – Accounting

Positioned at the forefront of affordability and quality, Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania offers an online BSBA in Accounting that blends rigorous academics with financial accessibility. Accredited by AACSB International, this program is an ideal route for students aspiring to complete their degree flexibly.

Getting into Slippery Rock University’s online BSBA in Accounting program starts with meeting specific prerequisites. Applicants need a minimum of 30 credits or an associate degree in business administration from an accredited institution. English writing, mathematics, and computer application competencies are a must. The program boasts a 74% acceptance rate, slightly higher than the national average of 72%, but still competitive. Deadlines for applications are rolling for both U.S. and international students. The average age of new entrants reflects a diverse student body that often includes employed individuals.

Slippery Rock’s academic landscape combines quality with innovation. Forty-one full-time and 17 part-time faculty members, many holding terminal degrees, lead the online courses. Unlike other programs, students here must complete 120 credits to earn their BSBA in Accounting. These courses foster practical skills and theoretical knowledge with a curriculum that parallels the on-campus version. The program facilitates group projects and simulations, enriching the virtual classroom experience.

Slippery Rock sets a precedent in affordability. At $328 per credit, the tuition is 64% lower than the state’s average and provides a 38% saving compared to the national average. The financial benefits extend beyond tuition. The average debt for graduates who borrowed is $19,623, significantly below both state and national averages. This results in less financial burden, with only 40% of graduates carrying debt. While GI Bill certified, the institution does not participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. Nonetheless, institutional and federal aid is available, making it a financially viable option for many students.

By excelling in affordability, academic rigor, and financial aid opportunities, Slippery Rock University emerges as a top choice for prospective accounting students. Its competitive yet inclusive admissions process and comprehensive online learning environment make it a compelling option within Pennsylvania and beyond.

2. St. Francis University

online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

Leaping accounting? St. Francis University equips students with robust financial skills and a commitment to making a difference in their communities.

St. Francis University keeps its doors open with a rolling application deadline for both U.S. and international students. With an acceptance rate of 73%, the institution is slightly more selective than the state average but aligns with national rates. A high school diploma or GED forms the bedrock of the application, but the school considers various elements like GPA and class rank. An exciting mix characterizes the student body: 20% of students work while attending school, and the average student age stands at 22, infusing the environment with youthful energy.

While the school doesn’t have full-time instructional faculty dedicated solely to online courses, it boasts 184 part-time instructors who teach accessible online classes. The online accounting program, part of the Shields School of Business, prepares students in a broad array of accounting fields from financial accounting to auditing. Students must complete 128 credits to graduate. Although the coursework doesn’t feature any on-campus students, there’s an emphasis on online and campus-based student collaboration.

Affordability stands as one of St. Francis University’s strengths; its per-credit tuition fee of $485 makes it the second most budget-friendly option in Pennsylvania11% cheaper than the state average. Graduates are less burdened by student loans, with the average debt being $18,44154% lower than the state average and 30% below the national average. The school accommodates veterans through its GI Bill certification and participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program, providing maximum funding for eligible students.

As you sift through Pennsylvania’s offerings, St. Francis University distinguishes itself with affordability, a rich curriculum, and a slightly more selective yet inclusive application process. It presents an opportunity to break into accounting without breaking the bank.

3. DeSales University

online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

DeSales University in Center Valley, Pennsylvania, offers a generous acceptance rate of 92%, a full 15% higher than the state average. Application deadlines are rolling for both U.S. and international students, providing added flexibility. High school completion through either a diploma or GED is required. The program has an older student body with an average age of 35, and 17% of new entrants are already employed, providing a peer environment rich in practical experience.

The online Bachelor of Accounting at DeSales offers both general Accounting and specialized Forensic Accounting tracks. The program also boasts a faculty with an average of 10 years of online teaching experience. Students can expect a robust online learning experience facilitated through technology. DeSales University provides an intimate academic setting with a student-to-teacher ratio that permits individual attention, given the average class size of 18 students. Notably, the curriculum parallels that of the campus-based program, ensuring a consistent quality of education.

At $540 per credit, the tuition at DeSales matches the state average but surpasses the national average by a slight margin. Graduates who borrowed left school with an average debt of $30,667, a figure 7% higher than the Pennsylvania state average. However, the proportion of graduates who carry any debt is only 63%, which is 6% lower than the state average. Veterans will find DeSales accommodating as the institution is GI Bill certified and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, although funding is first-come, first-served and has certain limitations.

DeSales University is an accessible choice with a higher acceptance rate than other Pennsylvania schools. While its tuition and average debt for borrowers are somewhat high, the program offers unique specialization tracks and an older, more experienced student body. Its academic standing is bolstered by a seasoned online faculty, setting it apart from newer or less established online programs. Overall, DeSales merits consideration for those seeking an online accelerated and flexible accounting degree.

4. Peirce College

online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

Peirce College in Philadelphia offers an ACBSP-accredited Bachelor of Science in Accounting, a program designed to sharpen your analytical and financial skills. The program boasts optional, live virtual sessions with professors, allowing up to 90 transfer credits.

Peirce College employs a rolling admissions model, making it convenient for prospective students to apply year-round. The school requires a high school diploma or GED but does not consider GPA, standardized test scores, or class rank in the admissions process. Remarkably, 82% of applicants gain acceptance, an 18% more selective rate compared to the state average. The student body displays diversity in age, with the average student age being 35, and 11% of new entrants are currently employed.

The academic experience at Peirce stands out for several reasons. The faculty brings an average of 10 years of online teaching experience to the virtual classroom. Consistent with the on-campus program, the curriculum integrates accounting principles with information technology. In addition to a strong focus on research methods and team projects, students must undergo ethical assessments. The coursework aligns with employer-recognized certifications, and all credits earned online are equivalent to those on campus. With an average class size of 13, students can expect an intimate learning environment.

At $600 per credit, tuition at Peirce is only 10% higher than Pennsylvania’s state average. This cost becomes even more competitive when you consider institutional and federal financial aid availability. Moreover, the college is GI Bill certified and participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, providing financial relief to veterans. On the debt front, 82% of graduates from this program have some level of debt, a figure that is noteworthy when compared with state and national averages. Both federal and institutional aid are available, making this an accessible choice for many.

In summary, Peirce College’s Bachelor of Accounting program offers a robust curriculum, flexibility in admissions, and a range of financial aid options, making it a compelling choice for students aiming for a career in accounting.

5. Temple University

online Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting

Dive into a transformative educational experience with Temple University’s Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting. This program equips you with the comprehensive skill set you need to excel in the ever-evolving accounting world.

Temple University maintains rigorous admission standards, boasting an acceptance rate of 57%, notably lower than the state average of 78%. Both domestic and international applicants can benefit from the school’s rolling application deadline. The program requires a high school diploma or GED for admission. The program attracts an eclectic student body, including employed new entrants and those of varied age groups. These factors make Temple the most selective program on our list, differentiating it from other accounting programs in Pennsylvania and beyond.

Temple’s online Bachelor of Accounting program, started in the 2011-2012 academic year, is a robust educational offering taught by 39 full-time and 13 part-time instructional faculty. Many of these faculty members hold terminal degrees and bring an average online teaching experience of 23 years to the virtual classroom. The program covers various specialized topics, such as data analytics in accounting, cost analysis, and financial reporting. Courses are designed by certified instructional designers, ensuring a high-quality online learning experience that parallels the on-campus program.

Affordability is a key consideration at Temple. While the per-credit tuition fee stands at $634, 15% higher than the Pennsylvania state average, it offers a comprehensive range of financial aid options. On the debt front, graduates who borrowed ended up with an average debt of $36,214, which is higher compared to both state ($28,453) and national averages ($24,000). Despite this, 78% of 2021-2022 graduates carried debt, higher than the state and national average. Veterans and active service members can take advantage of the GI Bill, and the institution also participates in the Yellow Ribbon Program, providing added financial assistance.

6. Pennsylvania State University – World Campus

Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting

Pennsylvania State University-World Campus offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting that boasts AACSB accreditation, a mark of quality in business education. This program equips students for the CPA exam and opens doors to diverse career paths.

Earning a spot at Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus requires a high school diploma or GED. A minimum high school GPA of 2 is a prerequisite for admission. With an acceptance rate of 96%, the program is considerably more accessible than the state average of 78% and the national average of 72%. The application process operates on a rolling basis, allowing both U.S. and international students flexibility. Eight percent of new entrants currently hold jobs, and the average student age is 29, offering advantages to those balancing work and study.

The online Bachelor of Accounting at PSU-World Campus promises a dynamic learning environment. With an experienced faculty 358 full-time members hold terminal degrees the program ensures academic rigor. Since its inception in 2000, the program has grown to enroll 9,875 students. Coursework focuses on a comprehensive range of accounting disciplines, from financial accounting and cost accounting to tax accounting and auditing. Classes also incorporate an interdisciplinary approach, enriching students’ understanding of how accounting intersects with other business sectors.

The cost per credit at PSU-World Campus is $642, higher than the state and national averages of $538 and $453, respectively. Conversely, graduates face an average debt of $37,320, also higher than state ($28,453) and national ($24,000) averages. However, 65% of graduates have debt, which is relatively on par with the state and national averages of 67% and 61%, respectively. For veterans, the school is GI Bill certified but does not participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program. It’s worth noting that the institution also actively tracks alums, providing long-term support and networking opportunities.

View online accounting programs by state: California | Kentucky | Texas

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/
2. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools & Programs: https://acbsp.org/page/accreditation-overview
3. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business: https://www.aacsb.edu/accreditation/accredited-schools
4. The International Accreditation Council for Business Education: https://iacbe.org