How to Start With an Associates Degree

What is an Associate’s Degree in Accounting?

While most accounting careers start with a Bachelor’s degree, there is more than just one way into the field.

Do you fit one of these descriptions?:

• career changer
• working professional
• curious student
• unable to currently afford a four-year degree

For these folks, an Associate’s degree can be the perfect springboard into the world of accounting.

This type of degree is offered by many postsecondary schools such as community colleges or technical institutes, so you’re highly likely to find one in your area.

Even better, you can complete an Associate’s degree in just two years full-time and be ready to start a new career as soon as you graduate.

If for some reason there isn’t a school near you offering an associates degree in accounting, we’ve listed the best accredited online universities for you below.

Requirements and coursework

Most Associate’s degree programs require candidates to hold a high school diploma or to have passed the General Educational Development tests. Some schools may also take into account SAT courses and some essential courses such as English and Algebra.

When applying for a degree, experience gained outside the classroom will be an asset, whether it’s voluntary work, an internship or involvement in an extracurricular activity. Some schools may also require you to have and maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better throughout your studies.

An Associate’s degree program will usually combine core courses in the arts and sciences with specialized business courses.

You will be trained in areas such as financial, managerial and cost accounting, auditing, taxation, management, marketing, business, economics and computer applications including relevant software such as QuickBooks or Microsoft Excel. In fact, as computer programs are becoming more and more important in accounting, Associate’s degree programs make sure to include accounting technology in their curricula.

As a graduate, you will be well prepared to handle financial records and tax returns and you may choose to apply for an entry-level job or to continue your studies.

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Types of Accounting Associate Degrees

On-campus – full-time

The most common type of Associate’s degree in Accounting is offered on campus on a full-time basis.

An Associate’s degree will typically include between 60 and 64 credits. Full-time students typically complete between 12 and 18 credits per semester and pay an average tuition fee of just over $10,000. Scholarships based on academic merit, demographic or location are sometimes available to offset the tuition costs.

While many community colleges and technical schools offer Associate’s degrees, if you intend to continue your studies you can choose a school that has an agreement with a larger college or university. In this way you will be able to move on to a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting.

But regardless of your career goals, an Associate’s degree on campus has certain advantages. One of the most important aspects is that you will benefit from networking opportunities offered by the school, from interaction with professionals and peers, as well as opportunities to gain experience through extra-curricular activities or student organizations.

While not strictly part of your degree, it is experience that will set you apart when applying for jobs. What is more, on-campus degrees are often more well-regarded by employers than online degrees.

On the other hand, on-campus degrees can be more time-consuming and full-time study is difficult to reconcile with a working life. Location can also be an issue, so depending on your circumstances another delivery format may be more suitable for you.

On-campus – part-time

As many Associate’s degree students work throughout their studies, a part-time study option is offered by most schools. In fact, more students at two-year colleges in the U.S. attend part-time than full-time. To accommodate part-time students, classes are increasingly scheduled during the evening and weekends.

While this is a great way to reconcile on-campus study and full-time work, it will double the time required to complete your degree – so it may not be the best track if you’re looking to start working in accounting as soon as possible.

Online

There are many online Associate’s degrees available to working students or adults returning to education. In fact, 51% of all degrees completed online are Associate’s degrees, according to the Sloan Consortium.

Such programs are more flexible and may be completed at the student’s own pace. While some online programs can be more affordable than their offline counterparts, tuition fees can vary widely depending on the school.

Keep in mind that online degrees from private for-profit schools are frowned upon by many employers. If an online degree seems like the best solution due to other commitments in your professional life, choose a degree offered by an accredited college with a good reputation and good records of graduate employment.

Another downside to the flexibility of an online degree is the lack of networking and face-to-face interaction with professionals in your field, which can be extremely important in business-related degrees.

Hybrid

A compromise between online and on-campus delivery format is the hybrid Associate’s degree. Such a program will blend online and face-to-face tuition to provide students with maximum flexibility as well as the benefits of networking with peers. Some of the learning will be conducted online with some class meetings scheduled throughout the course.

If your schedule and location allow it, a hybrid degree can be a good compromise between maintaining your professional life and dedicating some time to your new career.

Accelerated

Are you in a rush to complete your degree and start your career in accounting?

Some universities allow you to do just that in as little as one year to 18 months. Accelerated programs will often feature hybrid teaching and flexible timetables, with accelerated modules allowing motivated students to complete their degree within a short time.

If you don’t have other major commitments and can focus on your studies for a short while, you may find yourself a bookkeeper or junior accountant within just one year and a half of hard work.

What can you do with an Associate’s Degree in Accounting?

Now that you know where and how to get an Associate’s degree, it’s time to decide whether it’s the right degree for you.

An Associate’s degree will allow you to secure an entry-level accounting job, such as bookkeeper, accounts receivable clerk, billing or payroll clerk or management trainee. You may also be able to work as an accounting assistant under the supervision of a Certified Public Accountant. Entry-level accountants are often needed in small businesses, accounting firms, retail or non-profit organizations.

In 2013, the median pay for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks was $35,730. The average can vary depending on experience and state (between approximately $22,000 and $51,000). Employment in this field is projected to grow 11% from 2012 to 2022 as financial regulations grow in complexity and accounting services are more and more in demand.

Another path for Associate’s Degree graduates is to embark on further study. You may be able to transfer your credits towards a Bachelor’s degree and then complete additional coursework to satisfy the requirements for CPA certification. This would allow you to compete for senior positions as an accountant, auditor or financial analyst.
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Pros and cons of Associate Accounting degrees

In terms of cost, duration and flexibility, an Associate’s degree is a great alternative for someone wishing to enter the field of accounting without committing to a four-year Bachelor’s degree. Such programs are widely available and provide the basic skills needed in entry-level accounting jobs.

As a graduate you are likely to find yourself in a secure job within this growing field. Opportunities to advance abound; as you gain experience you may find yourself taking on more responsibilities and earning a higher income.

The downside of completing an Associate’s degree is that you will not be able to apply for higher-level accounting positions as a graduate. In general accountants are expected to hold at least a four-year Bachelor’s degree and many go on to earn advanced degrees or professional certifications such as CPA. An Associate’s degree will not offer you the same perspectives as a higher degree, but it is still a great start if you are simply looking for an accounting-related position within a small company.

As Associate’s degrees in Accounting are quite common and popular, it is a good idea to make sure you enroll on a good program and if possible choose an on-campus delivery format in order to make the most of your education. Use every networking opportunity to the fullest and don’t wait until you graduate to start gaining experience – it’s what you do outside the coursework that will shine out in your future job applications.

Accounting is a fast-growing field where demand will always be high regardless of the state of the economy. Whether you’re considering an Associate’s degree as a fresh start, a career change or an additional qualification, accounting is one of the best fields to work in at the moment – and a two-year degree is the shortest path to starting an exciting new work life!

The Top 5 Schools for an Associates Degree in Accounting

1. Colorado Technical University

Accounting Program: Associate of Science in Accounting
Website: http://www.coloradotech.edu/degrees/associate/accounting
Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and & Programs (ACBSP)

Degrees Available:

• Associates – Accounting
• Associates – Business Administration
• Bachelor’s of Accounting
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration – Accounting
• Masters of Business Administration – Finance

About: The Colorado Technical University offers arguably the best opportunities for aspiring accountants from all walks of life.

This accredited institution offers both on-campus and online courses, as well as a complete selection of degrees depending on your current level of education.

The curriculum offered is designed to prepare students for the following positions:

• Accountant
• Staff Accountant
• Senior Accountant
• Credit Analyst
• Accounting Manager
• Junior Accountant
• Cost Accountant
• Accounting Analyst
• Budget Analyst
• Associate Accountant

With a complete curriculum for any level of aspiring accountant, the option to attend locally or online, flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, and transferrable credits, Colorado Technical University tops our list as the best all around school offering an associates degree in accounting.

2. Kaplan University

Accounting Program: Associate of Applied Science in Accounting
Website: http://www.kaplanuniversity.edu/business/accounting-associate-degree.aspx
Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and & Programs (ACBSP)

Degrees Available:

• Associate of Applied Science in Accounting
• Associate of Applied Science in Business
• Bachelor’s of Accounting
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration – Accounting
• Masters of Business Administration – Finance

About: Kaplan is one of the larger schools offering options for associate degrees in accounting. Their robust staff and nationwide coverage make them incredibly convenient for the working professional.

The primary focus of the curriculum lies in these areas:

• Analyzing, recording, and interpreting accounting information based upon industry guidelines
• Building, maintaining, and operating a computerized accounting system using accounting software
• Preparing payroll, financial statements, and tax documents according to federal and state regulations
• Acquiring the knowledge and skills required to pass national accreditation exams in accountancy
• Completing a capstone course that allows you demonstrate your ability to apply the knowledge and skills gained through your coursework in real-world accounting practices

Beyond offering both on-campus and online accounting degree programs, Kaplan is one of the best institutions in The United States at acquiring financial aid for its students. We prefer the curriculum on Colorado Tech a little better, but for someone who currently isn’t able to afford to take time off work to become a full-time student, we recommend Kaplan.

3. Liberty University

Accounting Program: Associate of Science in Accounting
Website: http://www.liberty.edu/online/associate/accounting/
Accreditation:

• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and & Programs (ACBSP)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools SACS

Degrees Available:

• Associates – Accounting
• Associates – Business Administration
• Bachelor’s of Accounting
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration – Accounting
• Masters of Science – Accounting
• Dr. of Business Administration – Accounting

About: Liberty is best known for being quite possibly the largest on-campus and online Christian based accredited Colleges in The United States. Presidential nominee Mitt Romney is one of the schools more famous graduates.

For those who aren’t religious, don’t dismiss Liberty. The curriculum, staff, and their graduate employment placing ranks among the top colleges offering associate degrees in accounting.

Liberty also offers:

• Flexible scheduling
• Flexible learning style (designed for parents, or busy professionals)
• Military benefits and financial aid
• Relatively high employment rate of graduates
• Degrees designed for getting jobs quickly

4. University of Phoenix

Accounting Program: Associate of Science in Accounting Fundamentals
Website: http://www.phoenix.edu/programs/degree-programs/business-and-management/associates/aaacct.html
Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

Degrees Available:

• Associates – Accounting Fundamentals
• Associates – Business
• Bachelor’s of Accounting
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration – Accounting
• Masters of Science – Accounting

About: As the nations largest private university Phoenix boasts a robust curriculum, staff, and options regarding your degree. While only select campus locations are available, Phoenix offers arguably the best online platform available.

For accounting students, your education will focus on:

• Business Communication For Accountants
• Statistics For Decision Making
• Management Theory And Practice
• Principles Of Accounting I
• Principles Of Accounting II

At a reasonable $410 per credit, and their “cash plan” allows you to pay as they go making acquiring an accounting degree that much easier.

5. Penn State University – World Campus

Accounting Program: Associate of Business Administration
Website: http://www.worldcampus.psu.edu/degrees-and-certificates/business-associates/overview
Accreditation:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Degrees Available:

• Associates – Accounting
• Associates – Business Administration
• Bachelor’s of Accounting
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Masters of Business Administration

About: Penn State is the first large public university on our list. They would’ve been higher, but they don’t technically offer an associates degree in accounting. Instead they offer an associates degree in business administration. They do offer an online option, which is helpful for busy professionals.

While not as helpful as the accounting degree, for those planning to continue their education elsewhere, this school may be a great fit.

Penn State does require for credits to obtain your degree, however those credits are transferrable towards a higher level degree should you choose to pursue one.

The 60 credits for the Associate of Science in Business Administration are as follows:

• Requirements for the Major (48–50 credits)
• Common Requirements for the Major (30–31 credits)
• Prescribed courses (16 credits)
• Additional courses (14–15 courses)
• General Business option (18–19 credits)
• Marketing and Management courses (6 credits)
• Additional courses (12–13 credits)
• General Education courses (21 credits)

References:

http://www.payscale.com/research/US/Degree=Associate’s_Degree,_Accounting/Salary
http://www.indeed.com/q-Accounting-Associate-jobs.html
http://www.post.edu/locations/degrees/asaccounting/FAQs.shtml#q3
http://www.post.edu/locations/degrees/asaccounting/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Associate_degree#Time_requirements
http://www.forbes.com/2009/05/15/jobs-opportunities-accounting-leadership-careers-where.html
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm
http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes433031.htm