In 2019 there were more than 1.4 million accounting jobs in the US economy, making it one of the most sizable traditional job markets. Explosive growth is more typical of a new job economy or industry and does not reflect the health of the accountancy job market. In fact, explosive growth within the accounting industry is happening–it’s just not happening in the traditional places that one might expect. 

Cloud accounting software, automation artificial intelligence (AI), and other forms of information technology (IT) are spurring evolution across various sectors of the accounting profession. Expert accountants are able to leverage a command of IT to automate large portions of the daily workload and streamline monotonous tasks. 

Accountants who use IT simultaneously reduce the brain-drain of carrying out repetitive, monotonous tasks day-in and day-out, but it also increases the workload-capacity for these talented accountants, which ultimately makes them more competitive in the job market–they are better compensated and maintain more secure prospects of future employment.  

Why Earn an Online Master’s in Accounting?

Earning a Master’s of Accounting is an excellent strategy for positioning one’s self for success in the accounting industry. Many of the best accounting positions are reserved for those with an advanced graduate degree or for those who have established a specialization. As mentioned above one of the most promising specializations to pursue is one in information technology, data science, or [accounting] software development. 

Online Master’s of Accounting programs are typically designed to accommodate working adults, meaning course formats offer the flexibility that allows students to complete coursework amidst even the most demanding of schedules. Online programs can also typically be completed more quickly than traditional on-campus variants. So oftentimes an online master’s represents the most efficient entrypoint into the job market. 

And in 2021 with most American universities offering online programs there is a good fit for any student. Luckily our researchers have done the legwork for you, and we have compiled the best online Master’s of Accounting for your consideration below: 

Best Online Master’s of Accounting

1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill 

UNC at Chapel Hill is a premier institution of higher education in the southeast known for cultivating world class professionals, top tier thinkers, and paradigm-shifting innovators. UNC Kenan-Flagler produces some of the accounting field’s most impactful professionals. Its programs train students in addressing the real world problems of the industry, so that upon graduation they are prepared to provide constructive solutions in the workplace. 

UNC Kenan-Flagler offers a fully online Master of Accounting program that is completed through 36 to 48 credit’s worth of coursework. The on-campus variant of the program is hailed as one of the best of its kind, and the online option vows to offer the same level quality and academic rigor. 

Students of the program will engage coursework in independent projects and through peer collaboration. The program faculty commit to providing students with more than just education, they look to provide students with mentorship and professional guidance. This is likely why the placement rate for graduates is so high–98% of students have accepted a job offer within three months of graduating from the program. 

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2. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign 

The University of Illinois is a nationally recognized institution of academic excellence which has broadened its online offerings to service students around the globe. Today the University offers more than 100 online degree options delivered through 1700 courses, making it one of the most robust online education programs in the country. 

The University of Illinois Gies College of Business is the first of the top 5 ranked accountancy programs to offer a fully online program option. The online Master of Science in Accounting program can be completed in 18 months of 36 months, depending on which cadence best accommodates a student’s schedule. 

Students of the program will learn from industry giants–faculty who have demonstrated success and innovation in the real world. But one of the most distinguishing offerings is the extensive alumni network of the program, which seems committed to helping both current students and recent graduates find success. 

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3. North Carolina State University 

North Carolina State University (NCSU) is built around a model of experiential learning–that is that students ‘learn by doing.’ NCSU encourages students to engage communities both local and abroad in order to expand horizons and broaden professional repertoires. NCSU is consistently recognized for offering a multitude of world class degree programs. 

Among which is the Master of Accounting program that can be completed entirely online that is designed to offer both flexibility and academic rigor. This highly competitive program will challenge students to take their skills and knowledge to the next level. Specifically, the program prepares students to take on positions of management and leadership in the accounting industry after graduation. 

The program’s tuition is about $34,000 for in-state students and $60,000 for out-of-state students. While this price tag might seem high, the program is recognized as one of the best of its kind–where graduates are sure to see highly lucrative employment opportunities. 

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4. California State University-Sacramento 

California State University-Sacramento (CSUS) is committed to driving innovation in the higher education space. Its efforts have been both largely successful and recognized, as Money Magazine ranked CSUS as the ‘9th Most Transformative’ among top U.S. colleges. Among its innovations is the University’s recent expansion into online education where its programs seek to service working students and busy professionals. 

Among these online programs is a Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) that is 100% compatible with the CPA exam, so that graduates will be perfectly positioned to pursue careers at certified public accountants. Coursework is delivered through a variety of formats to keep the online education experience fresh and stimulating. 

Students will progress through a combination of streaming classroom sessions, chat-based group projects, and more. Beyond the preparation for the CPA exam, students will delve deeply into the following topics: 

• Auditing Attestation
• Financial Accounting and Reporting
• Regulation
• Business Environment and Concepts

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5. The University of West Florida 

The University of West Florida (UWF) is built around the core mission of providing students with affordable education programs that do not sacrifice academic merit. At UWF students will be groomed to become creative and innovative professionals who can offer solutions to real world problems. This grooming is accomplished by project-based learning, real-world projects, and team-based collaboration. This will be of particular helpfulness to aspiring accountants whose profession is a largely collaborative one. 

UWF offers an AACSB-accredited, fully online Master of Accountancy program that prepares students to thrive in professions of finance, accounting, and business. This flexibility of professional direction is a core and distinguishing element of the program. 

Students can choose to focus on one of two specialization tracks that are meant to reflect the most common professional paths in the industry. Specifically students can choose between the following program paths: Professional Accountancy, or Professional Taxation specialization. 

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6. George Mason University 

George Mason University (GMU) is Virginia’s largest public research university and services more than 37,000 students from around the globe. In 2016 GMU was recognized by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education to be one of the most impactful research universities in the United States. GMU leverages its extensive research infrastructure to inform its degree programs, position programs to reflect real world challenges and industry trends. 

This approach will be of particular value to accountants whose education will benefit massively from a program that reflects current market trends. GMU offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program that prepares students to capitalize on current opportunities in the industry. 

Perspectives of this program will find its metrics of success highly alluring. Graduates of the program earn higher salaries than professionals who hold a Bachelor of Accounting–roughly $10,000 more. And 7 out of 10 students have already secured a position in their chosen specialty by the time of their graduation. 

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7. University of Connecticut

The University of Connecticut School of Business is one of the premier institutions of business education in the United States. And with its expansion into the online education space, more students can benefit from its programs than ever before. UConn’s online programs have been recognized by the United States Distance Learning Association for its ‘best practices’ and high standards for academics. 

The UConn School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting (MSA). US News & World Report ranked the program as the 9th best program in the United States. The program is one of the most affordable MSA programs on the market–the combination of affordability and academic prestige makes the program extremely attractive, and is the reason we thought it deserved a more generous ranking. 

The MSA program provides students with an extensive catalogue of electives and course options. By strategically pursuing study in key topics, students are able to establish a specialization. The program alters the course catalogue, adding or exchanging courses to reflect the most current industry trends and opportunities.  

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8. Rutgers University

Rutgers University Business School is a name synonymous with prestige and academic excellence. Graduates of the program will benefit from this well-known reputation–both directly through the extensive and highly active alumni network, and indirectly through the employment opportunities that come with an impressive academic background. 

Rutgers Business School offers several graduate level accounting programs: 

• Master of Accountancy in Financial Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Governmental Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Professional Accounting
• Master of Accountancy in Taxation

The Master of Professional Accounting program can be completed entirely online, while the other programs typically combine elements of online and on-campus education. 

Students of the Professional Accounting program will learn from world class faculty, who specialize in preparing students to excel as Certified Public Accountants. For professionals interested in broadening their horizons as a CPA, few programs can compete.  

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9. SUNY Polytechnic

SUNY Polytechnic Institute is built on the foundational mission of providing students with the real-world technical skills that facilitate professional success and fulfillment of career aspirations. This approach to building technical expertise will be particularly advantageous for accountants looking to build a strong background in skill-based accounting. 

SUNY Polytechnic offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting, which is fully accredited and recognized to fulfill the credit requirements of the CPA certification process. Students of the program will complete 33 credits worth of coursework organized into 11 core courses. 

Students will select which courses to complete from a robust catalogue of options. Chosen coursework is meant to facilitate the building of professional speciality, so that students can choose to complete the coursework that is most beneficial to their individual career goals and interests. 

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10. Saint John’s University

St. John’s University is a premier educator in the accounting-education space, and employs a unique focus on positioning theoretical concepts to tackle practical problems. In other words, students at the University will not just study concepts and theories, they will learn how to actually apply these theories and concepts to one’s career to drive actionable results. 

Too few institutions of higher education are willing to apply this focus, because it means constantly tailoring education programs to reflect industry needs and market challenges in the real world. St. John’s offers an online graduate level accounting program that reflects the real world demands of the job market. 

Specifically students can earn a Master of Science in Accounting that is designed to jumpstart careers in tax, auditing, and accounting disciplines. A distinguishing element of this program is that it seeks to position program graduates to take on positions of management and leadership in the job market–positions that are typically the most prestigious and lucrative. 

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11. Georgia Southern University 

Georgia Southern University is one the state’s largest institutions of higher education. A fundamental mission of the University is to provide students with future-focused degree programs so that upon graduating from a program students are prepared for the job market that they enter. This approach is particularly meaningful for accountants, whose profession is constantly evolving and changing in accordance with market demands and other economic factors. 

George Southern students can earn a Master of Accounting Online, or a WebMAcc. The program is meant to be completed on a two year schedule, while providing students with the flexibility to progress through the program without altering professional or personal responsibilities. Ambitious students should not have trouble earning this degree while holding full-time employment. 

The program is provided through the AACSB accredited School of Accountancy, which is a distinction only held by 180 accounting programs in the world. Students of the program can enjoy the confidence that their degree-work will be recognized by all the relevant professional bodies and agencies. 

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12. DePaul University

DePaul University Online distinguishes itself through a uniquely committed faculty who take on a greater role in their students’ lives. Specifically, DePaul faculty are more than just educators, they work to fulfill the role of mentor and adviser for their students. And in the Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business, faculty work to ensure that business-minded students are prepared to make professional goals and aspirations into a reality. 

The Driehaus College of Business & Kellstadt Graduate School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. Faculty of the program represent world-class professionals with backgrounds as top-notch CPAs and professionals/academics from the Big Four accounting firms. 

Program faculty work to ensure that students are building the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their desired field or area of professional interest. Faculty also leverage extensive professional networks and connections to help ensure students’ have an abundance of career opportunities upon graduation–which is a tremendous value itself.  

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13. Oklahoma Christian University 

As suggested by its name, Oklahoma Christian University maintains strong ties to the Church of Christ. What this means for students is that degree programs will emphasize the principles of community engagement, leadership, and a standard of ethics. All of which are meaningful for professionals regardless of religious orientation or lack thereof. 

Students at Oklahoma Christian can earn a Master of Accountancy that can be completed entirely through online coursework in as little as 12 months. This represents one of the quickest routes to professional advancement for perspectives of graduate accounting programs. The program is accredited and is able to provide this quick pace without sacrificing academic merit. 

Specifically students will participate in an comprehensive exploration of the following topics: 

• Economic Issues
• Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics
• Advanced Financial Accounting
• Ethics, Decision Making and Communication
• Legal and Regulatory Issues
• Accounting Research and Quantitative Techniques
• Financial Services
• Accounting Theory — Topics in Accounting
• Advanced Tax Accounting

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14. University of South Dakota 

The University of South Dakota (USD) Online looks to provide busy adults and working students with the nationally recognized degrees of the flagship University tailored to provide the utmost flexibility. USD degree programs are consistently recognized as some of the best of their class provided at an affordable rate. Perhaps most astonishing is that USD manages to offer the same tuition rates for both in-state and out-of-state students, which is typically where online degree program tuition rates spiral out of hand. 

USD students can earn a Master of Professional Accountancy from the University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business. The School of Business was first founded in 1927 and has been accredited by the AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1949. Less than 5% of the nation’s business schools have earned this prestigious designation. 

Students of the Master of Professional Accountancy program can choose the general track or the Accounting Analytics Specialization. The specialization track facilitates the building of data science and IT skills, which as mentioned in this article’s intro is one of the burgeoning areas of the accounting industry. 

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15. Maryville University of Saint Louis 

Maryville University Online distinguishes itself in accounting education by emphasizing its future-focused curriculum. Students of its programs will be taught more than just rote memorization of concepts, they will delve deeply into core principles that will help students stay ahead of the curve. And perhaps more importantly, programs teach students how to remain adaptable, so that they can adapt to the ever-changing environment of the accounting industry. 

Students at Maryville University Online can earn a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) in as little as 10 months. This astonishing pace is accomplished by focusing on central concepts and principles and encouraging students and by offering credits for previous professional experience. 

The program also offers a bridge option that is designed for students who do not have an accounting background. Regardless of the chosen track, graduates of the program will have fulfilled the requirements for the CPA certification. Few programs can compete with the efficiency and flexibility of Maryville’s MSA. 

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16. Saint Leo University 

Saint Leo University is one of the oldest Catholic Institutions in the state of Florida. Today it has evolved to offer programs to students of all faiths around the world through its online degree programs, and research centers in seven states. Saint Leo provides its students with strong liberal arts education that lays a foundation in ethics, leadership, and research-based innovation. 

Embodying these ideals is Saint Leo’s Master of Accounting degree program that can be completed entirely online. Program faculty are committed to upholding a standard of academic excellence that confers professional clout to degree-holders. 

 Students who complete the program will be prepared to complete the CPA and CMA exams and will progress through coursework in classes such as the following: 

• Intermediate Accounting 1
• Cost Accounting
• Auditing
• Financial Statement Analysis
• Accounting Information Systems

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17. Seton Hall University 

Seton Hall University’s online programs are nationally recognized for carrying a strong standard of ethics. Programs emphasize a commitment to the civic good by cultivating leaders who employ a sense of optimism to enact a positive influence in their profession. Seton Hall looks to balance online education by emphasizing real-world examples and projects-based learning. In other words, students at Seton Hall will ‘learn by doing.’ 

The Seton Hall University Stillman School of Business offers students a fully online Master of Science in Accounting. The Stillman School of Business is among the top 1% of its kind in maintaining dual AACSB accreditation in both accounting and business. 

Students of the program will learn more than just the standard accounting curriculum, they will learn how to excel in the corporate environment, how to engage in international markets, and how to leverage technical know-how to advance one’s career. Seton Hall’s accounting program is certainly one of the best of the best. 

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18. Western New England University 

Western New England (WNE) University distinguishes itself through a commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in students. Degree programs at WNE teach students how to think creatively and how to solve theoretical problems with practical solutions. This type of environment is ideal for accounting professionals with entrepreneurial aspirations. 

The WNE School of Business offers a fully online Master of Science in Accounting that is completed through 30 credits of coursework. The program curriculum is designed to fulfill the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process. 

The WNE accounting program distinguishes itself through offering students an excellent opportunity for specialization. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting/Fraud Investigation. 

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19. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine 

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (SJCME) is a historically Catholic institution with roots connected to the Sisters of Mercy organization. Today though SJCME positions its programs to service students from all backgrounds whether religious or secular, and emphasizes its core values in a commitment to ethical standards and to fostering a sense of civic leadership in students. 

SJCME students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) that covers advanced and comprehensive studies in finance, taxation, accounting, and auditing. Students will also engage in electives and research projects that facilitate the building of an area of focus. The curriculum fulfills the prerequisites for the CPA examination and certification process. 

A distinguishing element of this program is its interdisciplinary curriculum which covers principles and subjects of universal value to business operations. Graduates of the program will be able to convert information into valuable financial conclusions within any industry. 

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20. New England College

New England College provides students with career-focused education and professional advancement. Central to the College’s values is its commitment to positioning students for professional success and achievement. The College demonstrates this commitment by providing students with unparalleled opportunities for internships, research opportunities, and professional projects. 

New England College offers a Master of Science in Accounting that is completed entirely online through 40 credits of coursework. The program is designed to build key competencies as identified by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. As such, completing the program will complete the prerequisites for the CPA licensure process. 

A distinguishing element of this program is its concentration track option. Specifically students can earn a degree specialization in Forensic Accounting. This specialization track is designed to prepare students to obtain the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) designation.

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The post The 20 Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Associate degrees are commonly called two-year degrees because that’s how long it traditionally takes to earn them. However, in some cases, you can get an associate degree faster. 

Here are 25 accelerated online associate degrees that you can earn in less than two years.

RELATED: Easiest Online Associate’s Degrees

1. Associate of Science in Construction Project Management

Are you interested in overseeing a construction project from start to finish? Do you want to be involved in the details of planning and design? The rising career path of construction project manager might be for you. With this associate degree, you can quickly prepare for career paths like construction manager, building inspector and trades supervisor. 

Where to Earn a Construction Management Associate Degree Fas

If you want to fast-track your construction project management associate degree program, consider enrolling at Penn Foster College. The private, for-profit higher education institution located in Scottsdale, AZ, offers an accredited online Construction Technology Associate Degree. This self-paced program is one of the fastest options for an associate degree. While the average time to complete the program is as little as 11 months, highly motivated students who choose the fast-track format can get an associate degree in as little as five months. That makes this a rare example of being able to earn an associate degree in 6 months online. 

2. Social Science 

Do you have a love of fields like history, sociology and political science? Consider majoring in social science. An associate’s degree in social science helps students build foundational skills and knowledge upon which they will build when they advance to their bachelor’s degree studies. Among the areas you will study when you major in social science at the associate degree level are: 

• History
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Anthropology
• Geography
• Political science
• Economics

Where to Earn a Social Science Associate Degree Fast

Social science is one of three accelerated online associate degrees students can pursue at Tidewater Community College. Tidewater is a public community college based in South Hampton Roads, VA, and has five campuses in addition to its online offerings. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The accelerated social science degree, as well as the school’s other accelerated online associate’s degrees, can be completed in just one year. 

3. Associate Degree in Business Administration

Business administration is one of the most common associate degree programs. It’s also one of the fastest degrees you can get online. It is possible to get your degree in just 12 to 18 months – or less if you have credit hours to transfer.

Students in an accelerated online business administration program will study a wide range of business topics. Core classes for a business administration associate degree may include: 

• Introduction to business management
• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Economics
• Principles of management 
• Marketing fundamentals 
• Business law
• Management information systems 
• Business communications 
• International business

When you earn an associate degree in business administration, you’re equipped with the skills for entry-level positions in the business world. 

RELATED: How Long Does It Take to Get a Business Degree?

Where to Earn a Business Administration Associate Degree Fast

One of the fastest associate business degree online programs can be found at Truckee Meadows Community College. The program, which is available in a traditional two-year format and an accelerated one-year format, is proof that you don’t have to go to a four-year university to earn an associate’s degree fast. A community college can have a similar program for less time and money.

Truckee Meadows Community College is based in Reno, Nevada. The school is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Through the school’s Business FastTrack Program, students take two online courses per five-week term and study year-round, with new classes starting nine times per year. It’s a whirlwind for sure – but a productive one, as students can complete their 2-year degrees in half the time without transfer credits. 

Another school where students can earn an online business administration associate degree quickly is Liberty University. Liberty University is a private Christian school based in Lynchburg, Virginia, with extensive online offerings. Online business courses are eight weeks long. By studying over the summer, students can finish their associate degree in one and a half years.

What if you have credit hours to transfer? The right associate degree program will allow you to slash the time it takes to earn your associate degree. Liberty University has a generous transfer policy through which students can apply up to 75% of the credit hour requirement for an associate degree. Prospective transfer students should also consider Purdue University Global’s business administration associate degree. Students transferring the maximum number of credits can complete their associate degree in just four months. 

4. Associate of Arts in General Education or Liberal Arts

Maybe you don’t know yet what you want to study. You just know that having a degree will open doors to opportunities that you might not have with only a high school diploma.

If you haven’t decided on a specific major, it’s not a big deal. You can earn a degree in general education or liberal arts. This program is often considered the easiest associates degree, but it’s also one of the fastest associate degrees to earn. 

These programs provide a broad foundation of college-level education for you to draw from. A general education or liberal arts major can be the perfect stepping stone for a career that doesn’t require a specific path of study or for earning a bachelor’s degree at a later time.

RELATED: The 20 Easiest Bachelor’s Degree Online Options

In an online associate degree in general studies or liberal arts, students take courses in a wide range of subjects. Examples include: 

• Human development
• Psychology
• Sociology
• Science
• Economics
• Finance
• Philosophy
• Mathematics
• Business 
• Humanities

Where to Earn a Liberal Arts Associate Degree Fast

General studies is one of the accelerated online associate degree programs at Tidewater Community College that can be completed in just one year. Students complete a breadth of coursework that draws from all of the major disciplines. The program offers optional specializations in professional communication and teacher preparation. 

Another school that offers AA degrees online in general education is Florida State College at Jacksonville. By taking eight-week courses throughout the year, students at the public higher education institution can complete their associate degree in general education in just 18 months. Florida State College at Jacksonville is part of the Florida College System and is accredited by the Southern Association of College and Schools Commission on Colleges. 

5. Associate’s in Nursing

Good nurses are consistently in demand. Whether you’re already licensed as a vocational nurse or fresh out of high school, an associate degree can help you get ahead in this critical role in the healthcare industry. 

Associate degrees in nursing, or ADN programs, typically prepare students to provide patient care according to the nursing model and to pass the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLE-RN) test. Even in online programs, students should expect to have to gain hands-on experience through in-person labs and clinical courses. Depending on your online program, you may have to visit campus for these requirements or find a local clinical site where you can fulfill your clinical requirements. Consider these programs to be generally hybrid options rather than fully online associate degree programs. 

Where to Earn a Nursing Associate Degree Fast

Suppose you’re currently a licensed vocational nurse but haven’t yet earned a degree. Howard College in Big Springs, TX, offers a primarily online 12-month Transition Associate Degree Nursing Program. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

If you don’t yet have experience or a license, don’t worry. A number of colleges offer accelerated 2-year online degrees in nursing. Herzing University‘s Associate in Nursing program, for example, can be completed in 20 months. Students should note, however, that this isn’t a fully online program and requires some in-person coursework at one of Herzing’s campuses in Alabama, Florida, Ohio or Tennessee. The Associate Degree in Nursing Program from American Career College is another 20-month program. Although some of the coursework is offered online, some of it must be completed on campus at one of the college’s locations in Los Angeles or Anaheim, California, or in Ontario, Canada.

6. Associate of Science in Health Information Technology

Would you like to start a new career in healthcare service in as little as 15 months? The field of health information technology brings together the disciplines of healthcare and computers and IT. Students in health information technology associate degree programs take coursework in areas such as: 

• Medical billing and coding
• Electronic health record management
• Disease classification
• Healthcare procedural codes in hospitals and other healthcare facilities 

Graduates from a health information technology associate degree program can pursue roles that range from medical coder and medical transcriptionist to health information technician. 

Where to Earn a Health Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Fremont University in Cerritos, CA, is one school that offers a fast online degree in health information technology. The private for-profit college l caters to working adult students, so it’s no surprise the school offers a program that allows for quick entry into this rapidly growing field. Fremont College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Students can complete their online health information technology associate degree program in just 15 months. 

7. Associate of Arts in Accounting

If you think an accounting career is out of reach, think again. You don’t need to spend years in school or earn an advanced degree to get started. An associate degree can be the first step to your career. Students in an online associate degree for accounting will learn the theoretical and accounting standards and fundamentals. They also develop skills for the practical application of accounting procedures.

Through their coursework, students in accounting associate degrees become familiar with:

• Equities
• Liabilities
• The process of preparing financial statements and records
• Accounting’s role in business decisions

Graduates from an associate degree in accounting program may be able to qualify for some entry-level staff accountant roles. They can also seek positions in auditing, financial data analysis and payroll administration.

Where to Earn an Accounting Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you finish an accounting associate degree online? At Lorain County Community College, the accelerated pathway for this program can be completed in just 15 months. To speed up their progress toward the degree, students in the accelerated pathway take eight-week and ten-week courses. 

8. Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems or Information Technology

Do you have an interest in technology? An associate’s degree in computer information systems or information technology can help you find a job in a rapidly growing field. Some of the coursework students may take in computer information systems and IT associates degrees online includes: 

• Computer system analysis and design
• Programming in Java, Visual Basic and C/C++
• Software design and development

Where to Earn an Information Technology Associate Degree Fast

Lorain County Community College in Elyria, OH, offers a number of 15-month associate degrees online for computer and IT fields, including: 

• Computer and digital forensics 

• Computer applications integration specialist

• Computer maintenance and networking 

The community college is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. 

Another school to consider for online associate degree programs in computers and IT is ECPI University in Manassas, VA. Among the institution’s accelerated online associate degree programs are:

• A 16-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Cyber and Information Security Technology
• An 18-month Associate of Science Degree in Computer and Information Science with a concentration in Software Development

ECPI University – which stands for East Coast Polytechnic Institute – is a private for-profit institution accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

9. Associate of Science in Marketing

Good marketing leads people to buy a product, service or brand. The field is ideal for students who are creative, strategic and analytical. An associate degree could be the first stepping stone into a rewarding marketing career.

An associate program in marketing typically combines core business studies, some focused marketing coursework and a background in liberal arts. Students learn how to plan, create and evaluate advertising and marketing campaigns. By the time they graduate, students know the basic principles of marketing and have the skills to work for an established or start-up organization.

Where to Earn a Marketing Associate Degree Fast

Ferris State University in Big Rapids, MI, offers a 17-month fully online marketing associate degree. The school, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, doesn’t just repurpose an on-campus curriculum for an online audience. Instead, Ferris State University builds its online courses for the virtual learning environment from the ground up. The online associate degree in marketing is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).

10. Associate of Arts in Psychology

Do you have an interest in human behavior? Do you wonder why people think, feel and act the way they do? Consider pursuing a fast online associates degree in the field of psychology. Some institutions of higher learning allow students to get an associate degree in psychology in just one and a half years. 

An associate’s degree in psychology will prepare graduates to work in entry-level jobs in psychology. This includes jobs in environments such as:

• Mental health facilities
• Substance abuse and rehabilitation centers
• Childcare facilities
• The criminal justice and legal system

Where to Earn a Psychology Associate Degree Fast

Liberty University offers an online Associate of Arts (AA) in Psychology program that students complete in one and a half years, on average. The program is an excellent choice for students who want to pursue a bachelor’s degree eventually. Because there are no required login times or on-site intensives for this program, Liberty’s online associate in psychology degree is ideal for students who need flexibility.  

11. Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice

If you are interested in a law enforcement career, having an associate’s degree in criminal justice can give you an edge over candidates starting out with just a high school diploma. By earning your degree quickly online, you won’t have to sacrifice years of your life to prepare for your new career.

In associate programs in criminal justice, students will typically learn about the philosophy and development of the criminal justice system in the United States. They will gain exposure to topics in criminology and criminal law. 

This fastest associate’s degree program in criminal justice gives students the education employers are seeking. With an associate degree in criminal justice, you can pursue entry-level positions in: 

• Law enforcement
• Corrections
• Investigations
• Probation
• Corporate security

Where to Earn a Criminal Justice Associate Degree Fast

Criminal justice is another type of associate’s degree students can pursue at Purdue University Global. Purdue’s program isn’t an accelerated program per se, but it’s an excellent choice for students who have past experience to draw from. These students can make their way through the curriculum faster not only by transferring prior college credits but also by receiving credit for any military service work they have completed. If you transfer in the greatest possible credit hour amounts, military service credits and work experience credit, you can finish this program in just four months. 

12. Associate Degree in Web Programming

Do you enjoy the technical side of web applications? There’s considerable money, as well as career flexibility, in programming. Employers and clients are looking for trained professionals who know how to use the essential tools and techniques for coding websites and software applications. Knowledge of programming languages like the following are in high demand: 

• HTML
• Java 
• JavaScript
• Visual Basic 
• CSS
• SQL databases

Where to Earn a Web Programming Associate Degree Fast

How fast can you build the skills for web programming? The New England Institute of Technology offers an 18-month online Associate of Science degree in Software Engineering and Web Development. The school, which is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, emphasizes not only proficiency in programming languages and visualization tools but also how computer systems and applications can address real-world business problems. 

13. Associate of Applied Science in Health Science: Medical Office Management

Maybe you want to break into the healthcare industry but not in a clinical role. Can you see yourself in an office management role instead?

You don’t need years of education and experience to prepare for the responsibilities of keeping an office organized and running efficiently. An online associate degree in medical office management can help you prepare for this career quickly. Through this course of study, students will learn skills for the following tasks: 

• Managing office operations
• Scheduling appointments
• Managing patient records
• Handling billing, coding and insurance paperwork

Medical office managers need strong communication and organizational skills, as well as knowledge of billing and coding procedures and healthcare record management. Online associate degree programs in medical office management help students cultivate these skills. 

Where to Earn a Medical Office Management Associate Degree Fast

Ultimate Medical Academy in Tampa, FL, offers a Medical Administrative Assistant associate degree program that can be completed in as little as 18 months. The school, which is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES), also offers an 11-month diploma program if you want to get into this career even faster. By the time you finish this short online associate degree, you will be prepared to take the Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) examination. 

14. Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education

Do you love working with kids? An associate degree in early childhood education could be your first step to a career such as:

• Pre-kindergarten teacher
• Childcare worker
• Learning center administrator 

Whether you intend to make a career out of childcare work or eventually earn a bachelor’s degree to become a licensed teacher, this fastest associate in early childhood education degree can be a stepping stone to achieving your dreams.

In an associate degree in ECE program, students can expect to cover subjects like:  

• Child development
• Childhood education
• Classroom management 
• Teacher preparation

15. Associate of Arts in Graphic Design

Do you have an eye for design? You can be more than a “starving artist.” With an associate degree in graphic design, you can apply your creativity to a career as a designer.

During associate degree programs in graphic design, students learn to communicate ideas and messages through visuals. They apply communication, critical thinking and computer skills to a design setting. Throughout the program, students build a portfolio of their own designs that can showcase their talents to potential employers and clients. 

Coursework in a graphic design program is likely to cover the techniques of traditional art and multimedia design, including:

• Color theory
• Photography
• Typography
• Print design
• Interactive media
• Editing audio and video clips 
• Designing for the optimal user experience

16. Associate’s in Human Resources

In every industry, businesses and organizations need to recruit, train and manage talent. Human resources personnel are professionals who specialize in hiring workers and developing their skills. An associate degree in human resources can give you the skills you need for this versatile career.

Human resources students can expect to take classes in the following: 

• Management and training of employees
• Employment law
• Change management
• Benefits administration

17. Human Services Associate Degree

Do you feel a calling to help other people who are struggling through difficult life problems? An education in human services could put you on the right path.

Studying human services will prepare you for roles like:

• Community health worker
• Social and human service assistant
• Social or community service manager
• Community and social service specialist

18. Associate of Science in Software Application Development

Are you tech-savvy? If your computer skills are matched only by your creativity and resourcefulness, you could find great success as a software application developer.

Software development is a rapidly growing industry. An associate degree can help you get started sooner rather than later.

RELATED: Which Degree Is Best for a Software Engineer?

To cultivate the skills for a career in software development, you should expect to take courses such as: 

• Software design
• Smartphone app development
• Programming in languages like Java and C++
• Networking 
• Cybersecurity 
• Cloud solutions 

Where to Earn a Software Development Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers an 18-month software development associate degree that’s 100% online. In addition to teaching students the tools, technologies and processes of the field, this program also builds their communication skills and knowledge of ethical best practices in the industry. 

19. Associate of Science in Engineering Technology

Engineering applies the principles of math and science to the design and development of solutions to all kinds of real-world problems. Although you need a bachelor’s degree to become an engineer who undertakes the design process, an associate degree is enough to land you a role as an engineering technician. Engineering technology associate degree programs exist in various engineering disciplines. Coursework in these programs typically encompasses the most relevant background knowledge and a great deal of practical and technical skills. 

Where to Earn an Engineering Technology Associate Degree Fast

ECPI University offers online associate degrees in both mechanical engineering technology and electronic engineering technology. Both programs can be completed 100% online in 18 months. The curriculum of each program is tailored to the current needs of the respective discipline. By the time they graduate, students have the theoretical knowledge and technical know-how to succeed in technician-level roles in the engineering field. 

20. Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies

Just because you have an interest in the legal system doesn’t mean that you want to spend seven years or more pursuing a bachelor’s and then a law school degree. Fortunately, there are other ways to get a job working in the field of law. A paralegal supports lawyers through work that includes the following:

• Conducting legal research
• Drafting legal documents
• Maintaining files for civil or criminal cases

The bar to entry for paralegals is much lower than for attorneys. An associate degree is sufficient preparation for entry-level jobs for paralegals. 

RELATED: What Degree Do You Need to Be a Paralegal?

Where to Earn a Paralegal Studies Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University, a private institution located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, offers an online paralegal/legal assisting associate degree. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and features a career-focused curriculum that students can complete in 20 months. 

For students with prior college credit, Purdue University is an option for finishing your associate’s degree in this field faster, too. Again, although the program is intended as a two-year program, the online school’s generous transfer policy ensures that credit previously completed at other institutions won’t go to waste. Purdue’s program awards an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Legal Support and Services that allows students to apply transfer credits and gain credit for prior work experience in relevant roles. 

21. Associate of Science in Medical Assisting Services

Are you looking for your place in the healthcare industry? Perhaps medical assisting is the career path for you. Medical assistants work alongside doctors and nurses in clinical patient care. Their work may include measuring vital signs, drawing blood and managing medical records.

Where to Earn a Medical Assisting Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers a medical assisting program that takes just 20 months to complete. This associate degree is a hybrid program. While students take all of their courses online, they must meet face-to-face with a proctor at a health facility for some hands-on clinical experiences and complete a 180-hour externship at a medical clinic or doctor’s office. 

22. Associate of Applied Science in Addiction Counseling

Substance abuse and addiction remain a major problem in the United States. If you want to be part of the solution, consider a career in addiction counseling. 

In online associate degree programs in addiction counseling, students take coursework in areas like: 

• Theories of addiction 
• Addiction and the family
• Assessment  and treatment planning 
• Co-occurring disorders 
• Individual and group counseling 
• Motivational counseling and interviewing 
• Case management 
• Crisis intervention 
• Trauma recovery 
• Ethics in addiction counseling

Where to Earn a Design Studies Associate Degree Fast

Beal University in Bangor, ME, offers a 100% online associate degree in addiction counseling. The private for-profit institution is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. The school also offers an accelerated online diploma in addiction counseling that takes 14 months to complete and a 42-month bachelor’s degree. 

23. Associate of Arts in Healthcare Management

Healthcare businesses rely on professionals with excellent management skills to keep them running efficiently and operating at their best. With an associate degree in healthcare management, you can break into the exciting, fast-growing field of managed healthcare. By combining studies in both healthcare and business, online associate degree programs in healthcare management give students the tools to succeed. Coursework typically includes topics like: 

• Organizational structure of healthcare
• Trends in modern managed healthcare
• Ethics in the medical field

Throughout their coursework, students seeking associate degrees develop skills for a wide range of management tasks, like planning and staffing. By the time they graduate, students will be ready to work in roles such as:

• Medical administrators
• Case coordinators
• Office managers
• Risk managers

Where to Earn a Healthcare Management Associate Degree Fast

At Pima Medical Institute in Albuquerque, NM, the healthcare administration associate degree program takes 20 months to complete online. This institution is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools. Students who already have some healthcare education can transfer as many as 28 credits into this online associate program. 

24. Associate of Applied Science in Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist

Medical insurance plays a major role in today’s healthcare system, at least in the United States. The need for doctors’ offices and hospitals to handle a massive amount of extensive insurance forms has created positions dedicated solely to insurance billing and coding. That reality makes billing and coding a strong career choice. 

Associate degree holders with a background in insurance billing and coding can work in doctors’ offices, hospitals, outpatient medical facilities, nursing homes and home healthcare services. Students can use this college degree to prepare for jobs such as: 

• Insurance billing and coding specialist
• Medical clerk
• Insurance claims analyst
• Medical office assistant
• Health information specialist

Associate degree programs in this field typically include coursework in:

• Medical terminology
• Coding for procedures and diagnoses
• Computer databases for managing patient information

Where to Earn an Insurance Billing and Coding Associate Degree Fast

Herzing University offers an Insurance Billing and Coding Specialist online associate program. The curriculum takes 20 months to complete and prepares students for professional certifications such as: 

• The National Healthcareer Association’s Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS) Certification 
• The American Academy of Professional Coders’ Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Certification
• The American Health Information Management Association’s Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) Certification

25. Associate of Applied Science in Fire Science

Another online associates degree to consider is an associate degree in fire science. Studying fire science at the associate degree level prepares graduates for a variety of firefighting and emergency services roles in their communities. Through a fire science curriculum, students typically take classes in the following areas: 

• Fire prevention
• Firefighter safety
• Defense planning
• Firefighting strategy
• Hazardous materials management
• Building codes and code inspection

RELATED: The 10 Best Online Fire Science Degree Bachelor’s Programs

Where to Earn a Fire Science Associate Degree Fast

The fastest online associate degrees in fire science currently available are programs that welcome transfer credit hours and award credit for work experience and military service. 

Take the associate in fire science program offered through Purdue University Global as an example. Purdue’s fire science associate degree is technically a two-year program, but students can finish faster if they have prior education or work experience to apply. If you already have some firefighting experience gained through serving in the military, you might be interested in Purdue’s PME2Degree, in particular. Your military service experience can help reduce the time it will take you to get an associate degree. Even better, the U.S. Fire Administration also recognizes Purdue University as an official Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education institution (FESHE), so students can trust that they’re getting a great education. 

Another option to consider for a fast associate degree in fire science if you have prior college coursework is the American Military University. American Military University is part of the American Public University System and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Although AMU’s 60-credit online Associate of Science in Fire Science program normally takes two years to complete, the school allows transfer students to bring up to 45 credits of prior college coursework with them. With the maximum amount of transfer credits, you could finish your degree in just one term. This program is accredited by the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. Courses can be eight to 16 weeks long.

Conclusion

For students who are eager to earn a degree quickly, accelerated associate’s programs are a fast way to achieve this goal.

RELATED: 50 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs

Taking advantage of accelerated programs, competency-based curricula and transfer credits can help you earn your associate degree faster than you ever thought possible.

Our Fast Degree Series

– Fastest Overall Programs
– Fastest Online Associates Degrees
– Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Master’s Degrees
– Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

Related Resources: 

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

50 Highest Paying Associate Degree Jobs

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree?

What Salary Can I Expect With a Human Resources Management Degree?

What Degree Do I Need to Be an Information Technology Specialist?

For Further Reading: 

Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

Exciting Jobs: The Top 15 Jobs for Adrenaline Seekers

The post 25 Fastest Online Associates Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Our list of the top 10 accounting degree programs draws from national rankings, achievements and reputations to present you with everything you need to know about the best accounting schools in the United States. The list includes public schools to private schools, institutions with various religious affiliations, and schools at every price point from $5,000 to $50,000 per year. Each of these colleges and universities is accredited and highly accomplished, so the real question is, which school is right for you?

1. University of Texas–Austin

One of the largest universities in the United States holds the distinction of being the nation’s best accounting school, according to U.S. News & World Report. The University of Texas at Austin is a public institution that has repeatedly earned recognition from publications like Forbes and Kiplinger for providing a great education at a great value – especially for in-state students. It’s held the top spot on U.S. News & World Report’s undergraduate accounting programs list for seven years now.

Not only are UT’s accounting programs ranked the best in the nation at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, but its undergraduate and graduate business programs as a whole earned high marks, too. The accounting department at the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business offers degree programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D. levels.

The typical undergraduate degree is the Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting degree. Through a minimum of 21 credits of accounting coursework, this program prepares students for work in the private sector or with government agencies. Students in this program take undergraduate accounting classes in accounting foundations and fundamentals, managerial and financial accounting, financial statement analysis, auditing, taxation and accounting career options. They can also conduct independent research and gain hands-on experience through practicum and internship opportunities. The school also offers a finance degree program that includes an emphasis in accounting, with both corporate and financial institution tracks available. Beyond the undergraduate degree, students can pursue a Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) degree or a Ph.D.

Location: Austin, TX

Enrollment: 39,523 undergraduate students

Tuition: $10,738 in-state or $38,126 out-of-state

2. University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign

Another public institution, the University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign, takes the second-in-the-nation spot on U.S. News & World Report’s rankings, and on our top 10 list. The College of Business at the University of Illinois offers four accounting degrees at various levels of study:

• The Bachelor of Science in Accountancy
• The Master of Accounting Science
• The Master of Science in Accountancy
• The Master of Science in Tax (Chicago-based)
• The Ph.D. in Accountancy

All programs offered under the University of Illinois Department of Accountancy emphasize a number of factors, such as:

• Active learning methods
• Accounting classes that work in conjunction with general education coursework
• Broad-based introductory courses
• Integrated conceptual framework
• Up-to-date research findings
• Soft skills like communication and interpersonal skills
• The real-world experience to put all of this knowledge into practice

The four-year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy program includes coursework in subjects such as:

• Accounting measurement and disclosure
• Accounting decision-making
• Accounting control systems
• Accounting institutions and regulations
• Auditing standards
• Assurance and attestation
• The principles of taxation
• Advanced financial reporting
• Advanced income tax problems.

For students who aspire to take the certified public accountant (CPA) exam, the one-year Master of Accounting Science (MAS) program provides the required fifth year of study and expands students’ foundational accounting knowledge. MAS students can choose a concentration to pursue in detail, such as finance, taxation, supply chain management, business and public policy, corporate governance and information technology.

Location: Champaign, IL

Enrollment: 32,579 undergraduate students

Tuition: $15,636 in-state or $30,796 out-of-state

3. Brigham Young University–Provo

The school that ranks third on U.S. News & World Report’s undergraduate accounting rankings list also happens to be the most affordable of the top 10 schools. Brigham Young University at Provo is a private, religious institution. The school’s affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and its strict honor code mean it’s not the right fit for every student. However, an annual tuition rate of just $5,150 for members of the Mormon Church and $10,300 for non-members makes the university a great value.

The BS Accountancy program at Brigham Young University is part of the Marriott School of Management and, more narrowly, the School of Accountancy. Students in the undergraduate accounting program take courses in accounting, business, management and economics, such as:

• Principles of Accounting
• Cost and managerial accounting
• Financial accounting
• Fundamentals of taxation
• Financial statement auditing
• Business and accounting information systems
• Business law in the environment
• Supply chain and operations
• Organizational effectiveness
• Communication in organizational settings
• Financial management
• Marketing management
• Management information systems
• Ethics for management
• Managerial finance
• Strategic management
• Economic principles and problems

For graduate students, Brigham Young University also offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program. Students of this program can choose from a variety of emphasis options, including Professional Stem or Tax Stem, an Accounting Information Systems track, a Ph.D. prep program and a dual degree option that awards a Juris Doctor (law school degree) along with the MAcc.

Location: Provo, UT

Enrollment: 26,674 undergraduate students

Tuition: $5,150 for members of the Mormon Church or $10,300 for non-members

4. University of Notre Dame

Another private, religious institution with a top-ranked accounting program is the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. The school, tied for fourth place on U.S. News & World Report’s undergraduate accounting programs list, is known for its Catholic affiliation and “Fighting Irish” sports teams, particularly football. Bloomberg Businessweek has repeatedly ranked the University of Notre Dame’s undergraduate business program the best in the nation.

Accountancy is one of five majors offered by Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business and one of 65 total undergraduate majors. Accounting students take introductory through advanced courses in accounting, including classes like:

• Accounting measurement and disclosure
• Audit and assurance services
• Business law
• Corporate financial reporting
• Ethics in accounting
• Federal taxation
• International accounting
• Strategic cost management

A unique Decision Processes in Accounting course helps students develop their problem-solving skills. Students also attain hands-on work experience preparing tax returns as part of the school’s Tax Assistance Program for low-income individuals. Besides the technical, analytical and business skills necessary for accounting success, the accountancy program at Notre Dame also emphasizes soft skills necessary for success, including communication, teamwork and professional responsibility. Despite it being a four-year program, the majority of Notre Dame undergraduate accounting students are able to strategically use “AP credits and overloads” to meet the 150 semester hours requirement to attain a CPA license without having to spend another year in school.

If you begin your education at Notre Dame, chances are good that you’ll want to stay their throughout your studies. The school has a 98 percent freshman retention rate, U.S. News reported, which means very few students transfer to another school or drop out. The University of Notre Dame also had one of the best six-year graduation rates of all schools on the list, with 96 percent of students attaining their degrees.

Location: Notre Dame, IN

Enrollment: 8,448 undergraduate students

Tuition and fees: $47,929

5. University of Pennsylvania

Tied with Notre Dame for fourth place on U.S. News & World Report’s accounting rankings list is the University of Pennsylvania. This Philadelphia-based Ivy League school known for its famous founder, Benjamin Franklin, is another institution with extraordinarily high freshman retention and six-year graduation rates – 98 and 96 percent respectively.

Accounting studies at the University of Pennsylvania fall within the territory of the Wharton School, which happens to be the first collegiate business school in the world. Students at the Wharton School graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Economics degree. Instead of “majors,” students pursue “concentrations” within that broader economics program, which they usually don’t declare until the end of their sophomore years of study. Students in the accounting concentration complete coursework in subjects such as:

• Financial accounting
• Cost accounting
• Auditing
• International accounting
• Taxes and tax planning
• Business strategy
• Managerial accounting
• Accounting for mergers and acquisitions
• Corporate valuation
• Accounting for decision-making and control

If this school sounds like the right choice for you, make sure your application shines. The University of Pennsylvania happens to be the most selective school in the top 10 accounting programs list, accepting just 10.4 percent of applicants. This selectivity allows the school to have a faculty to student ration of just five to one, which translates to personal attention and small class sizes for non-lecture hall courses.

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Enrollment: 10,406 undergraduate students

Tuition and fees: $49,536

 6. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California (USC), sixth on U.S. News & World Report’s undergraduate accounting programs list, is another school with a high freshman retention rate – 97 percent. Accounting students at the private research university are part of the Leventhal School of Accounting, itself part of the Marshall School of Business. The curriculum emphasizes technical proficiency, real-world style teamwork and communication, critical-thinking and analytical skills. Students can learn about global business practices both in the classroom and, if desired, through study abroad opportunities.

For ambitious students who already know they want to go to grad school, USC’s Progressive Master’s Degree program allows undergraduate students to get a head start on earning advanced degrees. In a total of five years, they can graduate with both their bachelor’s degree in accounting and either a Master of Accounting (MAcc) degree or a Master of Business Taxation (MBT) degree.

Besides its top-notch accounting program and its status as top national university, most innovative school and best value school, USC is known for its extracurricular activities. More than 3,500 students take part in Greek life in one of the 60+ fraternity and sorority chapters. All told, the school boasts more than 700 student organizations of various kinds, so there’s something for every student and every interest.

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Enrollment: 19,000 undergraduate students

Tuition: $49,464

7. Indiana University–Bloomington

In spite of the odds, Indiana schools actually snagged two spots on the top 10 list. The Indiana University at Bloomington placed seventh on U.S. News and World Report’s rankings. With in-state tuition at just $10,388 a year, the school is an especially great value for Indiana residents.

Indiana University is home to more than 550 degree programs at every level from bachelor’s to doctoral. All of the university’s five accounting programs – the B.S., M.S., M.B.A., M.P.A. and D.B.A. degrees – are part of IU’s Kelley School of Business. At the heart of a business education at Indiana University is the Integrative Core (I-Core), a group of four courses taken over the course of one semester that emphasize the interrelated aspects of business, real-world decision-making and intensive teamwork experiences. Accounting students, in particular, will take introductory through advanced classes in subjects such as:

• Foundations of accounting
• Cost accounting
• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Cost management
• Management decisions and financial reporting
• Tax analysis and decision making
• Global business
• Accounting information systems
• Auditing & assurance services
• Research in accounting and auditing
• Communication for accountants

If the Indiana University accounting curriculum sounds like the right choice for you, there’s good news. This university had the highest acceptance rate of any school in the undergraduate accounting top 10, admitting 76.1 percent of applicants.

Location: Bloomington, IN

Enrollment: 38,364 undergraduate students

Tuition: $10,388 in-state and $33,740 out-of-state

8. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Eighth on the U.S. News & World Report undergraduate accounting rankings is another school with an extraordinary record of retaining its freshmen students. The University of Michigan has been around since 1817. In addition to being ranked among the top public schools and the most innovative schools, the university prides itself on small class sizes, with a 15-to-1 faculty to student ration and fewer than 50 students in 84 percent of undergraduate classes.

Undergraduate accounting students at the University of Michigan will graduate with a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree from the Ross School of Business. However, core courses in accounting concepts and financial and managerial accounting provide students with a strong background. Students can then choose to use their elective courses to delve deeper into specific tracks like public accounting, consulting, finance and general management.

As if the highly-ranked academics aren’t enough of a reason to consider the University of Michigan, students are also drawn to what’s outside the classroom. The school is home to upwards of 1,000 research opportunities for students in various fields. There are also 60 sororities and fraternities and more than 1,400 total organizations on campus for students to take part in. Then there’s the location. Ann Arbor is “one of the best college towns in the country,” according to U.S. News & World Report.

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Enrollment: 27,027 undergraduate students

Tuition: $13,856 to $15,602 in-state and $43,476 to $46,528 out-of-state

9. New York University

Ninth in the nation on U.S. News & World Report’s undergrad accounting list is New York University, the largest private college in the country. Located in the heart of the Manhattan, the school gives students a taste of what it’s like to live and learn in a bustling city like the Big Apple.

NYU’s Leonard N. Stern School of Business houses its undergraduate accounting program. Students in this program choose either a general accounting track or a CPA track. Students who complete the CPA track meet all education requirements necessary to sit for the CPA examination in New York.

Regardless of which track they pursue, undergrad accounting students at NYU take fundamental and advanced coursework in subjects such as:

• Financial accounting
• Managerial accounting
• Auditing
• Business law
• International accounting
• Taxation
• Accounting for mergers and acquisitions

Accounting students at NYU often choose to double major or co-major in related fields like finance and information systems. Graduates of the NYU undergraduate accounting program find work in the public and private sectors, including with the “Big 4” accounting firms Deloitte & Touche, Ernst & Young LLP, KPMG and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

Location: New York, NY

Enrollment: 24,985 undergraduate students

Tuition: $48,282

 10. University of Florida

Rounding out the top 10 undergraduate accounting programs in the nation is the University of Florida. Besides being the oldest university in the state, the school is also known for its size. The 2,000 campus houses more than 900 buildings, 170 of which contain classrooms and laboratories. With an in-state tuition of just $6,310, this school is a particularly great value for Florida residents.

Accounting is one of more than 100 undergraduate majors available to University of Florida students. The Fisher School of Accounting, which hosts the undergraduate program as well as four graduate-level options of study, is part of the University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business. After four years of study, students will graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting (BSAc) degree. They will take a combination of accounting, business core, general education and elective courses.

Required business core classes include coursework in subjects like:

• Marketing
• Operations
• Supply chain management
• International business
• Business finance
• Statistics for business decisions
• The legal environment of business

Classes required for the accounting major include:

• Financial accounting,
• Managerial accounting
• Cost accounting
• Financial reporting
• Auditing
• Taxation
• Business processes and accounting information systems

Students who want to attain a graduate education can speed up the process of earning their degree with the University of Florida’s “3/2 Program.” This program allows students to begin their graduate studies early and earn both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in just five years. Students in the 3/2 Program can choose from auditing, taxation and generalist accounting tracks as they pursue their Master of Accounting (MAcc) degree.

Location: Gainesville, FL

Enrollment: 33,720 undergraduate students

Tuition and fees: $6,310 in-state and $28,588 out-of-state

The post Top 10 Accounting Degree Programs appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

RELATED: 23 Fastest Online Bachelor’s Degree Programs

Often, accelerated programs and online learning go hand in hand, especially at the master’s degree level. An online program that allows students to work at their own pace is also ideal for allowing ambitious students to finish more coursework in a shorter timeframe. Our list of the fastest online master’s programs identifies graduate degrees in a variety of disciplines that can be completed online at accredited colleges and universities in less than the traditional two years of study.

What Is the Fastest Master’s Degree?

There are several factors that can affect how long it takes to earn a master’s degree. Accelerated online graduate degrees commonly possess one or more of the following features: a smaller number of credits required for graduation, an accelerated course format or degree structure, a policy of accepting a considerable number of transfer credits and a subject that fits well into an accelerated format.

Smaller Credit Requirements

Progress toward a masters degree is typically measured in credits, or credit hours. Most graduate-level courses are worth three credits or four credits, but some classes – like short modules and seminar courses – may sometimes count for only a single credit hour.

One way to reduce the time it takes to earn your master’s degree online is to choose a program that requires fewer credits. Master’s degree programs typically consist of at least 30 credits of college study at the graduate level. However, some master’s degree programs, particularly those in specialized areas, may require up to 45, 50 or even 60 credit hours of graduate coursework.

Naturally, it takes significantly less time to complete 30 credits than 50 credits. If you want to earn your degree quickly, you should look for a master’s degree program in your field of study that requires only 30 credits to 40 credits. Many of the master’s degree programs on our list require 30, 32 or 36 college credits.

Accelerated Formats and Structures

Even the best student can only handle so heavy a workload at a time, especially if they have obligations outside of graduate school. Courses and programs that are offered in an accelerated format can allow students to complete their curriculum faster. Students in one of the best online accelerated master’s programs may take more than what is typically considered to be a full load of graduate-level coursework per term.

Often, students take advantage of the accelerated formats the quickest master’s programs offer by taking a smaller number of courses at a time spread over many short academic terms. Instead of taking three or four graduate courses per semester over two long semesters, a student might instead take one or two classes during each eight-week term. Under this sort of accelerated structure, a student may complete 10 to 12 classes in a year instead of just six to eight. Students may also prefer this learning format because it allows them to focus on just one or two courses at a time instead of spreading their efforts and attention too thin.

RELATED: Top 25 Fastest Online Doctorate Degrees

Because this program structure depends on short, frequent terms, an accelerated online master’s program is likely to offer multiple start dates throughout the academic year. This type of program enables students to start their online degree program sooner, without having to wait for traditional fall or spring start dates to enroll.

Transfer-Friendly Policies

Another way to speed up your education is by making sure you get full credit for all of your work, even prior coursework. If this isn’t your first attempt at graduate school, you should look for an institution that will allow you to transfer as many of your prior credits as possible, so you’re not stuck doing extra work to get your degree. A school with a generous transfer credit policy may allow students to transfer as many as 12 credits – a third (or more) of the credits required to earn a typical master’s degree.

Some schools also offer competency-based programs that allow you to get credit for what you already know – like the knowledge you gained on the job. Usually, colleges and universities that award credit for competency, rather than strictly for course completion, count scores on proctored exams, portfolio assessments and other methods of evaluation as progress toward graduation. Choosing a nationally ranked school that awards prior learning credits is a great choice to help working professionals who are earning a master’s degree finish their education faster.

The Best Subjects for an Accelerated Online Master of Science

Earning a master’s degree can improve your career prospects and your job security in any number of fields. However, some subjects lend themselves to accelerated online studies more effectively than others.

Naturally, a program that requires a great deal of clinical fieldwork can be more challenging to complete online and in an accelerated format than other programs. This is why many of the health sciences and health-related degrees on our list take closer to 16 months, a year and a half, or just under two years, rather than the degree plan being something students can complete in 1 year.

However, programs that require less highly technical knowledge and/or those that build upon existing knowledge and fieldwork often allow for shorter completion times. Some of the subjects in which accelerated online master’s degrees are commonly offered include:

• Business (business administration
• Education
• Criminal justice
• Computer science

This isn’t an exhaustive list of the types of online accelerated master’s program options graduate students may finish quickly. Whether you want to earn a masters degree in human sciences, policy analysis, public relations, global studies, other languages or the arts – like a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) or Master of Music degree – national universities offer accelerated learning programs that can be completed quickly online. An online accelerated master’s program can help you reach career goals in a wide array of real-world industries and occupations.

Accelerated Master’s Programs in Business Management and Administration

Business programs are some of the most common accelerated online master’s options out there. Business students pursuing a master’s degree online may opt for an online MBA, a master’s in business management, human resource management, project management, organizational performance and organizational leadership, business analytics and other specialization options.

Certain business programs are tailored toward management and administration in specialized areas. For example, pursuing an online college degree in public administration prepares students to work in administrative roles in government agencies and entities, while master’s programs in engineering management and healthcare administration allow students to achieve career aspirations involving leadership roles in the engineering and healthcare industries, respectively.

What can you do with an accelerated master’s degree in business? Many of these degree programs help students develop a range of useful skills, including managerial skills, skills in conflict resolution, critical thinking skills, a working knowledge of employment law and more. An accountancy program can help you become a certified public accountant (CPA), while an accelerated master in finance can help students become senior-level financial analysts.

Some online MBA program, accountancy program and other business master degree program options have earned programmatic accreditation from organizations like the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), the International Association for Business Schools and Programs (IABSP), and the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).

Accelerated Master’s Programs in Education

Many online education degree program options offered with an accelerated track are teacher education degrees intended for working teachers. Master’s in education degrees that fit into this category include master’s in early childhood education and early childhood studies degrees, K-12 education programs, special education online degrees and music education degrees. Aside from these graduate-level teacher education programs, Master of Education program options may include topics like educational leadership, higher education administration, instructional design and learning technology.

Accelerated Master’s Programs in Criminal Justice

Online masters in criminal justice programs often include a variety of specialization options ranging from criminology and law enforcement studies to emergency management and homeland security. Again, these programs are often well-suited to adult learners with considerable work experience in these fields.

Accelerated Master’s Programs in Computer Science and Computer Technology

Another category of accelerated online master’s degrees that naturally works well with computer-based learning methods is computer science and computer technology. Tech-savvy students may pursue online degrees in cyber security, information systems and data analysis.

Accelerated Master’s Programs in Health, STEM Fields and Other Areas

Some master’s degree programs in health science and other science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields are also available on an accelerated online format. Nursing, nutritional health and behavioral sciences are just a few of the health-focused online Master of Science programs students can consider. An online graduate program like one of these can prepare students for job prospects in settings like a nursing home or care facility, hospital, clinic or other type of medical or healthcare facility.

Types of Online Master’s Degree Program Options

Many master’s degrees are Master of Science (MS) programs, but these degrees aren’t the only option for online graduate students. Other programs may award a Master of Arts (MA), Master of Education (MEd) or Master of Engineering (MEng) degree, to name a few examples.

RELATED: 100 Most Affordable Online Graduate Schools

The 40 Fastest Online Programs for Graduate Students

Many of the fastest online master’s degrees are available with just a year and a half of study, one year of study or, at certain institutions, less than a full year of study. The accelerated online master’s degrees offered at each of the 40 schools listed below are among the 40 fastest online masters degrees in the nation, and they’re sure to impress students who are eager to jump right into accelerated online programs.

Whether you’re interested in a master’s in education, an online master of business degree, a master’s in engineering management or something completely different, you’re likely to find an accelerated online master’s program for you on our list below.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

At Southern New Hampshire University, online students can choose from more than 100 distance-learning master’s degree programs. Many of these programs are available in accelerated formats that allow them to be completed in as little as 18 months, 15 months or even just 12 months.

One of the shortest online programs available at Southern New Hampshire University is the one-year MBA program. Students pursuing an MBA at Southern New Hampshire University can choose from 17 distinct concentration areas, including finance, entrepreneurship, the music business and information technology management.

Numerous other degree programs at Southern New Hampshire University can be completed in just 15 months. In the area of education, these programs include the Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and the Master of Science in Higher Education Administration.

Accelerated programs related to the fields of business and management include the 15-month Master of Science in Management, Master of Science in Sports Management, Master of Science in Applied Economics and Master of Science in Project Management and Operations. There are 15-month master’s degree programs in history, English, criminal justice and data analytics. Southern New Hampshire University even offers accelerated options in healthcare-related fields. The Master of Science in Healthcare Administration can be completed in as little as 15 months, while the Master of Science in Nursing takes 18 months to finish.

To allow students to complete their master’s degree programs faster, Southern New Hampshire State University offers five start dates throughout the school year and offers a generous transfer credit policy. Generally, students with prior graduate study can transfer up to 12 credits – a third of their curriculum – to this program. Additionally, by not requiring graduate admissions tests like the GRE or GMAT, the school removes obstacles that delay or prevent prospective students from applying.

As an institution, Southern New Hampshire University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education. The school’s individual degree programs have earned programmatic accreditation from numerous organizations, including the following:

• The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• The Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
• The Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP)
• The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)
• The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology)
• The New Hampshire State Department of Education for Teacher Certification

View general online master’s program information.

2. California Baptist University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-16 Months

If you don’t mind earning your online degree at a school with a strong religious mission, consider applying to California Baptist University. The Christian-founded Riverside-based institution is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

To facilitate accelerated online learning, California Baptist University offers accelerated online or hybrid courses with start dates every eight weeks. These programs are geared toward adult students, making them an even better option for full-time professionals and students with family obligations.

The average completion time for many online master’s degree programs at California Baptist University is just 12 months, including the Master of Science in Accounting, Master of Science in Information Technology Management and Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies.

Business- and administration-related accelerated programs include the Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership, the Master of Arts in Strategic Communication, Master of Public Administration and Master of Business Administration programs in the specializations of accounting and general management. Education is another popular field of study at this institution, where online students can pursue a Master of Science in Education with specializations in Curriculum and Instruction, Early Childhood Studies, Educational Leadership, Special Education and Transitional Kindergarten.

Healthcare-related options include the 1-year Master of Healthcare Administration and Master of Science in Kinesiology, as well as the 16-month Master of Public Health. The school’s online Master of Science in Counseling Psychology degree is unique because courses are offered in different formats like an asynchronous online format and a virtual hybrid format that allows for real-time distance-learning interactions.

View general online master’s program information.

3. University of North Texas

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

With eight-week accelerated course formats and five start dates throughout the year, the University of North Texas offers plenty of fast online master’s degree options.

Students seeking an online accelerated master’s degree from the University of North Texas can earn their MBA in half a dozen concentrations: marketing, marketing analytics, sport entertainment management, strategic management, supply chain analytics and organizational behavior and HR management.

In the field of education, accelerated master’s degree programs at the University of North Terxas include Master of Education in Educational Leadership and the Master of Science in Early Childhood Education.

The Master of Science in Learning Technologies program exists at the intersection between education and technology. More tech-focused programs include the Master of Science in Advanced Data Analytics and the Master of Science in Digital Communication Analytics.

View general online master’s program information.

4. Saint Leo University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-24 Months

Saint Leo University bills itself as “one of the first universities in America to offer online degree programs,” so it’s no surprise that the Florida institution offers dozens of online master’s degree options.

The Catholic liberal arts-based university offers an MBA program with a variety of distinct concentrations, as well seven different Master of Education degree options and seven specializations of Master of Science in Criminal Justice programs. Other areas of online study include creative writing, theology, psychology and social work.

Online graduate students at this institution typically take one to two classes per eight-week term, six of which run – often, with no break in between terms – in an academic year. Students who take the maximum number of courses per term and work toward their degree non-stop may be able to complete many of these degree programs within a year, while those who take just one course per term will be closer to the two-year mark by the time they graduate.

When taken with advanced standing, the full-time Master of Social Work is one of Saint Leo University’s abundant online master’s degree programs that can be completed in as little as one year. However, for students without advanced standing, this program requires two years of full-time study, as does the school’s creative writing program that includes three summer residencies. For prospective students who haven’t yet earned an undergraduate degree, Saint Leo University offers “3+1” accelerated degree programs in three subject areas that allow students to rapidly complete both their bachelor’s and their master’s degrees in a shorter timeframe.

View general online master’s program information.

5. Boston University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

Boston University has a 20-year history of offering award-winning online education programs, so this school is a solid choice for students looking for a credible online master’s degree program. Coincidentally, Boston University also happens to offer 20 online degrees at that master’s level.

These degree options range from topics like insurance management and data analytics to gastronomy, a multidisciplinary program concerned with the role of food in society. BU’s Master of Science in Project Management degree program can be completed in 12 to 20 months, while the Master of Science in Enterprise Risk Management degree program consists of one and a half years to two years of study.

Education degrees are popular options and include programs in music education, art education, higher education administration and curriculum and teaching. Business-related subjects of online graduate study at Boston University include financial management, insurance management, global marketing management, project management, supply chain management, business analytics and taxation law.

Other degree options fall under the discipline of computers and technology, including subjects such as software development and computer information systems, or healthcare, including health communication and health informatics.

View general online master’s program information.

6. Indiana Wesleyan University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20+ Months

Indiana Wesleyan University offers more than 80 online degrees at the master’s level. Religion is important at this Christian institution – associated with the Wesleyan Church – that is headquartered in Marion, IN, and regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. As such, several online degree programs pertain to the subjects of ministry and divinity.

However, you would be mistaken if you assumed that the only online programs the school offers at the graduate degree level are religious in nature. The Master of Business Administration degree programs are available in eight areas of specialization and generally take 18 months to just shy of two years to complete. Master of Science in Accounting programs, which include three distinct concentration areas, take 18 months to complete, as does the Master of Science in Human Resource Management. The completion time for a Master of Science in Management program, however, is listed as 15+ months.

Programs in education that can be completed in as little as 12 months include the Master of Science in Early Childhood Teaching (for licensed teachers), the Master of Science in Elementary Teaching, while education degrees in other subjects, like special education, teaching English as a new language and curriculum and instruction, take longer to complete.

Students at Indiana Wesleyan University typically focus on one five- to eight-week course at a time.

View general online master’s program information.

7. Ball State University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20 Months

Ball State University in Muncie, IN, offers 25 online master’s degree options. Many of these programs can be completed in less than two years, but certain programs are even faster to finish. The Master of Arts in Business Education takes just one year to complete. Students can earn the Master of Arts in Educational Psychology degree in less than a year if they take a full course load every semester, but most students take closer to 18 months to complete this program.

The Master of Arts in Educational Administration and Supervision degree at Ball State University can be completed in as little as 18 months, as can the Master of Arts in Foundational Mathematics Teaching in the Community College and the Master of Arts in Secondary Education.

Students in a variety of undergraduate majors at Ball State University can also speed up their graduate education through the school’s Accelerated Master’s Program.

View general online master’s program information.

8. Trine University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-15 Months

Trine University in Angola, IN, is a private Midwest university that dates back to 1884 and is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Outside of degrees in the health sciences, which typically require considerable clinical fieldwork, most of Trine University’s online master’s degrees can be completed in 12 months. Some of the degrees you could earn from Trine University in just one year include the Master of Science in Business Analytics, the Master of Science in Criminal Justice, the Master of Science in Engineering Management, the Master of Education in Early Childhood Education and the Master of Business Administration with seven specialized tracks.

View general online master’s program information.

9. Northcentral University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20 Months

Northcentral University is an online nonprofit institution that is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) and is affiliated with the National University System based in La Jolla, CA. Accelerated online master’s degrees at Northcentral University that can be completed in just 12 months include the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and the accelerated MBA program. Students can earn a Master of Arts in Teaching in just 13 months.

If you’re willing to spend a little more time on your studies, your options are more varied. In a year and three months, you could earn a Master of Education in Educational Leadership or a Master of Science in Technology Management. A 16-month completion time is possible for the Master of Education and Master of Human Resource Management degrees, as well as for Master of Science degrees in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, Accounting, Industrial-Organizational Psychology, Forensic Psychology, Child and Adolescent Developmental Psychology and Health Psychology.

Three psychology master’s degree programs – the Master of Arts in Psychology, the Master of Science in Sport Psychology and the Master of Science in Educational Psychology, take 18 months to complete. In 19 months, you could earn a Master of Public Administration degree. The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis is a 20-month program.

View general online master’s program information.

10. Concordia University System

Time to Degree Completion: 12-16 Months

The Concordia University System is a system of higher education that was founded in the Lutheran Christain tradition and today has campuses in Michigan, Texas, California, Illinois, Nebraska, Minnesota and Wisconsin.

Each campus offers its own set of online programs. The Accelerated MBA program at Concordia University Chicago is a 1-year program. At Concordia St. Paul, the Master of Science in Athletic Administration and Coaching can be completed in 18 months. Concordia University Texas offers a 16-month Master of Education in Instructional Leadership. This is just a sampling of the numerous online master’s degree programs offered by the Concordia University System.

View general online master’s program information for each campus:

• Concordia University Ann Arbor
• Concordia University Texas
• Concordia University Irvine
• Concordia University Chicago
• Concordia University Nebraska
• Concordia St. Paul
• Concordia University Wisconsin

11. Benedictine University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

Benedictine University is a Roman Catholic-affiliated institution located in Lisle, IL, that aims to serve an “inclusive academic community” while still holding true to its Benedictine tradition and its religious mission and values.

Benedictine University offers a one-year accelerated MBA program that includes potential areas of study like entrepreneurship, accounting, marketing management, financial management, international business and healthcare administration. Students in the accelerated MBA program take two courses per eight-week academic term. Another fast master’s degree program is the online Master of Science in Nutrition and Wellness degree, which can be completed in just 18 months.

If you can’t decide on just one master’s degree, why not go for both with a dual degree program? Two of the dual master’s degrees offered by Benedictine University, the online Master of Business Administration/Master of Public Health (MBA/MPH) and the Master of Public Health/Master of Science in Management and Organizational Behavior, can be completed in the shortened timeframe of three and a half years.

Benedictine University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

12. Mercy College

Time to Degree Completion: 12-15 Months

At Mercy College in New York, students will find more than 30 total fully online degree programs, including both graduate and undergraduate options. Online course formats include both traditional asynchronous classes that have no set meeting times, online synched courses that utilize real-time meetings in a virtual classroom and online hybrid courses.

One-year master’s programs at Mercy College include the Master of Business Administration degree with nine concentration options, the Master of Science in Computer Science and the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership. The school also offers 15-month programs for registered nurses: the Master of Science in Nursing Administration and the Master of Science in Nursing Education. Another option for undergraduate students at Mercy College is a five-year combined bachelor’s degree and master’s degree program, which the school offers in subjects like cybersecurity and psychology.

Mercy College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

View general online master’s program information.

13. Gwynedd Mercy University

Time to Degree Completion: 12*-20 months

Gwynedd Mercy University in Gwynedd Valley, PA, offers an array of accelerated programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels, online and on campus, in the fields of education, business, nursing and counseling.

For students interested in earning a master’s degree online in less than two years, a program of particular interest is the 20-month Master of Science in Educational Administration. Students who start their undergraduate coursework at Gwynedd Mercy University can also take advantage of a fast-track 4+1 combined bachelor’s in business and MBA program to earn both degrees in a total of five years.

The school also offers numerous accelerated graduate certificate and certification programs that consist of as few as four courses in narrowly specialized areas of study. If you don’t necessarily need a master’s degree, these certificate options can help you build graduate-level knowledge in a matter of months, without the cost of a full degree.

Gwynedd Mercy University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. In the school’s accredited graduate programs, students take one seven-week class at a time, allowing them to focus on just one subject area.

View general online master’s program information.

14. Western Governors University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20 Months

Western Governors University is a fully online university established by the Western Governors’ Association – a group of U.S. governors – and accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The school emphasizes accessibility to higher education, curricula that focus on practical application in the workforce and affordability, charging a flat tuition rate per six-month term instead of per-credit tuition costs.

The shortest time to earn an online master’s degree at this institution is 12 months, and the degrees that you can quickly earn in this timeframe include the Master of Business Administration and the Master of Science in Management & Leadership.

Several master’s degree programs at Western Governors University can be completed in 18 months, including:

• The Master of Arts in Teaching, Elementary Education
• The Master of Arts in Teaching, English Education (Secondary)
• The Master of Arts in English as a Second Language (ESL) or English Language Learning (ELL)
• The Master of Arts in Mathematics Primary Education
• The Master of Arts in Teaching, Mathematics Education (Middle Grades)
• The Master of Arts in Teaching, Mathematics Education (Secondary)
• The Master of Arts in Teaching, Science Education (Secondary)
• The Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction
• The Master of Education in Learning and Technology
• The Master of Science in Nursing Informatics (BSN to MSN)

Additionally, students can complete the Master of Science in Information Technology Management degree in 20 months.

View general online master’s program information.

15. University of Charleston

Time to Degree Completion: 11-16 Months

At the University of Charleston in West Virginia, three of the five online master’s degree programs available can be completed in under two years. In fact, students can finish the school’s Master of Science in Business and Data Analytics in just 11 months, making this degree one of the fastest master’s program options in the country. In less than a year, you could be ready to pursue leadership roles in the areas of applied artificial intelligence and big data.

If your interests aren’t quite so technical in nature, other accelerated online degree options at this university include the Master of Business Administration and the Master of Science in Strategic Leadership, both of which can be completed in as little as 16 months.

View general online master’s program information.

16. Purdue University Global

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

Purdue University Global is the online learning hub of the well-respected Purdue University System. Online programs at Purdue are geared toward the needs of working adult students. In addition to accelerated course formats, online learning options at Purdue University include Competency-Based ExcelTrack programs and alternative pathways to earning college credits for what the student already knows.

The fastest online master’s degrees you will find at Purdue University are the one-year Master of Professional Studies and Master of Science in Legal Studies programs. Through the Purdue University System, online students can also complete a number of distinct graduate degrees in just 18 months, including:

• The Master of Arts in Teaching
• The Master of Science in Education
• The Master of Science in Higher EducationThe Master of Science in Instructional Design and Technology
• The Master of Science in Health Education
• The Master of Health Care Administration
• The Master of Health Informatics
• The Master of Health Information Management
• The Master of Public Health
• The Master of Public Administration
• The Master of Science in Human Services
• The Master of Science in Homeland Security and Emergency Management
• The Master of Science in Criminal Justice
• The Master of Science in Accounting

Purdue University is located in West Lafayette, IN, and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. The public research university consistently ranks well among national universities.

View general online master’s program information.

17. University of Miami

Time to Degree Completion: 16-20 Months

The University of Miami is a particularly strong option for current and prospective finance professionals looking to boost their credentials quickly. The fastest online master’s degree available from this institution is the 16-month Master of Finance degree.

If you’re interested in the business side of the music and performing arts industries, a Master of Arts in Music Industry or a Master of Arts in Live Entertainment Management degree, both of which can be completed in as little as 18 months, might be the right fit for you. The University of Florida’s accelerated programs also include the Master of Science in Education Sport Administration and the Master of Science in Education Applied Learning Sciences, both of which are 20-month degrees.

The University of Miami is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

View general online master’s program information.

18. Baker College

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

At Baker College in Owosso, MI, the fastest online master’s degrees include the one-year general MBA and a more specialized one-year MBA in Business Intelligence. Students can also pursue an 18-month Master of Science in Information Systems degree. Online courses at Baker College are offered through both traditional asynchronous formats and OnlineLive formats that utilize live, real-time virtual meetings.

Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

19. Central Michigan University

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months*

Central Michigan University, a public university with its main campus in Mount Pleasant, offers online learning options at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Online classes can be presented in 8-week, 12-week or 16-week formats. The quickest accelerated online master degree options at this institution are the one-year Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Administration and Master of Entrepreneurial Ventures degrees.

For undergraduates studying at Central Michigan University, the 4+1 accelerated graduate degree program allows you to double count 9 to 18 credits toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Under this program, undergraduates complete the first courses – up to 18 credits – of their master’s degree programs as part of their bachelor’s degree curriculum. Another benefit of this option is that the master’s-level courses students complete while registered as undergraduates are cheaper, since students pay undergraduate tuition for these classes.

This university is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

20. Thomas Edison State University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20 Months

At Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, NJ, online programs of study are available at every level, from associate’s degrees and undergraduate certificates to graduate certificates, master’s degrees and doctorates.

Thomas Edison State University is an adult-focused public university that offers numerous online MS and online MA options. The one-year degree options at Thomas Edison State University include the Master of Science in Management, the Master of Science in Human Resources Management and the Master of Science in Accounting, which is also available in a 20-month format. Earning a Master of Business Administration degree from Thomas Edison State University takes 15 months and prepares students to work in business roles in areas like accounting, finance, marketing, human resources management, healthcare management and data analytics.

Several graduate degree options for adult learners are available in 18-month formats, including the following:

• The Master of Public Service Leadership
• The Master of Science in Homeland Security
• The Master of Science in Information Technology
• The Master of Arts in Educational Leadership
• The Master of Arts in Educational Technology and Online Learning
• The Master of Arts in Liberal Studies

Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

View general online master’s program information.

21. Warner Pacific University

Time to Degree Completion: 7-18 Months

The single fastest online master’s degree on our list is the Accelerated Master of Arts in Teaching offered by Warner Pacific University. Full-time students who complete a full schedule of classes from May through August and a 15-week student teaching experience during the fall semester can complete this degree by December, but they must be ready to commit to taking both morning and afternoon classes throughout the summer and essentially working full-time in the classroom during their clinical teaching experience.

Students can also opt for other fast degree options in education. The Master of Education degree for licensed teachers can be completed in 18 months. There is also a 20-month part-time Master of Teaching option that consists of evening classes for students who need a less rigorous schedule.

Outside of degrees in education, Warner Pacific University offers an accelerated Master of Business Administration and a 4+1 combined degree business administration program that awards both a Bachelor of Business Administration and an MBA.

Warner Pacific University is located in Portland, OR, and is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

View general online master’s program information.

22. Capella University

Time to Degree Completion: 13-14 Months

Capella University, an online university headquartered in Minneapolis, MN, offers online instruction in dozens of graduate-level degree programs. The fastest online education options at the master’s level available at the school are the ones for which the institution offers its FlexPath format of study.

Under the FlexPath learning format, Capella University students take one or two courses at a time and complete their desired number of courses over a 12-week academic term for which they pay a flat tuition rate. The fastest FlexPath students can finish degrees like the following in as little as 14 months:

• Master of Science in General Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology: Industrial/Organizational Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology: Sport Psychology
• Master of Science in Psychology: Child and Adolescent Development
• Master of Science in Educational Psychology
• Master of Education in Teaching and Learning
• Master of Business Administration in Project Management
• Master of Business Administration: Self-Designed MBA
• Master of Business Administration in Health Care Management
• Master of Business Administration in Human Resource Management
• Master of Science in General Human Resource Management
• Master of Science in Human Resource Management in Health Care
• Master of Health Administration: General Health Administration
• Master of Health Administration in Health Care Informatics
• Master of Health Administration in Health Care Leadership

Even faster degree options are, surprisingly, graduate nursing programs. Capella University offers the following eight master’s degree programs in nursing that, with the FlexPath program, can be completed in just 13 months:

• Master of Science in Nursing in Care Coordination
• Master of Science in Nursing in Care Coordination (RN-to-MSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Education (RN-to-MSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Leadership and Administration
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Leadership and Administration (RN-to-MSN)
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Informatics
• Master of Science in Nursing in Nursing Informatics(RN-to-MSN)(13 months

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

23. Northeastern University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-20 Months

Northeastern University is a private research institution headquartered in Boston, MA, with campuses not only throughout the country but across the globe.

More than 30 of the master’s degree programs offered online at Northeastern University can be completed on a shorter timeline than the two years traditionally required for graduate school. In fact, more than 20 of these degrees can be completed within one year, and another seven programs can be completed in 18 months.

At Northeastern University, accelerated programs are available in a variety of specialized fields, including degrees in business, education, health, STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) subjects and more. The breadth of online master’s degree program options makes this school a great place for students from many backgrounds to advance their education in their given field.

View general online master’s program information.

24. Colorado Technical University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

Online classes at Colorado Technical University are just five weeks long, and new terms begin nine times each year. The mobile-friendly CTU Mobile platform makes online learning truly convenient and on your terms, since you can access your educational materials from a device like a smartphone or tablet.

The fastest online master’s degree at Colorado Technical University is the Master of Business Administration. In this one-year MBA program, students can choose from a dozen concentrations, including accounting, global leadership and logistics management.

In 18 months, students at Colorado Technical University could earn a Master of Science in Management degree or branch out into fields like criminal justice or technology with a Master of Science in Criminal Justice or a Master of Science in Information Technology.

View general online master’s program information.

25. National University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

National University is a veteran-founded private nonprofit institution that is located in San Francisco, CA, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

The accelerated online master’s degrees available from National University cover a wide range of subject areas, from business to criminal justice, computer science and even health. One year of study may be enough to complete either the Center for Creative Leadership Master of Business Administration (MBA) or the Master of Criminal Justice Leadership. It takes a minimum of 14 months to earn the Master of Science in Data Analytics degree. The Master of Public Health degree program requires 18 months of full-time study to complete.

National University’s four-week classes are some of the shortest courses out there, so you’ll never feel like your courses are dragging on. New terms start nine times each year, allowing students to jump into graduate school when it’s convenient for them and to keep pushing through until they reach their educational goals.

View general online master’s program information.

26. Eastern University

Time to Degree Completion: 10-18 Months

Eastern University’s two 10-month online master’s degree programs, the Master of Business Administration in Organizational Management and the Master of Science in Data Science, make the institution one of the fastest schools for online graduate study.

The school also offers seven distinct Master of Education degree programs that can each be completed in one year, as well as a 12-month Master of Arts in Theological and Cultural Anthropology. Additionally, a Master of Arts in Teaching: Classical Education degree takes at least 16 months to complete, and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership takes 18 months.

Eastern University is a Pennsylvania Christain institution that is based in St. Davids, PA, and is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

View general online master’s program information.

27. University of Arkansas

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

At the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, two master’s degree programs can be completed online in as little as 12 months. The Master of Social Work degree for students with advanced standing takes one year to finish online, including a year-long internship through which students acquire real-world experience. The Master of Science in Engineering Management degree can also be completed in this short timeframe.

Other accelerated programs at the University of Arkansas require 18 months of study. These graduate degree programs include the more technical Master of Science in Engineering, the Master of Education in Educational Technology and the Master of Science in Operations Management. E-learning students at the University of Arkansas also enjoy the benefit of getting to pay in-state tuition no matter where they live.

View general online master’s program information.

28. Full Sail University

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

At many institutions, only certain degree programs can be completed on an accelerated schedule. That’s not the case at Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL. Each of the 10 master’s degree programs offered online at Full Sail University can be completed in just 12 months. The accelerated offerings include:

• Master of Science in Business Intelligence
• Master of Science in Entertainment Business
• Master of Science in Digital Marketing
• Master of Science in Innovation & Entrepreneurship
• Master of Science in Entertainment Business: Sports Management
• Master of Science in Game Design
• Master of Science in Instructional Design & Technology
• Master of Arts in Public Relations
• Master of Arts in New Media Journalism
• Master of Fine Arts in Media Design

Full Sail University is a private for-profit institution that prizes hands-on experience and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.

View general online master’s program information.

29. Louisiana State University

Time to Degree Completion: 9-18 Months

One of the fastest graduate schools for online students is Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA. The degree with the shortest completion time here is the Master of Social Work, which students who qualify for advanced standing – those who already have a Bachelor of Social Work degree – can finish in as little as nine months.

Students can also go for a 10-month Master of Business Administration program, with MBA concentrations in 10 different fields, including data analytics, hospitality and casino management, family enterprise entrepreneurship, project management and international business. There is also an 18-month MBA degree option.

One-year master’s programs at Louisiana State University include programs in educational leadership, human resources, nonprofit administration, health administration and sport management.

View general online master’s program information.

30. University of South Carolina

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

The University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC, is a public research university that has been educating students for more than 200 years. The school offers a robust assortment of online graduate degree options from nine subject areas, including science and engineering, education, business, nursing and the arts.

Online courses at the University of South Carolina are offered in three separate 100% online formats. The fastest online master’s degrees at the University of South Carolina are the one-year full-time Master of Business Administration program and the Master of Science in Business Analytics, both offered through the Darla Moore School of Business. The school also offers an accelerated Master of Health Information Technology, an interdisciplinary program offered by the College of Engineering and Computing that can be completed in 18 months.

View general online master’s program information.

31. Indiana Tech

Time to Degree Completion: 12*-14 Months

At Indiana Tech in Fort Wayne, IN, there’s an accelerated master’s degree option for both graduate and undergraduate students. The standalone graduate program that can be completed the quickest is the Master of Business Administration – Professional Studies degree program. Over the course of 14 months – or potentially even less time – graduate students complete an MBA program with a curriculum customized to their unique interests and goals.

For Indiana Tech undergraduates, the path to a graduate business degree may be even shorter. Indiana Tech offers a Fast Track program that shortens undergraduate study in subjects like business administration and accounting to just three years and puts the student on the path to complete an MBA or a Master of Science in Management in just two additional semesters of full-time study. (Although the graduate program isn’t an option, the three-year bachelor’s degree format is also available to undergraduates majoring in criminal justice, psychology, pre-law, communication and recreation therapy.)

Indiana Tech is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

32. Grand Canyon University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

Grand Canyon University is a private, for-profit Christian institution of higher learning in Phoenix, AZ. The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The university’s online programs commonly have a shorter course duration and offer 52 start dates per year, so prospective students don’t need to wait long to start working toward their master’s degrees.

You can earn a graduate business degree in 12 to 18 months at Grand Canyon University, but doing so is a little tricky. Both the Online Master of Business Administration degree and the Master of Business Administration in Leadership degree are meant to take just shy of two years of study (22 months). However, if you already have a business administration background, you can get certain fundamental MBA courses waived to shorten the curriculum to 18 months. If you’re willing to double up on your courses at least three times during your studies, you could reduce the time it takes to graduate down to just 12 months.

If you’re not eager to make so many adjustments to shrink the time it takes to earn a graduate degree, Grand Canyon University does offer an online Master of Science in Information Assurance and Cybersecurity that is designed to be completed in 18 months. Like the MBA degree (assuming no waived course requirements or doubling up on classes), the Master of Science in Computer Science degree program can be completed in under two years.

View general online master’s program information.

33. University of New England

Time to Degree Completion: 16-24 Months

As the largest private university in Maine, the University of New England – regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education – has some excellent options to offer online graduate students, including those looking for a quick way to improve their credentials.

This university is credited with having offered the first fully online asynchronous accredited Master of Social Work degree program in the country, but that isn’t the only reason this school’s online MSW program is special. While the traditional program requires three years of study to complete, the advanced standing MSW program is the fastest online graduate degree option at this school, with a completion time of 16 months. The next fastest master’s degree options are the Master of Public Health and the Master of Healthcare Administration degrees, both of which can be completed in as little as 18 months.

Additionally, all four of the online Master of Science in Education degree programs offered at this institution – the general MSEd as well as specializations in Educational Leadership, Reading Specialist and Inclusion Education – may be completed in just under two years of study.

View general online master’s program information.

34. Rivier University

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

Rivier University in Nashua, NH, offers three online master’s degree programs that students can complete in just one year. The Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degree combines technical and business coursework to prepare students for roles like system architect, integrated systems designer, quality assurance analyst and information technology project manager.

Most of the MBA programs offered by Rivier University are two-year degree programs. However, two of these options – the MBA in Management and the MBA in Information Technology Management – can be completed in only one year.

Rivier University is embracing “open educational resources” over traditional (and expensive) textbooks, which is good news for students. Using a textb00k-free format for the MBA in Management degree program is saving students approximately $1,500 dollars, according to the school. The university is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

View general online master’s program information.

35. Columbia College

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

Columbia College in Missouri offers online master’s degrees in the fields of business administration, education and criminal justice. With six eight-week terms per year, students only have to take two courses per term to complete all of the requirements for a master’s degree in just 12 months. It’s an intensive workload, certainly, but it’s doable, especially if you’re able to make graduate school your full-time focus.

Another option to speed up your education in business, specifically, is by applying to Columbia College as an undergraduate and taking advantage of the combined undergraduate and graduate Accelerated MBA program to start working toward your master’s-level studies early – and have your first graduate-level classes count toward both degrees.

Columbia College is a liberal arts and sciences college that has garnered national recognition. The private nonprofit institution is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

36. South University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

South University in Savannah, GA, is a private university that dates back to 1899. The fastest program at South University is the Master of Science in Human Resources Management degree, which can be completed in as little as 12 months.

A number of other degree programs, including the Master of Public Administration, the general Master of Business Administration and the Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Administration, can be completed in as little as 16 months.

South University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

View general online master’s program information.

37. Upper Iowa University

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

Upper Iowa University in Fayette, IA, offers half a dozen online master’s degrees in various fields. For students in search of a fast online graduate degree, the standout program at Upper Iowa University is the Master of Healthcare Administration, a degree that the school advertises as taking as little as one year to complete.

Online learning at Upper Iowa University involves taking up to two courses per session, although graduate students more commonly focus on one class per session. There are two eight-week sessions in a traditional fall or spring semester, plus an accelerated six-week session in the summer.

Upper Iowa University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

View general online master’s program information.

38. George Washington University

Time to Degree Completion: 12-18 Months

George Washington University in Washington, D.C., offers more than half a dozen online master’s degree options, many in subjects that are fitting for the school’s location in the nation’s capital: homeland security, cybersecurity, political management and more. The private but federally chartered research institution is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The fastest online master’s degrees offered through George Washington University can be completed in as little as one year. These degrees include the Master in Management degree, the Master of Studies in Law degree, the Master of International Policy and Practice degree and the Master of Public Health degree, which is also available in an 18-month format. Both the Master of Professional Studies in Cybersecurity Strategy & Information Management and the Master of Professional Studies in Homeland Security degree programs can be completed in 16 months.

View general online master’s program information.

39. University of Florida

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

At the University of Florida in Gainesville, FL, online students can pursue graduate-level studies in 85 programs in a variety of subject areas. For students interested in the fastest online master’s degrees available, a program that will be of particular interest is the University of Florida’s one-year Master of Science in Management. This accelerated degree program consists of eight-week periods and involves a workload so intense that students are advised not to attempt to work full-time during their studies.

The University of Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

View general online master’s program information.

40. Widener University

Time to Degree Completion: 12 Months

Widener University in Chester, PA, offers accelerated master’s degree programs that stand on their own as well as combination master’s and bachelor’s degree options.

Among the fully online one-year master’s degree programs available are the allied health Master of Education and the Master of Arts in Organizational Development & Leadership. Online students in the one-year Master of Business Administration degree program can pursue a concentration in business process innovation, investment management and organizational leadership.

The Accelerated Advantage 4+1 program can put undergraduate students at Widener University on the path to a quick master’s degree from the start. In addition to directly corresponding master’s degrees in fields like business, engineering and social work, students in any major can leverage this program to quickly pursue a graduate degree in business administration, organizational leadership, public administration, allied health education or criminal justice.

View general online master’s program information.

The Benefits of Accelerated Master’s Degree Programs

Completing your master’s degree program quickly can be valuable in many ways. In accelerated master’s degree programs, online students generally complete the same rigorous coursework that students in a traditional, campus-based two-year degree program would. Whether students are pursuing an online MS, an online MA or another type of online master degree, they take required core courses and, often, more specialized elective courses. However, they get through these core courses faster by carrying an intense and difficult workload.

Financially, this choice to pursue one of the fastest online master’s degrees is a wise one. Spending a shorter amount of time overall in school typically translates to paying less money in tuition, and if you’re borrowing the money to get your master’s degree, it means less student debt on which to be charged ever-growing amounts of interest. There is also an opportunity cost of staying in school longer – the money that you’re missing out on each year you’re not out in the workforce putting your degree to work full-time – that you minimize when you are able to complete your master’s degree program faster than is usually expected.

Related Resources:

• 25 Cheapest Online Master’s Degree Programs
• Easiest Online Master’s Degrees
• 50 Best Online Master’s Degrees 2021
• Top 50 Highest Paying Master’s Degrees
• The 20 Best Online Masters in Liberal Arts Degree Programs
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Accounting Degree Programs
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering Degrees
• The 20 Best Online Masters in Applied Behavioral Analysis Degrees
• The 10 Best Online Masters in Chemical Engineering Degrees
• The 20 Best Online Master’s In Communications Degree Programs
• The 20 Best Online Masters in Computer Science Degree Programs
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Creative Writing
• The 20 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Cyber Security
• The 10 Best Online Masters in Economics
• The 20 Best Online Masters in Environmental Studies
• The 25 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Homeland Security
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Hospitality Management
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Information Systems
• The 25 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Information Technology (IT)
• The 20 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degree Programs
• The 10 Best Online Master’s in Nursing Education
• The 20 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Nutrition
• Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice
• The 20 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Public Health
• The 20 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Recreation, Tourism, and Coaching
• My Undergraduate Degree is Not in the Same Field as What I Want to Get My Master’s in. Will I Be Able to Get into a Program?

For Further Reading: 

• What Degree Do I Need to Be a Policy Analyst?
• What Degree Do I Need to Be an Intelligence Analyst?

The post The 40 Fastest Online Master’s Degrees appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

1. Purchasing Manager  

Virtually any business that deals in manufacturing or sales has to get their supplies and products from somewhere. Purchasing managers are the high-level business professionals responsible for buying supplies to use or products to sell. They compare the cost, quality and delivery speed of merchandise and suppliers and choose the items and vendors most appropriate for their organization’s needs. Often, this requires establishing and maintaining contact with vendors, interviewing them and even visiting their supply plants to learn more about the company, its practices and its costs. Purchasing managers negotiate prices and coordinate delivery schedules with their suppliers. They keep organized records of the organization’s purchase from all suppliers and handle problems, like working with vendors to address defective products, any failures to comply with contracts and any discrepancies in pricing. A successful purchasing manager must understand not only their products, but also industry trends and the inventory and sales records within their organization.

In addition to managing an organization’s purchasing operations, purchasing managers may also oversee people – the buyers and purchasing agents who work underneath them. At some organizations, purchasing managers may be primarily responsible for supervising and coordinating the work of lower-level purchasing employees, but they still handle particularly complicated purchasing contracts themselves.

Median Salary: $100,170
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Business or a Field Relevant to the Industry, Like Engineering, Manufacturing or Applied Science

2. Management Analyst

Regardless of industry, efficiency is an important concern of all organizations, from high-powered corporations to local government entities. Wasted time and resources cost organizations money, taking away from company profits or limited government or donor funding. Management analysts, sometimes known as management consultants, are experienced business professionals who work with organizations to boost efficiency and productivity. Some management analysts work in-house in organizations like federal and local governments and insurance companies, while others work for consulting firms or as self-employed, independent contractors.

First, management analysts must learn about the problems they are to fix. They research problems and inefficient procedures within the organization by talking to the employees involved in the work and visiting the worksite to understand what workers, tools and equipment and procedures are used. Then management analysts assess financial data like revenue and expenses. They devise alternative procedures that could help companies streamline processes, improve productivity and cut costs, and they work with management to implement these new procedures.

Median Salary: $78,600
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Management, Economics or a Related Field, or a Master of Business Administration (MBA) 

3. Financial Analyst

In banks, insurance companies, mutual funds, pension funds and securities firms, financial analysts help investors manage their portfolios, or their collective group of investments. They are the business professionals who analyze investment opportunities to help individuals and companies make the right financial decisions. They determine which investments are likely to be profitable by studying trends in the economy, current and past financial performance and the financial records of individual companies they are considering as potential investment opportunities. Sometimes financial analysts will even meet with a company’s representatives in person to learn more about the company’s internal workings and why it might be a suitable investment option. They then convey their recommendations to investors both in writing and through in-person meetings.

Some financial analysts work in buying investment options like stocks and bonds, while others work in selling. Specialized positions within the field of financial analysis include fund manager, portfolio manager, ratings analyst and risk analyst.

For financial analysts, field of employment can make a big difference in salary potential. The median annual wage for the position is $76,950, but the more than 20 percent of financial analysts who work in financial investments like securities and commodity contracts earn $90,560 per year.

Learn more about what degree you need to be a financial analyst.

Median Salary: $ $76,950
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Accounting, or Statistics, or a Master’s Degree in Finance or MBA  

4. Financial Examiner

At both the state and federal level, laws exist to govern the business world, including financial institutions like banks and financial transactions, like loans. These regulations would be useless without someone in place to make sure they are being followed. Financial examiners are the business professionals who check for compliance of all relevant laws among banks and other types of financial institutions.

To find out if a bank is complying with federal and state laws, financial examiners must look over the bank’s finances and financial statements, including balance sheets, operating income reports and expense account statements. To determine how risky the loans provided by the bank are, financial examiners review loan documentation. Financial examiners continually observe and report on the bank’s financial health. They pay attention to the management of the bank, including what is discussed at meetings among bank management staff and bank directors.

Because the laws are constantly changing, financial examiners must keep abreast of new regulations and understand how those regulations apply to individual banks and financial institutions. These professionals are also responsible for creating new procedures to meet changing legal responsibilities.

Nearly one-quarter of all financial examiners work for the federal government, and another 12 percent work for state governments. Others find employment in industries like credit intermediation or financial investment. Often, financial examiners concentrate on either risk scoping, which focuses on determining how financially sound the financial institution is, or consumer compliance, which reviews how banks treat consumers, particularly when it comes to loaning money.

Median Salary: $75,800
Education:  Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Economics or Finance  

5. Logistician

Are you good at solving problems and organizing the details of projects? Logisticians are the business professionals that manage the supply chain, or the movement of supplies and resources to consumers. They handle the process of attaining, dispensing and transporting items like raw materials and finished manufactured products. Logisticians coordinate the purchasing, transportation and storage of supplies and track inventory.

It’s not enough for logisticians to coordinate supply chain movements effectively – they must also improve these processes to make them more efficient. Logisticians use cutting-edge computer software to analyze the supply chain process to determine ways organizations can decrease the financial cost and the time it takes to transport supplies.

Logisticians play an important role in a wide range of industries. Their work can include managing the transport of supplies as simple as consumer products or as complex as deploying military personnel. One quarter of all logisticians work in the general manufacturing industry, with nearly another quarter of these professionals working for the federal government. Other industries that frequently employ logisticians include professional and technical services, transportation equipment manufacturing and aerospace parts manufacturing.

Median Salary: $72,780
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Process Engineering or Supply Chain Management 

6. Budget Analyst

Establishing – and sticking to – a budget is difficult enough when it comes to personal or household finances, but for major businesses and organizations, it’s essential that someone is always managing the financial plans. Budget analysts are professionals who make sure public and private sector entities are following a budget and keeping their funds and spending records organized. Most budget analysts work in federal and state government agencies and educational services, but many also find employment in industries like manufacturing and technical services.

Before an organization can adhere to a budget, it first needs to establish a reasonable financial plan. This, too, is part of a budget analyst’s responsibility. Budget analysts work with the managers in every department of the organization to compile a full, accurate budget for the entire organization to follow. When a program leader or department manager requests or proposes additional funding, the budget analyst must determine if the requested funds are available and if the request is worthwhile. Budget analysts observe the organization’s spending practices and report on whether the company or entity is adhering to the established budget.

Median Salary: $69,280
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Finance or Accounting

7. Personal Financial Advisor

If you make good financial decisions and understand the science of analyzing financial opportunities, a career as a personal financial advisor might make sense to you. These professionals advise clients on how to manage their money, including choosing the right investments and insurance coverage and minimizing their tax burden.

While it’s important for personal financial advisors to thoroughly understand the world of finance, it’s also important that they have the interpersonal skills to establish a rapport with their clients. Personal financial advisors meet with their clients in person to learn about their financial needs and goals, and they must find the right financial decisions to help clients meet those needs and achieve those objectives, whether the goals are short-term or long-term. In addition to advising the client and helping them make the right decisions, personal financial advisors invest the client’s money according to those decisions and regularly report on the investment’s progress and profitability.

Most personal financial advisors work in financial investment, credit intermediation and securities and commodity contracts. Others find employment in the insurance industry or in professional services. Some personal financial advisors even work for a single, exceptionally wealthy individual or family. Because everyone is interested in increasing their personal finances and making better financial decisions, opportunities are expected to grow rapidly in this career field – 27 percent over just a decade, more than twice as fast as the growth expected for all occupations.

Median Salary: $67,520
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance, Business, Economics or Accounting

 8. Accountant and Auditor

Accountants and auditors are the business professionals who create financial documents, like balance sheets and income statements. They check financial records for accuracy and maintain those records in an organized fashion. Accounting professionals often prepare tax returns and other documents and determine the amount of tax dollars owed.

The core of accounting may be creating financial reports, but today’s accountants do more than crunch numbers. They evaluate financial practices and find ways to help companies and organizations improve these practices, including ways to raise profits and cut expenses.

There are many types of accountants. Public accountants work with clients like individuals, businesses and government entities to create legally required financial reports, such as tax documents. One particular kind of public accountant, the certified public accountant (CPA), is especially in-demand and is likely to earn a higher salary and have a greater selection of job opportunities. Management accountants create the financial statements companies need for internal use, while internal auditors review how a company is using its money to detect any instances of fraud or waste of funds.

Median Salary: $63,550
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting 

9. Insurance Underwriter

Assessing risk is an essential part of insurance of any kind, from medical and life to auto and homeowner’s. To remain profitable, insurers of all kinds must bring in more money in premiums – and the investments they are able to make with those premiums – than they pay out in claims. Minimizing risk is a prevailing strategy of accomplishing this goal. Insurance underwriters are the business professionals who evaluate the risk an insurance company will take by agreeing to provide coverage to an applicant.

When an insurance company receives an application for coverage, insurance underwriters compare applicants’ information to a pre-established set of criteria that helps them identify risk factors. They use computer software to analyze the risk of an applicant. Insurance underwriters play an important role in the insurance industry. They determine whether an insurer will offer coverage to that applicant at all, and if so, what amounts of coverage to offer and what premiums to charge. For insurance underwriters, it’s important to find a workable middle ground between accepting applicants with too much risk and rejecting so many applicants that the insurance company has no policyholders left to insure.

Unsurprisingly, the overwhelming majority of insurance underwriters work directly for insurance carriers. Others work for insurance agencies and brokerages, credit intermediation services or company management. Many insurance underwriters specialize in assessing risks for a particular type of insurance coverage, such as life insurance or health insurance.

Median Salary: $62,870
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Economics or Mathematics 

10. Market Research Analyst

To achieve success, a business must know its market. It must be able to make decisions about what products or services to provide, what to charge for them and who to sell them to. They do this with the help of market research analysts, who investigate sales trends and history in the market.

To understand the market, market research analysts must first collect data to analyze. Market research analysts review current and pasts sales trends. They figure out the best methods to learn what they need to know and amass relevant information from surveys and polls of potential customers and competitors. With the help of statistical software, these professionals can glean important insights into what consumers want and what price they are willing to pay and predict how well a product or service will sell. They convey these insights through written reports, graphs and tables and face-to-face presentations.

Market research analysts can also assist with marketing products and services. They use their understanding of the product’s target audience to devise plans and promotions that help sell the product or service. They also put their analytical skills to work to determine how effective a marketing campaign or sales plan was in generating sales and attracting customers.

Median Salary: $60,300
Education:  Bachelor’s Degree in Market Research, Statistics, Computer Science or Business

Editor’s Note: The salary and job outlook data, job descriptions and educational requirements conveyed in this article originated with the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. This federal agency is responsible for reporting on activity in the ever-changing U.S. labor market. Students should consider this article a resource to guide further research into their intended career paths, not a guarantee that a particular educational path will result in a job or that a position will pay the median annual wage.

For Further Reading: 

Top 10 Highest Paying Engineering Careers

Top 10 Paying Jobs That Involve Math

Top 10 Paying Jobs With an Associate’s Degree

What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs With an Associates Degree in Accounting?

How Many Jobs Are Available in Finance?

What Are the 5 Best Careers in Environmental Science?

What Are My Degree Choices in Fraud Analysis?

How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant?

The post Top 10 Highest Paying Business Careers appeared first on DegreeQuery.com.

Does Graduating From One of the Top Business Undergraduate Schools Matter?

Who cares if you graduated from one of the top undergraduate business schools? In the field of business, prospective employers, clients and customers may be more interested in hiring or working with you if you went to a top business school.

For many careers in the field of business, where you studied matters almost as much as whether you got a degree at all.

Did you go to a business school that has a good reputation? Did your degree program have anything unique – in the curriculum, extracurricular opportunities or faculty – that set it apart from other schools? Did you attain useful skills and valuable hands-on work experience that makes your degree something more than a piece of paper?

RELATED: What Classes Will I Have to Take for a Degree in Business Administration?

Your future prospective employers are likely to ask all of these questions and more. Hiring managers at the most prestigious business firms are looking at undergrad business schools rankings – and so should you.

Knowing that you need to earn your degree from a respected school is the easy part. Determining if a school has a good reputation, and which school is right for you, can require a lot of research.

Fortunately, you have help in the form of rankings of undergraduate business schools – like ours – that rate schools based on hard data and important ranking factors.

What Makes a B-School One of the Best Business Programs for Undergrads?

Ranking undergraduate business schools isn’t an easy endeavor. Bachelor’s in business degrees are immensely popular and widely offered by regionally accredited colleges and universities. In fact, the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reported that business was the subject of study in which the greatest number of undergraduate (associate and bachelor’s) degrees was awarded for the 2019-2020 school year. As a major, business accounted for nearly one in five bachelor’s degrees awarded by postsecondary institutions that year, or 387,900 degrees.

RELATED: Is an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration Strong Enough to Get Me Looked at by Companies, or Do I Really Need the Four-Year Degree?

You can get a quality business education from any number of four-year colleges and universities. Still, there are benefits to attending one of the best undergraduate business schools. First, of course, you need to identify which undergraduate business schools are your best options.

To help you begin your college search, we ranked undergraduate business schools across the country based on criteria like the following:

• Reputation
• Accreditation
• Curriculum
• Experiential learning opportunities
• Concentration and specializtion options
• Class sizes
• Faculty accomplishments
• Career outcomes
• Value and affordability

RELATED: 50 Top Scholarships For Business Degrees

Using this methodology, we put together this ranking of undergraduate business schools. Each of the the top 10 undergraduate business schools in the United States has earned specialized accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. Another characteristic they have in common is achieving high rankings by independent publications.

1. University of Pennsylvania

Unsurprisingly, some of America’s best business schools are part of Ivy League universities. If we had to name one undergraduate institution the best business school in the nation right now, it would be the University of Pennsylvania.

It’s not difficult to see why the University of Pennsylvania lands the top spot on our undergrad business schools ranking. The program has an excellent reputation and consistently acheives top marks from a variety of publications. The school has repeatedly ranked number-one in the nation by U.S. News & World Report on the publication’s Best Undergraduate Business Programs Rankings – most recently on the publication’s 2022-2023 list.

The undergraduate business program at the University of Pennsylvania is offered out of the pretigious Wharton School, just like the institution’s graduate business programs. The Wharton School dates back to 1881, which makes it “the first collegiate business school” in America.

Business Programs at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School

The Wharton School integrates liberal arts studies into the curriculum so students get a well-rounded education with skills that go beyond what’s required for a typical business major. The school is also excellent for students looking to gain a global perspective, with more than 30 business-related international study options.

The standard business bachelor’s degree at the Wharton School is the Bachelor of Science in Economics. The curriculum begins with an Introduction to Economcis for Business course, plus a class that kickstarts students’ Leadership Journey. Students load up on Business Fundamentals courses during their frist two years of study. By their junior year, University of Pennsylvania business students are immersed in courses in their chosen area of concentration, as well as taking a management course in Teamwork and Interpersonal Dynamics.

Don’t let the inclusion of “economics” in the degree title dissuade you from choosing this business school in preparation for a real-world business career. You’ll learn the theory of business and so much more through group work, case studies and simulations as well as traditional classroom lecture courses. Developing hands-on skills for working in business is a major focus of this undergraduate degree curriculum.

The University of Pennsylvania offers something for every aspiring businessperson. After all, what else would you expect from a university founded by Benjamin Franklin?

Undergraduate business students enrolled in the Wharton School have a great deal of freedom to customize their coursework. Are you interested in sustainable business? What about behavioral economics, real estate or diversity, equity and inclusion?

Students can choose from dozens of specialization options. Some of the 19 concentrations allow students to pursue even more specialized tracks within them.

• Accounting
• Behavioral Economics
• Business Analytics
• Business Economics & Public Policy
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation
• Environmental, Social and Governance Factors for Business
  • Business, Energy, Environment and Sustainability
  • Social and Governance
• Finance
• Health Care Management & Policy
• Legal Studies & Business Ethics
• Management
  • Multinational Management
  • Organizational Effectiveness
  • Strategic Management
• Marketing
• Marketing & Communication
• Marketing & Operations Management
• Operations, Information & Decisions
  • Decision Processes
  • Information Systems
  • Operations Management/Management Science
• Real Estate
• Retailing
• Statistics
• Individualized

In addition to choosing your concentration and, if applicable, academic track, you can customize your degree through your choices of electives, of which the University of Pennsylvania offers 4,200 options.

Dual-degree programs are also available, combining studies in business and management with coursework in international studies, technology, life science and nursing.

Coursework in a bachelor’s in business degree at the University of Pennsylvania Wharton School focuses on using cutting-edge technology and developing skills outside the classroom. Expect to learn through innovative learning practices in research, conferences, international travel experiences and opportunities for leadership and entrepreneurship.

Business School: The Wharton School 

Location: Philadelphia, PA

2022 Enrollment: 9,962 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $63,452

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $25,046

View program details.

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Did you think MIT’s prestigious reputation only extended to science, math and engineering studies? The school’s undergraduate business program earned the second spot on our undergraduate business schools rankings for a good reason.

The school not only ranked (tied for) second place in the country on U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best Undergraduate Business Programs Rankings list – where it has repeatedly landed coveted spots over multiple years.

If you start your education at MIT, chances are good that you’ll want to stay here. With a 99% freshmen retention rate and a 94% six-year graduation rate, very few students transfer or drop out. Another perk is the opportunity to live on campus in “The Sponge.” Students so admire these dormitories that 70% of MIT students choose to stay there even after the end of their freshman year.

Undergraduate business studies at MIT fall under the Sloan School of Management.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Business at MIT Sloan School of Management

If you’re not looking for a traditional Bachelor of Business Administration program, MIT is a great option to consider. Undergraduate business students at MIT can choose from three programs of study:

• The Bachelor of Science in Management, which covers managerial psychology and managerial communication as well as coursework in an individualized concentration area
• The Bachelor of Science in Business Analytics, which emphasizes the use of data analysis, data modeling and machine learning for business purposes
• The Bachelor of Science in Finance, which includes coursework in corporate finance, investments and managerial finance

Depending on your chosen major and area of concentration, your coursework at MIT might include studies in areas like the following:

• Accounting
• Computer programming
• Linear algebra
• Macroeconomics
• Managerial communication
• Managerial psychology
• Microeconomics
• Optimization methods
• Probability and statistics 

Business School: Sloan School of Management

Location: Cambridge, MA

2022 Enrollment: 4,638 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $57,986

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $16,407

View program details.

3. University of California–Berkeley

Next on our list of the best undergraduate business schools ranked is, like the University of Pennsylvania, another of the first business schools in the United States.

Unlike the first two schools on the list, the University of California, Berkeley – along with about half of the top 10 undergraduate business schools – is a public institution. This means students – especially those living in California – can get a first-class education at a fraction of the cost they would incur at an expensive private school.

UC Berkeley isn’t just any public college, though. The school has repeatedly been recognized as the number-one rated public school in the nation throughout the years.

UC Berkeley is home to the Haas School of Business, known as “the second-oldest business school in the United States.” The Haas School of Business offers full-time MBAs, various master’s and Ph.D. programs and executive education in addition to its undergraduate programs.

The University of California, Berkeley tied for second place on U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best Undergraduate Business Programs Rankings list.

Undergraduate Degrees in Business at the UC Berkeley Haas School of Business

To earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, all business majors at UC Berkeley take core business courses in subjects such as:

• Accounting
• Business communication
• Finance
• Marketing
• Organizational management

Students can use their electives to delve deeper into desired subject areas like advanced accounting, brand management, corporate finance, and leadership.

Through the Management, Entrepreneurship & Technology program, students at Haas School of Business can combine thier business studies with coursework in one of the following tech-related tracks:

• Aerospace
• Bioengineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering & computer science
• Industrial engineering & operations research
• Materials science & engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Engineering (undeclared)

If you can’t wait to travel the world, consider the global management concentration. This program prepares students to become global leaders by integrating a study abroad experience into their business education.

Business School: Haas School of Business

Location: Berkeley, CA

2022 Enrollment: 32,143 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $14,226 in-state or $43,980 out-of-state

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $16,032

View program details.

4. University of Michigan–Ann Arbor

Does your idea of a fulfilling education have as much to do with experiences outside the classroom as it does with what you learn in the classroom? The next B-school on our undergraduate business schools ranking is known for experiential learning opportunities, as well as plentiful extracurricular activities.

The University of Michigan–Ann Arbor earned a well-deserved fourth-place spot on U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 list of the best undergraduate business schools.

Location is a certainly part of the draw of this institution. Ann Arbor happens to be one of the best college towns in the country.

If you’re interested in going Greek, the University of Michigan is the school for you. The first fraternities and sororities have been part of the school’s history for more than 175 years. As of 2023, more than 15% of the undergraduate population – 4,857 students – were involved in the 49 chapters of fraternities and sororities on the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor’s campus.

Don’t believe that extracurricular activities are limited to Greek life, though. The school is also home to 900 other clubs and organizations, so you can get involved in whatever ways most interest you. Business clubs at the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor include the Accounting Club, the Alternative Investments Club and PEX Consulting, an organization composed of students and alumni that offers pro-bono consulting services to local businesses and nonprofits.

When you earn a Bachelor of Business Administration degree at the University of Michigan, you will be part of the Ross School of Business.

Bachelor’s in Business Degrees at Michigan’s Ross School of Business

When you study at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business, your instructors will be the same dedicated faculty members undertaking extensive research in areas like the following:

• Accounting
• Business communication
• Business economics
• Public policy
• Business law
• Finance
• Management and organizations
• Marketing
• Strategy
• Technology and operations

Your curriculum will prepare you for success in fields like finance, marketing, consulting and entrepreneurship. It will also emphasize principles of modern business such as sustainability and social impact.

Signature Learning Experience courses are integrated into each year of undergraduate study to help students gain real-world skills. The cohort-based program means that groups of around 80 students complete their core coursework together, providing a built-in community for business majors. Students can also pursue specializations, in the forms of tracks, workshops and special courses in areas like sales, business and public policy, women in finance and more.

The University of Michigan excels in the career outcomes category. Among the class of 2022, 99% of Ross School of Business graduates received job offers within three months of graduating. Graduates reported an average base salary of $90,000. You can be sure that employers are looking for the kinds of skills business students develop at the University of Michigan.

Business School: Ross School of Business

Location: Ann Arbor, MI

Enrollment: 32,282 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $17,786 in-state or $57,273 out-of-state

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $14,878

View program details.

5. New York University

If your interests in the business world extend beyond attaining a lucrative career – to solving economic and social challenges, for example – then you’ll find the kind of education you’re looking for at New York University. The Leonard N. Stern School of Business at NYU, which dates back to 1900, focuses on cultivating business leaders.

NYU tied for fifth place on U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 Best Undergraduate Business Programs Rankings, as well claiming fifth place as our own ranking of business schools (undergraduate).

Degrees for Future Business Leaders at NYU Stern School

At NYU, business students have plenty of options to make their education unique. Undergraduate students who pursue a business degree have nearly30 different programs and concentrations to choose from:

• Accounting
• Actuarial Science
• Advanced Mathematical Methods
• Business and Political Economy
• Business Economics
• Business of Entertainment, Media and Technology
• Business Studies
• Business Technology Management
• Business, Technology and Entrepreneurship
• Computing and Data Science
• Economics
• Economic Theory
• Entertainment, Media and Technology
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Global Business
• Hotel and Tourism Management
• Individualized Study
• Liberal Studies
• Management and Organizations
• Marketing
• Music Business
• Operations
• Public Policy and Management
• Real Estate
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Sports Management
• Statistics
• Sustainable Business

A traditional business degree isn’t right for everyone. Students with a desire to travel can choose to earn the school’s Business and Political Economy degree. This program requires two semesters of study abroad experience – first in London and then in Shanghai. Aspiring world travelers can also apply to the Stern School of Business First-Year in London program. 

No matter which business program a student chooses at this top business school, he or she can expect plenty of support and personal attention. With a student-to-faculty ration of just 8:1, NYU is known for small class sizes. In fact, 60% of classes at the school have fewer than 20 students.

Business School: Leonard N. Stern School of Business

Location: New York, NY

2022 Enrollment: 28,772 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $58,168

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $38,569

View program details.

6. University of Virginia

The next institution on our business schools rankings (undergraduate) was founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819. This business school does things a little differently – and we like it.

On U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 list of the best undergraduate business schools, the University of Virginia ranked in a tie for 8th place, but in our opinion, it deserves a slightly higher position.

A Liberal Arts Foundation Followed by Undergraduate Business School Coursework

Before University of Virginia students begin their studies in the actual business school – the McIntire School of Commerce – new undergraduates  start their academic careers at the College of Arts & Sciences. Why? The philosophy of UVA’s McIntire School of Commerce is that a strong business program begins with a broad liberal arts education on which to build.

Instead of rushing right from high school or the workplace into the business courses required for their major, undergraduate business students at the University of Virginia devote their first two years of school to undergraduate liberal arts study. UVA students apply for admission into the McIntire School of Commerce’s undergraduate business program. If accepted, students start the Bachelor of Science in Commerce program in their junior year of study.

One attribute that sets this business school apart is its Integrated Core Experience (ICE). Through this series of courses, students work in small groups to learn business theories and apply them to solve practical problems.

The University of Virginia’s undergraduate business program offers concentrations in the following business areas:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Information technology
• Management
• Marketing

Students can also pursue up to two multidisciplinary tracks such as the following:

• Business analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Global commerce
• Quantitative finance
• Real estate
• Strategic brand consulting & communications

Minors are available in entrepreneurship, leadership and real estate.

For nontraditional students who want to earn their degrees part-time or online, the University of Virginia also offers a business concentration as part of its online Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree program.

RELATED: How Fast Can I Complete a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Online?

Business School: McIntire School of Commerce

Location: Charlottesville, VA

2022 Enrollment: 17,299 undergraduate and professional students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $21,381 in-state or $56,837 out-of-state

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $22,006

View program details.

7. Carnegie Mellon University

Next on our list of rankings – undergraduate business schools – is Carnegie Mellon University. Industrialist Andrew Carnegie founded the private research university in 1900.

Aside from its rigorous academic curriculum, the university is also known for its lively student life outside the classroom, including the prevalence of Greek life memberships. U.S. News & World Report’s named the institution among the top five undergraduate business schools on its 2022-2023 ranking list.

The Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon University offers undergraduate degree programs in both business and economics. The school emphasizes small class sizes and an analytical approach to management and problem-solving.

Pursuing Business Degrees at the Carnegie Mellon University Tepper School of Business

Business students at Carnegie Mellon University can pursue multiple options for undergraduate studies.

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program at the Tepper School of Business includes coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics and the follow core business subjects:

• Business Leadership
• Business Communications
• Business Science
• Business Computing
• Business, Society and Ethics
• Business Presentations
• Operations Management
• Organizational Behavior
• Introduction to Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing

Students in this program can choose from the following concentration:

• Finance
• Accounting
• Operations Management
• Strategic Management
• Marketing Management
• Business Analytics and Technology
• Global Economics and Business
• Entrepreneurship

The Bachelor of Science in Computational Finance degree is a collaboration between the Tepper School of Business and the Mellon College of Science’s department of Mathematical Sciences. The undergraduate economics program prioritizes analytical skills and creative problem-solving skills, with coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, data science and more. Students in the economics program develop independent thinking and work on cutting-edge research.

There’s also an “additional” Bachelor of Science in Business Administration option for students interested in double-majoring in business along with any field of study.

A business education extends beyond the classroom. That’s why Carnegie Mellon’s undergraduate business students learn the professional and social skills required in the business world through events such as participation in a yearly business plan competition and numerous “case” competitions” that put their analytical skills to work solving real-life business problems.

Business School: Tepper School of Business

Location: Pittsburgh, PA

2022 Enrollment: 7,365 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $61,344

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $36,775

View program details.

8. University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill

When we rank undergraduate business schools, we like to see a mix of public and private institutions. The University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill adds another public university to our list.

In fact, UNC–Chapel Hill was the first public university in the United States. Its 2022 in-state tuition and fees rate of under $9,000 makes this institution proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a top-rated business education – and the program is an especially affordable choice for North Carolina residents.

On its 2022-2023 list of top undergraduate business schools, U.S. News & World Report placed the University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill in a tie for the 8th-place spot.

Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree at UNC are part of the Kenan-Flagler Business School.

World-Class Programs for Undergrads at UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School

The undergraduate program at UNC focuses on developing core skills such as:

• Analytical skills
• Communication
• Leadership
• Problem-solving
• Strategic thinking
• Teamwork

In recent years, the program has evolved to also emphasis both an inclusive mindset and a global mindset.

Required classes for the undergraduate business major include coursework in the following areas:

• Finanical accounting
• Business analytical applications
• Management
• Corporate finance
• Corporate strategy
• Corporate communications
• Marketing principles
• Intermediate microeconomics
• Strategic management
• Legal and ethical aspects of business
• Operations management
• Leading and managing skills

Students can also use their electives to customize their degrees and delve into an emphasis in one of eight subjects, such as:

• Consulting
• Multinational finance
• Investment banking
• Investment management
• Operations management
• Entrepreneurship
• Real estate
• Marketing management and sales

If traveling the world is part of your ideal college experience, you’re in luck. The Kenan-Flagler Business School at UNC offers a number of undergraduate global programs. Whether you want to spend an entire semester soaking up the cultural experience in a foreign location like Denmark or Hong Kong, travel just for the summer, or take in all there is to see during an intensive one-week immersion, you’re sure to find an option that’s right for you.

Business School: Kenan-Flagler Business School 

Location: Chapel Hill, NC

2022 Enrollment: 19,897 undergraduate students

2022 Tuition and Fees: $8,998 in-state or $37,558 out-of-state

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $12,469

View program details.

9. University of Texas–Austin

The University of Texas at Austin, one of the largest colleges in the country, is another of the best undergraduate business schools. Among the school’s more than 170 fields of study is an undergraduate business degree program with several choices of specializations. On the 2022-2023 U.S. News & World Report list of the Best Undergraduate Business Programs Rankings, the University of Texas–Austin ranked in 7th place. UT business students are part of the McCombs School of Business.

Business Programs With Plenty of Room for Customization at the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business

Students pursuing an undergraduate business degree at the University of Texas at Austin begin studying in a general business program. Then they declare one of 10 majors within the Bachelor of Business Administration program:

• Accounting
• Finance
• International business
• Management
• Management information systems
• Marketing
• Supply chain management
• Business analytics
• Integrated MPA
• Canfield Business Honors Program

Of particular interest are two programs, the integrated MPA and the Canfield Business Honors Program.

Through the integrated MPA program, students ambitious accounting can earn both a Bachelor’s in Business Administration degree and a Master in Professional Accounting degree in five years. Students in this program not only get a head start on completing an advanced degree but also develop graduate-level expertise in one of the following pathways:

• Business Advisory/Management Consulting
• Forensic Accounting
• Investment Banking
• Corporate Accounting/Financial Analyst
• Government Accounting/Not-for-Profit
• Tax Consulting
• External Auditing/Assurance
• Internal Auditing
• Wealth Management/Investment & Tax Consulting

Students who qualify for the Business Honors Program enjoy the best of both worlds – the resources of a big school and the small class sizes and personal attention of a close-knit community.

Business School: McCombs School of Business

Location: Austin, TX

2022 Enrollment: 40,916 undergraduate students 

2022 Tuition and Fees: $11,752 in-state or $40,996 out-of-state

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $18,350

View program details.

10. Cornell University

Rounding out our list of the top 10 schools for undergraduate business degrees is Cornell University. The private New York university known for having upwards of 1,000 student organizations.

Another unique aspect of Cornell is the autonomous nature of each of the university’s 14 colleges. Every college handles its own admissions and hires its own faculty independent of the other colleges or the university as a whole. Cornell University tied for 8th place on U.S. News & World Report’s 2022-2023 list of the best undergraduate business degree programs.

Students seeking a bachelor’s degree in the field of business from Cornell University are part of the SC Johnson College of Business.

A Bachelor’s Degree Program in Economics and management at Cornell University

Students at Cornell University’s SC Johnson College of Business can choose from two different bachelor’s degree programs in business.

First, there’s the Bachelor of Science in Applied Economics & Management (AEM). This program is the more traditional bachelor’s in business curriculum. It’s offered through the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management. This undergraduate business degree option at Cornell University features hands-on learning opportunities and coursework in areas like the following:

• Finance
• Macroeconomics
• Microeconomics
• Business management
• Managerial economics
• Marketing
• Financial accounting
• Law and ethics in business
• Statistics
• Calculus
• Spreadsheet modeling

Students can choose from a variety of courses to learn to apply the principles of economics to real-world situations, including food and agricultural economics, environmental and resource economics, international trade and economic analysis. The program allows students to choose one (or two) concentration out of the following areas:

• Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing
• Business Analytics
• Applied Economics
• Strategy
• International Trade and Development
• Entrepreneurship
• Food Industry Management
• Agribusiness
• Environmental, Energy and Resource Economics

Some of these concentrations are common specializations for a business administration degree, while others are more specialized than students will find at most other schools. Hardworking students can also choose to double-major in AEM and another field of study in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, such as communication or information science.

The second undergraduate business program students can pursue at Cornell University is the Bachelor of Science in Hotel Administration. This program is offered out of the Nolan School of Hotel Administration and emphasizes hospitality management. Coursework in this program includes a blend of core business coursework and hospitality-focused classes. Examples of the courses students in the program take include:

• Organizational Behavior and Leadership Skills
• Financial Accounting
• Quantitative Analysis
• Microeconomics for the Service industry
• Business and Hospitality Law
• Introduction to Hotal Operations
• Fundamentals of Hospitality Development and Management
• Business Writing for Hospitality Professionals
• Principles of Food and Beverage Operations Management

Hands-on work experience is critical for success in hospitality management. To graduate from the hotel management bachelor’s program, business students need to complete a minimum of 800 hours of work experience in the hospitality industry in settings like the on-campus Statler Hotel or the restaurnat Taverna Banfi.

Undergraduate business students at this Ivy League school have plenty of options when it comes to what experiences they gain throughout their academic career. Students who enjoy traveling have the option of studying abroad in dozens of foreign countries through more than 200 international opportunities that range from two weeks to an entire year in duration.

Business School: SC Johnson College of Business

Location: Ithaca, NY

2022 Enrollment: 15,503 undergraduate students 

2022 Tuition and Fees: $63,200

2022 Average Cost of Attendance (With Financial Aid): $37,042

View program details.

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