Best Online Accounting Degrees in North Carolina
Why Trust Us?
- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
- Manually Researched Tuition
- 200+ Expert Interviews
- 1,800+ Online Colleges
- 30,000+ Online Degrees
If you're considering an online accounting degree, you'll be prepared for lucrative career opportunities while benefiting from North Carolina's strong ties to financial institutions and businesses. We've selected several programs to consider in your college search.
For inclusion on our list, a school must have a primary campus in North Carolina, offer a fully online bachelor's degree in accounting, and publicly available data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). When applicable, we've also highlighted median earnings for graduates and if the school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
How We Rank "Best" Schools
The OnlineU research team identifies colleges with a primary campus in the featured state that offer an online bachelor's degree in accounting and have publicly available data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We rank qualifying schools by online enrollment, which helps highlight colleges with larger distance-learning communities. While some of our rankings include partner schools, every school is evaluated using the exact same criteria.
Online enrollment data comes from NCES and reflects the most current available figures. We also highlight median earnings for accounting graduates, as available , and note whether a school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
Best Online Accounting Degrees in North Carolina
| Rank | School | Online Enrollment | Recommendation | Annual Tuition | Median Salary | AACSB Accredited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Carolina University | 4,434 | 92% | $25,911 | $65,459 | Yes | |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 2,653 | 91% | $9,324 | $60,647 | Yes | |
| University of North Carolina at Pembroke | 2,060 | 83% | $5,083 | N/A | Yes | |
| University of Mount Olive | 1,027 | 100% | $13,650 | N/A | No | |
| Gardner Webb University | 480 | 95% | $11,250 | $58,875 | No | |
| Campbell University | 475 | 93% | $13,950 | $62,907 | No | |
| Montreat College | 154 | 100% | $12,900 | N/A | No |
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Accounting
Why we like them: ECU has a sizable online enrollment of over 4,400 students, placing it among the top 9% of universities with the most online learners. Additionally, the overall school has a high recommendation rate of 92%, based on submitted reviews on our website, suggesting that students are not only satisfied but eager to share their positive experiences. The program's online option features small class sizes tailored for students who cannot attend traditional classes. These courses ensure a strong foundation in accounting, economics, and mathematics. The program supports your study with full-time instructors and professors, ensuring consistent quality and support across both delivery modes.
1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees
East Carolina University was a great college experience. The College of Business prepared me well for my work after college. I felt like the professors really took the time to teach topics that were applicable to the real world. I learned practical skills... Read More
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray East Carolina University as a largely positive experience shaped by approachable professors, strong advising in many departments, and a campus culture that feels large yet personal. Students frequently praise hands-on learning, internships, flexible online options, affordability, and abundant clubs, events, and school spirit. Several say the university helped them secure jobs, prepare for advanced study, or balance school with work and family. Recurring frustrations center on inconsistent advising, uneven quality across departments, limited post-graduation or niche-career support, safety concerns in Greenville, heavy workloads in some online and business courses, and isolated complaints about rigid, unhelpful faculty.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 4,434 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $25,911
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $65,459
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 63%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Why we like them: UNC Greensboro has a robust online enrollment of 2,653 students, placing it in the top 17% for the most distance learners. We also recognize the school's commendable recommendation rate of 86%, based on over 60 student reviews on our website. As part of the Joseph M. Bryan School of Business and Economics, the program has AACSB accreditation. Notably, students have opportunities to fast-track their education by pursuing a combined bachelor's and master's degree in approximately five years. The curriculum covers key areas such as financial statement analysis, taxation, and auditing. Students also benefit from networking through Beta Alpha Psi and can participate in the annual 'Meet the Firms' event, enhancing their professional engagement and career prospects.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of UNC Greensboro are broadly favorable, with most students praising accessible professors, strong advising, flexible online options, affordability, and a diverse, welcoming campus culture. Many say faculty were responsive, caring, and helpful with mentoring, internships, research, and career direction, while clubs, study abroad, and community connections enriched the experience. Students also value the walkable campus, scholarship support, and ability to balance school with work. Criticism centers on inconsistent administrative support, especially financial aid, registration, and unclear policies. Several reviewers also felt some coursework was too theoretical, disorganized, insufficiently rigorous, or not practical enough for immediate job readiness.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,653 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $4,422
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,324
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $60,647
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 56%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Why we like them: UNCP has a significant online enrollment of 2,060 distance learners, placing it among the top 23% nationwide for online student presence. We also believe the high military enrollment demonstrates the university's support for military-affiliated students. The blend of these attributes makes UNCP a commendable choice for pursuing an online degree in accounting. Notably, the curriculum aligns with CPA exam criteria in North Carolina, offering you a clear path to certification upon graduation.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray UNC Pembroke as a generally solid fit for those who value a smaller, diverse campus with close faculty access, but experiences vary sharply by department and administrative touchpoint. Students frequently praise small classes, approachable professors, cultural richness tied to the Lumbee community, and supportive resources such as writing help, workshops, and licensure preparation. Online and hybrid flexibility is also appreciated, though several reviews say remote communication can feel impersonal and overwhelming. The strongest dissatisfaction centers on admissions, advising, refunds, and responsiveness, with some describing disorganization, rude service, inconsistent teaching quality, outdated coursework, limited networking, and concerns about value for the price.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 2,060 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $1,000
- Out-of-State Tuition: $5,083
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 44%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration - Accounting
Why we like them: The University of Mount Olive stands out with an online enrollment of over 1,000 students at the undergraduate level. Furthermore, its dedication to military students is evident, with 237 military enrollees, highlighting a supportive environment for veteran learners. This degree emphasizes mastery of accounting language and technology, offering pathways to certifications like the CPA, CMA, and CFP, among others. UMO also provides experiential learning credit to recognize prior training, and graduates are prepared for a diverse array of careers including CPA, auditor, and investment banker.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray University of Mount Olive positively overall, driven by strong ratings and clear willingness to recommend. Students frequently praise helpful staff, supportive instructors, and a financial counselor who stands out for practical guidance. They describe the school as invested in helping you succeed academically and professionally, with an education they consider strong and worthwhile. The main criticism is highly specific: a required religion course is viewed as frustrating, with instructors described as unfair and unhelpful, and one reviewer notes that others share this concern. This suggests satisfaction is high overall, but certain required classes can meaningfully affect the experience.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 1,027 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $13,650
- Out-of-State Tuition: $13,650
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 52%
- Retention Rate: 72%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Why we like them: The university supports 480 online learners at the undergraduate level. Spanning 60 to 63 credit hours, the program is structured to equip you with essential skills for accounting professions, facilitated by an intensive quantitative approach that emphasizes both accounting and business administration. This program prepares you for pivotal certifications such as CPA, CMA, and CFA. Core components include 36 credit hours in professional subjects and 21 in accounting-specific courses. It incorporates practical courses like Intermediate Accounting, Federal Income Tax, and Auditing, ensuring you meet the dynamic challenges of global financial environments.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Gardner-Webb University as a highly supportive, relationship-driven place where professors are accessible, knowledgeable, and often go beyond basic instruction. Many reviewers value the small, personal environment, saying it creates genuine community, strong faculty attention, and less overwhelm than larger campuses. Flexible online, hybrid, evening, and satellite options are repeatedly praised for helping working adults balance school, family, and employment while staying on track. Students also mention beautiful surroundings, active campus life, Christian values, and practical coursework tied to real-world preparation. Criticisms are limited but notable: high tuition, weak career follow-up, and occasional frustration with program length or expectations.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 480 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $11,550
- Out-of-State Tuition: $11,250
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: $58,875
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 55%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Why we like them: Campbell University enrolls 475 students engaging in remote learning. Moreover, student-submitted reviews on our website have given the overall university a 93% recommendation rate, indicating satisfaction among its attendees. The program requires completion of 124 credit hours, offered entirely online, with additional availability at locations such as Camp Lejeune and Fort Liberty. Courses are structured in accelerated 8-week terms to facilitate quicker degree completion. The curriculum is tailored for diverse paths, preparing you to sit for exams like CPA, CMA, and CIA, or to pursue careers in CPA firms, corporations, and government roles. The program also acts as a foundation for advanced studies, like MBA or Master of Accountancy degrees.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Campbell University as a relationship-driven institution where small classes, approachable professors, and easy access to mentoring make people feel known rather than anonymous. Many praise faculty credentials, open-door support, and practical preparation for careers, licensure, graduate study, and networking. Several reviews also highlight a welcoming, close-knit atmosphere, strong values, community service, and flexibility for military-connected schedules. The main drawbacks are less about classroom quality and more about context: the rural location limits entertainment, dining, and commuting convenience, and a few reviewers cite growing pains, outdated administrative processes, or weaker immediate job outcomes despite feeling academically well prepared.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 475 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $13,950
- Out-of-State Tuition: $13,950
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: $62,907
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 61%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree: Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Why we like them: Montreat College is a smaller private school with just over 150 online students. Courses for this accounting program are offered in an eight-week format across spring, summer, and fall semesters. It covers various topics from accounting principles to corporate finance, enhancing decision-making skills. The program prepares students for careers as accounting professionals, financial analysts, and auditors. Additionally, graduates are equipped to pursue advanced studies like an MBA or Master of Accountancy.
Student Review Summary: Reviews describe Montreat College as a supportive, small-campus environment that works especially well for people balancing school with full-time jobs and other responsibilities. Students consistently praise knowledgeable, experienced professors who are approachable, flexible, and willing to provide extra help, making demanding coursework feel manageable even when the pace is intense. The school’s smaller size is seen as a major advantage because it creates stronger personal attention and a close-knit atmosphere. Reviewers also highlight a strong sense of community, school spirit around athletics, and a scenic campus, with few social divisions and a generally caring culture.
This is an AI-generated overview of real student feedback submitted to OnlineU, highlighting common themes and insights. The summary was reviewed for accuracy.- Online Enrollment: 154 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $13,350
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,900
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: N/A
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 50%
- Retention Rate: 59%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Overview of Online Accounting Degrees in North Carolina
As an accountant in North Carolina, you can explore opportunities across various industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, and government, or work within specialized areas like forensic accounting or environmental accounting. Accountants are in demand in both private firms and public agencies, providing financial expertise, strategic planning, and compliance support crucial to organizations’ success.
How To Become an Accountant in North Carolina
The first step to an accounting career will likely be completing a bachelor's degree in accounting. When choosing a program, it’s important to select one that is both accredited and cost-effective, ensuring you receive a quality education with strong value. According to U.S. Census data, 33.9% of North Carolina residents over the age of 25 hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, meaning that graduates are entering a competitive job market where additional credentials, like a CPA, can set them apart.
Bachelor’s degree programs typically require around 120 credits and take about four years to complete, although some accelerated tracks may allow for graduation in as little as two to three years. Programs combine general education with specialized coursework in accounting, business, and finance, covering key areas such as auditing, corporate taxation, budgeting, and financial management. While online programs provide flexibility, many degrees also include in-person internships to provide hands-on experience.
If tuition expenses are a factor in your college choice, please review our most affordable online accounting degrees to see which programs fit within your budget.
How To Become a CPA in North Carolina
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a fantastic opportunity to earn a higher salary but requires a lot of work to achieve this distinction. North Carolina is one of 55 jurisdictions one can apply for a license and practice as a CPA. Prior to starting this career path, you should review North Carolina's requirements from the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy.
CPA candidates must do the following:
- Complete 150 hours of university-level coursework.
- Complete one year of work experience. If you're concerned about how to manage this while also focusing on coursework, consider an online master's degree in accounting.
- Pass the computer-based CPA exam for North Carolina.
FAQs About Accounting in North Carolina
How Much Do Accountants Make in North Carolina?
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors living in North Carolina earn a median wage of $90,870 per year. There are a little over 43,000 employed in these professions.
How Hard is the CPA Exam in North Carolina?
CPA candidates in North Carolina have reported the test to be difficult, but this is common for all states. You'll need to sit for a 16-hour test and receive a score of 75 on a scale of 0-99. We encourage you to review the CPA Exam Blueprints to get a better sense of the types of questions.
Where Can I Take the CPA Exam in North Carolina?
You can pick one of these locations: Asheville, Charlotte, Greenville, Greensboro, Raleigh, or Wilmington.
Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs
do believe that me continuing my education and Going back to school I a great idea.Choosing the Phoenix was a very smart decision and I would refer it to anyone who is interested in furthering their education. Starting to further my education I will give recognition to my daughter, because of her I went back to school and we graduated from High school the same year. She is in college and thanks to her keeping me motivated, so am I.
Review Date: 12/22/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I started at this college years ago! I wanted to go to college and achieve my dreams but I never knew it was possible being a mom and working a full time job! But I discovered that the University of Phoenix was all online! I applied to go through their online course and I was so happy the day I was accepted and now I am only 4 months away from graduating and I could not be happier! I love this college and the opportunities they have given me!
Review Date: 5/14/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is not an easy school. I thought it would be a piece of cake but you have to work and you have to work REALLY hard to EARN your degree. It is not given to you. Anyone looking to make "easy" A's - this is NOT for you. Anyone thinking that UOP is a "degree mill" - DO NOT apply. I have never worked so hard for anything as I did this degree but it is MOST DEFINITELY worth it.
Review Date: 8/22/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
BYU is a great school. From an academic perspective I was intellectually engaged in nearly every class I took. I was especially impressed with the accounting major and business school as a whole. Socially, it is a large student body of over 30,000 and so there is always something fun going on.
Review Date: 12/7/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I think the school is great overall, but mainly for its location. The professors really care about your success, and people are always willing to help one another here. Overall, most people are happier. I think the only issues are that the facilities are not that up to date and things honestly feel old such as buildings and lecture halls.
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My time at USC was pretty awesome, despite everything that was going on with the pandemic, all the professors managed to accommodate well for all the students, and due to the commute for me personally, all of my classes except for 1 were taken online at home. A lot has changed in regards to the campus at least since i've been there but it's an easy place to recommend to any new prospecting students (pro tip: make sure to get grants before attending, USC is expensive). Best of Luck in your studies... Read More
Review Date: 1/15/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The key to being successful at the University of Dayton in the Accounting department is networking with the professors. The faculty have endless connections and opportunities that they will gladly connect students with. These connections include never-ending lists of partners from the Big Four, local firms always looking for interns, and everything in between. The connections do not stop at just public accounting either. The faculty is very diverse in that many have experience across the board. But... Read More
Review Date: 3/8/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Umass Lowell was a great and affordable state college that provided the same opportunities for learning as a private university in New England. The college provides rigorous course loads with many available time selections and faculty staff with many years of experience and qualifying abilities. The school is continuously upgrading and changing their facilities to more modern grounds and has a very diverse group of students. I was a proud student of Umass Lowell that saved money going to a state... Read More
Review Date: 6/26/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The faculty are usually friendly and approachable and are willing to meet with you to assist in resolving matters. There is much online access for traditional students as well as global campus users. I have enjoyed most of my classes at this college so far and have grown with many of them I have taken. I am hoping to continue on as a graduate student in English once I finish my Accounting degree.
Review Date: 7/9/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I attended the University of Illinois and majored in Business. The academics were strong, especially the marketing and finance courses. Professors were knowledgeable and accessible during office hours. However, class sizes for some core courses were too large, making it hard to get individual attention. The career center was helpful with resume reviews and internship placements. Campus life was vibrant with many student organizations to join. Overall, I would recommend this school to others, especially... Read More
Review Date: 4/23/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The only benefit from attending BYU-I is the education itself. The teacher's int he Accounting program are fantastic with real work knowledge. The downside is the school itself. You have a school run by close minded folks who seek to control your life. They have rules for everything with no chance in developing as adults. I don't recommend it.
Review Date: 3/21/2017
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: Yes
The college has a diversity of people from many different countries. The environment is very welcoming and clean. The work load isn't very hard to manage with your social life because you have professors that help you in every step of your academic life and people that care. As for to a prospective student make sure to stay close to your professors as they help you out for your academic life. A great beginning for someone who wants to move onto the bigger campus but is scared to move on from high... Read More
Review Date: 2/20/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
My four years at Bowie State University (BSU) were transformative. I started as a dedicated freshman football player, which instilled discipline. While earning my Business degree, I founded a computer consulting business, immediately applying classroom concepts (marketing, finance) to real-world operations. Graduating with a degree and a functioning startup, BSU equipped me with crucial skills in academics, athletics, and entrepreneurship.
Review Date: 12/5/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes