How to choose a bachelor's in accounting

Do you have a knack for crunching numbers? Want to turn your passion into a rewarding career with an accounting degree? Below, learn how to choose a bachelor's in accounting so that you can find the right program for your educational goals.

Guide to choosing a bachelor's in accounting

When choosing a bachelor's in accounting, consider these essential factors:

School size

Do you thrive in busy environments or prefer more intimate settings? Larger universities tend to offer more resources and access to diverse faculty and electives. However, you may be in much larger classes, which can make it tough to get one-on-one help from your instructor.

On the other hand, smaller schools can mean smaller class sizes. You can enjoy more personalized attention from instructors. The downside is that these schools may not have the same resources and support infrastructure as larger institutions.

Cost

Cost is a critical factor when choosing a program. Tuition varies widely between institutions. Public schools tend to cost less than private schools, and in-state students pay less than out-of-state learners.

Regardless of what type of program you choose, thoroughly research your cost of attendance. Apply for grants and scholarships to help offset some of your expenses. You can cover the remaining costs with pay-as-you-go plans or student loans.

Location and flexibility

Do you want to complete your studies at home, or are you ready to venture out? If relocating isn't an option, explore local schools or online programs so that you can earn your degree while managing any of your current commitments. Many accounting programs also offer hybrid options. These programs consist of a mix of online and in-person learning, which gives you a chance to structure your education around your existing obligations.

Flexibility is key, especially if you are juggling work and family commitments. Start by identifying the type of program you want to attend, whether it be in-person, hybrid, or online, and make a short list of options that meet those criteria. Then, identify the school that best aligns with both your budget and career goals.

Accreditation

Another important consideration is whether the accounting program is accredited. Before attending any degree program, you need to verify that it's accredited, which means that it meets certain academic standards.

Credits and degrees from regionally accredited institutions are often held in higher regard than those from non-accredited schools. Your credits should also be transferable.

In addition to verifying a school's accreditation, you'll want to determine whether your chosen program has completed any accounting-specific accreditation processes. For instance, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) is a highly respected accrediting body for business schools.

Future education opportunities

When considering how to choose a bachelor's in accounting, make sure to weigh whether you'll want to go back to school in the future. Never say never; once you start your accounting career, you may realize that you need a master's in accounting to unlock more advancement opportunities.

With that in mind, find out what higher degrees each school on your list offers. While you could always complete future programs at another institution, some students like to stay at the same school for their entire collegiate journey.