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Most Popular Online Accounting Degrees in Colorado

Updated 11/27/2024 By Brian Hepp

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

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Updated 11/27/2024 By Brian Hepp

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An online degree in accounting from a Colorado university is a great way to leverage the state's educational resources and dynamic economic environment. We've highlighted several online programs to consider in your path to becoming an accountant in the state.

For inclusion on our list, a school must have a primary campus location in Colorado, offer a fully online accounting program at the bachelor's level, 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).

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

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How We Rank "Best" Schools

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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.

jmcomicÂþ»­ 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).

Tuition numbers were manually collected and verified where noted
Only verified student reviews informed our overall ratings and recommendation rates
Rank School AACSB Accredited
# 1 #1 Colorado State University Global 6,433 59% $11,250 $74,281 Yes
# 2 #2 Colorado Christian University 4,071 67% $14,820 $66,454 No
# 3 #3 Metropolitan State University of Denver 3,804 63% $28,695 $72,474 Yes
# 4 #4 University of Colorado Denver 1,831 90% $18,210 N/A Yes
# 5 #5 University of Colorado Colorado Springs 1,119 86% $13,560 N/A Yes
# 6 #6 Regis University 457 83%
Colo rado, Graduated 2018
Overall Rating: 5/5

I've been very pleased with CSU Global. All of the administrative staff I have interacted with have been upbeat, enthusiastic, knowledgeable and quick to respond. I even won one of thier internal scholarships so regular people do win those. I majored... Read More

edson arantes do nascemento, Graduated 2016
Overall Rating: 3/5

I took a few accounting classes as a requirement for work and got my As. The online environment provided to the student deserves 5 stars. The instructors, though, deserve not more than 2 stars, most claim to have PhDs and one of them 3 Masters (?). Respectfully... Read More

Student Review Summary: Reviews of Colorado State University Global are sharply divided, though the balance leans positive because many reviewers gave high ratings for flexibility, affordability, and a structured online format that fits full-time work and family life. Supporters say the weekly cadence, credit-transfer policies, responsive advisors, tutoring, and writing-intensive coursework helped them build discipline, improve research and communication skills, and even earn promotions. Critics describe the experience as overly self-directed, with repetitive discussion posts, heavy weekly papers, vague grading, outdated or error-filled materials, inconsistent instructor engagement, and serious frustrations with financial aid, billing, transcripts, and platform reliability.

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: 6,433 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: $11,250
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $11,250
  • AACSB Accredited: Yes
  • Median Earnings: $74,281
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: N/A
  • Retention Rate: 74%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit
#2
3.24 / 5
Overall Rating
67%
Recommend
79%
Helpful for Career

Online degree:

Why we like them: With over 4,000 students engaged in online studies, CCU is among the top 10% of peer institutions with significant online student communities. The program consists of 120 credit hours, with 39 credits focusing on major core topics. Courses are streamlined for efficiency, spanning five and seven weeks, allowing for a concentrated learning experience. The curriculum provides conventional and specialized accounting training, covering financial, managerial, tax, governmental, and nonprofit accounting, alongside emerging fields in data analytics and accounting systems, integrating a unique biblical perspective. The program is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, ensuring that it meets rigorous academic standards.

1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees

Anonymous, Graduated 2013
Overall Rating: 5/5

Great community of believers. Amazing location. Great academics with a faith based education. Small class sizes so lots of one on one time with the professors.

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Colorado Christian University as a school many appreciate for responsive professors, small classes, flexible online and hybrid formats, and a clearly integrated Christian worldview that some found deeply meaningful. Several said the accelerated structure, frequent writing, discussion boards, and heavy reading created rigor that fit working adults and built career readiness. At the same time, recurring criticisms focus on administrative breakdowns: delayed or confusing financial aid, unclear billing, weak communication from advisors, difficulty withdrawing, limited transferability of some credits, and inconsistent support during personal crises. Some also described uneven teaching quality, high costs, and concerns about inclusivity and program organization.

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: 4,071 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: $14,820
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $14,820
  • AACSB Accredited: No
  • Median Earnings: $66,454
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 64%
  • Retention Rate: 84%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit
#3
3.1 / 5
Overall Rating
63%
Recommend
77%
Helpful for Career

Online degree:

Why we like them: MSU Denver has an impressive online enrollment of 3,804 students, placing it among the top 11% of institutions in this metric. This bachelor's program is offered through its AACSB-accredited College of Business, providing a comprehensive education in both business fundamentals and specialized accounting knowledge, from tax accounting to technology. This program supports students in developing practical skills through exposure to contemporary business environments. It accommodates a flexible learning arrangement with options for online, in-person, and hybrid classes. Additionally, students may access a $1,000 renewable scholarship for those pursuing a fully online degree.

Student Review Summary: Reviews portray MSU Denver as a practical, affordable option that works especially well for commuters, working adults, and people balancing family or jobs. Many praised flexible scheduling, smaller classes, diverse classmates, approachable professors, and industry-connected teaching that translated into jobs, internships, networking, and graduate-school preparation. Students also valued the downtown location, transit access, and reasonable tuition. The strongest criticisms centered on inconsistent quality across departments, weak advising, disorganized administration, and confusing financial-aid processes. Several reviewers said poor course availability, inaccurate credit guidance, and expensive parking extended time to graduation or added unnecessary costs, despite otherwise solid classroom experiences.

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: 3,804 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: $12,936
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $28,695
  • AACSB Accredited: Yes
  • Median Earnings: $72,474
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 32%
  • Retention Rate: 63%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit
#4
3.8 / 5
Overall Rating
90%
Recommend
84%
Helpful for Career

Online degree:

Why we like them: With 1,831 students choosing the flexibility and comprehensive curriculum offered online, CU Denver is among the top 24% of schools with large online enrollments, a testament to its adaptability and accessibility in education. The university also has a high number of military students, with 1,032 military enrollees, placing the university among the top 15% in this metric. CU Denver's Business School is accredited by AACSB International, ensuring rigorous academic standards. Courses are designed to prepare you for careers as a CPA and providing training in cost accounting, tax policy, and auditing theory.

1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees

Samantha V., Graduated 2016
Overall Rating: 4/5

University of Colorado Denver has such a great business school due to all the focus they put on their students. All the professors that I had were willing to help me at anytime and were all so encouraging. I am glad that I got the opportunity to attend... Read More

Student Review Summary: Reviews describe University of Colorado Denver as a generally well-regarded option with strong value, supportive professors, and practical learning tied to careers, internships, research, and networking. Many students praise the downtown and medical campus locations, flexible evening, online, and hybrid formats, and accessible public transportation, which make it easier to balance school with work. Smaller classes and interdisciplinary collaboration are recurring strengths. Criticism centers on inconsistent teaching quality, weak advising, administrative disorganization, limited electives, and high costs beyond tuition, including fees, parking, and uneven financial aid. Several online or hybrid experiences felt too self-directed, with limited engagement and unclear 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: 1,831 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: $15,570
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $18,210
  • AACSB Accredited: Yes
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 46%
  • Retention Rate: 73%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit
#5
3.82 / 5
Overall Rating
86%
Recommend
87%
Helpful for Career

Online degree:

Why we like them: We appreciate the school's substantial military enrollment, placing it among the top 5% nationwide for the most students in the military, a demographic often seeking flexible learning options. The curriculum is designed to equip you with insights into accounting across various sectors, including public, business, non-profit, and governmental realms. A key feature is its alignment with CPA licensure requirements, offering a track tailored to meet Colorado's professional certification criteria. Core coursework includes Intermediate Accounting, Cost Accounting, and Auditing, among others, and an opportunity to participate in the Accounting Honor Society, enhancing networking and professional growth opportunities.

1 Student Review for Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees

Boyd, Graduated 2016
Overall Rating: 4/5

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs offers an excellent accounting degree for students who are wanting an edge in the field. Through my educational experience at UCCS, I was able to develop myself into the professional that I wanted to be and... Read More

Student Review Summary: Reviews of the University of Colorado Colorado Springs are broadly positive, driven by solid ratings and frequent recommendations, though experiences vary sharply by department and delivery format. Students repeatedly praise small classes, approachable professors, strong one-on-one support, and a campus that feels intimate despite the university’s growth. Many value the diversity, affordability, flexibility for working adults, and practical opportunities such as research, internships, fieldwork, and networking. The main complaints focus on inconsistent teaching quality, weak communication and advising in some areas, limited social life tied to its commuter character, parking and cost frustrations, and uneven support for online, transfer, and study-abroad logistics.

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: 1,119 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: $13,560
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $19,590
  • AACSB Accredited: Yes
  • Median Earnings: N/A
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 47%
  • Retention Rate: 68%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit
#6
3.6 / 5
Overall Rating
83%
Recommend
68%
Helpful for Career

Online degree:

Why we like them: With a student-faculty ratio of 9:1, Regis offers an intimate learning environment that is among the top 12% of schools, ensuring personalized attention and support in your academic journey. Moreover, the extensive financial aid provided—averaging $26,291—positions Regis in the top 12%, highlighting accessibility and support for diverse financial backgrounds. The program features a mix of 5- and 8-week courses, delivered entirely online for maximum flexibility. With the flexibility of accepting up to 90 transfer credits and offering six start dates annually, the program caters exceptionally to adult and transfer students. Specializations such as forensic auditing and accounting ethics complement core offerings, while the FastForward combined degree option allows you to concurrently pursue a bachelor’s and master’s degree.

Student Review Summary: Reviews of Regis University are broadly mixed, with sentiment split sharply between strong praise and severe frustration. Positive reviewers describe attentive professors, small classes, flexible online or evening formats, and rigorous coursework that builds confidence, practical skills, and career readiness. Several also value the school’s ethical, service-oriented culture and strong community feel. Negative reviewers focus on administrative dysfunction: unreachable advisers, inconsistent billing, broken add/drop processes, weak communication, and poor support when problems arise. jmcomicÂþ»­ experiences draw the most criticism, with some describing disengaged instructors, outdated systems, watered-down coursework, and degrees that felt overpriced or lacked professional value.

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: 457 enrolled
  • In-State Tuition: N/A
  • Out-of-State Tuition: $46,340
  • AACSB Accredited: No
  • Median Earnings: $69,754
  • Avg. Graduation Rate: 61%
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Institution Type: Non-Profit

Want an online degree that's:

  • Affordable
  • Popular
  • Highly Rated
  • Military-friendly

We've got them. Let's get started.

AD

Overview of Online Accounting Degrees in Colorado

Accountants in Colorado are essential to the financial success of businesses and organizations across the state, ensuring compliance with regulations, maintaining accurate records, and providing valuable financial insights. In major cities like Denver, Colorado Springs, and Boulder, accountants support industries central to Colorado’s economy, including aerospace, technology, tourism, and renewable energy. With the state’s growing focus on sustainability and innovation, accountants often manage complex financial reporting, tax strategies, and budgeting processes, helping organizations optimize resources and maintain fiscal health in a competitive landscape.

How To Become an Accountant: Education Requirements in Colorado

Aspiring accountants in Colorado typically begin by earning a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related business discipline. According to U.S. Census data, nearly of Colorado residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Most accounting programs require approximately 120 credit hours, integrating general education with key accounting coursework. While most students complete their degree in four to five years, some universities offer accelerated tracks that allow for graduation in two to three years.

Common Courses and Specializations

Bachelor’s programs in accounting, often offered as a Bachelor of Science (BS) or Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA), include core topics such as financial management, auditing, corporate taxation, and cost accounting. Many programs also require capstone projects or internships to provide hands-on experience, sometimes requiring in-person participation.

Students may also pursue specializations like Forensic Accounting, Finance, or Taxation, which allow them to tailor their education to specific career goals. These focus areas are particularly valuable in Colorado’s diverse economy, helping graduates stand out in fields such as tech startups, energy corporations, and government financial roles.

Paying for college can be a problem for many students, but we've compiled a list of the most affordable online accounting degrees for you to consider in your search.

How To Become a CPA: Requirements in Colorado

Becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Colorado enhances your career prospects and likely leads to a higher salary. However, this is a difficult path and will require additional coursework and work experience before you can obtain a CPA license. CPA candidates must:

  • Complete 150 credit hours from an accredited institution. With most bachelor’s programs requiring only 120 credits, pursuing a master’s degree in accounting can help fulfill this requirement.
  • Gain 1,800 hours of work experience, equivalent to one year of full-time employment under the supervision of a licensed CPA.
  • Pass the Colorado CPA exam with a minimum score of 75. This computer-based test assesses knowledge in various accounting disciplines.

FAQs About Accounting in Colorado

How Much Do Accountants Make in Colorado?


According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Colorado's accountants and auditors earn a mean wage of  per year. While this is higher than average, please note that the cost of living in Colorado is also higher.

Where Can I Find Information About Colorado's CPA Exam?


All information on Colorado's CPA exam, licensure requirements, continuing education, and more can be found on the website.

Can I Practice as a CPA in Colorado If My License Is From Another State?


Yes. If your license from another state is in good standing and has been verified by NASBA, you can practice as a CPA in Colorado.

Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs

Anonymous, Graduated 2022

Attended: George Mason University

I overall had a good experience at the school. It was a new area that I have never lived in or really had been to before. It was very diverse as far as the groups of people there, as well as many new facilities being constructed at my time there. Overall, it was a good experience, but it would be considered much more of a commuter school.

Review Date: 4/1/2026

Attended: George Mason University

Overall Rating: 3.5/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Anonymous, Graduated 2022

Tdr, Graduated 2020

Attended: Purdue University Northwest

I went to Purdue University Northwest in Hammond, Indiana. It’s a smaller commuter school, which made it easier to connect with professors, and some genuinely cared about helping you succeed. Administration could be frustrating at times, and you have to stay on top of things yourself. It’s not a huge social campus, but overall it’s a solid, affordable option if you’re independent and willing to put in the effort.

Review Date: 3/18/2026

Attended: Purdue University Northwest

Overall Rating: 4/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Tdr, Graduated 2020

May, Graduated 2016

Attended: University of Alaska Anchorage

I was unsatisfied with the education I received, I do not feel it prepared me for the job market and if I could do it all over again, I would not attend this college. I entered college hoping to become a Certified Public Accountant and had to take a few remedial classes that did not pertain to my degree at all and I have not used in my life at all. The finance classes were very basic and heavily relied on textbook theory rather than real world reality. I was not prepared to enter the job market and... Read More

Review Date: 4/23/2026

Attended: University of Alaska Anchorage

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 2/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

May, Graduated 2016

Shaniya D Rabindranath, Graduating 2027

Attended: SUNY at Albany

As an Accounting Major with a Business minor, I know this department is a dual accredited program for anyone interested in studying. I chose Accounting because it also still holds a strong business curriculum built into it. They fully encourage their students to further their studies by doing a masters and eventually CPA. The university overall is very diverse.

Review Date: 5/15/2026

Attended: SUNY at Albany

Overall Rating: 4.5/5

Experience Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Shaniya D Rabindranath, Graduated 2027

Sean, Graduated 2021

Attended: Montclair State University

My school was mostly a commuter school so there wasn’t a whole lot of interpersonal interaction with others outside of class. Although I did join a fraternity which kept me busy. I wish I had gone to a larger school, further away from home so I could make more friends.

Review Date: 5/6/2026

Attended: Montclair State University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 3/5

Instruction Rating: 3/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: No

Sean, Graduated 2021

Charissa Greene, Graduated 2017

Attended: Brigham Young University - Idaho

Brigham Young University - Idaho is a wonderful university where people with the same values and similar beliefs can gather and learn in a setting that combines religion and secular education. The class sizes are smaller than the typical college classroom with about 30-40 students in each class. Because of the small class sizes, professors know your name and are more accessible to you when you need help. My professors truly care about me and have helped me obtain most of my jobs throughout my education.... Read More

Review Date: 4/18/2017

Attended: Brigham Young University - Idaho

Overall Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Charissa Greene, Graduated 2017

Dylan Cole, Graduated 2016

Attended: Stonehill College

Attending Stonehill College was a dream I had when researching colleges during my junior year of high school. A "financial reach school" for my family (as I am one of six), I was preparing myself for other options. I was thrilled when offered a substantial academic scholarship. Stonehill College was the perfect fit for me - small class sizes, easy access to professors, and an abundance of interesting core and elective classes. In addition to having a beautiful campus, Stonehill College has a state... Read More

Review Date: 9/21/2016

Attended: Stonehill College

Overall Rating: 5/5

Instruction Rating: 5/5

Would Recommend: No

Helpful for Career: Yes

Dylan Cole, Graduated 2016

Anonymous, Graduated 2005

Attended: DePaul University

Received a premium education at the same time enjoyed my experiences.

Review Date: 8/10/2015

Attended: DePaul University

Overall Rating: 3/5

Experience Rating: 4/5

Instruction Rating: 4/5

Would Recommend: Yes

Helpful for Career: Yes

Anonymous, Graduated 2005

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