Most Popular Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois
Why Trust Us?
- 90,000+ Verified Student Reviews
- Manually Researched Tuition
- 200+ Expert Interviews
- 1,800+ jmcomic漫画s
- 30,000+ Online Degrees
We've highlighted several online accounting degrees from accredited schools in Illinois you should consider. These programs are designed to meet the criteria set by the Illinois Board of Examiners, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the CPA exam and other professional certifications.
For inclusion on our list, a school must have a primary campus in Illinois, 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.
jmcomic漫画 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).
Most Popular Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois
| Rank | School | AACSB Accredited | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeVry University | 24,940 | 66% | $15,420 | $65,249 | No |
| Southern Illinois University - Carbondale | 1,262 | 88% | $9,645 | $70,417 | Yes |
| Western Illinois University | 937 | 92% | $10,095 | $65,058 | Yes |
| Southern Illinois University - Edwardsville | 777 | 94% | $9,855 | $74,476 | Yes |
| McKendree University | 273 | 79% | $12,600 | $60,209 | No |
| Dominican University | 3 | 82% | $14,700 | $85,966 | Yes |
Online degree:
Why we like them: DeVry has one of the largest online enrollments with 24,940 students, which places it among the top 1% of institutions for the most distance learners. This extensive reach in the virtual space is further bolstered by a significant military enrollment of 6,695, situating it similarly in the top 1% for the most military students. This degree is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in accounting and business administration. The program, which can be completed in as few as 3 years or a more traditional 4-year schedule, includes coursework on financial accounting, auditing, and accounting information systems. The school is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
8 Student Reviews for Bachelor's in Accounting Degrees
Earning a GPA of 4 out of 4 this semester at DeVry University has been a fulfilling experience for me. The courses were challenging but provided valuable opportunities for growth, both academically and personally. The support from my professors and the... Read More
DeVry University has challenged me to excel in the class. My success depends on how much effort I put into my studies; I am consistent with my study habit. Our professors are mostly experts in the field and very knowledgeable, but not only that, they... Read More
I loved DeVry! It gave me the flexibility I needed to go to school online and work at the same time. Everyone was easy to contact and it wasn't stressful being online.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of DeVry University are sharply divided, though many describe a common tradeoff: strong schedule flexibility in exchange for uneven value. Positive reviewers praise online convenience, accelerated terms, supportive advisors, responsive professors, and career momentum, especially for working adults, parents, and military-affiliated learners who needed a practical path back to school. Negative reviewers focus on high tuition, confusing or inconsistent financial aid, nontransferable credits, weak career placement, and having to self-teach through outdated materials or underengaged instructors. Several also report administrative errors, transcript holds, and promises about support or outcomes that did not match their experience after enrollment.
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: 24,940 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $15,420
- Out-of-State Tuition: $15,420
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: $65,249
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 37%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Institution Type: For-Profit
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIU has an impressive online enrollment of 1,262 students, which positions it just below the top quartile, indicating robust participation in virtual courses. Complementing this is its commendable student-faculty ratio of 11:1, placing it in the top quarter, which suggests you could benefit from more personalized interactions. The program, which holds the prestigious AACSB accreditation, aligns with high academic standards, ensuring eligibility for the CPA exam upon graduation. Comprising approximately 64 credit hours, the curriculum is structured to be completed within 18 to 24 months. Courses are delivered in an 8-week modular format, emphasizing flexibility by allowing you to tackle coursework at your own pace.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray Southern Illinois University - Carbondale as a generally positive, relationship-driven campus where approachable professors, small classes, and a welcoming atmosphere help many reviewers feel supported academically and personally. Students frequently praise hands-on learning, research access, practical training, and extracurricular involvement, noting that initiative is rewarded. The campus is often described as beautiful, diverse, calm, and active, with strong social and organizational opportunities. Criticism centers on inconsistency: some reviewers report disorganized advising, uneven teaching quality, limited career placement, high costs, scarce scholarships or commuter amenities, safety concerns in nearby areas, and administrative frustrations with housing, financial aid, and course coordination.
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: 1,262 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,645
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,645
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $70,417
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 62%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree:
Why we like them: WIU boasts an online enrollment of over 900 students, showcasing its commitment to providing accessible learning in a virtual format. The Bachelor of Business in Accountancy offers specialization options in Management Accounting and Taxation, ensuring focused educational paths for specific career goals. With accreditation by AACSB International and CMA (Institute of Certified Management Accountants), the program will prepare you for the CPA exam. Additionally, the program fosters professional growth through the Beta Alpha Psi organization, which provides networking and outreach opportunities.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Western Illinois University are generally positive, driven by strong faculty access, supportive advising, and practical instruction that helps graduates feel prepared for careers and further study. Many describe small classes, approachable professors, flexible scheduling, affordable tuition, scholarships, assistantships, and updated facilities, especially at the Quad Cities location. Students also value networking, research opportunities, and a welcoming environment for working adults and international attendees. The main criticisms center on uneven program quality, weak career services, limited course variety or availability, online-only formats, administrative growing pains, and location drawbacks, with Macomb often described as rural and offering fewer jobs, activities, and connections.
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: 937 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $10,296
- Out-of-State Tuition: $10,095
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $65,058
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 45%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree:
Why we like them: SIUE's online enrollment, which accommodates almost 800 students at the undergraduate level, showcases its commitment to accessible online education. Additionally, the university attracts a high number of military enrollees. The business school is AACSB-accredited and allows transfer of up to 90 credits. Delivered fully online in 7-week sessions, the program focuses on developing comprehensive financial skills, preparing you for various finance roles such as an accountant or financial analyst. This learning model is designed to support working professionals with six annual start dates.
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Southern Illinois University Edwardsville are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and widespread willingness to recommend the school. Students repeatedly praise accessible, caring professors, open-door support, small or manageable classes, and practical learning that connects coursework to careers through internships, rotations, research, and networking. Many also value affordability, safety, commuter convenience, and the campus’s wooded setting, trails, and proximity to St. Louis. Criticism centers on inconsistent administration, especially advising, financial aid, scheduling, and enrollment errors that can delay graduation or raise costs. Some also mention limited nightlife, uneven rigor, busy work, and mixed career outcomes in certain fields.
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: 777 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $9,855
- Out-of-State Tuition: $9,855
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $74,476
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 57%
- Retention Rate: 76%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Online degree:
Why we like them: We recognize the average financial aid package that McKendree students receive from government grants, loans, or other scholarships; NCES data show students receive an average aid package of over $24,000. This accounting program is tailored for those aiming to meet the CPA exam's 150-hour requirement, accommodating both undergraduate and graduate courses to suit your educational progression. Delivered over eight-week terms, the curriculum leverages Brightspace as the virtual learning platform. Notably, it offers the chance to expand towards an MBA, subsequently enhancing career prospects in sectors such as corporate, not-for-profit, and government.
Student Review Summary: Reviews portray McKendree University as a place where small class settings and accessible instructors often create a personalized learning experience, especially for those seeking direct help, tutoring, and flexible scheduling. Several reviewers valued collaborative learning, practical coursework, and supportive staff who responded quickly by email and helped with academic planning. The strongest criticisms center on cost: reviewers cited online technology fees, high overall expenses, and frequent requests for additional money. Some also described weak advising, a confusing housing process, limited weekend campus life, athletics receiving outsized attention, and inconsistent academic rigor despite the school’s appealing campus and approachable image.
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: 273 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: $12,750
- Out-of-State Tuition: $12,600
- AACSB Accredited: No
- Median Earnings: $60,209
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 53%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Student Review Summary: Reviews of Dominican University are largely favorable, driven by strong ratings and frequent recommendations. Students consistently praise small classes, accessible professors, and a supportive environment where faculty know them personally, respond quickly, and connect coursework to real-world practice. Many also value flexibility, including evening, online, commuter-friendly, and off-site options that make it easier to keep working. Career preparation, networking, safety, and convenient access to Chicago are recurring advantages. Criticism centers on high tuition, limited scholarships, modest campus social life, and uneven rigor or organization in some areas, with a few students describing repetitive coursework, inconsistent administration, or weak academic challenge.
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 enrolled
- In-State Tuition: N/A
- Out-of-State Tuition: $14,700
- AACSB Accredited: Yes
- Median Earnings: $85,966
- Avg. Graduation Rate: 55%
- Retention Rate: 78%
- Institution Type: Non-Profit
Overview of Online Accounting Degrees in Illinois
Accounting in Illinois is a vital and growing profession, contributing to the financial stability of businesses, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations throughout the state. In bustling metro areas like Chicago, as well as smaller cities across the state, accountants can find opportunities in a range of industries, including banking, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. Accountants are responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, preparing tax returns, conducting audits, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
How To Become an Accountant in Illinois
The first step toward an accounting career is typically earning a bachelor鈥檚 degree in accounting or a related business field with an accounting emphasis. When choosing a program in Illinois, it鈥檚 important to select one that is both accredited and within your budget. Most bachelor鈥檚 programs require around 120 credits and take about four years to complete, though some schools offer fully online accelerated tracks that allow students to graduate in two to three years. These programs combine general education with specialized courses in accounting, business, and finance, covering essential topics like auditing, corporate taxation, budgeting, and financial management.
Many Illinois colleges also offer specializations to align with your career goals. Forensic accounting, which focuses on investigating financial fraud, and management accounting, which emphasizes budgeting and strategic planning, are popular paths. Other sought-after specializations include tax accounting and auditing, providing opportunities to advance skills and enter niche areas within the field. With dynamic urban hubs like Chicago offering a variety of accounting roles, Illinois is an excellent place for accounting professionals to grow their careers.
We've found programs that won't break the bank. Review our selected programs from the most affordable online accounting degrees.
How To Become a CPA in Illinois
There are 55 jurisdictions, including Illinois, one can apply for a license and practice as a Certified Public Account (CPA). CPA's are in high demand but require more time and work than becoming an accountant. If you're interested in this career path, you'll need to do the following before earning a license:
- Complete 150 hours of university-level coursework from an accredited program. An online master's degree in accounting can help achieve this requirement.
- Work at least 2,000 hours - approximately one year - in the accounting field.
- Pass the Illinois CPA exam. You'll need to earn a score of 75 on a scale of 0-99 to pass this computer-based exam.
- Pass the ethics exam.
FAQs About Accounting in Illinois
How Much Do Accountants Make in Illinois?
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors residing in Illinois earn an annual median wage of . Salary options will likely vary if you are working in an urban hub like Chicago.
How Hard is the CPA Exam in Illinois?
CPA candidates in Illinois have reported the exam to be difficult, but this is a common report from all states. The test is 16 hours long and divided into four sections. You'll need to answer multiple choice questions and tasked-based assessments, which are questions based on real accounting scenarios you might encounter on the job.
Where can I find more information on the CPA exam in Illinois?
You should review the requirements for Illinois from the . If you're curious about the exam content, please review the .
Student Reviews of Online Accounting Programs
University of Phoenix Online Review 鈥� Veteran Perspective
I鈥檓 currently in my third class at University of Phoenix, and my experience has been overwhelmingly positive.
I actually first enrolled back in 2002 while serving in the military. Like a lot of service members, deployments made it impossible to stay consistent, and I had to step away before finishing. Life moved on, but the goal of completing my degree never really left.
Recently, I decided to come back after learning about expanded education... Read More
Coming back after all these years, the improvement in the online platform is night and day. The digital system is streamlined, easy to navigate, and packed with resources. I especially appreciate the integration of video content, including YouTube lectures and supplemental audio/visual materials, which makes learning a lot more engaging and practical.
The structure of the classes also works extremely well for someone with a full-time job. The week runs Tuesday through Monday, which gives me the weekend and Monday morning to wrap things up if work gets hectic鈥攅specially working at the post office where schedules can be unpredictable. That flexibility has been a huge advantage.
Overall, I鈥檝e been impressed not only with how far the university has come technologically, but also with how well it supports working adults and veterans. For anyone who had to put education on hold due to service or life circumstances, this is a solid path to getting back on track.
Review Date: 4/15/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I love the flexibility of online learning, it fits in well with my busy schedule being a mom of four, running my own small business and running a local mayoral campaign. I can honestly say the things I鈥檝e learned in the classroom have fit seemlessly into my everyday life. The one down side I would say is the constant calls. They like to check in every week even after being told you鈥檇 rather not chat. I like to call when I need help, the rather pestering calls only cause an added stress.
Review Date: 6/24/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I鈥檓 very disappointed with the Graduation Department at Faulkner University. I am a dedicated student with only four classes left to earn my BA in Business Management, and I鈥檝e worked extremely hard to get to this point. Unfortunately, I missed the graduation conferral deadline because I didn鈥檛 check my student email regularly. I understand that they sent 2鈥�3 reminder emails with no phone calls, but as I explained, I am a full-time student, full-time business owner, active duty military member, and... Read More
My schedule is beyond demanding, and I had hoped the university would show some understanding and flexibility given my circumstances. Not to mention, I just got back from my deployment in South Korea.
Instead, I was told there was nothing they could do to help me, which feels discouraging after years of commitment to this institution. I wish Faulkner鈥檚 Graduation Department would take a more student-centered approach and work with individuals who are genuinely trying to complete their degree but face unique time constraints. A little empathy and willingness to make an exception would go a long way in supporting hardworking students like myself.
Review Date: 11/5/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The Bachelor's of Science in Accounting at WGU was absolutely outstanding. WGU, as whole, is a fantastic school for anyone, but especially if you are a non-traditional student with a busy work and life schedule. It deserves all the praise and more that it gets--much more. The accounting program at WGU is very thorough, and the bottom line people want to hear--I was able to get a job with my degree. I was actually hired as an accountant seven months before I finished the accounting program at WGU.... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
UGA is basically the ultimate college experience. You get a massive, beautiful campus and top-tier academics, but it鈥檚 the Athens vibe that really makes it. The social scene is legendary, the food downtown is incredible, and Saturdays in the fall are unmatched. Go Dawg
Review Date: 2/9/2026
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Trinity University is a small institution but has a great network. Students enjoy a small class atmosphere and grow close with fellow students. There are many different organizations for which to get involved in with different objectives, from social to political. Not the best athletics atmosphere despite of awesome athletic team feats. Great campus and on campus resources. Slowly becoming more like high school with school rules and lack of diversity.
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I am very satisfied with my educational experience at Florida Atlantic University. The administrative staff are very helpful and friendly, the professors are professional and knowledgeable, the facilities are quiet and clean and the cost of education is very reasonable. I would highly recommend Florida Atlantic University to any student.
Review Date: 12/21/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I absolutely love Friends University. It's a little in the expensive, but worth the extra money. The professors really care about you as an individual.
Review Date: 11/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The accounting program is small, which makes it difficult to get into and even more difficult to get the classes you need. But if you are serious about it you will receive some of the best, hands-on instruction from teachers who are truly passionate about your success. Because there are so few of them they really band together to bring their students the most current information, best community resources, and good career and networking opportunities from all over San Diego County.
Review Date: 2/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Great small college. Lots of individual attention from teachers, if you want it. Teachers are very kind and know your name and take interest in your life and your future career. Excellent Career Center that really know what its like to get a job in today's market and make sure that you are prepared. Would highly recommend this university to anyone!
Review Date: 11/9/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
The small community was and continues to be very meaningful to me. The school has been well recognized by my peers and employers as having a great reputation. I truly think it has helped propel my career.
Review Date: 11/3/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I think that WTAMU was a great experience for me. I moved to the Amarillo area to a relocation of my husband for work. It was also a less expensive way to obtain my degree and online classes were not available so i had limited choices. The professors were very helpful and knowledgeable and set me up for great success in my career. I am proud of my degree at WTAMU
Review Date: 7/12/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes