Study Accounting in Indiana
Accounting is an in-demand job field that offers reliable career opportunities in all sorts of economic sectors. In Indiana, you can get the appropriate training at colleges and universities across the state to work as an accountant in finance, manufacturing, agriculture, or any other number of pursuits.
Better still, many of Indiana’s institutions of higher education offer online accounting degrees. You can complete your undergraduate or graduate studies (or both!) entirely online without ever stepping foot on campus. In that regard, online accounting degrees in Indiana aren’t just for you if you live in the Hoosier State. The popular programs below are available no matter where you live!
Online Accounting Degrees in Indiana
Listed below are some of the popular schools offering online accredited accounting degrees in Indiana:
- Indiana University
- Indiana State University
- Ball State University
- Indiana Wesleyan University
- Penn State World Campus
- Grand Canyon University
- Liberty University
- Capella University
- Southern New Hampshire University
Indiana University
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
The Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Indiana University is a 120-credit program with low tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. The affordability is just one advantage, though – its focus on analytics and technology (in addition to accounting principles) means you’ll have an expanded set of skills that make you even more attractive to potential employers.
The curriculum is divided into five segments:
- General education courses
- Accounting and business foundations courses
- Business core courses
- Accounting core courses
- Accounting electives
The general education requirements explore broad subjects, including math, science, social sciences, and English (among other areas). The purpose of general education courses is to help you build skills necessary for success in life and your future career. Classes like English Composition, for example, focus on essential skills required to be a quality writer and communicator. Math courses, meanwhile, focus on the development of quantitative reasoning and analytical skills you can use to solve essential problems – math-related and otherwise.
Sample general education classes include the following:
- College Algebra
- Introduction to Biology
- U.S. History to 1877
- English Literature
- Public Speaking
You’ll take general courses in the accounting and business fields, too. Like general education courses, these classes focus on introductory topics that build a solid foundation for learning more advanced concepts in this field. For example, you’ll take a three-credit Introduction to Business class that explores the basic principles of business, including business operations, legal and ethical issues, and human resources. This segment of the curriculum accounts for 24 credits.
The business core sequence of courses includes four classes in essential business topics. For example, you’ll take a Computers in Business class that offers insights into computer software, hardware, networks, and other technologies useful in carrying out the day-to-day tasks of running a business.
You’ll also complete an accounting core of 21 credits that explores advanced topics like Financial Reporting and Analysis, Cost and Performance Measurement for Decision Making, and Taxes for Decision Making. Other courses in Auditing, Cost Accounting, and Communicating Accounting Analytics might also be required. You’ll round out your studies with elective courses in the accounting field. You must choose three classes from a range of possibilities, including:
- Accounting Information Systems
- Accounting for Mergers, Acquisitions, and Complex Financial Structures
- Technical and Empirical Research in Accounting
- Advanced management Accounting for Decision Making and Control
- Sustainability Reporting and Analysis
With a solid education in these and other areas of accounting and business, you’ll be qualified to pursue employment in many different fields. You might work as an auditor or financial consultant. You could also explore jobs in corporate accounting, investment banking, or public accounting.
Starting this program as a first-year student requires about four years of full-time studies to graduate. However, Indiana University allows you to transfer up to 64 credits from a regionally accredited institution, making this program a good choice if you are transferring from another school.
You must meet the following requirements to apply:
- Submit an application for admission
- Submit transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended
- Submit ACT or SAT scores if you wish. This is not a requirement for admission, though.
Indiana State University
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Indiana State’s Bachelor of Science in Accounting offers you the flexibility of pursuing employment after graduation or continuing your studies in a master’s program, such as an MBA or a Master of Accounting. The program requires 120 credits to graduate, which is a traditional number aligned with on-campus degrees. However, since you can complete this degree online, you never have to visit campus!
This accounting degree is offered by Indiana State’s Scott College of Business, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). This prestigious distinction ensures your degree is respected in the industry. Moreover, the curriculum is aligned with industry standards, which allows you to hit the ground running in the accounting field upon graduating.
As is typical of bachelor’s degrees, you must complete general education courses like those outlined earlier. Usually, these courses are taken during the first and second year of the program, though you might take a few general classes during your final two years of studies.
The general courses are complemented by a 54-credit sequence of business core classes that investigate common areas of business. For example, you’ll take classes like:
- Introduction to Contemporary Business
- Business Information Tools
- Business Statistics
- Introduction to Management Information Systems
- Legal Environment and Business
Additionally, the business core includes two foundational accounting classes: Principles of Accounting I and II. These courses provide an introduction to financial accounting with an exploration of building financial statements, using financial data for decision making, measuring assets and liabilities, and other essential accounting functions.
Another 27 credits are required strictly within accounting. These credits are divided into subsets: Accounting required courses and accounting electives.
The required accounting courses examine more specific accounting topics, like Cost Accounting, Data Analytics in Accounting, and Auditing Theory and Practice. You must also take either Introduction to Federal Income Taxation or Advanced Federal Income Taxation. Coursework in Accounting Systems, Financial Accounting I, and Financial Accounting II are likewise required.
You must take two electives in accounting, which you can choose from a broad range of possible subjects. These options include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Fraud Examination
- Not-for-Profit Accounting
- Occupational Fraud
- Emerging Technology in Accounting
- Principles of Investments
You can also participate in an accounting internship, which counts as one or both of your elective courses. An internship is an invaluable experience during which you’ll work in a real-world accounting environment under the supervision of an experienced accountant.
Not only will you gain essential accounting skills in an internship, but you can also use the experience as an opportunity to network. The connections you make could very well lead to an employment placement after you graduate. Since internships are usually completed during the program’s final year, the transition from college to career is often seamless.
The admissions requirements for first-year students are as follows:
- Complete the Indiana Core 40 high school curriculum (or its equivalent) with a 2.5 cumulative GPA or higher.
- Submit official high school transcripts or a GED certificate.
- Submit official transcripts from every college or university from which you’ve earned credit.
Ball State University
Online Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Accounting
At Ball State University, you have your pick of a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Accounting. In both cases, you’ll take classes that help you develop competencies in areas like finance, management, economics, and data analytics, in addition to accounting. And since both degrees are offered by Ball-State’s AACSB-accredited Miller College of Business, you can proceed with your education knowing that you’re learning from one of the best business schools in the nation.
In fact, Ball State is one of fewer than 200 colleges with AACSB accreditation. It’s also the first public school in the state to receive accreditation from the AACSB. On top of that, the university is one of just 170 schools in the world with separate AACSB accreditation for its accounting program.
Whether you choose the BA or BS version of this degree, you’ll gain essential skills necessary for a finance-related career. This includes the following core competencies:
- Creating and analyzing financial reports.
- Providing assurance on financial reports and other professional services, like financial planning, tax planning, and consulting.
- Developing knowledge of core principles in finance, management, economics, data analytics, and related areas.
- Applying your knowledge of accounting and related fields in varied business settings.
You’ll acquire these skills in a 120-credit program, of which 75 credits are within the business field. The largest portion of coursework is in a business core, which includes studies in economics, finance, business information systems, and others. For example, you’ll take a Principles of Finance course that delves into financial management, global finance, ethical issues, and more.
Likewise, you’ll take introductory courses in Macroeconomics and Microeconomics to get a better understanding of the forces that drive the exchange of goods and services, pricing, demand, and so forth. Other basic coursework in the business core includes the following:
- Foundations of Business Communication
- Foundations of Business Analytics
- Principles of Business Law
- Business Statistics
- Brief Calculus
Some upper-division courses are required as part of the business core, too. A 300-level Operations Management class, for example, discusses topics ranging from inventory management to operations strategies to new process technologies. Another 300-level course – Managing Behavior in Organizations – helps you understand the challenges of managing small and large groups of employees.
The accounting portion of the curriculum begins with Principles of Financial Accounting and Principles of Management Accounting. Think of these classes as the foundation upon which all your other accounting studies are built. From there, you’ll transition into upper-division classes like Financial Accounting and Reporting I and II. Managerial Accounting, Federal Taxation, and Auditing Principles and Practices are also required.
The final two accounting courses you take are up to you. You must choose one Group A course and one Group B course from the following options:
Group A
- Tax Planning for Business Entities
- Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting
- Government and Nonprofit Accounting
Group B
- Accounting Applications for Small Business
- Practicum in Individual Income Tax
- Selected Topics in Accounting
- Uniform Commercial Code Law
- Tax Planning for Businesses and Entities
- Government and Nonprofit Accounting
- Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting
The combination of one class from each of the groups above, plus the required accounting and business classes described earlier, gives you a well-rounded education that prepares you for significant career advancement opportunities.
Applying as a first-year student requires you to meet the following guidelines:
- Complete the Indiana Core 40 high school curriculum or its equivalent.
- Have a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher (the average is 3.5 at Ball State).
- Outline your academic and extracurricular activities.
- Provide ACT or SAT scores if you wish. This is not a requirement for admission, though.
- Submit official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended.
- Submit an optional one-page essay or resume.
Indiana Wesleyan University
Online Master of Science in Accounting
The Master of Science in Accounting at Indiana Wesleyan is an accelerated program you can finish in about 18 months. Accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, this program prepares you for advanced work in accounting and related business fields.
The curriculum is designed to be flexible. On the one hand, you can use this degree to pursue a career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a financial advisor, or a non-profit accounting specialist. On the other hand, the skills you learn can be applied in financial accounting, public accounting, and managerial accounting situations.
The curriculum explores essential areas of accounting. You’ll take courses in Ethics and Business Laws for Accountants, Accounting Information Systems and Control, and Advanced Auditing. A class in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination is also required. This class helps you develop skills related to investigating fraud and embezzlement using financial records. You’ll focus specifically on auditing procedures and investigative skills.
As a result of your studies in this 36-credit program, you’ll gain skills related to the following:
- Address complex accounting problems by implementing key accounting strategies and designing effective solutions.
- Develop leadership skills, including management capabilities.
- Practice ethically, with a high standard of professionalism and adherence to relevant laws.
Since Indiana Wesleyan is religiously affiliated, you’ll also learn how to incorporate your Christian faith into your career plans and how to use your faith to enhance your practice as an accountant.
An advantage of this program is that it’s customizable to your needs and interests. A good example of this is the three specializations offered as part of the degree: Financial Accounting, Public Accounting, and Managerial Accounting. In each case, you’ll take 12 courses with program-specific knowledge. For example, in addition to the classes outlined earlier, the Public Accounting specialization requires you to complete the following courses:
- Auditing and Attestation
- Business and Concepts
- Advanced Managerial Accounting
- Corporate Taxation
- Regulation
No matter which specialization you choose, you’ll have the advantage of starting the program at multiple points throughout the year. Generally speaking, you can start the program about every six weeks, giving you added flexibility for pursuing your educational goals when it works best for you.
To graduate, you must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher, including a grade of C or higher in all accounting courses. Before you can enroll, though, you must apply to the program. The following admissions requirements must be met before applying:
- Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
- Submit unofficial transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended.
- Have an undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or higher.
If your GPA falls below the 2.5 threshold, you may still qualify for probationary admission. This is rare, though, and is offered on a case-by-case basis.
Penn State World Campus
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Pennsylvania State University’s World Campus provides an entirely online Bachelor of Science in Accounting, allowing you to complete the program without needing to visit the Penn State campus or even travel to Pennsylvania.
This program, accredited by AACSB, puts you on the path to becoming a CPA by offering 120 of the 150 educational credits required to sit for the CPA exam. By the end of this program, you’ll have acquired key accounting skills, including performing audits, working ethically and responsibly, and aiding business leaders in making more effective decisions.
The coursework includes several study areas. Initially, you’ll fulfill Entrance-to-Major Requirements, covering fundamental topics in accounting. This includes courses such as Introduction to Accounting, Introduction to Finance, and Economics 102, among others. you’ll also need to complete introductory coursework in marketing, management, and math.
The majority of the program’s credits are from Prescribed Courses or those focused on accounting and business. These courses will introduce you to vital topics and themes in accounting and business, and also include advanced classes on specific areas. For example, you’ll take lower-level courses in Cost Accounting, Auditing, and Federal Taxation. Other required classes include Financial and Managerial Accounting, Business Strategy, and Microeconomic Analysis and Policy.
Upper-division courses cover subjects like Corporation Finance, Intermediate Financial Accounting, and Supply Chain Management. Other Prescribed Courses include:
- Information Systems Management and Applications
- Principles of Marketing
- Basic Management Concepts
- Business Writing
- Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy
You’ll need to take an additional 18 credits in accounting, business, math, and statistics. Courses include Federal Taxation II and Governmental and Not-For-Profit Accounting to meet the additional accounting credit requirements. You’ll also take Elementary Statistics, a course on Social, Legal and Ethical Environment for Business, and either Techniques of Calculus I or Calculus with Analytic Geometry.
The 120-credit curriculum concludes with six additional credits in your choice of areas such as Accounting, Economics, Finance, Management, or Marketing, among others. Most students can complete all graduation requirements in four years or less, but part-time study is available if you prefer to take fewer classes each semester.
Upon completion of this degree, you’ll be prepared for various accounting certifications, including:
- Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA)
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA)
You can utilize the Penn State World Campus Career Services Center to transition from undergraduate studies to employment. Here, you can work with a career counselor or coach to help identify your career goals, find internships, and connect with potential employers. The Career Services Center also provides resources on occupation and salary information and guidance for pursuing graduate school, should you decide to pursue a master’s degree.
To apply, you must complete these steps:
- Complete the application for admission
- Show proof of graduating from high school or obtaining a GED
- Submit official transcripts from every college or university you’ve attended
- Demonstrate English proficiency if it isn’t your native language
Is a BA or BS Better For Accounting?
A BS in Accounting is generally preferred for accounting careers due to its stronger emphasis on technical and analytical skills. The BS program typically includes more coursework in mathematics, finance, and business, which are crucial for roles such as auditing, tax preparation, and financial analysis.
In contrast, a BA in Accounting offers a broader education with more electives in liberal arts, which can be beneficial for roles requiring strong communication and critical thinking skills. Ultimately, the choice depends on your career goals and interests, with the BS being ideal for technical roles and the BA for more diverse opportunities.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Accounting Degree Online?
The time it takes to obtain an accounting degree online varies based on the type of degree and the specific program. Here are the general timelines:
Associate’s Degree in Accounting: An online associate’s degree in accounting typically takes about two years to complete. This program usually consists of 60 credit hours and covers foundational courses in accounting, business, and general education.
Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting: An online bachelor’s degree in accounting usually takes about four years to complete. Most programs require approximately 120 credit hours, including courses in accounting principles, financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing.
Master’s Degree in Accounting: An online master’s degree in accounting generally takes one to two years to complete. The program typically requires around 30 to 36 credit hours and includes advanced courses in accounting, finance, and business management.
How Do I Become an Accountant in Indiana?
To become an accountant in Indiana, follow these steps:
- Education: Obtain at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and complete 150 credit hours
- CPA Exam: Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination.
- Work Experience: Gain two years of full-time accounting experience under the supervision of a CPA.
- Licensure: Apply for CPA licensure, including proof of education, experience, and exam scores.
Educational Requirements
To sit for the CPA Exam, you must complete 120 semester hours and obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university.
- You need 24 undergraduate semester hours, or 15 graduate semester hours, in accounting. These courses must include financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting.
- Additionally, 24 undergraduate semester hours in business administration and economics are required. This can include up to 6 semester hours in business and tax law, and up to 6 semester hours in computer science, at either the undergraduate or graduate level.
To apply for a CPA license in Indiana, you must complete a total of 150 semester hours. You can complete additional 30 hours through a master’s degree in accounting.
Social Security Number Requirement
You must have a Social Security number (SSN) to obtain a CPA license in Indiana. There are no exemptions regarding the SSN requirement.
Citizenship, Age, and Residency Requirements
- U.S. citizenship is not required to obtain a CPA license in Indiana.
- There is no age requirement for licensure.
- It is not necessary to be a resident, employee, or maintain offices in the state.
Pass the CPA Exam
After completing the educational requirements, you qualify to sit for the Uniform CPA Examination. This exam, devised by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), is a four-part test. You must score 75 or above in each section to pass and must complete all four sections within an 18-month timeframe.
The four parts of the test are:
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR): Covers financial reporting frameworks from various industry experts, requiring you to compare statements with different reporting standards.
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD): Tests your knowledge of both International Standards of Auditing and U.S. standards.
- Regulation (REG): Covers your professional and legal responsibilities as a practicing CPA.
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC): Includes general business concepts and international business, with a focus on written communication skills.
Indiana CPA Work Experience Requirements
You must have at least two years of qualifying work experience in government, industry, academia, or public practice. This work experience must be verified by an active CPA.
CPA Ethical Exam Requirements
Indiana does not require CPA candidates to complete an ethics exam.
Indiana CPA License Renewal Requirements
All CPA licenses in Indiana expire every three years. Renewal notices are sent 90 days before the expiration date. Late renewals and reinstatements incur an additional penalty.
Indiana CPA Continuing Education Requirements
- You must complete a total of 120 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every three years.
- A minimum of 20 hours of CPE must be earned each year.
- At least 12 hours of the total CPE must be dedicated to accounting and/or auditing.
- At least 4 hours of the total CPE must be in ethics courses.
- No more than 50% of the CPE can be earned through self-study.
How Long Does It Take to Become an Accountant in Indiana?
Including education, work, and licensing requirements, becoming a fully licensed CPA in Indiana typically takes 6 to 7 years.
How Much Does a CPA Make in Indiana?
The average salary for a CPA in Indiana varies depending on factors such as experience, location, and specific roles within the field. As of July 2024, the average salary for a CPA in Indiana is $163,161 per year. More experienced CPAs in Indiana earn well over $200,000 per year.