Business students who are interested in earning a degree in accounting, but are unable to commit to a traditional course schedule, can benefit from enrolling in online education programs. By advancing their education through distance learning, individuals can earn a degree without disrupting their daily responsibilities, including work and family.
The University of Minnesota was recently approved to offer an online bachelors degree in accounting, and will begin the inaugural semester this fall. This new program will introduce students to the theoretical and analytical skills needed for a successful career in public, private or government accounting.
Students who pursue this degree can also take advantage of an optional fifth year in the program, which will prepare them to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam.
This educational opportunity was "creatively crafted with a focus on meeting the expectations of the accounting profession while exposing students to the technologies and economic trends that are reshaping business today," said Sue Brorson, professor and head of the school's business department. She added that in addition to Minnesota students, this fifth year of study is also "available to accountants that simply desire to prepare for certification."
Government statistics suggest that by 2018 the employment of accountants and auditors will increase by 22 percent, and will create approximately 279,400 new jobs nationwide.
