Online forensic accounting degrees holders assist firms in identifying financial wrongdoing. Find out which colleges would best prepare you for a career in forensic accounting.
You can learn to recognize and look into fraudulent activity by taking an online course in forensic accounting. You can work as an accountant, auditor, or fraud examiner with the help of these degrees.
The majority of online forensic accounting degrees train graduates for the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners’ Certified Fraud Examiner certification. They also count toward the qualifications for becoming a certified public accountant.
Discover more about this course, online education, and our list of the top online forensic accounting degrees.
Is a Forensic Accounting Degree Worthwhile?
If you enjoy dealing with numbers and solving problems, earning a degree in forensic accounting is frequently worthwhile. Also, the job market for accountants is often stable. The need for forensic accountants is generally increased by the complexity of accounting laws and regulations. Organizations require accountants with excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities as well as the capacity to spot fraud and other financial crimes and take appropriate action.
Delivery Methods for Online Forensic Accounting Degrees
Typically, online forensic accounting degrees are either entirely online or partially online. Numerous online programs let students enroll in on-campus courses if they so want.
While hybrid programs offer flexibility and in-class interaction, they also demand more travel than online programs. It may be challenging for working students to attend classes throughout the week for hybrid students.
Asynchronous or synchronous operation is used in online classes. Synchronous classes take place in real-time, frequently after work or on the weekends. Although asynchronous classes are available at any time, most students are given deadlines for forum participation and project submissions.
Students can access classes through asynchronous online courses from any location. For students who attend school entirely online, several colleges also offer cheaper tuition rates.
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How Much Would a Bachelor’s in Forensic Accounting Online Cost?
A number of variables affect how much a degree in forensic accounting online will cost. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) reports that the typical in-state tuition for public institutions in 2020–21 was $9,375. Private school tuition was $32,825 while out-of-state public school tuition was $27,091.
In addition to these other considerations, a school’s reputation, resources, and faculty all have an impact on tuition prices. Online students may have to pay for distance learning, technology, and subscription fees. Although many colleges have set online tuition rates, online students may also be impacted by changes in out-of-state tuition.
Online students pay less for travel and transportation than on-campus students do. Additionally, they can save money on lodging and meals. However, hybrid and online students might have to travel because of residency requirements.
Financial aid is available to online forensic accounting students in the form of federal grants and loans. They can also apply for scholarships and grants from colleges and local, state, and federal agencies.
Why Earn an Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Accounting?
In comparison to conventional on-campus programs, an online forensic accounting degree offers greater flexibility and accessibility. Online education, though, might not be for everyone.
To help you decide if completing a degree online is right for you, the sections that follow examine the benefits and drawbacks of online education.
Pros:
1. Flexible Time Slots:
Students can view lectures whenever and wherever they want in asynchronous online classes. Additionally, synchronous courses might be offered during convenient evening and weekend times. Students who are employed or have busy schedules might adapt their studies around them to make school less of a strain.
2. Optional Programs:
Online learning allows access to more programs than simply those within commuting distance because it requires little to no travel. Finding programs with the perfect staff, fees, and curricula is easier for students.
3. Multiple Perspectives
Online programs can reach a wider audience and draw a more varied student body than on-campus programs. A more inviting and varied learning environment may be produced via increased accessibility and less scary distant involvement.
Cons:
1. Independent Study:
Compared to on-campus sessions, online courses demand more independent study from the students. Less assistance from the lecturer is provided to the students than in traditional classes for readings, lectures, and assignments.
2. Not Interactive
Even though some online courses replicate the classroom setting, traditional programs still have more teacher and peer interaction. When watching lectures and doing tasks, online students must become comfortable with Zoom and online forums.
3. Insufficient College Experience
For some students, studying off campus can diminish their college experience. Online students might not have access to campus resources, activities, or student organizations, which can be a disadvantage.
Best Online Forensic Accounting Degrees
Financial forensics, assurance services, and auditing are attractive fields in which to work after earning an online bachelor’s in forensic accounting. By evaluating academic standards, reputations, and program accessibility, evaluate the four top programs using this guide.
1. East Oregon University
- School Type: Public
- Tuition: $265 per credit
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Accreditations: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
EOU, which started out as a teacher’s college in 1929, has developed into a major academic and cultural hub for rural Oregon. More than 30 academic disciplines in the humanities, sciences, education, and business are available to students.
BS/BA in Accounting-Forensic Accounting Concentration
A bachelor of arts with a foreign language requirement or a bachelor of science with additional scientific courses are also options for distance learners pursuing the forensic accounting degree at EOU. Both choices offer forensic accounting training in addition to backgrounds in managerial and financial accounting, business, law, and macroeconomics.
The concentration puts a focus on important topics such internal control systems, corporate governance, and fraud management. Graduates are additionally prepared for the Certified Public Accountant exam.
In order to complete their degrees faster, distance learners have the option of enrolling part- or full-time. Up to 135 quarter credits from prior institutions may be transferred into the program.
Application for EOU:
The minimum admission requirements for applicants with fewer than 30 quarter credits are a 2.75 high school GPA, a 2.25 college GPA, and official transcripts. Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.25 in order to transfer more than 30 quarter credits.
2. Southern New Hampshire University
- School Type: Private
- Tuition: $320 per credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Accreditations: New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Over 135,000 online students and over 3,000 on-campus students are served by SNHU. With over 300 on-campus and online programs, SNHU, which was founded in 1932 as an accounting and secretarial school, is now one of the fastest-growing institutions in the country.
BS in Accounting-Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination Concentration
The online forensic accounting and fraud examination bachelor’s degree program at SNHU teaches students how to examine and analyze financial records in order to stop fraud and fight cybercrime. Students who complete the program will be prepared to pursue conventional jobs in accounting and auditing.
The 120-credit program consists of basic education requirements, foundational business and accounting classes, and 12 credits in a concentration in areas such forensic accounting, fraudulent financial statements, interviewing skills, the legal implications of fraud, and computer investigation.
By accepting up to 90 transfer credits, SNHU upholds its dedication to providing an affordable and accessible education. New students can start their studies at any time of the year in six undergraduate terms of eight weeks thanks to the rolling admission policy.
Application for SNHU:
Transcript releases for any prior institutions attended as well as an electronic attestation form attesting to the accomplishment of a high school diploma or GED are required as part of SNHU’s streamlined admissions procedure, which is free for all applicants. SAT or ACT scores are not required by the university.
3. University of Northwestern Ohio
- Tuition: $275 per credit
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
UNOH enrolls over 4,000 students in 50 disciplines spread across five colleges on its main campus in Lima. Additionally, the institution provides over 20 programs for distance study.
BS in Accounting-Forensic Accounting Concentration
The forensic accounting focus in the bachelor of science in accounting at UNOH is taught by qualified business and accounting experts. This curriculum introduces students to accounting courses in the first quarter, in contrast to typical four-year accounting programs.
This entirely online degree program in forensic accounting focuses on preventing and identifying illegal financial conduct, such as theft, securities fraud, and bribery. It covers all forensic accounting topics. Students gain knowledge of white collar crime, how to get documents for analysis, and federal laws governing company governance and fraud.
All on-campus and online student services, such as free email, advising, and one-on-one tutoring, are fully accessible to distance learners.
Application to UNOH:
A high school diploma or a GED certificate is required for admission to UNOH’s undergraduate programs, as well as official transcripts. Students can schedule placement examinations or submit their SAT/ACT scores. $20 is the application cost charged by UNOH.
4. Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
- School Type: Public
- Tuition: $371 per credit
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 4 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Accreditations: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Indiana University When the Board of Trustees of Purdue University authorized the acquisition of Kaplan University, Global, the online-only division of Purdue University, was launched in 2018. Providing adult learners with accessible and affordable higher education opportunities is Purdue Global’s objective.
BS in Accounting-Auditing/Forensic Accounting Concentration
Graduates of the online auditing and forensic accounting program at Purdue Global are prepared for employment in a range of businesses that carry out financial, operational-efficiency, internal-control, and forensic audits. The entirely online course material examines forensic accounting, fraud examination methods, and computer-related crimes. Students get knowledge on how to look into asset theft, evaluate financial statement fraud, and put together legal proof.
The program has six start dates offered throughout the year, and its ten-week terms are used to deliver its courses. A distance learner may use up to 75% of their undergraduate degree in transfer credits from other institutions. Additionally, Purdue Global grants credit for time spent in the military, previous employment, and life experience like volunteer work.
Application for Purdue Global:
Candidates for undergraduate programs must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma, GED, or other recognized equivalent with a completion date. There is no application cost at Purdue Global.
5. University Of Alabama Birmingham
For its bachelor’s in accounting program, the University of Alabama in Birmingham offers a Forensic Accounting track. The curriculum is entirely online and equips students with the knowledge and abilities they need to succeed as forensic accountants. There are more concentrations from which students can select. In order to help students graduate even more quickly and get them started on the path to being successful CPAs, the university also provides an accelerated plan. This BS in Accounting degree also offers internship chances.
Additionally, students will gain practical experience that will enable them after graduation grow in their fields. With an accelerated master’s degree option to go along with the BS in Forensic Accounting, the entire 120-credit program is self-paced.
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6. University of Minnesota – Crookston
An online accounting degree with a Forensic Accounting track is offered by the University of Minnesota at Crookston. Students receive training in advanced strategies and methodologies for the accounting sector as part of their B.S. degree. The program also teaches exceptional communication and technological abilities. With a BS in Forensic Accounting, students frequently land jobs in financial analysis, public accounting, management accounting, banking, taxation, or finance.
After graduating, students can take the CPA exam. The Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) has recognized the forensic accounting degree at UMC. Small class sizes at UMC make it convenient for students to interact with professors one-on-one.
Candidates for the BS in accounting have a choice of four additional campuses. Criminal justice, elementary education, health management, sport and recreation management, and software engineering are additional degree options offered by UMC.
7. Misericordia University
A degree in accounting can prepare students for a curriculum that takes a “holistic and integrated approach to learning” for undergraduates and working professionals. Both on-campus and online options are available for the BS degree, which is created to give students the knowledge and abilities they need to succeed as leaders in the forensic accounting field.
To become a professional accountant, students will learn communication, critical thinking, and technical and analytical abilities. Additionally provided and helpful to learn for class participants are business writing and presenting techniques.
The BS in Accounting minor program at Misericordia University equips students with the knowledge and abilities to further their understanding of the subject and to find professional fulfillment. The AICPA has accredited the BS in Forensic Accounting program. The university also provides over 40 clubs and organizations for community involvement, reasonable tuition, and a low student-to-faculty ratio.
8. Indiana State University
For students who want to become certified public accountants, Indiana State University’s bachelor’s degree in accounting is a superb option. Forensic accounting is a track option available for the BS degree, ideal for individuals looking to advance their career in accounting as a major. A master’s degree in accounting or the M.B.A. are additional options for some students. The entire curriculum, which has 120 credits and focuses on topics including accounting information systems, auditing, financial and management accounting, nonprofit accounting, and taxation, is available online.
Skills offered in the curriculum will improve students’ capacity for learning and expand their career options after graduation. Skills include communication, leadership, interpersonal relations, and critical thinking.
Students who major in business might choose this degree successfully as well. Finance, insurance, and risk management may be the subjects of further courses of interest. Additionally, students may be qualified for options such as full- or part-time study. Credit transfers might be approved.
9. Maryville University
The online bachelor’s in accounting program at Maryville University is designed for students who want to gain knowledge, get experience, and hone their analytical and financial acumen while working in the accounting field. The program does not require the SAT or ACT for enrollment. Students who earn this degree are also prepared to take the CPA exam. Students can also get ready for any upcoming changes or industry expectations while enrolled in this program.
Students that have an analytical and ethical perspective can benefit from Maryville’s BS in accounting degree, regardless of past experience in the accounting sector. Students will be able to develop their talents beyond their existing level of knowledge with the aid of the degree. Maryville is recognized by the ACBSP.
For the BS degree, students might have the option of specialization. Maryville University also offers a master’s degree in accounting. One of the top online forensic accounting degree programs in the northeast is also offered by this university.
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10. Utica College
For working professionals and students interested in stopping fraud, Utica College offers an online BS in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation. This course teaches students how to identify fraud, record the crime, and determine the best approach to stop it from happening again. While enrolled in the program, students can also get ready for the ACFE certification.
Students and adult learners who pursue the concentration in Financial Investigation are also given training in how to conduct successful investigations. Students will pick up abilities including perseverance, focus, interviewing, and questioning.
The 120-credit BS in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation program can be finished in two to four years. It is also one of the nation’s most reasonably priced financial crime programs. Additionally, students have the choice to transfer up to 90 credits.
11. Franklin University
An online undergraduate curriculum with a concentration on accounting principles and a white-collar criminal motivation is the B.S. in Forensic Accounting. Students who receive a degree in forensic accounting will be taught how to spot and stop business fraud.
The workshop will demonstrate how to trace the sources of funding for terrorist organizations, including disclosing instances of tax evasion, money laundering, and employee theft. This forensic accounting degree is IACBE accredited and includes practical training. Additionally, the program provides the intellectual groundwork required to sit for the CFE, CPA, and CIA certification exams.
With the self-paced learning options offered by Franklin University, students can progress at their own rate. The entire 124 semester-hour curriculum can be finished in around two years. Additionally, this forensic accounting degree is perfect for students who are majoring in accounting, business administration, or business forensics. Franklin is also one of the few colleges that grants a bachelor’s in forensic accounting.
12. Point University
The online BS in Accounting degree program from Point University is centered on the subject of Forensics and Fraud. Students in the curriculum will gain knowledge of the principles of “Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (GAAP), as well as how to articulate, analyze, and apply financial management and accounting ideas. The program also offers techniques and resources for spotting and preventing fraud. Internal controls, the fraud triangle, and methods for detecting fraud and malicious intent are also included in this.
The forensic accounting degree is entirely online and is accessible from any location at any time. There are few students to instructors in the program’s classes as well. Up to 90 credits of the necessary coursework may also be transferred by students, provided they do so from an authorized institution.
13. Davenport University
A BBA in Accounting in Fraud Investigation program is available from Davenport University for working people who desire to enter the accounting industry. The course is offered both on-campus and online. Students will learn through courses how to earn certification as fraud examiners. The knowledge to use accounting concepts, information systems, and auditing techniques will be taught to students, along with the abilities and expertise required to perform financial fraud investigations.
The 120-credit accounting fraud investigation program offers flexible class times so that students can advance at their own speed. Davenport University offers its alumni real-world experiences while connecting them with individuals in the accounting field who are experts in their field. Graduates from this bachelor’s program in accounting fraud investigation, which is IACBE recognized, will be equipped for a successful career as a forensic accountant. Davenport University, which is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, provides numerous career-focused programs along with a success-oriented education.
14. Champlain College
For those looking to pursue a profession in prosecuting white-collar criminals, Champlain has an online bachelor’s degree program in economic crime investigation. Fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement are just a few of the crimes that students will be revealing. With this degree, students learn about important problems that fraud examiners and investigators deal with on a daily basis in the workplace.
The emphasis of the program will be on a practical learning style meant to set apart each student in their specialized field of study, whether it be risk management, law enforcement, or accountancy.
Students will develop their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities through Champlain’s economic crime investigation program, building a foundation for success in both the public and private sectors. Students who complete this program will also be prepared to take the CAMS exam as well as the Certified Fraud Examiners test. By the New England Commission of Higher Education, this 120-credit program has received regional accreditation. If qualified, students may transfer up to 90 credits.
15. New England College/Dallas College
All students at New England College are taught the skills they need to succeed through a comprehensive degree program that has been put together by the school. Additionally, this BS in Forensic Accounting equips students for a variety of work environments. Graduates with forensic accounting experience could work for a variety of businesses. These consist of financial institutions, law firms, consulting companies, law enforcement agencies, and accountancy businesses. A student who earns this degree will also be qualified to testify as an expert.
Students who have the necessary skills for this program will be better able to identify, comprehend, assess, and communicate issues that are both financial and business-related. To complete the BS in forensics degree, students must complete 74 credits in total.
The curriculum includes electives and core business classes for a total of 120 credits. Additionally a hybrid program, the BS in Forensic Accounting provides students with both on-campus and online course options. Small class sizes, low tuition, and a wide range of degree possibilities are all provided by NEC to its students.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete an online forensic accounting bachelor’s degree?
The typical length of time to accomplish an online forensic accounting bachelor's degree is four years. A few universities provide expedited pathways that let students achieve their degrees more quickly.
How much does an online forensic accounting degree cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average four-year tuition for in-state students attending public schools was $37,500 and $131,300, respectively. The average cost for out-of-state students was $108,360, however online students may be eligible for in-state rates.
How difficult is forensic accounting?
For a number of reasons, forensic accounting can be difficult. While some students may find the program's numerical component challenging, the field also calls for excellent observational and analytical abilities. Students understand intricate accounting laws and regulations while utilizing investigative tools.
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