I have a degree in Secondary Ed, but did not enjoy teaching. I sort of fell into doing some AR, which I really enjoyed but was laid off. I'm currently working in a small CPA firm as an assistant and enjoying it for the most part. I have been thinking of going back to school to get some sort of accounting degree, probably an associates degree. Here is my question: is it possible to get a good education doing it at an online school, or should i look at a regular one in my area? I currently work part time, 8-4:30 Monday - Thursday, so I would have at least one day for traditional classes if I went that route.
ETA: I can switch my day off, if necessary, and during the non-tax season, probably even take 2 days off a week instead of one. I really appreciate the feedback I'm getting. Thanks!
Hi Sara-
I worked full time and went to school half time almost completely on line, at our community college. It took me a little longer, but I LOVED it. I received the same education, but I didn't feel my time was wasted in lectures that didn't help.
I strongly recommend online courses. Additionally, accounting classes, at least at my CC were abundant.
R. Magby
I know a number of people who have done all online schools & it has been great for them. A couple went to University of Pheonix & I believe with the classes they took they actually went into a classroom 1x a week or every two weeks - something like that but I know you can go completely online. A friend went to Liberty Univeristy Online (a Christian school). They have an actual campus in Virginia but you can do all online with them also. Actually I will be starting with them next week. I think you can get a good education as long as you are willing to do the work & go through a decent school. Many blessings on your decision!
Hi Sara,
I teach college - both online and face-to-face. Some employers will think that an online education is of lesser value, and for some subjects it may be (major areas that need an emphasis on practice or verbal communication like nursing, education, etc.). Accounting is a safe field, I would guess. Most online universities are gaining reputation, though. I would suggest going with a university that offers both traditional courses and online courses as the degree will hold more clout than a school that is only or primarily online.
To compare the two, online courses are usually slower paced but they require much more self-motivation. In a traditional class, I can explain a concept, have students discuss it and practice it, and then give the assignment for the next class. Online, students read the material and complete an assignment all on their own. I can answer questions if they arise, but mostly I just grade assignments and offer feedback to help guide the students.
With your schedule, you would have to take night courses or online classes, since most schools will not offer Friday-only courses. Another thing to consider is that different schools offer different types of online courses. Some online courses have a set time that students get online and "have class" - they just do it live online via chat. Other online courses are asynchronous, meaning you can get online and complete assignments whenever you can. You will have deadlines for assignments, but you don't have to be online at a certain time. University of Phoenix operates this way - students may have two assignments due in a week and you complete them at your own pace and submit them by the deadline.
Hope this helps you make a decision!
Okay, here is the deal, if you want to build on that associates then online is not the way to go. I am not sure if you live in St Louis but here there are only three universities that have accredited accounting programs. None of them will allow you to transfer more than two online courses. In other words they will throw out your whole online degree if that is all you have. The other requirement is that the online course must have at least two in person exams.
The other thing I would have to wonder is what are your goals. I find it interesting that people believe accountants make good money. They make better than unskilled labor but it is the CPA that makes good money. You are required to take 150 hours, 30 of which must be specific acccounting courses before you can sit the CPA exam. If you are wondering 150 hours is masters level.
Having Friday off does not mean you can take traditional courses during the day. Tradtional courses are either Monday, Wednesday, and Friday or Tuesday and Thursday. There are some that are just Monday and Wednesday. Understand traditional courses are designed with kids in mind, they are generally not offered on Fridays since most kids start their weekend at that point. If you want to do traditional you will have to take night classes.
I graduated in May with my masters in accounting. I am currently studying for my CPA exam. I did this taking 18 hours a semester at St Louis University while working full time. It can be done but you have to have the right job. I am not sure what you do at the firm you are at but I would advise speaking to them about your goals and seeing if they are willing to be flexible with your hours.
What you need to understand about accounting is it is constantly changing. A course you took two years ago is irrelevant now. In other words if you stretch it out too long you will have to retake courses and have a heck of a time passing the CPA exam. People change their underwear less than Congress changes tax code and don't get me started on GAAP v IFRS.
Sorry to be such a downer but there is a reason accountants are in demand, it is not an easy degree to get.
