Accountants are the backbone of any business, and degrees in accounting are among the most popular online degrees to obtain. Why? Simply stated, the study of accounting is based on mathematics, logic, and long-held best practices. Students are drawn to accounting because of its precision. That said, there are a number of disciplines within accounting for a student to choose from, and within those disciplines, a variety of degree possibilities. Let’s explore them.
Disciplines
The five basic disciplines are: Public Accounting, Management Accounting, Government Accounting, Internal Auditing, and Forensic Accounting.
Public accounting degrees prepare the student to create and maintain accurate financial records. In addition public accountants can do audits, prepare financial records and taxes.
Management accounting degrees prepare the student to focus on internal business needs. Management accountants assign costs to processes. Often called cost accounting, management accounting focuses on fixed and variable costs.
Government accounting degrees prepare the student to work in federal and state governments. Students will be proficient in the application of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles). Typical workplace activities deal with budgets, funds, encumbrances and appropriations.
Internal Auditing degrees are an advanced degree taken after first satisfying the requirements for bachelor’s degree in accounting. Internal auditors review the accounting and financial activities and methods of businesses or government agencies.
Forensic accounting degrees prepare the student to combine accounting principles and information technology to analyze financial records and prepare the reports to be submitted as evidence in court.
Types of Degrees
Within the five disciplines, a student can choose from a number of degrees. Many accounting disciplines offer a two-year associates degree. The advantage of the two-year degree is that it allows the student to get into the workplace sooner. In addition to the two-year degrees are bachelors, masters, and doctorate degrees.
While technology may change how we keep track of financial data, sound accounting principles will remain constant, and accountants will always be in demand.










