How Much is an Accounting Course?

College Accounting Programs: The Most Expensive Option

A college accounting degree offers in-depth knowledge and comprehensive training that covers all facets of accounting, from financial reporting and auditing to taxation and managerial accounting. A degree program provides a well-rounded education that includes technical accounting skills, the ability to explore other fields of study, and the opportunity to meet people from diverse backgrounds. Attaining an accounting degree is also essential for those aiming for advanced positions in accounting, such as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or a management role in finance. However, many accounting careers do not require licensure, so a CPA certification may not be necessary to pursue. 

The cost of obtaining a college accounting degree can be significant. Tuition at public universities averages around $10,000 to $15,000 per year for in-state students, while private institutions can charge upwards of $35,000 to $50,000 annually. A typical degree program taking two to four years to complete can add up to a substantial investment, often requiring students to seek financial aid, scholarships, or student loans to manage the costs. While student aid opportunities are available, including grants and federal loans, for those who need to enter the workforce more quickly or are concerned about the high cost, alternative options like bootcamps or certificate programs may be more suitable.

Professional Development Programs: Immersive Career-Focused Classes

Immersive career-focused classes, like bootcamps or certificate-granting programs, offer a comprehensive learning experience designed to equip you with job-ready accounting skills upon completion. These programs delve into in-depth knowledge of accounting practices, covering everything from fundamental concepts to advanced applications, ensuring you’re well-prepared for a career in the field. The cost of these programs typically ranges from a few thousand dollars to nearly $20,000, making them a more affordable alternative to traditional college degrees while still requiring a significant financial investment.

These courses are an excellent option for individuals looking to pivot careers quickly or those who want to gain specialized skills without the time and expense of pursuing an accounting program. However, given the cost, it’s crucial to be committed to pursuing a career in accounting before enrolling in such a program.

Live Training Classes: Ideal for Beginners and Unsure Students

Live training classes, often geared towards beginners, offer a cost-effective way to introduce yourself to accounting fundamentals. These classes, which typically range from less than a hundred to a few hundred dollars, provide a shorter and more accessible learning experience than college degrees or immersive programs. Live training classes cover basic principles and give you a solid foundation in accounting. While they are ideal for dipping your toes into the field without a significant financial investment, they delve less deeply into advanced accounting principles. For those committed to a long-term career in accounting, these classes can serve as a starting point, but you may need more comprehensive training for a thorough understanding and career readiness.

On-Demand Classes: Excellent Supplements at Reasonable Prices

On-demand accounting classes provide a highly flexible learning experience, allowing you to study at your own pace and fit education around your schedule. These classes are particularly well-suited for individuals balancing work, family, or other commitments. These courses are often beginner-friendly, covering foundational topics essential for those new to accounting. Without the constraints of set deadlines or class times, you have complete control over your learning journey, which can be a significant advantage if you prefer to take your time with challenging material or breeze through familiar topics.

However, the self-paced nature of on-demand classes also presents challenges. The lack of real-time instructor feedback and the absence of live collaboration with peers can make it challenging to stay motivated and engaged. These courses require a high degree of self-discipline, making them best suited for independent learners who can manage their time effectively. If you know you need accountability or thrive in interactive environments, you may find on-demand classes less effective. Costs for on-demand courses vary widely, from as little as $10 to several hundred dollars, so assessing your learning style and needs is crucial before investing in one of these programs to ensure you will succeed in completing the course.

Free Resources: What Are They Good For?

On-demand classes are a popular option to learn accounting skills, mainly because they offer flexibility and affordability. Numerous free resources are available, such as YouTube, LinkedIn, and Coursera, which provide valuable tutorials and lessons. You can also find free introductory resources on Noble Desktop. These free tutorials are especially beneficial for beginners who want to get a feel for accounting before committing to more intensive programs. They are also helpful for supplementing existing knowledge, like mastering a complex function in Excel. The short duration of these videos, typically ranging from a few minutes to a couple of hours, allows learners to absorb information at their own pace, making them ideal for those with busy schedules.

However, while on-demand classes are convenient and cost-effective, they also have limitations. The lack of real-time instructor feedback and the absence of live collaboration with other students can be challenging for those who need accountability and motivation to stay on track. On-demand learning is best suited for self-motivated, independent learners who can manage their own study schedules. Assess your preferred learning style before opting for this method, as it requires discipline to ensure you stay caught up. Additionally, while many on-demand classes are free, some may come with a cost, though they are generally more affordable than traditional classes or bootcamps.

Learn Accounting Skills with Noble Desktop

Students looking to master accounting skills can do so through the expert instruction provided by Noble Desktop. Noble provides a broad range of accounting courses covering accounting fundamentals for all types of learners. You can join Noble’s courses in person in Manhattan or virtually from the comfort of your home or office. These courses feature small class sizes led by expert instructors who guide students through the course material. In addition, Noble classes feature a free retake option that will allow you to retake a course within a year for no extra fees.

If you’re looking for an intensive, accelerated learning experience that will teach you essential accounting skills, consider Noble Desktop’s Financial Accounting Bootcamp. This bootcamp is a beginner-friendly, live online course that teaches fundamental financial accounting principles training. This comprehensive course covers financial statements, balance sheets, income, and cash flow statements. 

Also offered is the Intro to Financial Accounting course, which covers essential concepts needed for financial accounting, including how to record, classify, and summarize financial transactions. The course covers key concepts such as the accounting cycle, financial statements, and basic accounting principles, providing a solid foundation for understanding and managing financial information. Noble’s Financial Analyst Training Program also focuses on key concepts for financial analysis, including advanced Excel techniques, financial modeling, and corporate valuation.