Best Online Accounting Bachelor's Degree Programs In Alabama 2025

Why Get Your Accounting Degree Online in Alabama?

Earning your accounting degree online in Alabama positions you to adapt strategically to a shifting job market while capitalizing on regional opportunities. While Alabama’s overall accounting employment is projected to decline slightly by 3% through 2030 according to O*NET data, this contrasts with the national 6% growth forecast by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This discrepancy highlights the importance of targeting high-growth sectors within the state, such as aerospace in Huntsville or healthcare systems in Birmingham, where demand for specialized financial expertise continues to rise despite broader trends. Alabama’s low cost of living amplifies the value of your earnings, letting you achieve financial stability faster than in higher-cost states—even if starting salaries trend slightly below national averages.

Online programs integrate coursework in forensic accounting and data analytics, aligning your skills with emerging needs in sectors like advanced manufacturing and renewable energy. These industries increasingly seek professionals who can navigate both traditional accounting practices and digital tools like blockchain-based auditing systems. Local firms and corporations also prioritize candidates with certifications such as the CPA or CMA, which online programs often prepare you to earn while studying. Networking through the Alabama Society of CPAs or regional finance conferences connects you directly to employers reshaping the state’s economic landscape, from Montgomery’s public sector roles to Mobile’s port logistics ventures.

With over 21,000 accounting professionals currently employed statewide, retirements and role shifts will create consistent openings even as automation impacts certain entry-level tasks. By choosing an online program, you maintain flexibility to intern with Alabama-based employers or participate in virtual case competitions that build visibility with recruiters. The combination of localized curriculum focus and remote learning adaptability ensures you’re prepared not just for today’s opportunities but for leadership roles as the state’s key industries evolve. Start building the expertise Alabama’s next-generation economy needs—your future in this field begins with a degree designed for real-world impact.

Where Can You Work After Graduating?

After completing an online accounting program in Alabama, you’ll find diverse opportunities across established firms, corporate sectors, and growing industries. Major employers like Warren Averett, ranked among the top accounting firms in Alabama, offer roles in tax advisory, audit services, and forensic accounting. With offices in Birmingham and Mobile, this firm emphasizes mentorship programs and hybrid work models, making it a strong choice for recent graduates seeking hands-on experience. Another standout from the same rankings is Jackson Thornton, a Montgomery-based firm specializing in small business accounting and nonprofit financial management. Their collaborative culture often includes opportunities to work directly with clients early in your career.

Corporate accounting roles thrive at companies like Regions Financial, highlighted by Glassdoor’s list of top Alabama employers. As a leading regional bank, they hire for financial reporting analysts and internal auditors, with perks like tuition reimbursement and flexible scheduling. Alabama Power, another Glassdoor-featured employer, recruits cost accountants and budget analysts to support energy infrastructure projects, offering competitive retirement plans and a focus on community engagement.

Birmingham and Huntsville serve as regional hubs for accounting professionals, with startups in tech and aerospace creating demand for specialized roles. Firms like KPMG Spark, though not exclusively Alabama-based, partner with local tech companies to provide cloud-based accounting services, blending traditional skills with modern tools. Networking through organizations like the Alabama Society of CPAs can connect you with smaller firms or niche industries, such as manufacturing or healthcare, which often seek graduates familiar with industry-specific software.

Focus on building relationships at statewide accounting conferences or through LinkedIn groups targeting Alabama professionals. Many firms prioritize local candidates, so highlighting regional knowledge—like familiarity with state tax codes or industry clusters—can strengthen your applications. Keep an eye on job boards for public sector roles, too, as state agencies and universities in cities like Tuscaloosa or Auburn frequently post openings for financial analysts and grant accountants.

How Much Do Accountants Make in Alabama?

If you're considering an accounting career in Alabama, salary expectations depend heavily on your experience level and qualifications. Entry-level accountants with 0-2 years of experience typically earn between $53,727 and $58,809 annually, based on data from Salary.com's Accountant I report and Indeed's statewide average. Mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience often see salaries climb to $61,930 per year according to ZipRecruiter's 2025 analysis, while senior accountants with 8+ years can exceed $64,570 annually in specialized roles.

Alabama's accounting salaries generally sit below the national average of $73,560 reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, but lower living costs help balance this difference. Your earning potential increases significantly with certifications like the CPA license, which can boost salaries by 10-15% according to industry surveys. Specializing in high-demand areas like forensic accounting or tax strategy often leads to salaries 20% above general accounting roles.

Geographic location within Alabama plays a role too – major metro areas like Birmingham and Huntsville tend to offer salaries 7-12% higher than rural counties. The field shows steady growth projections, with the Alabama Department of Labor anticipating 6% expansion in accounting jobs through 2028. As businesses increasingly adopt cloud-based financial systems, professionals combining traditional accounting skills with digital platform expertise may command premium salaries in coming years.

How Do You Get Licensed as an Accountant in Alabama?

To become a licensed accountant in Alabama, follow these steps based on requirements from the Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy:

Step 1: Meet Education Requirements
You must complete 150 semester hours of college education, including a bachelor’s degree or higher. At least 33 semester hours must focus on accounting coursework, covering subjects like auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. If you initially passed the CPA Exam under Alabama’s 120-hour rule (prior to 2017), you still need 150 hours to qualify for full licensure.

Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
Submit an exam application to the Alabama State Board with a $170 application fee. You’ll need official transcripts sent directly from your school to the Board. Once approved, schedule your four exam sections (Auditing, Financial Accounting, Regulation, and Business Concepts) through NASBA. Each section costs $238.15, plus a $95 registration fee. Scores are valid for 18 months, and you must pass all parts within that timeframe.

Step 3: Gain Professional Experience
Complete one year (2,000 hours) of supervised work under a licensed CPA. Your experience must include skills in auditing, tax preparation, financial advisory, or management accounting. The Board requires your supervisor to verify this experience using their official form.

Step 4: Apply for Licensure
After passing the CPA Exam and meeting experience requirements, submit a licensure application with a $150 fee. Include notarized proof of experience, final transcripts showing 150 hours, and a passing score report. The Board typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks.

Step 5: Pass the Alabama Rules & Ethics Exam
All applicants must take this state-specific exam, which tests knowledge of Alabama accounting laws. The $100 exam is open-book and administered online through the Board’s portal.

Maintaining Your License
Licenses renew annually by December 31. You need 40 hours of continuing education each year, including 8 hours in accounting/auditing and 2 hours in ethics. Courses must be NASBA-approved.

Alabama offers reciprocity for CPAs licensed in other states if their original licensure standards match Alabama’s requirements. Out-of-state applicants must submit verification of their license and pass the Alabama Rules & Ethics Exam.

For updated forms or fee changes, visit the Alabama State Board of Public Accountancy’s licensing portal.