Best Accounting Degree Programs In Arkansas (2025)
If you’re looking to build a stable, rewarding career in Arkansas, online accounting education opens doors to opportunities that align with the state’s growing economy. With major employers like Walmart, Tyson Foods, and J.B. Hunt Transport headquartered here, skilled accountants are in demand to manage financial operations, compliance, and strategic planning. An online accounting degree lets you gain credentials while working, positioning you for roles such as auditor, tax specialist, or financial analyst—all with median salaries in Arkansas ranging from $55,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience and certifications. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady growth for accounting jobs nationwide, and Arkansas’s corporate landscape ensures local relevance.
You’ll find respected online programs tailored to working professionals, including options from institutions like the University of Arkansas, which blend academic rigor with practical skills. These programs allow you to balance coursework with personal or professional commitments, making career advancement accessible without pressing pause on your current job. Employers across industries—from healthcare to logistics—value the precision and analytical mindset accountants bring, creating diverse pathways to roles in public accounting firms, government agencies, or corporate finance departments.
Earning your degree online doesn’t mean sacrificing quality; many programs mirror their on-campus counterparts, ensuring you gain the same expertise in financial reporting, taxation, or managerial accounting. Whether you’re aiming for a CPA license or seeking to transition into a leadership role, the flexibility of online learning helps you build credentials at your pace. Explore options that fit your goals and discover how advancing your education can align with Arkansas’s thriving business community.
Best Online Accounting Degree Programs in Arkansas
Below are the top-ranked Online Accounting programs in Arkansas, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Key Highlights
- The University of Arkansas at Little Rock's Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting provides a practice-based education.
- Students gain skills in accounting principles and financial analysis.
- Students have access to experienced faculty and academic resources.
- The program is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting program at UA Little Rock Online provides a practice-based education, preparing students for accounting careers. The program offers flexible online courses taught by experienced faculty and provides access to various academic resources. Students benefit from standard tuition rates without on-campus fees and can complete coursework on their own schedule.
Program Features
- Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Accounting principles, Financial analysis
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $6,600/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $19,050/year
Contact Information
- 2801 S. University Avenue Little Rock, AR 72204
- 501-916-3005
University of Arkansas
Bachelor of Science Business Administration in Accounting
Key Highlights
- This Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accounting is offered through the Sam M. Walton College of Business.
- Graduates will gain skills in accounting principles and financial analysis.
- The curriculum includes courses such as ACCT 20103, ACCT 20203, and SPCH 10003.
- The program prepares students for business roles requiring accounting expertise.
- The Sam M. Walton College of Business is AACSB accredited.
Program Description
The University of Arkansas offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Accounting through the Sam M. Walton College of Business. The program is designed for individuals seeking to start or advance their careers in accounting, providing them with a strong foundation in accounting principles and skills. The online format offers flexibility for students who are new to college, completing a degree, or seeking to enhance their skill sets. Graduates will be prepared for various business roles requiring accounting expertise.
Program Features
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
- Prerequisites: ACCT 20103, ACCT 20203, SPCH 10003, ECON 21003, ECON 22003, ENGL 10103, ENGL 10203, MATH 22003, MATH 20503, BUSI 11101, BUSI 10303, ISYS 11203, Minimum 2.50 GPA
Skills You'll Gain
Accounting principles, Financial analysis, Business strategy evaluation, Data analysis, Communication, Problem-solving
Tuition & Costs
- Cost Per Credit: $356
Contact Information
Sample Courses
ACCT 20103, ACCT 20203, SPCH 10003, ECON 21003, ECON 22003...
Why Pick an Online Accounting Degree in Arkansas?
Choosing an online accounting degree in Arkansas positions you to capitalize on a job market poised for steady expansion, driven by the state’s unique economic strengths. With employment for accountants and auditors nationwide projected to grow 6% through 2033—faster than the average for all occupations—Arkansas mirrors this trend as its corporate and industrial sectors scale operations Accountants and Auditors : Occupational Outlook Handbook. The state’s concentration of Fortune 500 companies, including Walmart and Tyson Foods, creates a demand for financial professionals who can manage complex supply chains, regulatory compliance, and tax strategies. Northwest Arkansas’s retail and logistics hubs, along with Little Rock’s healthcare and government sectors, offer diverse entry points for graduates, with roles spanning forensic accounting, cost analysis, and corporate auditing.
Arkansas’s lower cost of living allows salaries to stretch further compared to national averages, and remote work opportunities linked to online education let you compete for roles beyond state lines while maintaining local roots. Programs like those at the University of Arkansas integrate coursework aligned with regional employer needs, such as agricultural finance and manufacturing cost management, giving you direct pathways to industries fueling the state’s growth. The Arkansas Society of CPAs further supports career development through networking events and mentorship programs, connecting you with firms actively hiring in areas like Fayetteville’s startup ecosystem or Fort Smith’s manufacturing corridor.
With over 130,000 accounting openings projected nationally each year through 2033, your ability to specialize in high-demand areas—such as data analytics or sustainability reporting—positions you to fill gaps in Arkansas’s evolving market. Employers increasingly value hybrid skill sets blending traditional accounting expertise with tech proficiency, a focus embedded in many online curricula. By earning your degree remotely, you gain the flexibility to pursue internships or part-time roles with local firms while studying, accelerating your readiness for senior roles as experienced professionals retire. Take the next step now: Arkansas’s blend of affordability, industry diversity, and strategic growth makes this the ideal time to invest in an accounting education that aligns with tomorrow’s opportunities.
Where Can You Work After Graduating in Arkansas?
After earning your online accounting degree in Arkansas, you’ll find diverse opportunities across public accounting firms, corporate finance departments, and growing industries. Several major employers stand out for their hiring of accounting professionals. Frost PLLC, ranked among the top Arkansas accounting firms, specializes in tax planning and business advisory services. With offices in Little Rock and Fayetteville, they frequently hire staff accountants and auditors, offering mentorship programs for recent graduates. Their collaborative culture emphasizes continuing education, covering costs for CPA exam prep and licensure.
Corporate roles thrive at Walmart, headquartered in Bentonville. The retail giant’s finance division, featured in Glassdoor’s top finance employers, hires financial analysts and accounts payable specialists. Employees highlight structured career paths, hybrid work options, and tuition reimbursement for advanced certifications. Nearby, Tyson Foods in Springdale recruits cost accountants and compliance auditors, providing exposure to supply chain finance in the food production sector.
For those interested in midsize firms, EGP Certified Public Accountants, recognized by Arkansas Business as one of the state’s largest firms, focuses on construction and manufacturing clients. They prioritize hands-on client management early in roles, with opportunities to lead audits for regional businesses. Similarly, BKD CPAs (now Forvis) operates a significant Arkansas presence, offering tax and consulting roles with a strong emphasis on technology integration in accounting processes.
Northwest Arkansas serves as a hub for retail and logistics finance roles, while Little Rock’s corporate offices and government agencies provide steady demand for budget analysts and forensic accountants. Smaller firms like Thomas & Thomas LLP in Fort Smith cater to agricultural and nonprofit sectors, ideal if you prefer community-focused work.
To maximize opportunities, attend events hosted by the Arkansas Society of CPAs, which connects graduates with local firms. Follow regional job boards like Arkansas Business Careers for openings, and consider joining LinkedIn groups focused on Arkansas finance professionals. Many employers value internships or part-time experience—reach out to university career services affiliated with your online program for localized job leads.
How Much Can You Earn as an Accountant in Arkansas?
If you’re considering an accounting career in Arkansas, salary expectations often start around $53,260 annually for entry-level roles like Accountant I positions, based on data from Salary.com’s 2025 report. This range typically applies to professionals with 0-2 years of experience, though salaries can reach up to $64,008 for those demonstrating early-career specialization or working in high-demand industries. Mid-career accountants (3-7 years) often align with the statewide average of $57,763 reported by Indeed, which reflects roles requiring broader responsibilities like financial reporting or budget management. Senior professionals with 8+ years of experience—especially CPAs—see a significant boost, with ZipRecruiter data showing an average annual salary of $76,059 for certified accountants in Arkansas as of 2025 according to ZipRecruiter’s CPA salary analysis.
Arkansas salaries for accountants generally trail the national average by roughly 10-15%, partly due to the state’s lower cost of living. However, earning potential can rise with credentials like a CPA license, which increases average pay by over $18,000 compared to non-certified peers. Specializing in high-demand areas like tax strategy, forensic accounting, or corporate finance can further elevate salaries, particularly in industries like healthcare or manufacturing. Remote work opportunities through online accounting roles may also bridge gaps between local and national pay scales, as employers increasingly offer competitive rates for virtual positions.
Looking ahead, the demand for accountants in Arkansas is projected to grow steadily, driven by business expansion and evolving financial regulations. Professionals who combine certifications like the CPA with expertise in cloud-based accounting software or data analytics are likely to command higher salaries. While entry-level pay remains modest, mid- to senior-level roles show clear upward momentum, especially for those willing to pursue continuous education or leadership responsibilities. Whether you’re starting your career or aiming to advance, Arkansas offers a viable path with salary growth tied directly to skill development and strategic specialization.
Licensing Information For Online Accounting in Arkansas
How to Get Your Accounting License in Arkansas
To obtain your accounting license in Arkansas, follow these steps based on requirements from the Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy:
Step 1: Complete Your Education
You need a bachelor’s degree with at least 30 semester hours of upper-level accounting courses and 30 hours of business-related coursework. Accounting courses must cover financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting. The board requires official transcripts sent directly from your institution.
Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
Apply for the CPA exam through the Arkansas State Board portal, paying a $170 application fee. The exam includes four sections: Auditing & Attestation, Business Environment & Concepts, Financial Accounting & Reporting, and Regulation. Each section costs $238.15 to schedule. You must pass all parts within 18 months of completing your first exam section.
Step 3: Gain Accounting Experience
Complete one year (2,000 hours) of supervised work under a licensed CPA. Experience must include tasks like financial statement preparation, tax services, or auditing. Part-time work counts if hours accumulate to the required total.
Step 4: Submit License Application
After passing the CPA exam, submit a license application with a $150 fee. Include proof of education, exam scores, and experience verification signed by your supervising CPA. You must also pass an ethics exam administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) with a score of at least 90%. A fingerprint-based background check is mandatory, costing $47.25 through IdentoGO.
Step 5: Maintain Active Licensure
Renew your license every three years by completing 120 hours of continuing education, including 4 hours of Arkansas-specific ethics courses. At least 20 hours must be earned annually.
Reciprocity
If licensed in another state, you can apply for Arkansas licensure by endorsement if your original state’s requirements match or exceed Arkansas standards. Submit verification of your existing license and transcripts.
For updates or clarification, contact the Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy directly through their official website.
FAQs About Online Accounting Degree Programs in Arkansas
Common Questions About Online Accounting Degrees in Arkansas
Q: Can you become a CPA with an online accounting degree in Arkansas? A: Yes, if your program meets Arkansas’s education requirements: a bachelor’s degree with 30 upper-level accounting credits and 30 business credits. Programs like the University of Arkansas’s AACSB-accredited online accounting degree fulfill these standards. You’ll also need to pass the CPA exam and complete work experience. Details here.
Q: How long does it take to finish an online accounting program? A: Most online bachelor’s programs take 4 years full-time. Accelerated tracks or transfer credits (from prior college courses) may shorten this. Part-time students often take 5-6 years.
Q: What’s the average cost of an online accounting degree in Arkansas? A: The University of Arkansas’s program costs $356.25 per credit. A 120-credit degree totals around $42,750. Costs vary by school—public universities typically offer lower rates than private institutions.
Q: Are scholarships available for online accounting students? A: Yes. Check with your school’s financial aid office—many universities offer merit-based awards. The Arkansas Society of CPAS also lists scholarships for accounting majors.
Q: Do employers accept online degrees for accounting jobs? A: Employers generally accept online degrees from accredited programs. The University of Arkansas’s AACSB accreditation ensures recognition by major firms like Walmart and regional CPA practices.
Q: What’s the job growth outlook for accountants in Arkansas? A: The field is stable, with consistent demand in corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors. National projections show 6% growth through 2033, aligning with Arkansas’s need for CPAs in industries like retail and manufacturing.
Q: Can you transfer credits from another school? A: Most programs accept transfer credits if they’re from regionally accredited schools. The University of Arkansas at Little Rock and similar institutions evaluate transcripts case-by-case.
Q: What accreditation should you look for in a program? A: Prioritize AACSB (for accounting-specific quality) or The Higher Learning Commission (regional accreditation). Both ensure employers and licensing boards recognize your degree.