Best Online Accounting Bachelor's Degree Programs In Indiana 2025

Why Pick an Online Accounting Program in Indiana?

Indiana’s accounting field offers strong growth, with job openings expected to rise faster than the national average through 2030. According to Indiana Employment Outlook Projections, the state anticipates consistent demand for accountants, particularly in sectors like advanced manufacturing and healthcare—industries that dominate Indiana’s economy. This aligns with national trends showing accounting roles growing at an above-average pace, offering stability even as other professions face automation risks. By choosing an online program, you can build skills in cloud-based systems and data analytics while maintaining current employment, positioning yourself for roles in corporate finance, tax strategy, or sustainability reporting. Major employers like Eli Lilly and Cummins increasingly seek professionals who understand both traditional accounting principles and emerging technologies, creating opportunities for those who upskill through flexible education pathways. Regional networking groups such as the Indiana CPA Society provide access to local job boards and mentorship programs, further connecting you to roles in Indianapolis’ corporate hubs or Fort Wayne’s growing tech scene. With remote work expanding options, you could audit supply chains for automotive suppliers or manage budgets for agricultural cooperatives without relocating. Start exploring accredited online accounting programs today to align your education with Indiana’s evolving financial landscape—where industry-specific expertise and adaptability drive long-term career success.

Where Can You Work with an Indiana Accounting Degree?

With an Indiana accounting degree, you’ll find opportunities across established firms, corporate finance departments, and growing startups. Major employers like Crowe and Deloitte stand out among Indiana’s top accounting firms, offering roles in audit, tax, and advisory services. Crowe emphasizes work-life balance with hybrid schedules and mentorship programs for new graduates, while Deloitte provides leadership development tracks and global project exposure. Regional firms like Blue & Co., recognized by DesignRush’s rankings, specialize in healthcare and construction industries, hiring for roles from staff accountants to financial consultants. Their collaborative culture often includes client-facing projects early in your career.

Indianapolis-based GBQ, another top firm from the same rankings, focuses on entrepreneurial businesses and offers niche services like forensic accounting. You might work directly with startups or mid-sized companies, gaining hands-on experience in business valuation or mergers. For corporate roles, Glassdoor’s list highlights employers like Eli Lilly, where financial analysts support pharmaceutical R&D budgets, or Cummins, which hires cost accountants for its manufacturing hubs. These corporations often provide structured career paths, tuition reimbursement, and opportunities to rotate across departments.

Indiana’s tech scene in cities like Fishers and Fort Wayne is creating demand for accountants at fintech startups and SaaS companies. Smaller firms like Patton & Associates (noted in DesignRush’s rankings) work closely with these emerging businesses, offering roles in financial planning and compliance. To build connections, attend industry meetups hosted by the Indiana CPA Society or join LinkedIn groups focused on Midwest finance professionals. Many firms recruit directly through career fairs at Indiana universities, so prioritize events where employers like Crowe or Deloitte frequently participate. Focus your job search on industries aligned with your interests—whether healthcare, manufacturing, or tech—and highlight relevant internships or coursework during interviews.

What Can You Earn as an Accountant in Indiana?

If you’re considering an accounting career in Indiana, salary expectations depend heavily on experience and location. Statewide averages from Indeed show accountants earn $65,958 annually, while ZipRecruiter reports a nearly identical figure at $65,017 per year or $31.26 hourly. These numbers reflect mid-career professionals with 3-7 years of experience, though salaries can dip below $52,000 for entry-level roles or exceed $80,000 for senior positions. In Indianapolis, entry-level accountants earn closer to $52,529 according to local Indeed data, roughly 20% below the state average, highlighting how urban vs. rural location impacts pay.

Certifications like a CPA license typically boost salaries by 10-15%, while specializing in high-demand areas such as tax auditing or forensic accounting can push earnings above $75,000 even before reaching senior roles. Indiana’s accountant salaries lag slightly behind the national average of $73,000, but lower living costs offset this gap. For senior professionals with 8+ years of experience, salaries often surpass $85,000, especially in industries like manufacturing or healthcare.

Projected growth in corporate finance and remote accounting opportunities could increase earning potential statewide over the next decade. Firms are increasingly valuing tech-savvy accountants skilled in cloud-based systems, which may widen salary ranges for those who upskill strategically.

How to Get Licensed as an Indiana Accountant

To become a licensed CPA in Indiana, follow these steps:

Step 1: Meet Education Requirements
You must complete 150 semester hours of college education, including a bachelor’s degree or higher. At least 24 semester hours must cover accounting courses (e.g., auditing, taxation) and 24 hours in business-related subjects like finance or business law. To sit for the CPA exam, you need a minimum of 120 credit hours from an accredited institution, as specified by the Kelley Indianapolis CPA exam guidelines. Many candidates finish remaining credits through graduate programs while working toward licensure.

Step 2: Pass the CPA Exam
Apply for the Uniform CPA Exam through the Indiana Board of Accountancy after verifying your education. The exam includes four sections: Auditing and Attestation, Business Environment and Concepts, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulation. You must pass all sections with a score of 75 or higher within an 18-month window. Exam fees total approximately $1,000, excluding study materials or retake costs.

Step 3: Gain Work Experience
Complete one year (1,800 hours) of supervised accounting work under a licensed CPA. Experience must include tasks like auditing, tax preparation, or financial advising. Part-time roles qualify if hours are documented and verified by your supervisor.

Step 4: Submit Licensure Application
File your application with the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency, including official transcripts, proof of exam completion, and experience verification. Pay the $170 application fee and a $50 background check fee. Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks.

Step 5: Maintain Your License
Renew your license every three years by completing 120 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE), as mandated by Indiana’s CPE requirements. At least 4 hours must focus on ethics. Courses must be approved by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) or similar accreditors.

Indiana offers reciprocity for CPAs licensed in other states if you meet Indiana’s education and experience standards. Contact the Indiana Board of Accountancy for specific transfer requirements. For application assistance, visit the Indiana CPA Society’s resource portal or attend their licensure workshops.