Top Accounting Degree Programs In Minnesota
Minnesota’s thriving economy creates steady demand for skilled accountants, offering you opportunities to build a stable career while working with major corporations, growing startups, or public sector organizations. With industries like healthcare, manufacturing, and retail driving the state’s growth, accounting roles extend beyond traditional number-crunching into strategic financial analysis and advisory positions. The median annual wage for accountants here exceeds $76,000, with experienced professionals often earning six-figure salaries in management roles or specialized fields like forensic accounting. Major employers like Target, U.S. Bancorp, and 3M actively seek candidates who combine technical expertise with analytical thinking—skills you can develop through focused accounting education.
Online accounting programs allow you to earn credentials while maintaining your current job, with coursework that directly applies to real-world scenarios like tax compliance for Minnesota businesses or financial reporting in regulated industries. This flexibility lets you immediately implement new skills in your workplace, whether you’re mastering data analytics tools or learning to navigate evolving tax codes.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth for accounting jobs in Minnesota through 2032, faster than the national average, with additional openings created by retirements in the aging workforce. Employers increasingly value remote-friendly qualifications, making online degrees a practical choice for accessing roles in Minneapolis-St. Paul’s corporate hubs or rural communities needing localized financial expertise. By aligning your education with industry demands—from auditing standards to sustainability reporting—you position yourself for promotions or transitions into high-demand niches like international taxation or nonprofit financial management. Programs emphasizing technology integration prepare you for firms adopting AI-driven accounting systems, ensuring your skills stay relevant as the field evolves.
Best Online Accounting Degree Programs in Minnesota
Below are the top-ranked Online Accounting programs in Minnesota, ranked according to quality, accreditation, cost, and other important factors.
University of Minnesota Crookston
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Key Highlights
- This program prepares students for careers in financial analysis, public accounting, management accounting, banking, taxation, or finance.
- Students will gain skills in financial accounting, cost accounting, U.S. tax fundamentals, and auditing.
- The curriculum includes CPA Review Courses in Regulation, Financial Reporting and Accounting, Auditing and Attestation, and Business Environment and Concepts.
- The Bachelor of Science in Accounting program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
- The University of Minnesota Crookston is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Program Description
The University of Minnesota Crookston offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting. The program aims to equip students with the skills to manage, examine, and communicate financial resources within organizations. Graduates can pursue careers in financial analysis, public accounting, management accounting, banking, taxation, or finance. The curriculum teaches analytical, theoretical, communication, and leadership skills.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission, Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Financial accounting, Cost accounting, U.S. tax fundamentals, Auditing, Ethical decision-making, Communication, Critical thinking, Technology literacy
Tuition & Costs
- Additional Cost Information:
Tuition and fees:
- Full-time (12+ credits): $12,148
- Half-time (6-8 credits): $6,772
Contact Information
- Maggie Melvin, Director of Admissions
- 218-281-8569
Sample Courses
ACCT 4511. CPA Review Course-- Regulation, ACCT 4512. CPA Review Course--Financial Reporting and Accounting, ACCT 4513. CPA Review Course--Auditing and Attestation, ACCT 4514. CPA Review Course--Business Environment and Concepts
Bemidji State University
Accounting B.S.
Key Highlights
- The Accounting B.S. program is fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
- This program requires 120 credits for completion.
- Courses are available in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters.
- The program is designed as a "2+2" program for students with an Associate of Arts degree or equivalent.
- Students will gain skills in financial reporting and economic analysis.
Program Description
The Bachelor of Science in Accounting program is a fully accredited online program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices. The program requires 120 credits for completion, including liberal education courses, major courses, and electives. It is designed as a "2+2" program for students with an Associate of Arts degree or equivalent. Courses are offered in the Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters, with a two-year rotating schedule.
Program Features
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Transfer Credits: Accepted
Skills You'll Gain
Accounting principles, Financial reporting, Business administration, Economic analysis
Tuition & Costs
- In-State Tuition: $8,994/year
- Out-of-State Tuition: $8,994/year
Sample Courses
Principles of Accounting I, Principles of Accounting II, Intermediate Accounting I, Intermediate Accounting II, Cost Accounting...
Why Pick an Online Accounting Degree in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s accounting workforce is projected to expand by 9% through 2030, according to state employment data, nearly doubling the national average for the profession. This growth translates to over 2,700 new positions as industries like renewable energy and healthcare technology reshape financial reporting needs across the state. You’ll enter a market where specialized roles in renewable energy accounting are emerging as Minnesota invests heavily in solar and wind infrastructure, creating demand for professionals who understand green finance incentives and regulatory compliance. Employers in the Twin Cities’ corporate corridors and Greater Minnesota’s agricultural hubs increasingly seek accountants comfortable with hybrid work models—a skillset naturally developed through online programs that blend digital collaboration with self-paced learning.
Online programs approved by the Minnesota Board of Accountancy ensure your credits count toward the 150-hour CPA requirement, streamlining your path to licensure while you gain experience at local firms or regional corporations. With Minnesota employing over 30,370 accountants and auditors according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, you’ll join a dense professional network where niche certifications in areas like farm cooperative accounting or medical device manufacturing finance can accelerate career advancement. Programs partnering with Minnesota-based employers often integrate case studies from Fortune 500 companies headquartered in the state, giving you direct exposure to challenges faced by firms like Ecolab or General Mills.
The rise of remote auditing and cloud-based financial systems means your online education aligns with tools used by Minnesota employers managing multi-state operations. Membership in the Minnesota Society of CPAs connects you to exclusive job boards highlighting roles in high-growth sectors, from fintech startups in Rochester to tribal gaming enterprises expanding across the Midwest. As industries face tighter sustainability reporting standards, your ability to analyze environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics—a focus in many Minnesota online curricula—positions you for leadership roles in corporate accountability initiatives. With the state’s aging workforce creating succession opportunities in family-owned businesses and rural accounting practices, your digital fluency and fresh perspective become immediate assets.
Start building your expertise today through a program that adapts to your schedule while anchoring you in one of the nation’s most dynamic accounting markets.
Where Can You Work After Graduating?
After completing an online accounting program in Minnesota, you’ll find diverse opportunities with employers ranging from Fortune 500 corporations to specialized regional firms. Major companies like Cargill actively hire for roles such as corporate accountants and financial analysts, with 12 office locations in Minneapolis offering positions in sectors like agriculture and supply chain finance. Their global operations provide exposure to international accounting practices, and employees often highlight structured mentorship programs for recent graduates. Allianz, another prominent employer in Minneapolis, recruits for insurance accounting and risk management roles, with hybrid work models common across their teams.
For those interested in public accounting, Grant Thornton stands out as a mid-sized firm with a strong Minnesota presence, focusing on audit and tax services for mid-market companies. Ranked among Minnesota’s top accounting firms, they emphasize career growth through rotational programs that let you explore niches like forensic accounting or sustainability reporting. Local firms like Smith Schafer CPAs specialize in small business and nonprofit accounting, offering roles with direct client interaction and flexible scheduling—ideal if you prefer hands-on advisory work over corporate environments.
Minnesota’s growing tech and startup scene creates demand for accountants familiar with SaaS platforms or payroll software. CSI Accounting & Payroll, featured in both DesignRush and Clutch.co rankings, hires for hybrid roles managing bookkeeping and HR solutions for small businesses. Their training programs focus on cloud-based tools like QuickBooks Online, making this a practical choice if you want to build technical skills early in your career. Startups and mid-sized companies in the Twin Cities metro often collaborate with firms like iComp Payroll & HR, which combines accounting services with HR tech support for clients in healthcare and professional services.
The Minneapolis-St. Paul area serves as a regional hub for financial services, with many employers clustering near downtown Minneapolis or suburban corporate campuses. Networking through local chapters like the Minnesota Society of CPAs or attending career fairs hosted by the University of Minnesota (a major employer itself for campus finance roles) can help you connect directly with hiring managers. When applying, emphasize experience with industry-specific software or internships—many Minnesota firms value familiarity with sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, or renewable energy, which dominate the state’s economy.
How Much Do Accountants Earn in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, accountant salaries vary based on experience and location. According to Indeed's state-wide data, the average annual salary for accountants across Minnesota is $68,287. Minneapolis-specific figures from the same platform show a slightly lower average of $67,800, suggesting regional differences within the state. Entry-level roles typically start lower, with Salary.com reporting an average of $65,541 for Accountant I positions as of March 2025, with pay starting at $59,807 for those with minimal experience. Mid-career professionals with 3-7 years often see salaries aligning with the statewide average, while senior accountants (8+ years) in competitive industries or managerial roles can earn over $80,000.
Certifications like the CPA license or specialized skills in areas such as tax strategy or financial analytics can boost earnings by 10-20% above base salaries. For example, forensic accountants or those proficient in enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems often command higher pay. Corporate roles in sectors like manufacturing or tech tend to offer better compensation than nonprofit or government positions. Minnesota’s accountant salaries generally match or slightly exceed national averages, particularly in metropolitan areas.
The rise of online accounting tools is creating hybrid and remote work opportunities, allowing professionals to expand their client base beyond local markets. This flexibility could increase earning potential for those willing to adapt to digital platforms. Demand for accountants in Minnesota is expected to grow steadily, driven by evolving tax regulations and increased financial reporting needs across industries. Professionals who stay current with cloud-based accounting software and data analysis trends will likely see the strongest salary growth in the coming years.
Licensing Information For Online Accounting in Minnesota
How Do You Get Licensed as an Accountant in Minnesota?
To become a licensed accounting professional in Minnesota, follow these requirements based on your credential type:
Step 1: Meet Education Requirements
For CPA licensure, complete 150 semester hours of education including:
- 24 semester hours in accounting courses covering auditing, taxation, and financial reporting
- 24 semester hours in business-related courses
Minnesota accepts online degrees from regionally accredited institutions, but all accounting coursework must appear on official transcripts. The Minnesota Board of Accountancy requires direct submission of transcripts from your school.
Step 2: Pass Required Exams
- Complete all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam within an 18-month window
- Achieve a minimum score of 75 on each section
- Pass the Minnesota-specific ethics exam administered by the AICPA with a score of 90% or higher
Step 3: Gain Work Experience
Accumulate 2,000 hours (approximately one year) of supervised experience:
- Work under an actively licensed CPA
- At least 50% of tasks must involve accounting, auditing, or tax services
- Experience can be completed through remote positions if supervision meets board requirements
Step 4: Submit Licensing Application
File your CPA application with:
- $200 non-refundable application fee
- Completed fingerprint cards for a criminal background check ($47.25 processing fee)
- Verification of exam scores from NASBA
- Employment verification forms signed by your supervising CPA
The Minnesota Board of Accountancy typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks. You’ll receive a wall certificate and pocket card upon approval.
Alternative Credential: Registered Accounting Practitioner (RAP)
For non-CPA roles requiring limited practice rights:
- Submit a $75 application fee via the RAP registration portal
- Provide proof of high school diploma or equivalent
- Disclose any criminal history through the online application
RAPs can prepare unaudited financial statements and perform basic bookkeeping but cannot conduct audits or represent clients before the IRS.
Step 5: Maintain Active Status
CPAs must renew every three years by:
- Completing 120 hours of continuing professional education (CPE)
- Including 8 hours of ethics training
- Paying a $300 renewal fee
RAPs renew annually with 20 hours of CPE and a $50 fee. Both credentials require immediate reporting of address changes to the board.
Minnesota offers CPA license reciprocity if you hold an active license from a substantially equivalent state. You’ll need to submit verification of your original license and may need to complete additional ethics coursework.
For application assistance, contact the Minnesota Board of Accountancy at (612) 375-7500 or [email protected]. Detailed checklists for both CPA and RAP pathways are available through their online licensing portal.
FAQs About Online Accounting Degree Programs in Minnesota
Common Questions About Accounting Degrees in Minnesota
Q: Are online accounting degrees in Minnesota accredited?
A: Yes, programs like the University of Minnesota Crookston and Bemidji State University hold accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission and ACBSP. Verify a program’s status through the Minnesota Board of Accountancy’s approved list to ensure credits qualify for CPA licensure.
Q: Can you prepare for the CPA exam through these programs?
A: Programs like Bemidji State’s Accounting B.S. include coursework covering auditing, taxation, and financial reporting required for CPA eligibility. Confirm your chosen program meets the Minnesota Board of Accountancy’s 150-credit hour requirements for licensure.
Q: How long does it take to finish an online accounting degree?
A: Full-time students at UMN Crookston can complete their Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 4 years. Part-time students taking 6-8 credits per semester typically graduate in 5-6 years, depending on transfer credits.
Q: Do Minnesota schools offer job placement help for graduates?
A: Many programs provide career services, though specifics vary. UMN Crookston’s ACBSP accreditation indicates career-focused curriculum alignment, while Bemidji State connects students with regional accounting firms through networking events.
Q: What’s the difference between a B.S. in Accounting and a general business degree?
A: A B.S. in Accounting includes specialized courses in tax law, auditing, and financial reporting required for CPA eligibility, while business degrees cover broader management topics. Only accounting-specific programs meet Minnesota’s CPA education requirements.
Q: Can you transfer credits from a community college?
A: Most Minnesota programs accept transfer credits. UMN Crookston allows up to 90 transfer credits, letting you complete half the degree through community college courses. Check course equivalency guides with your target school.
Q: Are there scholarships for online accounting students in Minnesota?
A: Yes, UMN Crookston offers scholarships for business students, and the Minnesota Society of CPAS provides awards through its foundation portal.
Q: What’s the average class size in these programs?
A: Online accounting programs at schools like Bemidji State typically have 20-25 students per virtual class.