Best Online Accounting Bachelor's Degree Programs In Missouri 2025

Why Missouri is a Smart Choice for Online Accounting

Choosing an online accounting program in Missouri positions you at the intersection of affordability, career stability, and strategic industry growth. The state’s accounting workforce is projected to expand by 6% through 2030, adding over 1,860 new roles according to state employment data, with an average of 2,100 annual job openings when replacing retiring professionals. This aligns with national growth trends but gains unique momentum from Missouri’s healthcare, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors—industries requiring specialized financial oversight as they modernize operations. Urban centers like Kansas City and St. Louis are emerging as fintech hubs, where firms like Cerner Corporation (now Oracle Health) and fintech startups demand accountants skilled in cloud-based systems and data analytics. Online programs integrate these tools directly into coursework, ensuring you graduate with expertise employers prioritize for emerging roles.

Regional networking opportunities further amplify your career trajectory. The Missouri Society of CPAs hosts virtual career fairs and certification workshops accessible to online students statewide, while partnerships between universities and employers like Emerson Electric or BKD CPAs & Advisors create pipelines for internships and remote work placements. These connections matter in a state where occupational projections show 72% of accounting jobs requiring at least a bachelor’s degree by 2030—a credential you can earn flexibly without relocating.

With median salaries for CPAs in Missouri nearing $88,500 according to recent reports, and remote roles enabling you to work for coastal firms while living in a low-cost area, an online degree becomes both a career accelerator and a financial safeguard. Programs designed around evening classes or accelerated terms let you gain experience concurrently, making you a stronger candidate as demand grows. Missouri’s blend of industry diversity, tech adoption, and educational accessibility creates a clear path to long-term professional success. Start exploring programs now to align your skills with the state’s evolving economic landscape—your future in accounting begins with the flexibility to learn where you live.

Where to Work After Graduating in Missouri

Missouri offers diverse opportunities for accounting graduates, with top employers ranging from universities to global firms. Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), recognized as Missouri’s top employer by Forbes via Glassdoor, frequently hires staff accountants and financial analysts to support its operations. The university provides unique benefits like tuition reimbursement and access to professional development programs, appealing if you value structured career growth in an academic setting. For public accounting roles, firms like Crowe and Deloitte stand out. DesignRush’s rankings highlight Crowe for its audit and advisory services, particularly in healthcare and technology sectors, while Deloitte offers consulting roles with exposure to global projects. Both firms emphasize teamwork and often provide mentorship programs for new hires.

Grant Thornton, another firm featured in DesignRush’s list, combines national reach with a mid-sized firm culture, making it a strong option for audit or tax roles. Their St. Louis and Kansas City offices focus on industries like manufacturing and energy, giving you hands-on experience with regional clients. Smaller firms like GS Advisors + CPAs, also noted by DesignRush, cater to local businesses and startups, allowing you to manage client relationships directly early in your career.

Major cities like St. Louis and Kansas City serve as hubs for accounting professionals, hosting regional offices of national firms and growing fintech startups. Companies like Accenture and Protiviti, mentioned in DesignRush’s rankings, often seek analysts for risk management or tech-driven accounting solutions, blending traditional skills with emerging tools. To boost your job search, attend events hosted by the Missouri Society of CPAs or leverage alumni networks through local universities. Many employers prioritize candidates with internships or CPA exam progress, so gaining practical experience during your studies can set you apart. Focus on building skills in data analytics or cloud-based accounting platforms, as these are increasingly valued across both corporate and public accounting roles in the state.

What Can You Earn as an Accountant in Missouri?

If you’re considering an accounting career in Missouri, salary expectations depend heavily on experience and credentials. Entry-level accountants with 0-2 years of experience typically earn between $48,000 and $55,000 annually, based on data from Indeed’s statewide salary reports, which show an average base pay of $61,021. This gap between entry-level and average salaries reflects how quickly earning potential grows with hands-on experience. Mid-career professionals (3-7 years) often see salaries align with Missouri’s statewide average of $64,090 reported by ZipRecruiter, equating to roughly $30.81 per hour. Roles in industries like manufacturing or corporate finance frequently push mid-level earnings toward the higher end of this range. For senior accountants (8+ years), certifications like the CPA license become critical. Indeed’s CPA-specific data shows certified professionals in Missouri earn an average of $88,568—nearly $28,000 more than the general accountant average.

Geographic location within Missouri also plays a role. Urban hubs like St. Louis or Kansas City often offer salaries 10-15% above rural areas due to higher demand and cost of living. Specializing in high-need areas such as tax compliance, forensic accounting, or financial analysis can further boost earnings by 5-20%, depending on employer needs. While Missouri’s accountant salaries trend slightly below the national median, certifications and niche expertise help close this gap.

Future prospects remain strong, with remote work opportunities in online accounting expanding access to higher-paying roles beyond local employers. The shift toward cloud-based financial systems and automated reporting is creating demand for accountants skilled in digital tools, which could drive salary growth as firms compete for tech-savvy professionals. By focusing on certifications and strategic specializations, you can position yourself to earn at the top of Missouri’s accounting salary ranges.

Getting Licensed as an Accountant in Missouri

To become a licensed accountant in Missouri, follow these steps based on current state requirements:

Step 1: Complete Educational Requirements
You must earn at least 150 semester hours of college education, including a bachelor’s degree, with a minimum of 60 credit hours in accounting and business courses. At least 33 credits must focus on accounting subjects like auditing, taxation, or financial reporting, as specified by the Missouri State Board of Accountancy. These requirements align with the CPA exam eligibility criteria outlined by Missouri State University’s School of Accountancy.

Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
Apply to take the CPA exam through the Missouri Board using the NASBA portal. The exam includes four sections: Auditing and Attestation, Business Environment and Concepts, Financial Accounting and Reporting, and Regulation. You must pass all sections within an 18-month window.

Step 3: Submit Licensure Application
After passing the CPA exam, create a MOPRO account through the Missouri Division of Professional Registration starting January 14, 2025. Submit your application with official transcripts, exam scores, and a fee (exact amount subject to board updates). The board requires verification of your education directly from your institution.

Step 4: Complete Background Check
Provide fingerprints for a state and federal criminal background check. Missouri does not issue licenses to applicants with certain felony convictions related to fraud or financial crimes.

Step 5: Fulfill Experience Requirements
Accrue one year (1,800 hours) of supervised accounting work under a licensed CPA. Experience must include auditing, tax preparation, or financial advisory services.

Step 6: Pass the AICPA Ethics Exam
Complete the American Institute of CPAs’ self-study ethics course and achieve a score of 90% or higher. Submit proof of completion to the board.

Maintaining Your License
Licenses renew every three years. You must complete 120 hours of continuing education, including 6 hours in ethics. The Missouri Board of Accountancy audits a percentage of renewals annually for compliance.

Reciprocity for Out-of-State CPAs
If licensed in another state, you can apply for Missouri licensure by endorsement if your original state’s requirements meet or exceed Missouri’s standards. Submit verification of licensure and exam scores. For non-reciprocal states, contact the board at [email protected] to discuss alternative pathways, as noted on the Board of Accountancy forms page.

For updates on fees, forms, or regulatory changes, visit the Missouri Board of Accountancy website or contact their office directly.