Best Online Accounting Bachelor's Degree Programs In Wisconsin 2025

Why Pick an Online Accounting Degree in Wisconsin?

Choosing an online accounting degree in Wisconsin positions you to capitalize on a steady pipeline of opportunities shaped by the state’s economic landscape. While national employment for accountants is projected to grow 6% through 2033 according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Wisconsin’s localized trends reveal nuanced demand. Though O*NET projects a 4% decline in accounting roles statewide through 2030, this still translates to over 4,260 annual job openings due to retirements and workforce transitions—a figure that underscores the need for qualified replacements. Online programs let you adapt to these shifts by targeting high-demand niches like manufacturing, agriculture, and tech-driven finance sectors, which anchor Wisconsin’s economy. Employers in cities like Milwaukee and Green Bay increasingly seek professionals who understand regional compliance standards and industry-specific challenges.

Wisconsin’s blend of established corporations and innovative startups creates diverse pathways for accountants. The state’s manufacturing sector—ranked fourth nationally by output—relies on financial experts to optimize supply chains and manage export logistics, while Madison’s tech hubs demand fluency in automation tools and cloud-based systems. Online learning allows you to gain these competencies without relocating, keeping you connected to local networks like the Wisconsin Institute of CPAs, which hosts virtual career fairs and mentorship programs. Additionally, remote coursework aligns with the growing prevalence of hybrid roles at firms like Wipfli and Northwestern Mutual, where 60% of finance teams now split time between offices and home environments.

With Wisconsin’s accounting workforce expanding across bookkeeping, auditing, and financial management roles, online degrees offer a strategic way to enter this evolving market. Programs designed around evening classes or accelerated terms let you balance internships at regional firms or part-time roles with small businesses, building experience while earning credentials. As certifications like the CPA remain critical for advancing into leadership positions, Wisconsin’s emphasis on practical training ensures you’re prepared to meet licensing requirements and employer expectations. Take the next step—align your education with the state’s unique opportunities and secure your place in a field where adaptability drives long-term success.

Where Can You Work After Graduating in Wisconsin?

After earning your online accounting degree in Wisconsin, you’ll find strong opportunities at both established firms and growing companies across the state. Several top accounting firms highlighted in the 2025 Wisconsin Accounting Rankings include Wipfli and SVA, which frequently hire graduates for roles like tax associate, audit specialist, or forensic accountant. Wipfli, recognized for its hybrid work policies, supports staff with mentorship programs and certifications like CPA or CMA. SVA emphasizes collaborative team environments, often placing new hires in client-facing roles across industries like manufacturing or healthcare—key sectors in Wisconsin’s economy.

Glassdoor’s Top Finance & Accounting Employers list features major corporations like Northwestern Mutual and American Family Insurance, both headquartered in Milwaukee. Northwestern Mutual regularly recruits financial analysts and compliance auditors, offering competitive salaries and structured career paths. American Family Insurance provides opportunities in risk management and corporate accounting, with flexible schedules and tuition reimbursement for advanced certifications. These companies value familiarity with regional regulations, making local graduates strong candidates.

Clutch.co’s Wisconsin Accountants directory highlights specialized firms like indinero and The 10X Accountant®, which cater to small businesses and startups. Indinero focuses on tech-driven accounting solutions, ideal if you’re interested in cloud-based systems or AI tools. The 10X Accountant® prioritizes remote roles, appealing if you prefer freelance or contract work. Both firms seek professionals comfortable with automation software, reflecting Wisconsin’s growing tech adoption in finance hubs like Madison.

Regional industry clusters in cities like Green Bay and Appleton also drive demand for accountants in manufacturing, agriculture, and logistics. Startups in Milwaukee’s Sherman Phoenix business incubator or Madison’s Forward BIOLABS often need part-time or project-based financial support, creating entry points for recent graduates. To build connections, attend events hosted by the Wisconsin Institute of CPAs or join LinkedIn groups focused on Milwaukee’s finance scene—many firms post openings through these networks before advertising publicly.

How Much Can You Earn as an Accountant in Wisconsin?

If you’re considering an accounting career in Wisconsin, your earning potential varies significantly by experience level and credentials. Entry-level roles like Accountant I positions offer an average annual salary of $63,299, with starting pay typically between $57,761 and higher based on location and industry Accountant I Salary in Wisconsin. These figures apply to professionals with 0-2 years of experience, often in foundational roles like bookkeeping or junior financial analysis. Mid-career accountants with 3-7 years of experience earn closer to the statewide average of $67,031 reported by Indeed’s general accountant salary data, reflecting expanded responsibilities in areas like tax preparation or budget management. Senior professionals and those with certifications like a CPA license see sharper increases, with average earnings reaching $82,974 annually according to Indeed’s CPA-specific data. This 24% premium over non-certified accountants highlights the value of credentials.

Geographic location within Wisconsin plays a role—urban areas like Milwaukee or Madison often pay above these averages due to higher demand and cost of living. Specializing in high-need areas such as forensic accounting, corporate finance, or tax strategy can further boost income. While Wisconsin’s accountant salaries trend slightly below the national median, the state’s lower living costs balance this gap for many professionals.

Future salary growth looks stable, with increasing demand for accountants skilled in cloud-based systems and data analytics—key areas for online accounting roles. Remote work opportunities linked to virtual accounting services may also widen your options without requiring relocation. Combining certifications like a CPA with niche expertise positions you for the highest-paying opportunities as firms prioritize adaptable, tech-savvy professionals.

What Licensing Steps Do You Need in Wisconsin?

To obtain your accounting license in Wisconsin, follow these steps based on current state regulations:

Step 1: Verify Education Requirements
You need a bachelor’s degree with 150 semester hours of education, including 24 credits in accounting and 24 credits in business courses. At least 15 accounting credits must cover financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and management accounting.

Step 2: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
Register with the Wisconsin Accounting Examining Board to sit for the four-part exam. Submit transcripts through NASBA’s CPA Central system and pay a $225 initial application fee. Each exam section (AUD, BEC, FAR, REG) costs $238.15 as of 2024.

Step 3: Complete the Ethics Exam
After passing the CPA Exam, take the AICPA’s Professional Ethics for CPAs course and achieve a score of 90% or higher. Wisconsin requires this within two years of applying for licensure.

Step 4: Submit License Application
Use Wisconsin’s LicensE platform to apply. You’ll need to:

• Pay a $120 application fee
• Provide proof of work experience (1-2 years under a licensed CPA)
• Submit official exam scores and ethics certification
• Complete fingerprinting for a federal background check ($43 fee)

Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks.

Step 5: Maintain Active License Status
Renew your license every two years by December 14. Wisconsin mandates 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) per renewal cycle, with a minimum of 40 hours in technical accounting subjects. As specified in Wisconsin Administrative Code Accy 2.501, you must complete at least 20 CPE credits annually during the compliance period. Ethics training (4 credits) is required every renewal cycle.

Reciprocity for Out-of-State CPAs
If licensed in another state, you can apply via reciprocity if your original state’s requirements meet or exceed Wisconsin’s standards. Submit verification of licensure and CPE compliance through the LicensE portal.

For updates or assistance, contact the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services directly through their CPA licensing portal. Keep records of all CPE activities for at least five years in case of audits.