Most accounting and finance positions require degrees. Even the roles that don’t require a degree will always have a higher salary for those that have degrees. With so many options for remote learning, many people are turning to online degrees for their education.

There are so many choices, though, it can get overwhelming. How do you choose the best option for you? There are a few things you want to consider.

Make Sure it’s an Accredited University

Colleges have to be regionally accredited in order to receive federal funds and offer federal financial aid. There are also specialized accreditors like the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) or the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). These specialized accreditors focus on the business school to ensure that student outcomes and curricula meet the current business and accounting standards.

Choosing a program that is accredited by one of these accreditors will make your resume stand out when it’s time to get a job. It is also easier to transfer to a traditional institution if you start with an online degree program that has business accreditation.

Assess the Program

A good online degree program offers the same support services that are offered in traditional institutions like tutoring and virtual office hours. Another good way to find out about a potential program is to see how other students did in the program. You can contact the admissions office and ask about graduation rates and job placement rates. You can also think about contacting alumni on sites like LinkedIn and asking them about the program.

Cost

The cost of the program is definitely going to be a factor for many students. Keep in mind that you may qualify for student loans and scholarships. Search for scholarships here. You can also contact the financial aid office of the institution you are considering for additional help with the cost of an online accounting or finance degree.

The main thing you want to do when comparing and contrasting different programs is to do your research. Learn everything you can about the different programs so that you can make an informed decision.