Whether you’re just getting started or returning with previous college credits, Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota will meet you where you are. Our online Bachelor of Science in Accounting program, offered through the School of Advancing Studies is designed for working professionals who want to build practical skills and advance their accounting careers in finance and business.
With our online program, you’ll develop expertise in financial analysis, strategic planning, and decision-making while preparing to pursue credentials like the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Online courses are taught by faculty with real-world experience at Fortune 500 companies, nonprofits, and small businesses — covering topics like financial accounting, cost accounting, auditing, tax, and analysis.
With a generous credit transfer policy, you can fast-track your accounting bachelor’s degree and build a career-ready foundation for future graduate study.
No need to wait. With six start times annually, begin your journey today.
Fast-track to a graduate degree by taking accounting courses online that count toward both your bachelor’s and master’s degrees. Ask your admissions counselor for details.
Check if your employer is part of our Trusted Partnership Program, offering scholarships through our partners with several companies, school districts, and organizations. Learn more.
What You’ll Learn in the B.S. in Accounting Degree Program
Accounting principles
Analyze financial/non-financial data for stakeholders
Apply audit methods in daily operations
Use accounting technology and information systems for data analysis and communication
Laws, regulations, and the GAAP
Expertise in working with financial statements
Collaboration with diverse teams
Foster ethical principles and leadership
B.S. in Accounting Degree Program Accreditation
This program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), recognizing our commitment to delivering business education that aligns with the university’s mission of developing confident, competent, and ethical leaders for today’s changing business environment.
This accreditation not only reflects the high quality of our degree program graduates — who possess in-demand skills valued by employees — but also reflects the strong presence of the Lasallian mission in action, as witnessed by the IACBE in every interaction with students, alumni, faculty, staff, leaders, and external business partners. At Saint Mary’s, we deliver on our promises. They go beyond words — they’re a commitment we live by.
Turning a doable online degree into a dream job.
Ephrem Eshete B’23 is a father, husband, and member of the U.S. Army Reserve. When he received a life-changing offer from a Big 6 accounting firm, he attributed his success to the bachelor's completion programs at Saint Mary's. “I wouldn’t see myself in this position unless I got this degree,” he said.
How to apply for the Online Bachelor's in Accounting Program
Saint Mary’s accepts applications for online bachelor degree programs year-round. You can start your accounting major program in the fall, spring, or summer semester once accepted for enrollment.
Transfer Credits
Students can transfer a maximum of 90 credits toward our 120-credit B.S. in Accounting program. A grade of C- or better must have been earned in a course to qualify for transfer.
English Language Proficiency
Students with transcripts from universities located outside of the United States, unless from a waiver country listed here, are required to take and pass English Proficiency testing. Saint Mary’s accepts:
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 4 (formerly 72)
International English Language Testing System (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.0
Duolingo with a minimum score of 105
International Test of English Proficiency (ITEP) with a minimum score of 4.0
Pearson Test of English with a score of 51
EIKEN with a minimum of Pre-1
Manchester Exam with a minimum score of 360
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following:
Completed application form
There is no application fee. For eligible degree-seeking applicants, Saint Mary’s may be able to order and cover the cost of transcripts from institutions that allow third-party requests.
Applicants must submit official high school, GED, or secondary school credentials for admission review.
Transfer students who have completed high school and earned 12 or more college-level credits after high school, with grades of C/2.0 or higher, are not required to submit official high school transcripts.
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all post-high school coursework, including technical and community colleges. An official transcript is one sent directly to the university by the credit-granting institution.
Applicants with academic credentials from outside the U.S.
Applicants with academic credentials from outside the U.S. may not need a credential evaluation if the Admissions team is able to verify and evaluate the transcript, including U.S. equivalency and GPA conversion.
Applicants seeking transfer credit from post-secondary coursework completed outside the U.S. must submit an official course-by-course evaluation from a NACES approved service. Students are responsible for any associated costs.
Application materials should be directed to:
Office of Admission
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota
2500 Park Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55404
Or electronically to: tcadmission@smumn.edu
Application Deadlines
Fall semester term 1 – August 1
Fall semester term 2 – October 1
Spring semester term 1 – December 1
Spring semester term 2 – February 1
Summer semester term 1 – April 1
Summer semester term 2 – June 1
Notice of Acceptance
Get your admission decision within one to two weeks.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Only pay for the credit you need with the credits you’ve already earned. Plus, there are resources to help cover the cost of your degree, including loans, grants, and exclusive Saint Mary’s financial aid programs. Our counselors will guide you to find a financial aid plan that works for you.
Library: Resources and services are available 24/7 to all students.
Writing Center: Offers virtual and face-to-face services to support students
Career Services: Can help you develop your career-readiness skills at any point in your education
What does online learning look like at Saint Mary’s?
The only thing virtual about your online experience is the classroom. Our flexible online programs offer the rigor and reputation you expect from Saint Mary’s.
How can I go back to school with a full-time job and busy home life?
Life gets busy. Whether you’re raising a family, pursuing your career, or playing an active role in your community, we know you want to keep up with what you love while you take the next step in your career. That’s why Saint Mary’s online bachelor programs are flexible and designed to fit your demanding life.
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