Online Ph.D. in Accounting

A doctorate in accounting focuses on research, data-analysis, and implementing new technology in the accounting field. Students who pursue this challenging degree will receive rigorous training in the basic disciplines of accounting, economics, and finance, and pursue analytic and theoretical research as required by their doctorate dissertation. By the completion of their degree, students will be trained, confident researchers, capable of undertaking positions in teaching or research. Accounting Ph.D. students often develop research concepts and analytical techniques that help address the problems faced by accounting managers and companies in the field today.

Why a Ph.D.?

Those who desire to integrate advanced studies into their academic careers commonly pursue a post-master’s certificate in accounting or a doctorate degree. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), postsecondary teachers are required to have a Ph.D. and a state-issued license to teach. Those who want to work as financial managers are required to have a bachelor’s degree and several years of professional experience. A master’s degree and/or Ph.D. greatly aids individuals in attaining management positions.

Inside an Accounting Ph.D. Program

Full-time students usually complete an accounting Ph.D. in five to six years. Keep in mind, however, that each doctorate is unique and can therefore vary greatly in length. Throughout their Ph.D. program, students will enroll in doctorate courses that discuss various topics and issues in accounting, finance, economics, mathematics, human resources, business, and management. Some of the common accounting Ph.D. courses include financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, corporate governance, tax accounting, and more.

On top of completing their doctorate courses, students are also required to conduct research and complete some student teaching in accounting classrooms. A student’s research, analysis, and teaching experiences are the most vital resources in attaining positions as postsecondary teachers and financial managers in the workplace.

A global increase in technology and innovation has allowed many colleges to offer an accounting PhD online. Working professionals, stay-at-home parents, and students who are otherwise unable to attend college away from home commonly pursue an online accounting PhD. Those who are looking for flexibility in their degree may want to seriously consider an online program, since students are allowed to complete their work at their own individual pace. That being said, students are still expected to submit assignments, exams, and projects according to a calendar of course deadlines. Since online students must work independently, those who pursue this type of degree should be self-motivated and organized.

What’s Next for Secondary Education Master’s Degree Holders?

With a Ph.D. in this discipline, students will pursue advanced accounting research and build on the knowledge and skills necessary to attain high-level teaching, administrative, and research positions. Those who complete a graduate degree in accounting commonly accept positions as postsecondary instructors in colleges and universities. Graduates of accounting programs are also qualified to accept positions as financial managers and accounting consultants.

According to the BLS, postsecondary business teachers earn an average annual salary of $88,740. Financial managers make more than professors, bringing in an average of $130,230 a year. Both teaching and accounting managerial positions are expected to increase over the 2014-2024 time period. Keep in mind, these are just a few of the many positions students can pursue with an accounting Ph.D.