The 20 Best Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting Online
Updated November 8, 2022
By BCR Staff
Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting Online
Forensic Accounting experts are in demand and pursuing an online bachelor's in forensic accounting is a great way to enter this burgeoning field. Forensic accountants investigate white collar crimes.
In an increasingly digital world, they help to investigate a theft, fraud, money laundering, and embezzlement, scrutinize transactions and monitoring for illegal activity. They analyze financial information for use in legal proceedings, contract disputes, and bankruptcies.
An online Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting is a stepping stone to a great a career. Graduates can find jobs in a cross-section of industries from corporations, insurance companies, law offices, to FBI and other government agencies. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, accounting jobs are set to grow by 10% through 2016. Accountants earn a median annual wage of $68,780 and specializations like forensic accounting have more scope for growth.
An online degree in forensic accounting combines the knowledge of accounting and business law with a practice of financial and tax laws. An online degree offers a flexible format which allows students to get their degree while continuing to work or maintain other obligations. For more general information regarding distance learning visit our ranking of the top online colleges.
Featured Online Schools
#20 COLLEGE AMERICA
Fort Collins, Colorado
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Forensic Accounting
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Points: 6
College America offers an online BS in Accounting with an emphasis in Forensic Accounting. The comprehensive curriculum teaches students to explore topics like payroll accounting, fraud examination, financial analysis, and auditing among others. The 100% online course can be completed in 20 months or less. Students become well-prepared to work as forensic accountants, financial clerks, business managers, and fraud accounting specialists for both the public and private sectors.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $16,968
#19 AMERICAN INTERCONTINENTAL UNIVERSITY
Schaumburg, Illinois
Online Bachelor’s in Business Administration: Forensic Accounting
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Points: 6
American Intercontinental University offers an online Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree with a specialization in Forensic Accounting. The 180-credit coursework entails liberal arts and business foundations core with specialization courses like Accounting Information Systems, Fraud Examination, Criminal Investigation, and Business and Professional Ethics for Accountants. Graduates are prepared to become CPAs, auditors, and tax accountants, as well as prepare for an online master’s degree program in forensic accounting.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $10,966
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $325
#18 UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA-TWIN CITIES
Twin Cities, Minnesota
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Focus on Forensic Accounting
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Points: 7
The University of Minnesota offers a flexible and affordable online Bachelor’s of Science in Accounting degree program, with opportunities to focus on Forensic Accounting. A faculty of business and accounting experts provides students with the right tools in theoretical and analytical frameworks. The 100% online program prepares students for public, private, and governmental Forensic Accounting jobs. The 120-credit hour coursework equips students for an array of accounting careers.
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $395.47
#17 DAVENPORT UNIVERSITY
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Online Bachelor of Business Administration, Accounting Fraud Investigation
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Points: 7
Davenport University offers an online BBA in Accounting degree that emphasizes on accounting fraud investigation. The 120-credit coursework helps students develop advanced skills to investigate accounting and financial fraud in business. The highly relevant online program prepares students to excel and advance in their accounting careers in dynamic fields while building their business acumen. Along with the introductory courses in fraud investigation, it teaches students to be industry-ready for an increasingly complex tax and regulatory environment. The university proudly proclaims its success rate at creating a new generation of accountants and fraud examiners.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $17,558
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $495
#16 POINT PARK UNIVERSITY
Niles, IL
Online Bachelor’s in Forensic Accounting
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Points: 7
The Rowland School of Business at Point Park University offers an online bachelor’s degree in forensic accounting program. The 100% online accounting degree provides students relevant, fundamental skills for the modern accounting world including macroeconomics, application of computers and business law. The 126-credit hour course is developed by accounting professionals and is taught by instructors with real-world experience. Graduates of the forensic accounting bachelor's online program are prepared to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam or pursue an MBA. They find successful careers as corporate accountants, tax preparers, IRS special agents, or FBI forensic accountants.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $29,030
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $455
#15 MARYVILLE UNIVERSITY
St. Louis, Missouri
Online Bachelor of Science Accounting Systems and Forensics
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Points: 8
Maryville University offers an online Bachelor of Science degree program in Accounting Systems and Forensics which prepares students for successful careers in both the public and private sectors. They learn advanced technical skills including database design and development, and business process mapping. The 150 credit hours coursework equips students with the skills to become successful forensics accounting professionals in the business world. They learn to help companies improve their profits and run more efficiently. Students are eligible to take the CPA exam. They can complete online degree programs in both Accounting and Accounting Systems and Forensics as well as gain Early Access to the MBA Program.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $26,070
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $781
#14 UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA BIRMINGHAM
Birmingham, Alabama
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting, emphasis on Forensic Accounting
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Points: 8
The University of Alabama at Birmingham offers a comprehensive online Bachelor of Science in Accounting – Forensic Accounting program. The highly sought after course is available to students in all 50 states and requires a four-year commitment. It is taught by the same faculty as on-campus courses, by instructors who are experts in the field of accounting. This multi-faceted program is offered by the Collat School of Business within the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
The online forensic accounting degree program teaches students to be equally fluent in business and accounting as they develop a specialty for detecting fraud and malfeasance. They learn to understand the complexities of the financial crisis via classes like Internal Auditing, Accounting Information Systems, Governmental and Not-for-Profit Accounting. They are also trained to work with law enforcement to detect and eliminate white collar crimes.
Endorsed by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) for meeting educational standards to enable students to pursue and earn the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential.
The University of Alabama at Birmingham is AACSB-accredited and has been named among the "Best Online Bachelor's Programs" and ranked among the nation's "Best Business Schools."
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $16,092
#13 UTICA COLLEGE
Utica, New York
Online Bachelor of Science in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation with a concentration in Financial Investigation
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Points: 8
Utica College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Fraud and Financial Crime Investigation with a concentration in Financial Investigation. The curriculum was created in conjunction with the Economic Crime and Cybersecurity Institute. The 126-credit hour program focuses on fraud, embezzlement, money laundering, and identity crimes. Students learn the techniques of forensic accounting and auditing for fraud to detect and reduce crime. The financial investigation courses include Advanced Issues in Economic Crime, Modern Techniques in Crime Investigation and Forensic Accounting and Fraud Auditing. There is an overview of typical financial operations along with training to analyze data, trace conduct due diligence or illicit funds, and evaluate the damage financial fraud can cause. The 100% online course can be completed in 3 years and four months.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $24,153
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $400
#12 STEVENS HENAGER COLLEGE
Ogden, Utah
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Forensic Accounting
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Points: 8
Stevens Henager College offers an online bachelor’s degree in forensic accounting program. The program follows the same rigor and practice as the on-campus program. The program provides a hands-on learning experience for students. They learn practical and technical aspects of forensic accounting that they can apply in the workplace. The course includes titles like Principles of Auditing, Intermediate Computerized Accounting, Corporate Governance and Internal Control Assessment, and Fraud Examination. Students who opt for the forensic accounting degree online emphasis online can expect a small class size and individualized attention from professors. Graduates can get jobs auditing clerks, accounting specialists, bookkeepers and investigative accountants.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $16,968
#11 POINT UNIVERSITY
West Point, Georgia
Online Bachelor’s in Accounting: Forensics and Fraud
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Points: 9
Point University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a concentration in Forensics & Fraud. The curriculum emphasizes Detection & Prevention of Fraudulent Financial Statements, Forensic & Investigative Accounting, and Fraud Examination. Applied learning means that they learn by examining, scrutinizing, inspecting, and investigating fraud. By identifying how forensic accounting findings are currently used in court and how white-collar crime is handled. The 120-credit hour program equips students with the foundation to apply forensic accounting principles in various financial transactions, like bankruptcies, mergers and acquisitions, and contract disputes. On average, students complete the online B.S in accounting degree in four years by which time they become skilled in forensics and fraud knowledge.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $19,200
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $395
#10 CHAMPLAIN COLLEGE
Burlington, Vermont
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Forensic Accounting
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Points: 9
Champlain College offers an accredited online bachelor’s forensic accounting program founded upon the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Core Competency Framework. The 120-credit coursework includes Forensic Accounting, Auditing, Corporate Finance & Financial Markets, and Business Law. Most of the courses required for the degree are delivered in an accelerated 7-week format. Champlain’s bachelors in forensic accounting online students are also given the opportunity to earn professional certificates in accounting, advanced accounting, and cost accounting.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $38,660
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $318
#9 FRANKLIN UNIVERSITY
Columbus, Ohio
Online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting Degree
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Points: 9
Franklin University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting Degree program which equips students with the skills to tackle the complexities of occupational fraud. The 100% online course makes students successful investigators of corporate fraud. The 124-semester hour course also trains them to build competency in tax evasion, compliance, and money laundering. The in-demand, affordable course is designed by subject matter experts and offers hands-on learning through interactive videos, team building, and real-world simulations. The Forensic Accounting certification includes Fraud Examination, Fraud Reporting and Litigation and Electronic Discovery. The online Forensic Accounting bachelor’s program follows the same structure and rigor as the on-campus program. Students learn real-world forensic accounting skills from industry experts.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $16,306
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $526
#8 INDIANA STATE UNIVERSITY
Terre Haute, Indiana
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with an optional minor in Forensic Accounting
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Points: 10
Indiana State University offers a 100% online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with an optional minor in Forensic Accounting. The 120-credit course includes Fraud Examination, Criminal Investigation, and Occupational Fraud. The program provides students with a foundation to become successful certified accountants and uncover or deter criminal activity. Students learn the ins and outs of insolvency, bankruptcy, reorganization, money laundering, securities fraud, professional negligence claims, marital and family law claims, and tax fraud. The University's Foundational Studies Program equips students in leadership skills, critical thinking, interpersonal and communication skills.
The Princeton Review has ranked ISU one of the “Best in the Midwest,” for 13 years in a row, and the Washington Monthly ranked them number 71 amongst all national universities.
The University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $10,681
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $401
#7 TROY UNIVERSITY
Troy, Alabama
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting
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Points: 10
Troy University, through its Sorrell College of Business, offers an online bachelor's degree in accounting with a concentration in Forensic Accounting. It prepares traditional students to enter the Master of Accountancy program and for careers in public accounting. The 37-hour program is focused on modern fraud protection technique that corporate accounting needs.
Troy University is accredited by the ACBSP to offer baccalaureate degree and graduate business programs. It is also accredited by SACS COC.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $13,520
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $325
#6 TEXAS WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY
Fort Worth, Texas
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Focus on Forensic Investigation and Fraud Examination
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Points: 10
Texas Wesleyan University offers an online Bachelor of Science Program in Accounting with a focus on Forensic Investigation and Fraud Examination. The 100% online course prepares students for lucrative careers in Forensic Accounting, Fraud Examination, IRS Criminal Investigation, along with the FBI White Collar Crime Investigation. The innovative 128 credit hour coursework includes lessons in legal Environment and Fraud, White Collar Crime/ Corporate Crime, Forensic IT Audit, with an Auditing, Forensic/ Fraud Practicum.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $13,164
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $878
#5 CALIFORNIA COLLEGE SAN DIEGO
San Diego, California
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting Program with an emphasis on Forensic Accounting
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Points: 10
California College San Diego offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting Program with an emphasis on Forensic Accounting. The affordable program prepares students for the growing field of forensic investigations. At the end of the course, they become experts in fraud investigation. They study with law enforcement and legal experts who specialize in white collar crimes. Over time, they are well-honed in skills to detect and tackle cases like security fraud, embezzlements, and contract disputes. The flexible online coursework allows students to complete their degree at their own pace over 20-36 months or less. Graduates may get jobs as an auditing clerk, bookkeeper, and accounting specialist as they help to investigate financial conflicts in accounts. They solve complicated financial crimes and build rewarding careers.
The Bachelor of Science degree online is offered through their affiliated institution, Independence University.
California College San Diego is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC).
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $24,770
#4 SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY
Manchester, New Hampshire
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting:Emphasis on Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination
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Points: 11
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a concentration in Forensic Accounting. The courseware includes Auditing and Forensic Accounting, Business Law, Detection/Prevention of Fraudulent Financial Statements, Interview Techniques/Legal Aspects Fraud and Investigating with Computers. Students are trained analysis, accounting techniques, and presentation skills which makes it easy for them to enter the fields of accounting and financial crime investigation. The 120 credit program is entirely online and gives graduate with top-of-the-line skills in fraud detection, theft, and malfeasance. They learn accounting principles that can be applied in complex financial transactions, presentation and analytical skills that can be directly applied to the workplace. Students can complete the Bachelor of Science in Accounting degree online at their own pace, over six 8-week terms per year.
U.S. News ranks Southern New Hampshire first in its “2018 Most Innovative Schools.”
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the NEASC and ACBSP.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $34,984
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $320
#3 PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting:Auditing/Forensic Accountancy
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Points: 12
Purdue University Global offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with a concentration in auditing/forensic accountancy. The course is developed with the help of industry professionals and leaders while the faculty members are experienced in the accounting field. The competitive curriculum offers students hands-on learning experience in forensic accounting and equips them with the skills for real-world accounting practices. The versatile 180 credit hour program creates industry-ready professionals with accounting knowledge and expertise who have a wide array of job opportunities to choose from. The fully personalized online experience is tailored for working adults. Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Accounting online are prepared to sit for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) examinations.
The program is accredited by ACBSP.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $10,002
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $371
#2 INDEPENDENCE UNIVERSITY
Salt Lake City, Utah
Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting: Forensic Accounting emphasis
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Points: 12
Independence University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting with an emphasis in Forensic Accounting. As a non-profit program, it allows students to take classes within their focus area without electives. The 181 credit program can be completed in 36 months or less and includes courses like Accounting Research and Analysis, Fraud Examination, and Corporate Governance and Internal Control Assessment. The unique Bachelor of Science in Accounting program online has a personal live tutoring service for students. They also have a lab service to help students improve their math and writing skills. Students get their laptops and tablets, and also receive career assistance. The career-focused program prepares students for a wide array of positions in private and public accounting firms. It teaches them the relevant accounting and business skills that will help them excel in marketing, management, and entrepreneurship as well.
Independence University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) which is a recognized accrediting agency by the U.S. Department of Education.
Estimated full-time tuition for the academic year is: $$26,240
#1 UNIVERSITY OF NORTHWESTERN OHIO
Lima, Ohio
Online Bachelor of Accounting with a focus on Forensic Accounting
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Points: 14
The College of Business at the University of Northwestern Ohio offers an online Bachelor in Accounting with a focus on Forensic Accounting. The program combines accounting and financial management courses with excellent instruction in the elements of law enforcement. The coursework includes financial statement investigation, criminal law, and corporate governance among other. This prepares students to become experts on fraud including prevention and detection. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) examination. The faculty comprises of experienced business professionals in the accounting field and have the same entrepreneurial as the university. The Bachelor of Accounting program online offers an innovative mix of communication, applied tech and skills development. The 180-credit hour courseware includes Introduction to Digital Forensics, Litigation and Legal Implications of Fraud Examination.
Estimated full-time tuition: $15,396
Estimated tuition per credit hour: $275
This concludes our ranking of the Top 20 Online Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting. Thanks for checking it out!
Rating and Ranking Methodology
Tuition Points:
- Under $25,000—1 point
- Under $20,000—2 points
- Under $15,000—3 points
- Under $10,000—4 points
US News and World Report Recognition
- Top 10— 4 points
- Top 25 —3 points
- Top 50 —2 points
- Top 75 —1 point
Customization Options
- Format Customizations (e.g., Hybrid/Online, Full-time/Part-Time, Accelerated, Degree Completion, etc.)—1 Point Per Customization Option
- Content Customizations (e.g., Minors, Concentrations, Specializations, etc.)—1 Point Per Customization Option (5-point cap)
Wow Factor - 1 point awarded for each unique feature or program that “wowed” us.
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