Associate in Arts Accounting
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
Why get an AA in Accounting from Strayer?
Gain a broad understanding of the science of accounting and dive deep into what it takes to thrive in business. The associate degree in accounting from Strayer gives you a solid foundation with career-building skills to help you start your job search and keep moving forward.
What is an associate degree in accounting?
More than simply numbers, accounting is a combination of analytical skills, cash flow management and strategic thinking. This program explores its many aspects, from analyzing and recording business transactions to preparing financial statements and employee payroll. When you’re ready to further your education, you can apply all the credits earned toward a Bachelor of Science in Accounting.
What can you do with an associate degree in accounting?
- Generate financial reports, based on accounting principles.
- Analyze accounting information to determine its value, uses and limitations.
- Determine the role of accounting functions in key aspects of business, including communication, information systems and evidence-based decision-making.
- Make ethical decisions that support business practices, policies, procedures and integrity.
Class size varies based on course objectives and the teaching demands of the subject matter.
How long does it take to earn an associate degree in accounting?
- There are 20 11-week courses in this program.
- How many courses you take at a time will determine how long the overall program will be.
- Strayer University credits are expressed in quarter hours.
- One quarter hour of credit is granted for the successful completion of 10 contact hours per course.
- Spend 10 to 14 hours in weekly work, including in- and out-of-classroom work. Your actual time will depend on your learning traits and abilities. The Strayer course design uses this requirement to meet applicable regulatory standards.
Accredited online university
Strayer University has distinct accreditations and affiliations that attest to our academic quality. We're committed to meeting quality standards, so you can earn a diploma you're proud to display. View the ACBSP student achievement information.
Program features
SHRM-CP Preparation Course
Enroll in the SHRM-CP Preparation Course to learn the skills needed to take the SHRM-CP exam and gain knowledge in the competencies required, including people, organizations and the workplace. Alternatively, you could take the Human Resource Management Capstone course.
Apply credits to bachelor’s degree
Make your credits count: Transfer up to 20 classes from your associate degree directly into a Strayer bachelor’s degree program.
Add essential skills to your resume
Along with your degree, you’ll learn professional skills employers value, from communication to problem-solving.
83
of Strayer alumni agree that their degree was a worthwhile investment.
Strayer Alumni Survey, 2021–2022
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How much does an associate degree in accounting cost?
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How much does an associate degree in accounting cost?
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*Student is required to take two courses per quarter during disbursement period
PREPARING YOUR RESULTS
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Program cost breakdown
The Strayer accounting associate degree program consists of 20 courses, with the price of $1,525 per course. There are additional fees for textbooks and supplies, a $65 technology fee each term and a one-time $150 degree conferral fee.
Transfer credits
Courses from another institution may be eligible for transfer credits to Strayer, which can help reduce the number of courses you need to graduate and your overall tuition. You can transfer up to 14 classes toward your associate degree (if approved). The Strayer transfer credit page has more information as well as a tool to estimate how many transfer credits you may be able to apply to your Strayer degree program.
Scholarships and financial aid
There are a number of financial aid options worth exploring on our financial aid page. To apply for federal aid, prospective students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Stafford loans are available for undergraduate and graduate study. These are direct unsubsidized loans, not based on financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, Stafford Loan interest will accrue while in the program. Making interest payments while in school will help reduce the amount of principal that would otherwise build up, reducing your end cost.
There are also scholarships and private loans available for Strayer students.
Employer assistance
More than 500 organizations invest in their employees by partnering with Strayer University to offer access to tuition savings and other educational benefits. If your employer is a corporate partner, you may qualify for programs that can help you discover career pathways in your field. Learn more.
Private loans
Nonfederal loans can help pay the difference between the cost of attendance and the total of loans and grants received from other tuition assistance programs.
Military tuition assistance
Scholarships are offered to eligible students currently serving in the military, as well as military spouses. Strayer is also approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Learn more about the Strayer University active military assistance program here.
Veteran benefits
In addition to participating fully in the Yellow Ribbon Program, Strayer is approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Student veterans can receive transfer credit for military training and life experiences.
Transfer credits
Courses from another institution may be eligible for transfer credits to Strayer, which can help reduce the number of courses you need to graduate and your overall tuition. You can transfer up to 14 classes toward your associate degree (if approved). The Strayer transfer credit page has more information as well as a tool to estimate how many transfer credits you may be able to apply to your Strayer degree program.
Scholarships and financial aid
There are a number of financial aid options worth exploring on our financial aid page. To apply for federal aid, prospective students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Stafford loans are available for undergraduate and graduate study. These are direct unsubsidized loans, not based on financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, Stafford Loan interest will accrue while in the program. Making interest payments while in school will help reduce the amount of principal that would otherwise build up, reducing your end cost.
There are also scholarships and private loans available for Strayer students.
Employer assistance
More than 500 organizations invest in their employees by partnering with Strayer University to offer access to tuition savings and other educational benefits. If your employer is a corporate partner, you may qualify for programs that can help you discover career pathways in your field.
Private loans
Nonfederal loans can help pay the difference between the cost of attendance and the total of loans and grants received from other tuition assistance programs.
Military tuition assistance
Scholarships are offered to eligible students currently serving in the military, as well as military spouses. Strayer is also approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Learn more about the Strayer University active military assistance program here.
Veteran benefits
In addition to participating fully in the Yellow Ribbon Program, Strayer is approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Student veterans can receive transfer credit for military training and life experiences.
What coursework do you need to specialize in accounting?
The curriculum includes courses that lay the groundwork for potential opportunities in the field. What’s more, you’ll learn from instructors who are established business professionals with real-world knowledge of accounting. View all courses.
Sample courses
Being an effective communicator is an essential skill for any profession. In this course, you will learn the secrets to writing, listening, and speaking with credibility in order to share your voice with the world.
Altering a recipe, planning a road trip, buying a car, and financing college—what do all of these things have in common? An understanding of numbers and how to use and interpret them. In the workplace, business, technology, and criminal justice professionals all use math. In this course, you will learn how to approach mathematics in a way that will positively inform your world. Learn how to use an easily understandable approach for basic math and algebra to create meaning and see the world in a new way.
Provides an understanding of accounting concepts, assumptions, and principles. Covers analysis and recording of business transactions, the adjusting process, and the procedures to complete the accounting cycle. Progresses to illustrating merchandising operations and merchandise inventory accounting, covers internal control and cash, and explains accounting procedures for receivables.
Provides an understanding of accounting concepts, assumptions, and principles. Progresses to evaluation of accounting data for plant assets, current liabilities, deferrals and accruals, intangibles, payables, and payroll. Introduces accounting for corporations as related to stocks, bonds, and corporate earnings. Introduces partnership accounting and the statement of cash flows.
This course provides an in-depth study of accounting theory and a review of the accounting cycle. It concentrates on the conceptual framework underlying financial accounting, the preparation of financial statements, the time value of money, and the valuation of cash, temporary investments, and receivables. The course refers to pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Provides a foundation in today's business operations with a focus on the major functions of a business (management, production, marketing, finance and accounting, human resource management, and various support functions). The course also provides an overview of business organizations and the competitive business environment, strategic planning, international business, ethical considerations, quality assurance and more.
Associate admission requirements
Before you can pursue your associate degree, you’ll need to enroll at Strayer. Here’s what you’ll need to get started for admission to the university.
A diploma from an approved high school or its equivalent
A completed application and enrollment agreement, as applicable
A valid, current and legible government-issued photo identification
Learn more about the admission process at Strayer.
*Students applying to Washington, D.C., or New Jersey campuses must provide proof of proper immunization. Read more.
Transferring to Strayer from another university?
Some or all of the credits you’ve earned may be transferable.
Campus locations
Come to a campus near you for guidance and support. You’ll have access to helpful resources, a supportive community and plenty of spaces to learn and grow.
Ready to take the next step?
Your admissions officer is here to guide you through every step of the process, from completing your application to choosing your concentration.
Experience the Strayer difference
Start-to-finish support
Your admissions officer and student services coach will motivate and support you from enrollment to the day you graduate.
A real student community
Experience online and live discussions, receive mentoring, expand your professional networks and create life-long friendships.