Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accountancy
The online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Accountancy is designed to deliver essential accounting knowledge to anyone looking for a flexible online program that will enrich their accounting expertise, help them start or grow their career in the field and/or prepare them to sit for the CPA exam in Kentucky.
UofL's online BSBA in Accountancy is virtually identical to our on-campus program, except delivered in a flexible online format that allows you to gain all the benefits of a University of Louisville College of Business education without ever physically coming to campus. Develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career as a professional accountant by completing coursework in key business and accounting areas—whenever it's most convenient to you.
UofL online students enrolled in our Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Accountancy have the option to earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management within their degree.
This online program is offered by the School of Accountancy and the AACSB-accredited College of Business at the University of Louisville.
If you look around at the fields that are in demand, you'll find that accounting is always up there near the top. There are just so many opportunities. It gives you an understanding of business that's hard to get other places or in other disciplines; it gives you exposure to business like no other career path.
Bill Stout, PhD., CPA (Connecticut),
BSBAA PROGRAM DIRECTOR
SCHOOL OF ACCOUNTANCY
Online BSBA in Accountancy Highlights
- Enrich your business and accounting knowledge with courses in marketing, management, finance, and economics.
- Gain the accounting credits you need to sit for the CPA exam in Kentucky* (requirements may vary in other states).
- Develop skills in using the latest in technological resources—including tax accounting databases, Microsoft Office, Tableau, and others.
- Complete the program in 4 years, or faster with transferred credits from prior coursework.
- Learn from anywhere in the world, on your schedule, with 100% online courses.
- Interact, learn from and network with other students in an online environment.
- Engage with world-class faculty, many with extensive backgrounds in business and research.
- Earn an Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management by completing four specialized electives while still enrolled in your major.
What can I do with a bachelor's in accountancy?
Graduating with your BSBA in Accountancy will give you the expertise you need to start or advance a career in accounting, finance, business and more.
- Complete the education requirements needed to qualify for the CPA exam (more information in the Become A CPA section below)
- Develop your understanding of business practices and research skills in tax, accounting, and auditing—all skills that will help you achieve your career goals, support your business’ bottom line and more
- Learn more than just accounting; acquire valuable transferable knowledge in other business areas, from marketing to economics
- Study data analytics and other tools currently used by auditors and other accounting professionals
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
- Auditor
- Bookkeeper
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
(more information in the Become A CPA section below) - Cost Estimator
- Finance Manager
- Financial Advisor
- Financial Analyst
- Small Business Finance Management
- Tax Examiner
Watch this video to hear from Dr. Xi Ai, one of our professors in the Accountancy program!
BECOME A CPA
Graduates will also be prepared to successfully complete the CPA examination in Kentucky and other states. The CPA designation is a further mark of excellence for those pursuing careers in accountancy, and is a requirement for careers in public accounting. UofL's BSBA in Accountancy awards students with 120 credit hours that cover both of the sub-requirements needed to qualify for the CPA exam by the Kentucky State Board of Accountancy (minimum of 27 credit hours in accounting and 12 credit hours in business-related subjects).
Requirements may vary from state to state, and the BSBAA program may meet the educational requirements for examination or licensure in states outside of KY. Since these requirements occasionally change, we highly recommend you read more information about the exam and the requirements at the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy website.
Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management
UofL online undergraduate business students can earn a Franchise Management certificate within their degree! This certificate cannot be taken as a standalone program at this time.
This certificate is designed to provide professionals interested in a career in franchising (whether a franchisee, working for a franchisor, or supplier in the industry) with the practical knowledge and experience about the franchise business model – all in just 4 courses.
Enrollment & Completion Requirements
- The Undergraduate Certificate in Franchise Management is currently available only for College of Business students in good standing and enrolled in the BBA or BSBA program.
- BBA and BSBA students select a Franchise Management minor, comprised of the required certificate courses.
- To receive the certificate, students must achieve a minimum 2.0 grade point average in the certificate courses.
Online BSBA in Accountancy FAQs
Does the BSBA in Accountancy help me meet the requirements I need to take the CPA exam?
That depends on where you plan to become a CPA. The Kentucky State Board of Accountancy requires a minimum of 27 credit hours in accounting and 12 credit hours in business-related subjects to qualify for the CPA exam. The BSBA in Accountancy degree awards you with 120 credit hours that cover both of those sub-requirements. These requirements may vary from state to state, and the BSBA program may meet the educational requirements for examination or licensure in states outside of KY. Since these requirements occasionally change, we highly recommend you read more information about the exam and the requirements at the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy website.
Does this program prepare me to become a CPA in other states?
This program helps prepare you, but 150 credit hours are needed in all states in order to become a licensed Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Since this is a bachelor's degree, you will need to pursue 30 additional credit hours to be licensed. However, you may be able to sit for the CPA exam while you are taking these additional 30 credit hours, depending on your state's requirements. We strongly recommend that you inquire with your applicable state board of accountancy, or other licensing board to determine all of the educational requirements before enrolling in the program. Please view the information on our “Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures” page for more information: http://louisville.edu/online/About-Us/state-authorization-disclosures
Once I’ve completed the BSBA in Accountancy and passed the CPA exam, am I a CPA?
No, all states require 150 credit hours to become a licensed CPA. In addition to specific education requirements and passing the CPA exam, you may need to complete a period of work experience, pay application and licensing fees, pass a criminal background check, submit references, fingerprint submissions, etc. Please view the information on our “Professional Licensure Notifications and Disclosures” page for more information: http://louisville.edu/online/About-Us/state-authorization-disclosures. And be sure to go to the appropriate state board of accountancy (or other professional licensure agency of the local government) to learn about all of the requirements to become a CPA. The CPA is a state designation and is governed by the states and other jurisdictions. Make sure you know the requirements in your chosen location.
I noticed UofL also offers an online certificate in accounting. Which program is right for me?
Both the certificate and bachelor’s programs offer a viable pathway to advancing your education in accounting, sitting for the CPA exam or starting/advancing your career. Whether or not the program is right for you will depend on your previous education and background. Contact one of our enrollment counselors at online@louisville.edu or 1.800.871.8635 to find out which program best fits your goals.
How long will it take me to complete my degree?
The standard length for completion of the BSBA in Accountancy is 4 years. This is without taking any courses over the summer, at full-time status. However, with transferred credits and summer courses, your degree could be completed in a shorter timeframe.
How will I know if my courses will transfer?
Once you’ve applied to the program, credit transfer checks are a standard part of the admission process. However, if you want to get a feel for how many general education credits will transfer before applying, check out UofL’s unofficial credit pre-evaluation tool.
Are there specific class times for the online courses?
No! To help you balance your education needs with all that life demands, all courses are offered through an asynchronous format—meaning you complete coursework and class requirements at the time that’s best for you.
Will the online exams be proctored?
There is no mandated proctoring rule for the online accountancy courses. However this decision is ultimately left up to the discretion of the course instructor.
Will my course textbooks be available online?
While there’s no guarantee, we typically use textbooks available in print and eBook format.
More Program Information ↓
Online Courses
Credit Hours
Accredited Program
This program was approved for students entering the university in the Summer 2025-Spring 2026 catalog year. For more information about catalog year, go to Catalog Year Information.
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Accountancy
Unit: Business (BU)
Department: Accountancy
Academic Plan Code(s): ACCYBSB, ACCYBSBO
Program Information
This program can be completed 100% online.
The mission of the School of Accountancy is to prepare our students for successful accounting careers with a curriculum that reflects an entrepreneurial mindset, the global economy, and the importance of ethical practices. To enhance the intellectual and economic vitality of Louisville, Kentucky, the region, and the broader business community through our academic programs, research, and community outreach activities.
The University of Louisville Accountancy Program is separately accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International).
Degree Summary
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Requirements 1 | 31 | |
(6 hours of General Education requirements may be satisfied through coursework required by the degree program) | ||
| College/School Requirements 1,2 | 53 | |
| Program/Major Requirements | 30 | |
| Supporting Courses | 12 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 120 | |
- 1
To complete the degree in the minimum number of hours listed, some hours from the General Education Requirements must be satisfied by courses defined by the unit and/or program. Using other courses to satisfy General Education requirements will require additional hours to complete the degree requirements. See the Degree Requirements tab for specific coursework.
- 2
College/School Requirements includes 6 hours of required courses that also cover General Education requirements.
Specific coursework information can be found on the Degree Requirements tab.
Departmental Admission Requirements
New Students and Transfer Students
Admission to the College of Business ensures admission to the BSB in Accountancy.
Current Students - Admission in Good Standing
Students must have both:
- Earned a 2.8 cumulative GPA (students with an established UofL GPA may not include grades for coursework at another institution in consideration for admission); and
- Completion of MATH 111 College Algebra - QR or completion of MATH 180 Elements of Calculus - QR
General Education Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| General Education Requirements 1 | 31 | |
| One of the following MATH courses are required by the program and can satisfy the respective General Education Requirement: | ||
MATH 180 | Elements of Calculus - QR | |
or MATH 205 | Calculus I - QR | |
ECON 201 | Principles of Microeconomics - SB | |
or ECON 202 | Principles of Macroeconomics - SB | |
All degrees require the completion of the University-wide General Education Program (link provided above). Some General Education requirements may be met in the requirements for the major or supporting coursework, in which case additional electives may be required to complete the minimum hours for the degree.
College/School Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| College of Business Requirements | ||
| CAMP 100 | Campus Culture/Business Students | 1 |
| MATH 180 | Elements of Calculus - QR 2 | 3 |
| or MATH 205 | Calculus I - QR | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
PHIL 222 | Contemporary Moral Problems - AH | |
PHIL 225 | Business Ethics | |
PHIL 321 | Ethics | |
PHIL 323 | Medical Ethics | |
| BUS 301 | Business Communication | 3 |
| BUS 201 | Career Development | 1 |
| ACCT 201 & ACCT 202 | Principles of Financial Accounting Principles of Managerial Accounting | 6 |
| ECON 201 & ECON 202 | Principles of Microeconomics - SB Principles of Macroeconomics - SB 3 | 6 |
| BSTA 201 | Business Statistics 4 | 3 |
| CIS 205 | Information Systems in Organizations | 3 |
| General Electives | 6 | |
| Business Breadth | ||
| FIN 301 | Corporate Finance | 3 |
| MKT 301 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
| MGMT 301 | Management and Organizational Behavior | 3 |
| CLAW 301 | Legal Environment of Business | 3 |
| CIS 305 | Data Analysis for Decision-Making | 3 |
| MGMT 401 | Operations Management | 3 |
| Minimum Total Hours | 53 | |
Total of 53 includes 3 credit hours of ECON and 3 credit hours of MATH that are also counted in the 31 Gen Ed hours above.
Program/Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Accountancy Depth | ||
| ACCT 301 | Intermediate Accounting I | 3 |
| ACCT 302 | Intermediate Accounting II | 3 |
| ACCT 310 | Introduction to Accounting Information Systems | 3 |
| ACCT 315 | Taxation for Business Entities | 3 |
| ACCT 397 | Co-op in Accounting I 5 | 3 |
| ACCT 320 | Managerial Cost Accounting | 3 |
| ACCT 411 | Capstone Seminar in Accounting - CUE | 3 |
| ACCT 430 | Auditing Theory and Practice | 3 |
| MGMT 404 | Project Management | 3 |
| Accountancy Electives | ||
| Accountancy Electives are optional | ||
ACCT 441 | Financial Statement Analysis | |
ACCT 401 | Advanced Accounting Problems | |
ACCT 402 | CPA Prep: Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR) | |
ACCT 403 | CPA Prep: Auditing and Attestation (AUD) | |
ACCT 404 | CPA Prep: Taxation and Regulation (REG) | |
ACCT 405 | CPA Prep: Tax Compliance and Planning (TCP) | |
ACCT 406 | CPA Prep: Information Systems and Controls (ISC) | |
ACCT 407 | CPA Prep: Business Analysis and Reporting (BAR) | |
ACCT 415 | Taxation of Individuals | |
ACCT 420 | Advanced Managerial Cost Accounting | |
ACCT 353 | Accounting for Not-For-Profit Organizations | |
| Business Electives (not Accounting) | 3 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 30 | |
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Supporting Courses | ||
| General Electives (Electives total assumes use of College requirements to satisfy General Education requirements) | 12 | |
Transfer students must take a minimum of 12 credit hours in their major within the College of Business.
Six hours of US & global perspectives courses are required and may be incorporated within the degree program.
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Culminating Undergraduate Experience (Graduation requirement) | ||
| Requirement fulfilled by completing: | ||
ACCT 411 | Capstone Seminar in Accounting - CUE | |
- 1
College/School Requirements include six hours of the General Education (3 hours Quantitative Reasoning and 3 hours Social & Behavioral Sciences). A courses satisfying the General Education Oral Communication requirement (COMM 111, COMM 112 or HON 214 ) are required as prerequisite for BUS 301, but is not included in the required coursework.
- 2
If MATH 205 is taken, there will be 4 total hours of math, reducing the amount of elective credit required to complete the degree.
- 3
Completes 3 hours of Social & Behavioral Sciences General Education requirement.
- 4
Students entering College of Business as inter-unit transfers or transfers from another university having completed another statistics course may sit for an equivalency statistics examination to get credit for that course.
- 5
Co-op may be taken over more than one semester. No more than 3 credit hours may count towards the degree. If a Co-op can not be completed, students can petition for an exception.
Flight Plan
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Hours | |
| CAMP 100 | Campus Culture/Business Students | 1 |
| ENGL 101 | Introduction to College Writing - WC | 3 |
| MATH 180 or MATH 205 | Elements of Calculus - QR or Calculus I - QR | 3-4 |
| ECON 202 | Principles of Macroeconomics - SB | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences Lab - SL | 1 | |
| Hours | 14 | |
| Spring | ||
| ENGL 102 | Intermediate College Writing - WC | 3 |
| ACCT 201 | Principles of Financial Accounting | 3 |
| ECON 201 | Principles of Microeconomics - SB | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Oral Communication - OC | 3 | |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities US Perspectives - AHP1 | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ACCT 202 | Principles of Managerial Accounting | 3 |
| CIS 205 | Information Systems in Organizations | 3 |
| BUS 201 | Career Development | 1 |
| BUS 301 | Business Communication | 3 |
| CIS 305 | Data Analysis for Decision-Making | 3 |
| One of the following: | 3 | |
PHIL 222 | Contemporary Moral Problems - AH | |
PHIL 225 | Business Ethics | |
PHIL 321 | Ethics | |
PHIL 323 | Medical Ethics | |
| Hours | 16 | |
| Spring | ||
| ACCT 301 | Intermediate Accounting I | 3 |
| MKT 301 | Principles of Marketing | 3 |
| HIST 101 or HIST 102 | History of Civilizations I - P2, SBH | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Natural Sciences - S | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
| BSTA 201 | Business Statistics | 3 |
MATH 109 | Elementary Statistics - QR | |
PSYC 301 | Introduction to Social Statistics | |
SOC 301 | Introduction to Social Statistics | |
CJ 326 | Quantitative Analysis in Criminal Justice - QR | |
Co-op | ||
| Hours | 18 | |
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ACCT 302 | Intermediate Accounting II | 3 |
| ACCT 315 | Taxation for Business Entities | 3 |
| FIN 301 | Corporate Finance | 3 |
| MGMT 301 | Management and Organizational Behavior | 3 |
| General Education: Cardinal Core Arts & Humanities - AH | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| ACCT 310 | Introduction to Accounting Information Systems | 3 |
| ACCT 320 | Managerial Cost Accounting | 3 |
| CLAW 301 | Legal Environment of Business | 3 |
| Business Elective (non-Accounting) | 3 | |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ACCT 430 | Auditing Theory and Practice | 3 |
| MGMT 401 | Operations Management | 3 |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: | 3 | |
ACCT 353 | Accounting for Not-For-Profit Organizations | |
ACCT 401 | Advanced Accounting Problems | |
ACCT 415 | Taxation of Individuals | |
ACCT 420 | Advanced Managerial Cost Accounting | |
Co-op in Accounting | ||
| Hours | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| ACCT 411 | Capstone Seminar in Accounting - CUE | 3 |
| MGMT 404 | Project Management | 3 |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| General Elective | 3 | |
| Hours | 15 | |
| Minimum Total Hours | 123 | |
The Flight Plan outlined above is intended to demonstrate one possible path to completing the degree within four years. Course selection and placement within the program may vary depending on course offerings and schedule, elective preferences, and other factors (study abroad, internship availability, etc.). Please consult your advisor for additional information about building a flight plan that works for you.
Degree Audit Report
Degree Audit reports illustrate how your completed courses fulfill the requirements of your academic plan, and which requirements are still outstanding. Degree audits also take transfer credits and test credits into account. "What-if" reports allow you to compare the courses you have completed in your current academic plan to the courses required in another academic plan. Should you have questions about either report, please consult with your academic advisor.
Flight Planner
The Flight Planner tool is available for you to create a personalized Flight Plan to graduation. Advisors have access to review your Flight Planner and can help you adjust it to ensure you remain on track to graduate in a timely manner.
To create these reports:
- Log into your ULink account.
- Click on the Academic Progress tile.
- Select the appropriate report.
- To run a Degree Audit report, click on "View my Degree Audit."
- To create a What-if report, click on "What-if Advisement Report."
- To run a Flight Planner report, click on "Use My Flight Planner."
Click here to run a Degree Audit report, create a What-if report, or run a Flight Planner report.
