Master the Basics: Top Online Accounting Courses for Beginners in 2025

Looking to get a handle on your finances or maybe start a new career path in accounting? You're in luck! There are tons of online accounting courses for beginners out there in 2025, and they're getting better all the time. Whether you want to learn the basics of bookkeeping for your own small business or aim for a full-blown accounting career, the options are pretty great. We've rounded up some of the top online accounting courses for beginners that can help you get started.

Key Takeaways

• Consider your career goals and budget when choosing an online accounting course.
• Upskillist and Udemy are good for quick skill-building, while universities offer formal degrees.
• Look for courses that cover fundamentals like financial statements, bookkeeping, and software basics.
• Accreditation matters for program quality and career advancement.
• Many courses offer flexible, self-paced learning to fit busy schedules.

Upskillist Online Accounting Course

If you're looking to get a handle on bookkeeping and accounting without breaking the bank, Upskillist might be just the ticket. Their Diploma in Personal Bookkeeping and Accounting is designed for folks who want to manage their own finances or those of a small business. Its pretty popular, with over 600,000 people having gone through it, and most seem pretty happy, giving it a 4.4 out of 5 stars based on thousands of reviews.

What's cool is that it really focuses on practical stuff. You'll get hands-on training with tools like Excel, which is something you can use right away. The course is broken down into four modules, with 32 lessons in total, and you can usually finish it in about 16 weeks. They cover everything from the basics like the accounting equation and setting up ledgers to more involved tasks like bank reconciliations, managing inventory, and even preparing for year-end procedures.

• Module 1: Covers the history of accounting, basic terms, and setting up trial balances.
• Module 2: Gets into practical tasks like tracking inventory and payroll.
• Module 3: Tackles error correction and internal controls.
• Module 4: Shows you how to create and read financial statements.

One of the nice things about Upskillist is its flexibility. You can watch lessons whenever it suits you, or if you prefer a bit more structure, they offer scheduled sessions a couple of times a week. Each lesson is usually between 30 and 50 minutes long, and you can rewatch them as much as you want. Plus, the certification is CPD-accredited, which adds a bit of professional polish.

The monthly cost is around $39.99, and they even give you a 7-day free trial so you can test it out. Once you sign up, you get to keep access to all the course materials forever. Its a solid option if you want to learn practical accounting skills that you can apply immediately.

Upskillist is a great choice for beginners wanting practical, immediately applicable accounting skills.

Udemy Accounting Courses

Udemy is a massive online learning platform, and when it comes to accounting, it's got a ton of options. Seriously, you can find courses on pretty much any accounting topic you can think of, from the absolute basics of bookkeeping to more complex stuff like forensic accounting or financial modeling. They have courses that cover financial accounting, which is all about reporting numbers to the outside world, and management accounting, which helps people inside a company make decisions. Plus, there are courses focused on taxes, which is always a fun one.

What's cool is that many courses are taught by people who actually work in the field, so you're getting practical knowledge. You'll find courses that teach you about things like double-entry bookkeeping, how to put together financial statements, and how to manage money coming in and going out. Some even touch on newer software and tools that businesses use today.

One of the best things about Udemy is how flexible it is. You buy a course, and you have access to it forever. This means you can go back and rewatch videos or review materials whenever you need a refresher, which is super handy. The courses are self-paced, so you can fit learning around your job, family, or whatever else you've got going on. They even have mobile apps, so you can learn on the go.

Udemy also runs sales pretty often, so you can usually snag a course for a really good price. It's not uncommon to see courses that are normally quite expensive go on sale for under $20. They also have a 30-day money-back guarantee, so if a course isn't what you expected, you can get a refund.

Learning accounting doesn't have to be intimidating. Udemy's approach often breaks down complex topics into digestible video lessons, making it easier for beginners to grasp the material without feeling overwhelmed. The variety means you can pick a course that matches your specific learning style and goals.

Here's a quick look at what you might find:

• Foundational Bookkeeping: Learn the core principles of recording financial transactions.
• Financial Statement Analysis: Understand how to read and interpret balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
• QuickBooks Online: Get hands-on training with popular accounting software.
• Tax Preparation Basics: Familiarize yourself with fundamental tax concepts for individuals or small businesses.
• Advanced Topics: Explore areas like cost accounting, auditing, or accounting for specific industries.

Southern Utah University Online Accounting Program

If you're looking for a solid, accredited accounting program that you can fit around your life, Southern Utah University (SUU) might be worth a look. Their online accounting program is designed with working folks in mind, blending serious coursework with the flexibility needed to actually get it done. It's not just about learning accounting principles; it's about getting ready for the real world of finance.

What really stands out is SUU's accreditation. They're accredited by the AACSB, which is a big deal in the business education world. Think of it as a stamp of approval that means the program meets high standards. This kind of accreditation often means employers take notice. Graduates from SUU's program have a good track record with the CPA exam and tend to find jobs pretty quickly after finishing up. It seems like companies are actively looking to hire their students even before they graduate.

The curriculum covers a lot of ground. You'll get into things like:

• Managerial accounting
• Taxation
• Auditing
• Financial accounting
• Accounting information systems
• Accounting analytics

They also make sure you get comfortable with tools you'll actually use, like accounting software and advanced Excel. The whole program is structured into different parts, building up your knowledge from the basics to more specialized topics. It takes about 74.5 credits to complete.

The program's structure is broken down into foundational business courses and then dives deeper into accounting specifics. This approach helps ensure you have a well-rounded business understanding alongside your accounting skills.

SUU offers this program entirely online, and it's asynchronous. This means no set class times, so you can log in and study whenever it works for you early mornings, lunch breaks, late nights, its all fair game. This kind of flexibility is a lifesaver for anyone juggling work, family, or other commitments. You can access everything from any device, making it easy to keep up with your studies on the go. It's a great way to get that university accounting education without having to be on campus.

Maryville University of Saint Louis Online Accounting Degree

Maryville University in St. Louis offers an online Bachelor of Science in Accounting that's really geared towards people who want to move up in their careers. Its a solid program that mixes what you learn in textbooks with practical skills you can actually use on the job. Many graduates find they can jump right into the workforce or even start studying for their CPA exams pretty quickly after finishing.

The university itself has a good track record with online learning, with a large percentage of its students already studying remotely. This means they've got the setup down for people who can't make it to a physical campus.

Heres a look at what the program covers:

• General Education: You'll get a broad base of knowledge here.
• Business Core: This covers essential business topics like financial and managerial accounting, economics, and business law.
• Accounting Major: You'll dive into core accounting subjects.
• Accounting Electives: This is where you can pick subjects that really interest you, like forensic accounting, tax planning, or accounting information systems.

They also make sure you get hands-on experience with software like QuickBooks, which is a big deal since so many small businesses use it. The whole program is 128 credits, so its a thorough education.

The program is fully online, which is a huge plus for anyone working or with other commitments. They have three times a year when you can start, and you can even study part-time. Plus, they accept transfer credits, which can speed things up if you've already taken some college courses. The application process is pretty straightforward too, no SATs needed.

Maryville University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and their business school also has special ACBSP accreditation for its accounting degrees. This means the program meets high standards and is recognized by the industry. While they don't list exact tuition costs upfront, they do mention that the program is affordable and offers payment plans, which is helpful for managing expenses.

Coursera Accounting Courses

Coursera is another solid spot to check out if you're looking to get a handle on accounting. They team up with universities and other institutions to bring you courses that feel pretty legit. Think of it as getting a taste of college-level learning without actually having to enroll in a full degree program.

What's cool about Coursera is the flexibility. You can totally go at your own speed, which is a lifesaver when you've got other stuff going on. Plus, when you finish a course, you usually get a certificate. It's not a degree, but it's something you can put on your resume to show you've put in the work. They have courses that cover everything from the absolute basics of bookkeeping to more involved topics. Some even include projects where you get to try out what you've learned, which is always helpful.

Learning accounting online can really change how you see your own money and business finances. It's about understanding the numbers so you can make smarter choices.

Coursera's approach means you can really focus on specific areas you want to improve. If you're trying to understand financial statements better or get a grip on how to manage accounts, they've likely got a course for that. It's a good way to build up your financial literacy and feel more confident about managing money, whether it's for a small business or just your personal finances. You can explore different accounting topics and see which ones click with you. It's a great way to start building a foundation in accounting principles. If you're interested in financial reporting, Coursera has options that can help you understand essential accounting practices.

Intuit Professional Development Course

If you're just starting out and want to get a grip on bookkeeping, the Intuit Professional Development course might be your best bet. This course is crafted by the very folks who created QuickBooks, so you know you're getting top-notch insights straight from the source. Its a solid choice if you want to break into bookkeeping or just sharpen your skills.

Here's what you'll get into:

• Basics of Accounting: Learn what a bookkeeper actually does and get the lowdown on essential accounting concepts. You'll be creating financial statements before you know it.
• Accounting Tools: Discover how to use the general journal and ledger to keep track of transactions.
• Trial Balances & Financial Statements: Learn to produce these using accounting software.
• Accounting Principles: Get comfortable with the key assumptions and methods bookkeepers use every day.

This program is more than just a course; it's a stepping stone to a career in bookkeeping. It's perfect for beginners and takes about 16 hours to complete, but it's worth every minute.

The course is offered through Coursera, and it's a great way to get a handle on QuickBooks and boost your bookkeeping skills. It's designed by the people who make QuickBooks, so the information is really practical.

LinkedIn Learning Bookkeeping Series

LinkedIn Learning has a solid bookkeeping series that's pretty good for getting your head around the basics. It's taught by folks who actually do this stuff for a living, so you're not just getting theory, but real-world application. One of the neat things about these courses is that you can link your completed ones right to your LinkedIn profile. It's a simple way to show potential employers what you've been up to and what skills you're picking up.

Here's a quick look at what you can expect:

• Professional Instructors: The people teaching these courses have actual experience in the field, which makes a big difference.
• Bite-sized Lessons: The videos are usually pretty short, making it easy to fit a lesson or two into your day, even if you're super busy.
• Practical Application: You'll learn things you can actually use right away, whether it's for your own small business or a job.

They also have courses that look ahead, like one on how AI is changing accounting. It's good to know what's coming down the pipeline so you don't get left behind.

It's a pretty straightforward way to pick up bookkeeping skills without a huge time commitment or a massive price tag. If you're looking to add some bookkeeping know-how to your resume, this series is definitely worth checking out.

Skill Success Free Bookkeeping Courses

If you're looking to get a handle on bookkeeping without spending a dime, Skill Success has a lineup of seven free online courses that might be just what you need. These are designed to give you a solid introduction to accounting basics and can help you get started if you're thinking about a career in bookkeeping. They even come with certificates upon completion, which is a nice little bonus for your resume or just for your own sense of accomplishment.

What can you expect from these freebies? Well, they tend to focus on the core ideas, cutting out a lot of the extra stuff you might find in longer programs. Think of them as a quick, focused way to learn. Many of them include little quizzes or exercises, so you can check if you're actually getting it as you go along. Plus, they're usually self-paced, meaning you can fit them into your schedule whenever you have a spare moment, whether that's late at night or early in the morning.

These courses are a good way to get a feel for bookkeeping. They're short, to the point, and give you a certificate. It's a low-risk way to see if this is a path you want to explore further.

It's a pretty straightforward approach to learning some important financial skills. If you're just curious or need to brush up on a few things, these free courses from Skill Success are definitely worth checking out to kickstart your learning journey in 2025.

Accounting & Bookkeeping Masterclass Beginner To Advanced

So, you're looking to get a handle on accounting and bookkeeping, huh? This masterclass, often found on platforms like Udemy, is a pretty solid choice for anyone starting from scratch or just needing a refresher. It's designed to cover a lot of ground, from the absolute basics to some more involved topics.

What you'll typically find in a course like this includes:

• Understanding the core rules and standards that guide how financial information is recorded and presented. Think of it as learning the language of money.
• Getting familiar with different accounting methods, like cash versus accrual, and what kind of insights each provides.
• Breaking down common accounting terms so they don't sound like a foreign language anymore.
• Moving into more detailed subjects such as trial balances, how to put together financial statements, and dealing with things like fixed assets and depreciation.

This course aims to make numbers tell a story, not just be numbers on a page.

Learning bookkeeping isn't just about crunching numbers; it's about understanding the financial health of a business. It's a skill that's always in demand and can really open doors.

Many of these courses use a mix of video lessons, readings, and quizzes to help you learn. You'll often get downloadable resources too, which are handy to keep around. Its a good way to get a broad overview of accounting and bookkeeping without getting too bogged down in overly technical details right away.

QuickBooks Online in 90 Mins

If you're looking to get a handle on QuickBooks Online without spending a ton of time, this course is a solid option. It's designed to give you the basics in about an hour and a half, which is pretty neat if you've got a busy schedule.

This course is updated and aims to get you comfortable with the software quickly. It covers the essentials you need to start managing your business finances more effectively. Think of it as a fast track to understanding how to use one of the most popular accounting tools out there.

Heres a general idea of what you might cover:

• Setting up your company file correctly.
• Inputting customer and vendor information.
• Creating and sending invoices.
• Recording payments received.
• Managing expenses and bills.
• Basic bank reconciliation.

Learning the ropes of accounting software like QuickBooks can feel a bit daunting at first, but breaking it down into manageable chunks, like this course does, makes it much more approachable. Its about building confidence step-by-step.

With a good rating from many students, it seems like a popular choice for beginners who want practical, hands-on knowledge. Its a good way to see if QuickBooks is the right fit for your accounting needs before committing to something longer. Its definitely a way to get your bookkeeping skills up to speed without feeling overwhelmed.

Wrapping It Up: Your Next Steps in Accounting

So, you've seen the options out there for learning accounting online in 2025. Whether you're looking to pick up a few new skills for your small business or aiming for a full-blown career change, there's definitely a course that fits. Remember to think about what you want to achieve and how you like to learn. Some courses are great for quick skill boosts, while others give you that formal qualification. With the job market always needing good accountants, getting started with the right online course is a smart move for your future. Don't wait too long pick a program that feels right and begin your accounting journey today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best online accounting courses for beginners in 2025?

For beginners in 2025, great choices include Upskillist for practical skills, Udemy for a wide variety of topics, and Coursera for university-backed courses. If you're looking for a degree, Southern Utah University and Maryville University offer accredited programs.

Do I need prior accounting knowledge to take these courses?

Not at all! Many courses are specifically designed for beginners with no prior experience. They start with the very basics, like what bookkeeping is and how to understand financial terms.

Are these courses affordable?

Course prices vary. Some platforms like Udemy offer courses for as little as $10-$20, especially during sales. Others, like Upskillist, have monthly subscriptions. University programs are more of an investment, costing thousands per year, but they offer formal degrees.

What skills will I learn from these online accounting courses?

You'll learn essential skills like understanding accounting rules, preparing financial statements, bookkeeping, budgeting, and using accounting software like QuickBooks. Some courses also cover tax basics and how to manage payroll.

Can these courses help me get a job in accounting?

Yes! Many courses focus on practical skills that employers look for. University programs often have high job placement rates, and even shorter courses can boost your resume and open doors to new opportunities in the finance field.

What's the difference between a certificate course and a degree program?

Certificate courses usually focus on specific skills or software and are shorter. Degree programs, like those from universities, provide a broader education in accounting and lead to a formal degree, which is often required for higher-level accounting jobs or to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).