An award-winning historian and writer, Genevieve Carlton, Ph.D., has published multiple scholarly articles and a book with the University of Chicago Press. She currently works as a writer and consultant. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Northwestern...
Lauren Mastbaum has more than a decade of editing and marketing experience. Creating content in financial services, she worked with clients such as Morgan Stanley, Merrill Lynch, and Wells Fargo.
She's also passionate about education and led communi...
Forensic accounting degrees strengthen fraud detection and investigation skills. Is a bachelor's in forensic accounting a good fit for you?
Credit: Tom Werner / DigitalVision / Getty Images
Accounting.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
Are you ready to discover your college program?
Credit: Tom Werner / DigitalVision / Getty Images
If you're interested in accounting and criminal justice, a bachelor's in forensic accounting may be the right degree for you. As a forensic accounting major, you'll develop investigative, auditing, and financial analysis skills. After graduation, you can pursue work as a fraud examiner, auditor, and forensic accountant.
Our ranking explores the best forensic accounting degrees, so you can find a program that fits your schedule, budget, and career goals.
Popular Online Bachelor's Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting Degree Programs
We use trusted sources like
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
Accounting.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.
#1 Best Forensic Accounting Degrees
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
Prescott, AZ
4 years
Campus
ERAU dates back to the formation of the Embry-Riddle Company in 1925. Today, ERAU offers classes online and at locations worldwide. The Prescott, Arizona, residential campus houses the country's only College of Business, Security, and Intelligence.
Bachelor of Science in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination
ERAU's forensic accounting and fraud examination degree offers students a hands-on education. Enrollees use the latest data visualization software in cyber and forensic science labs.
Real-world experience, combined with a comprehensive curriculum, can prepare students to pursue several certifications. Graduates may take the certified management accountant exam or pursue certifications through the American Board of Forensic Accounting.
The program primarily prepares students to pursue certified fraud examiner certification. Enrollees learn about investigation, law, and fraud detection. Core classes include forensic psychology and fraud auditing.
Other courses cover foundational accounting and business topics. Students explore managerial accounting, marketing, and corporate finance. They also take classes on business analytics and accounting information systems.
Applying to ERAU
Each candidate must complete an online application and submit transcripts or GED scores. Optional application materials include an essay, resume, and recommendation letters. Applicants may also send ACT/SAT and AP scores. ERAU charges a $50 application fee.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Tuition: $19,488/semester
Required Credits: 120
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery Format: On campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,424
Out-of-state
$35,424
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,712
Out-of-state
$17,712
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
66%
Students Enrolled
2,946
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
4%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Forensic Accounting Degrees
Eastern Oregon University
La Grande, OR
4 years
Online + Campus
EOU began in 1929 as a teacher's college. Since its founding, the university has operated on the values of discovery, altruism, and interdependence. The almost 2,900 enrollees can choose from over 37 programs, with more than 22 degrees available online.
Accounting Major with a Concentration in Forensic Accounting
The accounting major at EOU includes 24 core classes, and students must earn at least a C- in each course. They begin with lower-division courses like financial accounting, business law, and macroeconomics.
The upper-division courses immerse students in advanced accounting and business topics. Enrollees explore taxation, finance, and management. Other classes include forensic accounting and auditing services.
EOU accounting students can choose between forensic and managerial accounting concentrations. The forensic accounting concentration includes five classes covering topics like white-collar crime and corporate governance. Students also explore fraud investigation interviewing techniques.
Applying to EOU
Each prospective enrollee must complete an application and pay $50. They submit transcripts demonstrating completion of high school prerequisites. EOU accepts all students with a 2.75 minimum GPA. Applicants submitting GED scores need at least a 680. Students can also present SAT or ACT scores, especially for scholarship considerations.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU); International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Tuition: On campus: $174/credit (in-state and Western Undergraduate Exchange residents) or $456/credit (non-residents); online: $265/credit (in state) or $305/credit (out-of-state)
Required Credits: 180
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous or synchronous); on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,515
Out-of-state
$20,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,572
Out-of-state
$17,118
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
98%
Students Enrolled
3,067
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#3 Best Forensic Accounting Degrees
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
West Lafayette, IN
4 years
Online
Purdue Global forms part of the Indiana Purdue University system. It offers over 175 online programs to about 31,500 enrollees and specifically caters to adult learners. Students can earn credits for work experience, military training, and professional certifications.
Bachelor of Science in Accounting with an Auditing/Forensic Accountancy Concentration
The forensic accounting program at Purdue Global explores law, finance, and quantitative methods. Core courses include managerial accounting and federal tax. Students must also complete core economics and business math classes.
Purdue Global offers four accounting concentration options:
Auditing/forensic accountancy
Managerial accountancy
Public accountancy
Tax accountancy
Each concentration includes an intermediate accounting III course, with the other two courses varying by concentration. Learners completing the forensic concentration take advanced accounting and advanced forensic accounting.
The degree culminates in an accounting internship or capstone project. Students can complete virtual or onsite accounting internships. The capstone option allows enrollees to apply learned accounting topics in a final project.
Applying to Purdue Global
Anyone with a high school diploma, GED certificate, or home study certificate can apply to Purdue Global. High school seniors with set graduation dates may also apply. Each candidate must pass through an interview process before signing an enrollment agreement.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Public
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Tuition: $371/credit (out of state); $280 (in state)
Required Credits: 180
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous with synchronous components)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,920
Out-of-state
$13,356
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,791
Out-of-state
$9,768
Retention Rate
100%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
38,138
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Forensic Accounting Degrees
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
4 years
Online + Campus
SNHU began as a business school focusing on accounting practices. Since its founding in 1932, the university has offered practical courses in a flexible study format. Students can select from hundreds of career-focused programs online or on campus.
Forensic Accounting Degree Online
SNHU's forensic accounting degree combines a business core with accounting courses. Students first complete foundational statistics and economics classes. Business classes explore financial accounting, law, and marketing. Other topics include managerial accounting and applied marketing.
The accounting core covers intermediate and advanced accounting. Students also learn about federal taxation, business valuation, and cost accounting. Learners can choose six other accounting courses to fulfill elective requirements.
The forensic accounting and fraud examination concentration includes four courses. Enrollees explore legal aspects of fraud and auditing. They practice detecting fraudulent financial statements and interview techniques, which can help them prepare to pursue certified fraud examiner certification.
Applying to SNHU
Each prospective student fills out a free online application and submits transcripts. Admissions counselors help applicants through the enrollment process.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE); Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Tuition: $320/credit
Required Credits: 120
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$30,756
Out-of-state
$30,756
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,810
Out-of-state
$18,810
Retention Rate
65%
Acceptance Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
113,514
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Forensic Accounting Degrees
University of Northwestern Ohio
Lima, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
The UNOH campus sits on 200 acres in Lima, Ohio. It began in 1920 as a secretarial and accounting school. Today, UNOH offers more than 50 degree programs to about 4,000 students. They complete a practical education filled with real-world experiences.
Forensic Accounting Program
The forensic accounting program at UNOH prepares enrollees to pursue certified fraud examiner certification. The 180-credit program covers topics like white-collar crime and fraud prevention. It also allows for 14 credits of electives.
Students take 24 core courses covering general and forensic accounting topics. Example courses include lean accounting, personal taxes, and managerial accounting. Other courses review accounting ethics and information systems. Each student completes an accounting capstone to graduate.
The forensic courses explore contract law and criminal law. Enrollees learn to investigate financial statements and interview for fraud. They also explore forensic accounting, litigation, and digital forensics.
Applying to UNOH
Each candidate completes a simple application form and pays $20. UNOH contacts them within one month. Upon acceptance, students complete placement exams. Individuals who meet SAT/ACT minimum score requirements are exempt.
Program at a Glance
School Type: Private
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Tuition: $230/credit (on campus); $275/credit (online)
Required Credits: 180
Program Length: 4 years
Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous or synchronous); on campus
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,566
Out-of-state
$10,566
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,714
Out-of-state
$9,714
Retention Rate
49%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,221
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
21%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
You can develop forensic investigation, auditing, and fraud detection skills by majoring in forensic accounting. These abilities prepare you for internal auditing, forensic accounting, and fraud examiner roles. You can also leverage your skills to earn professional certifications or pursue a graduate degree.
Increase Earning Potential
Accounting careers that require a bachelor's degree pay more than those without this education requirement. As of May 2024, accountants and auditors earn a median pay of $81,680, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Meanwhile, bookkeepers, accounting clerks, and auditing clerks take home a median salary of $49,210.
Qualify for Certifications
A bachelor's in forensic accounting can help you prepare for certified fraud examiner and certified internal auditor credentials. With additional coursework, you can also take the CPA exam to become a certified public accountant (CPA). These credentials can lead to a higher earning potential and more job opportunities.
What to Expect From a Forensic Accounting Degree Program
Forensic accounting programs combine foundational accounting courses with upper-division classes in auditing, fraud investigation, and accounting forensics. You'll develop strong analytical, investigative, and critical thinking skills.
As a forensic accounting major, you'll learn to identify financial crimes, create fraud detection programs, and contribute to fraud investigations. Forensic accounting is also a good major to prepare for the Uniform CPA Examination and other accounting certifications.
With full-time enrollment, you can expect to take around four years to complete the required 120 credits in a forensic accounting program. If you have transfer credits or an associate degree, you can often earn a bachelor's in less time. Attending an accredited college is key for recognition from prospective schools and employers. Accreditation also qualifies you for federal financial aid.
When it comes to finding the right forensic accounting program, you need to understand your format options. Forensic accounting degrees operate under several names, including:
Accounting with a concentration in forensic accounting
Forensic accounting and fraud investigation
Forensics and fraud accounting
As a specialized accounting major, few colleges offer a bachelor's in forensic accounting. It's common for accounting programs to offer a concentration in forensic accounting rather than a standalone major.
Delivery formats for forensic accounting programs include:
In Person: Majors complete accounting courses, general education requirements, and electives on campus in a face-to-face format.
Online: Students complete courses remotely. Delivery methods include asynchronous classes with no set meeting times or live synchronous class sessions that mirror the in-person experience.
Hybrid: Degree-seekers take online and in-person classes to complete their forensic accounting degrees.
Some colleges also offer accelerated accounting degrees or five-year programs that award both bachelor's and master's degrees. This option may appeal to forensic accountants who plan to pursue CPA licensure.
Should You Study Forensic Accounting or General Accounting?
What's a better fit for your personal and professional goals: forensic accounting or general accounting? You'll take many of the same classes with both majors, but forensic accounting programs offer more courses in fraud detection, auditing, and investigative techniques.
The following table explores the similarities and differences between these programs.
Comparing Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting and Accounting
Key Factor
Bachelor's in Forensic Accounting
Bachelor's in Accounting
Main Focus
Developing forensic accounting skills to prepare graduates to detect, prevent, and investigate financial fraud
Developing general accounting skills in areas such as financial accounting, tax accounting, and managerial accounting
Major Courses
Auditing, fraud examination, digital forensics
Cost accounting, accounting information systems, corporate taxation
Concentrations
Typically does not offer concentrations
Concentrations in managerial accounting, public accounting, tax accounting
Program Length
4 years; 120 credits
4 years; 120 credits
Career Paths
Forensic accountant, fraud examiner, auditor
Public accountant, tax accountant, auditor, financial analyst
If you're interested in finance or accounting careers but haven't chosen a specialty, a general accounting degree might offer a better fit. In that case, you can always consider a master's in forensic accounting or a forensic accounting graduate certificate to specialize your education. However, if you want to work in forensic accounting, fraud investigation, or auditing, a bachelor's in forensic accounting could offer a strong pathway.
Getting into a forensic accounting program starts with applying to the college. Schools typically require a high school diploma and a minimum 2.0 GPA (or a GED certificate) for admission. You might also need to take the SAT or ACT and submit letters of recommendation.
Many institutions accept the Common App, which lets you apply to multiple colleges with a single application. While you'll still pay application fees for each school, the Common App can help you save time.
After receiving an acceptance letter, you may need to complete accounting prerequisites before declaring your forensic accounting major.
In addition to foundational accounting classes, you'll take upper-division courses in forensic accounting. Many programs also incorporate a senior project or capstone. You will also need to complete general education requirements and electives, which can include a minor.
While the specific courses depend on the program, many offer the following options:
Forensic Accounting Principles: Examine common types of financial fraud, along with methods for detecting and preventing fraud. Students explore forensic accounting applications in law enforcement, financial services, and auditing contexts. Coursework also introduces the role of forensic accounting in litigation.
Auditing: Assignments cover internal and external auditing standards and risk management. This course prepares learners to design and implement audit procedures, identify fraud with auditing techniques, and understand the scope of reporting responsibilities. Students also learn exam ethics for auditors.
Fraud Analysis: Forensic accountants specialize in analyzing fraud. In this course, learners study prevention and detection techniques to uncover fraud relating to financial statements, assets, and disclosures across various industries.
Criminal Investigation: Classwork explores the applications of forensic accounting techniques in criminal investigations, including evidence standards, investigative techniques, and fraud investigation reporting. This course also introduces forensic accounting majors to investigative techniques such as conducting interviews and providing expert witness testimony.
How Much Do Forensic Accounting Bachelor's Programs Cost?
Earning a bachelor's in forensic accounting can be expensive. The cost of a bachelor's degree ranges from $9,750 per year in tuition and fees to over $35,000, according to 2022-2023 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Typically, in-state public institutions offer the lowest tuition rates, followed by out-of-state public tuition and private colleges. In addition to tuition, you'll need to factor in living expenses, textbooks, and other costs.
Compare costs to find the most affordable options. Financial aid can also help you pay for your degree. Prioritize scholarships and grants, which you don't need to repay, over federal and private loans.
An online learning format often appeals to working students and busy adults. Consider your professional and personal obligations to know if you should pursue a forensic accounting degree online.
Accounting programs translate well to online learning because the major typically does not require in-person practicums. You can interact with faculty, master accounting and auditing skills, and prepare for accounting careers in an online program. By choosing an accredited college, you'll also ensure that your program meets high academic standards.
Online programs are a good fit for some students, but they aren't for everyone. Consider your schedule, learning style, and preferences when deciding whether to earn a degree online.
Accounting majors can pursue careers as accountants, auditors, and financial analysts, but what can they do with a forensic accounting degree? This specialized accounting major prepares graduates for careers that require strong auditing and investigative skills.
Forensic accounting jobs include forensic accountant, internal auditor, financial investigator, and external auditor. Professionals can demonstrate expertise with certifications in fraud examination, auditing, and other specialties. Accounting and auditing careers report above-average salaries and positive growth.
Forensic accountants investigate and detect financial crimes. They partner with law enforcement to identify fraudulent transactions and conduct audits to prevent misconduct in government agencies that enforce financial regulations. These roles require strong auditing and investigative skills, with many forensic accountants participating in legal cases as expert witnesses.
External auditors evaluate financial documents to identify errors and fraud. Unlike internal auditors, who conduct audits for the organizations that employ them, external auditors provide independent assessments. External auditors work in the public and private sectors for CPA firms and nonprofits.
CFEs detect financial fraud, create anti-fraud programs, and investigate financial crimes. They may work in civil or criminal investigative roles, as well as in auditing positions. Professionals with CFE credentials, which require a certification exam, may hold titles such as internal auditor, forensic accountant, or fraud investigator.
Make sure to carefully research available options to find the right undergraduate accounting program. Identifying the best fit can shape your education and career prospects. Consider the following factors as you explore various offerings.
Program Focus: Review curriculum materials to understand the program's focus. Does the program offer a concentration in forensic accounting, or will you major in forensic accounting? Does the curriculum align with your interests and career goals?
Delivery Method: You need a program that matches your availability. If you have a busy schedule, a virtual program's flexible scheduling options might provide the best fit. Online programs are also a good option for less-common majors like forensic accounting.
Career Services: Research each program's career services, including networking opportunities, career counseling, and job placement assistance. You can also look into the program's graduate placement rate.
Accreditation: Prioritize accredited colleges in your accounting degree search. Accredited institutions meet high standards for quality education. You'll also qualify for more forms of financial aid by choosing an accredited school.
Common Questions About Forensic Accounting Degrees
How much does a forensic accounting bachelor's program cost?
The cost of a forensic accounting bachelor's degree can vary widely depending on the program, with average annual tuition rates ranging from around $10,000-$35,000 or more. You can save on a bachelor's degree by comparing program costs, applying for financial aid, and using transfer credits.
Can you get a degree in forensic accounting online?
Yes – you can get a forensic accounting degree online. Many colleges offer online accounting degrees, including in forensic accounting, with flexible learning formats. In these programs, you can take forensic accounting classes and meet graduation requirements in a virtual classroom.
Does the FBI hire forensic accountants?
Yes – the FBI hires forensic accountants and fraud examiners to identify and investigate financial crimes. Forensic accountants who work for the FBI may gather evidence from financial documents, interview witnesses, and act as expert witnesses during trials.
Do the Big Four hire forensic accountants?
Yes – the Big Four accounting firms hire forensic accountants. These forensic accountants conduct audits for organizations and develop fraud prevention programs. They also help companies investigate fraud and mitigate financial damages.
Recommended Reading
Search top-tier programs curated by your interests.
Let us know what type of degree you're looking into, and we'll find a list of the best programs to get you there.
Edited by
