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Discover the top bookkeeping certificates that can take your career to the next level.
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A bookkeeping certificate can prepare you for a career in bookkeeping. Bookkeepers track financial transactions, create balance sheets, and process payroll. Their accounting skills help organizations of all sizes run smoothly.
Certificate programs provide short-term training, often in career-focused fields like accounting. In a bookkeeping certificate program, you'll explore accounting principles while gaining hands-on experience with bookkeeping tasks. Earning one can be an affordable way to advance your education.
Our ranking introduces the top bookkeeping certificate programs, what to expect, and typical costs.
Popular Online Accounting Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Certificates in Bookkeeping
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 Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
Columbus State Community College
Columbus, OH
2 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $178 Out-of-State | $364
Credits to Graduate: 10
CSCC's bookkeeping certificate features five courses covering introductory bookkeeping, payroll, Microsoft Excel, and QuickBooks. The online program lasts two semesters, requiring five credits per semester. After completing the program, students can transfer most credits into the school's administrative assistant major, although the certificate may suffice for entry-level bookkeeping positions.
The program has an open admissions process, but learners must maintain an overall GPA of at least 2.0 to receive credit. The school offers Student Success Guides for online learners to help them find resources, manage time, and learn how to participate in online classes.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,038
Out-of-state
$10,304
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
95%
Students Enrolled
25,102
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
North Central State College
Mansfield, OH
4 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $197 Out-of-State | $393
Credits to Graduate: 20
NC State's certified bookkeeping certificate provides instruction on financial accounting, taxation, and bookkeeping tools to prepare students for certification from the American Institution of Professional Bookkeepers. The certificate transfers into the school's applied business associate degree in accounting. Learners may complete the eight-course program in as little as one year.
One course at the end of the program targets certification prep only, providing an in-depth review of covered topics and their application to the certification exam.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,088
Out-of-state
$10,176
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,582
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Harper College's bookkeeper/clerk certificate can apply directly to an accounting associate degree or function as a stand-alone education for prospective entry-level accounting professionals. Students take just four classes, with a choice between an introductory course in accounting or financial accounting. Other topics include spreadsheet software and QuickBooks.
Harper College requires each certificate applicant to submit official high school or college transcripts and pay a $25 application fee. Students can pay for their classes at one time or monthly using Harper's interest-free installment plan.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,372
Out-of-state
$11,184
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
12,015
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
71%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
Moraine Park Technical College
Fond du Lac, WI
2 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $150 Out-of-State | $224
Credits to Graduate: 15
The bookkeeper technical diploma from MPTC prepares students to manage financial data for businesses through hands-on practice with accounting skills and tools. The program is available online and transferable to other MPTC programs, including the accounting associate degree and the tax preparer assistant certificate. Learners can also transfer applicable credits from MPTC or other schools into the program.
This certificate includes five courses covering accounting concepts, data management, and Microsoft Office skills. Students can typically complete the program in just two semesters.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,230
Out-of-state
$6,345
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,269
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
42%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Bookkeeping Certificate Programs
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, WI
2 years
Online + Campus
Cost per Credit: In-State | $163 Out-of-State | $236
The program requires eight courses introducing Microsoft Excel and Word, mathematical reasoning, and accounting concepts, such as payroll and creating and managing computer ledgers. Learners also choose between two QuickBooks courses, each transferring to different accounting diplomas and degrees at NWTC.
NWTC offers a no-interest monthly installment plan for tuition payments, which includes a $30 enrollment fee.
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,303
Out-of-state
$6,455
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
72%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,088
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
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.
A bookkeeping certificate emphasizes hands-on learning, building the skills you'll need to work as a bookkeeper or accounting clerk. You'll learn how to use accounting software, process payroll transactions, and manage bookkeeping needs through your courses. With a certificate, you can gain work experience in the accounting field or continue your education with an accounting degree.
Prepare for Professional Certification
You can prepare for a bookkeeping certification by earning your certificate. For example, after earning a bookkeeping certificate, you can pursue the certified bookkeeper credential offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. This credential demonstrates your knowledge of the best practices in bookkeeping.
Boost Earning Potential
Bookkeepers and accounting clerks report a median annual salary of $47,440, according to May 2023 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). A certificate, which can take as little as 12 weeks, can prepare you for higher-paying careers in this field.
Bookkeeping certificates introduce foundational accounting and finance knowledge. You'll also learn how to complete bookkeeping tasks using accounting information systems and software programs.
During a bookkeeping certificate, you'll study subjects like financial accounting, payroll accounting, and accounting ethics. Your coursework will also teach you how to use tools like Microsoft Excel and Intuit QuickBooks to complete accounting tasks. Certificate programs require as little as 8-10 credits, which can take less than three months. More in-depth bookkeeping certificates require around 30 credits and take up to one year.
Depending on your program, your certificate credits may transfer toward a degree-granting program. That means you can graduate with an accounting degree in less time. Your credits will more likely transfer if you choose an accredited college to earn your bookkeeping certificate.
Admissions Process
Many certificate programs use an open admission policy, which means it's easier to get into a certificate program than a degree-granting program. Typically, you'll need a high school diploma or the equivalent to start your bookkeeping certificate. You'll also pay an application fee.
While undergraduate admissions often ask for SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a minimum GPA, you may not need these requirements for certificate programs. Because the application process and deadlines vary by school, make sure to review the requirements at your prospective schools when applying.
Popular Bookkeeping Courses
Bookkeeping courses develop the skills you'll need to work in entry-level accounting roles. Certificate programs incorporate classes in bookkeeping, financial accounting, and payroll accounting to strengthen accounting knowledge and applied bookkeeping skills.
You'll also learn how to use accounting software programs so that you'll be ready for the workforce when you finish your certificate.
Financial Accounting: Examine basic accounting concepts in order to report financial transactions and track financial operations. Topics include calculating inventories, determining assets and liabilities, and creating financial statements. The course develops core accounting and bookkeeping skills.
Payroll Accounting: Learn how to process payroll data through an examination of state and federal withholding requirements, wage-hour laws, and tax requirements. Students work with payroll data to complete reporting forms, record wages and deductions, and remit taxes. After completing the course, learners have the skills to take on payroll responsibilities.
Accounting Software: Students gain hands-on experience with accounting software and accounting information systems that organizations use to manage financial information. Common software programs include Excel and QuickBooks. The course introduces real-world scenarios to train learners to create financial statements and track accounting transactions.
How Much Do Bookkeeping Certificates Cost?
The cost of a bookkeeping certificate depends on the school and program length. In-state, two-year public colleges generally charge the most affordable tuition rates, which can range from $2,250-$3,940.
On average, two-year colleges cost $3,600 in in-state tuition and fees per year, according to 2022-23 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Typically, it takes less than one year to earn a bookkeeping certificate.
In addition to tuition, you'll need to budget for textbooks and other expenses, which add to the total cost of your degree. You can also apply for financial aid to cover costs, including federal student loans, scholarships, and grants. Prioritize scholarships and grants over loans, which you'll have to repay after finishing your certificate.
You can earn a bookkeeping certificate online. Taking classes online appeals to busy students, especially those working while taking college courses. And bookkeeping is an ideal subject to learn online, because the course material is well suited for a virtual learning environment.
Consider your schedule, budget, and learning style when comparing online and in-person programs. An online format can help you find a more affordable option, and the flexibility of an online schedule can allow you to work while in school. However, online courses aren't the best option for every learner. Some students prefer the structure of in-person classes.
Bookkeeping Jobs and Salaries
With a bookkeeping certificate, you can qualify for entry-level roles as a bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or auditing clerk. You can also apply your accounting skills to work as an accounting assistant. These careers require financial accounting knowledge and an understanding of accounting software.
After earning a bookkeeping certificate, you can also apply your credits toward an associate degree or bachelor's degree in accounting.
Bookkeepers manage the general ledger for organizations, recording financial transactions so that companies can manage their finances. They create financial reports for managers to track payments, process payroll, and prepare invoices. Bookkeepers also track overdue payments and prepare bank deposits.
Accounting clerks process financial documents, typically for large companies. They monitor accounts payable, balance billing vouchers, and post transaction data to the general ledger. Accounting clerks may also calculate interest charges, track loan payments, or process documents using their organization's data management tools.
Accounting assistants provide administrative support to accountants. They enter financial data into software programs, process invoices, and update spreadsheets. Their duties may also include filing and reviewing financial documents. These roles require foundational accounting skills.
Should You Get a Bookkeeping or Accounting Certificate?
Many colleges offer certificates in bookkeeping and accounting. Which option is better for you? While the courses in a bookkeeping and accounting certificate may overlap, the two programs have different core focuses and program lengths.
A bookkeeping certificate covers the skills you'll need to work as a bookkeeper. Accounting certificates, which often require more credits, provide a broader foundation in accounting and auditing procedures. Both options can prepare you for careers as a bookkeeper, accounting clerk, or accounting assistant. And both provide a strong foundation for earning an accounting degree.
Comparing Bookkeeping and Accounting Certificate Programs
Key Factor
Bookkeeping Certificate
Accounting Certificate
Focus
Accounting and bookkeeping basic skills, with an emphasis on hands-on knowledge of software
Depends on the program; may transfer toward a degree
Depends on the program; may transfer toward a degree
If you're still on the fence about earning a certificate in bookkeeping or accounting, consider taking an introductory accounting class that applies toward both certificates. With some experience under your belt, you might find it easier to choose your certificate.
Differences Between Bookkeeping Certificates and Certifications
Colleges and universities award certificates, which include academic coursework to teach students a particular subject. Organizations offer professional certifications, which demonstrate industry knowledge and typically require passing an exam.
Earning a bookkeeping certificate can prepare you for a certification exam. Some certificate programs even incorporate courses that focus on certification preparation. Professional certification signals your competencies to potential employers, which can help you advance your career.
How long does it take to get a bookkeeping certificate?
You can earn a bookkeeping certificate in as little as 12 weeks, while some programs take up to 12 months. The number of credits in a bookkeeping certificate varies, from 8-10 credits up to 30-40 credits.
Which bookkeeping course is the best?
The best bookkeeping course covers core topics like payroll accounting, financial accounting, and accounting information systems. You can earn a bookkeeping certificate to develop career-ready skills as a bookkeeper.
Is a bookkeeping certificate worth it?
A bookkeeping certificate can pay off. You can complete a certificate for $1,000-$2,000 at many community colleges, and bookkeepers earn a median annual salary of over $47,000.
Can I learn bookkeeping on my own?
Yes, you can learn bookkeeping on your own. However, taking a course or earning a certificate in bookkeeping can help you showcase your knowledge and earn professional certification as a bookkeeper.
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