How do I choose the right accounting course for my goals?

Start by identifying whether you're building a foundation, preparing for certification, or applying accounting in business , finance , or data roles. For a broad introduction, try Introduction to Financial Accounting by the University of Pennsylvania. If you want to apply accounting in a business context, consider Fundamentals of Accounting Specialization from the University of Illinois. For practical, job-ready skills, explore Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Professional Certificate , which is ideal for small business, freelance, or support roles.

Which accounting course should I start with as a beginner?

These beginner-friendly courses introduce essential concepts like balance sheets, debits and credits, and financial statements: Introduction to Financial Accounting by Wharton (UPenn) – Clear, structured, and popular with learners new to accounting. Accounting Analytics , also by Wharton (UPenn) – Combines core concepts with data tools, ideal for beginners interested in finance or analytics. Bookkeeping Basics by Intuit – Offers a simple, practical introduction to accounting processes.

What’s the difference between an accounting course, Specialization, and Professional Certificate?

A course focuses on a single topic, like Managerial Accounting Fundamentals . A Specialization builds deeper subject expertise across multiple areas—such as Fundamentals of Accounting Specialization . A Professional Certificate prepares you for job roles or entry into the field through skills-based training—like Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Certificate , which includes hands-on projects and is designed for career readiness.

Can I take free accounting courses on Coursera?

Yes. You can start learning accounting on Coursera for free in two ways: Preview the first module of many accounting courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available). Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial. If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in accounting, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in an accounting course?

Accounting courses cover core concepts like financial statements , balance sheets, debits and credits, and cash flow. Some courses also teach you how to use spreadsheets or accounting software, and how to apply accounting principles in business or tax settings .

Do I need any experience to start learning accounting?

No prior experience is needed. Many Coursera courses start with the basics and build your understanding step by step, so you can learn at your own pace—even if you’re completely new to accounting.

Can an accounting course on Coursera help me get a job?

Yes. Accounting is a valuable skill for roles in finance , bookkeeping, auditing , and business management . A course or certificate from Coursera can help you build practical knowledge, demonstrate your skills, and prepare for job opportunities or further study.

Best Accounting Courses & Certificates Online [2025]

Find the Best Accounting Course for Your Goals

University of Lausanne
Accounting 1
Skills you'll gain: Balance Sheet, Income Statement, Cash Flows, Financial Accounting, Financial Statements, Accounting, Bookkeeping, Working Capital, General Accounting, Accrual Accounting, Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, Ledgers (Accounting), Profit and Loss (P&L) Management, Accounts Payable and Receivable, Reconciliation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
212 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Pennsylvania
Introduction to Financial Accounting
Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Reporting, Financial Accounting, Balance Sheet, Accrual Accounting, Financial Analysis, Accounting, Cash Flows, Income Statement, Bookkeeping, Revenue Recognition, Depreciation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
8.3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Pennsylvania
Introduction to Finance and Accounting
Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Return On Investment, Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Reporting, Capital Budgeting, Financial Accounting, Financial Modeling, Working Capital, Balance Sheet, Accrual Accounting, Accounting, Cash Flows, Income Statement, Finance, Financial Analysis, Tax Planning, Equities, Financial Planning, Corporate Finance, Business Valuation
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
14K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Intuit
Intuit Academy Bookkeeping
Skills you'll gain: Reconciliation, Financial Statements, Financial Statement Analysis, Inventory Accounting, Payroll, Bookkeeping, QuickBooks (Accounting Software), Payroll Administration, Inventory Control, Payroll Processing, Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Depreciation, Fixed Asset, Payroll Tax, Property Accounting, Accounting Software, Financial Analysis, Sales Tax, Financial Accounting
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
7.5K reviews
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
IESE Business School
Accounting: Principles of Financial Accounting
Skills you'll gain: Financial Statement Analysis, Financial Statements, Accounting, Income Statement, Cash Flows, Balance Sheet, Financial Accounting, Accrual Accounting, Financial Analysis, Financial Reporting, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Lausanne
Accounting 2
Skills you'll gain: Mergers & Acquisitions, Equities, Tax, Accounting, Accounts Receivable, Securities (Finance), Financial Market, Inventory Accounting, Asset Management, Financial Accounting, Depreciation, Corporate Finance, Profit and Loss (P&L) Management, Balance Sheet, Financial Statements, Financial Reporting, Revenue Recognition, Cash Flows
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
60 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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Status: Free Trial
University of Virginia
Financial Accounting Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Financial Accounting, Balance Sheet, Financial Reporting, Financial Statement Analysis, Accounting, Annual Reports, Accrual Accounting, Income Statement, Financial Analysis, General Ledger, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Accounting Records, Cash Flows, Revenue Recognition, Depreciation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
2.8K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Fundamentals of Accounting
Skills you'll gain: Management Accounting, Income Statement, Financial Statements, Performance Measurement, Balance Sheet, Organizational Strategy, Financial Statement Analysis, Capacity Management, Cost Accounting, Cost Control, Cash Flows, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Financial Analysis, Accounting, Budget Management, Business Metrics, Operational Analysis, Product Management, Strategic Decision-Making
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
2K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Intuit
Bookkeeping Basics
Skills you'll gain: Bookkeeping, QuickBooks (Accounting Software), Financial Statements, Accounting Software, Ledgers (Accounting), Accounting, Accounting Records, Balance Sheet, Income Statement, General Ledger, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Cash Flows
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
6.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Financial Accounting: Foundations
Skills you'll gain: Revenue Recognition, Financial Statements, Accrual Accounting, Financial Accounting, Bookkeeping, Income Statement, Accounting, Balance Sheet, Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Accounts Receivable, Inventory Accounting, Cash Flows
Build toward a degree
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
4.6K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Coursera Project Network
Create a Financial Statement using Microsoft Excel
Skills you'll gain: Financial Statements, Microsoft Excel, Excel Formulas, Balance Sheet, Financial Data, Bookkeeping, Data Entry, Financial Reporting, Financial Accounting, Profit and Loss (P&L) Management
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
737 reviews
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Status: Free Trial
Corporate Finance Institute
Accounting Fundamentals
Skills you'll gain: Income Statement, Financial Statements, Accounting, Financial Statement Analysis, Balance Sheet, Financial Accounting, Financial Reporting, Bookkeeping, Cash Flows, Financial Analysis
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
45 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months