Concur Technologies, the third-fastest growing company in Washington state, saw a 14% growth in revenue last year thanks to its new software program, which aids in calculating and reporting corporate expenses. That's mostly due to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, which requires more independent and accurate financial reporting from big companies. The Sarbanes-Oxley requirements, combined with advances in accounting and auditing software, make online accounting degrees more attractive than ever.

Online accounting and auditing degree programs are responding to this need for increased financial reporting. For those who want a new or better job in accounting, an education online offers the ultimate flexibility without compromising on quality learning.

Sarbanes-Oxley Changes Accounting and Online Training

The Sarbanes-Oxley Act requires companies to hire impartial, independent accountants and auditors to monitor their financial reporting practices. That means a new generation of professionals will need to learn ethical practices in taxation, financial accounting, and IT-based auditing. To meet this need, online training programs now offer accelerated degrees at the associate's, bachelor's and master's levels.

Most online degree programs have also adjusted their MBA in Accounting programs to include Sarbanes-Oxley considerations and the role of accounting managers in corporate accountability.

Many of the positions created by Sarbanes-Oxley are for Certified Internal Auditors and Certified Public Accountants (CPA). CPAs with taxation and litigation specializations may be qualified for jobs in the government-mandated Public Company Accounting Oversight Board. This oversight board is a private-sector agency created to evaluate corporate reporting practices in the service of the companies' stockholders.