The University of Northern Iowa’s hybrid accounting program has experienced remarkable growth in the two years since its launch. What began with just seven students in August 2023 has quickly expanded to 60 students.

The program helps tackle a shortage of accounting professionals in and near the Des Moines metro, where positions for new accounting graduates exceeded the supply by over six to one. 

“The caliber of students we have incoming is amazing,” said Joe Ugrin, head of UNI’s Accounting Department. “The program works seamlessly for students with AA degrees from any Iowa community college, and AAS degrees from many others. The program also creates a unique opportunity for UNI Wilson College of Business alumni who can conveniently add an accounting degree in a short time with minimal cost.”

The program blends the flexibility of online business and elective courses with in-person evening accounting classes offered on the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) urban campus.

Designed for place-bound learners, the hybrid format makes it possible for full-time professionals and returning students to complete their bachelor’s degree in accounting without putting their careers on hold.  

“The hybrid accounting program was the right fit because it allowed me to balance my personal and professional side,” said Mayra Rotter, a student from Urbandale who recently graduated from the program. Rotter added, “I truly believe that UNI has provided me with the tools I need to keep moving up the ladder in the corporate world.”

UNI has partnerships with Iowa’s 15 community colleges to provide students with a bachelor’s degree. Students can complete their first two years at an Iowa community college and then transfer to UNI to complete one of 12 online or hybrid bachelor’s degree completion programs. In addition to accounting, other programs include degrees in fields such as elementary education, criminology, human services and more. 

To learn more about the hybrid accounting program or to apply, visit online.uni.edu/accounting.