An associate of arts degree is a two-year program that can be focused on general business. No two year-programs dedicated solely to accounting exist, though most AA degree programs provide introductory accounting courses that will transfer to four-year universities. Tribal colleges such as United Tribes Technical College, public institutions such as Williston State College and Bismarck State College, and religious colleges such as Trinity Bible College all award AA degrees that mix accounting and general business courses.
A bachelor's degree is the standard route for most aspiring certified public accountants. A Bachelor of Arts degree usually requires at least four years of study. A student graduating with a BA in accounting usually has enough accounting credits to "sit" for the CPA test, though you should check with an academic adviser in each BA program to see if it offers enough accounting classes for the requirement. BA degrees are offered in public universities including Lake Region State College and religious colleges including Jamestown College.
The Master of Business Administration degree is a graduate program dedicated to comprehensive business education. You may optionally elect to focus on accounting subjects. Traditional MBA programs take two years, but most are flexible enough to accommodate any schedule. Because of the flexible nature of the MBA program, students may graduate with enough accounting class credits to "sit" for the CPA while still earning an MBA. Public universities such as North Dakota State University and religious colleges such as the University of Mary offer MBA programs.
A Master of Accountancy degree embraces a curriculum focused solely on accounting. Accountants wishing to specialize in the field of accounting usually pursue this degree. Unlike an MBA, most MA candidates need a a solid foundation of prerequisite accounting classes before they are admitted to the MA program. MA programs are found at the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University.