Accredited Accounting Schools and CPA Programs by State

FIND SCHOOLS
1
2
3
4

Reviewed by Tyler Denton

Finding the right accounting school is crucial for launching your career as an accountant or CPA. With over 600 accredited programs nationwide, choosing the best fit requires understanding your state’s specific requirements, comparing program types, and evaluating accreditation standards.

Whether you’re pursuing your first accounting degree or advancing toward CPA licensure, this comprehensive guide helps you navigate accredited accounting schools across all 50 states, including:

  • Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in Accounting
  • CPA exam preparation programs meeting the 150-hour requirement
  • Online, hybrid, and on-campus options
  • State-specific licensing requirements
  • Current salary data and career outlooks

Featured Programs:
Sponsored School(s)
Featured Bachelor Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online AS and BS in Accounting with a focus in Finance or Forensic Accounting
Request Info
Arizona State University - Online Logo
Arizona State University - Online
Featured Program: Online BS in Accountancy
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: B.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Rasmussen University Logo
Rasmussen University
Featured Program: Certificate, Associate's, and Bachelor's Degree-Completion Program in Accounting
Request Info
Purdue Global Logo
Purdue Global
Featured Program: Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Request Info
Featured Masters Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online MBA and MS in Accounting with numerous focus options
Request Info
Syracuse University Logo
Syracuse University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Professional Accounting
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: M.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Walden University Logo
Walden University
Featured Program: Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) - Accounting
Request Info
Ohio University Logo
Ohio University
Featured Program: Master of Accountancy and Analytics
Request Info

Why Accreditation Matters for Accounting Students

Accreditation serves as your assurance that an accounting program meets rigorous educational standards. For aspiring CPAs, attending an accredited school isn’t just recommended—it’s often required by state boards of accountancy.

Types of Accreditation

Institutional Accreditation ensures the entire college or university meets basic educational standards. Look for regional accreditation from one of these recognized agencies:

  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
  • New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
  • WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Business School Accreditation provides additional quality assurance specifically for business and accounting programs:

Accrediting Body
Focus
Recognition Level
AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business)
Excellence in business education
Gold standard for business schools
ACBSP (Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs)
Teaching excellence
Widely recognized
IACBE (International Accreditation Council for Business Education)
Outcomes-based education
Growing recognition

Pro Tip: AACSB offers separate accounting accreditation beyond general business accreditation—only about 190 programs worldwide have earned this distinction.

Accounting Degree Levels and Career Paths

Understanding degree requirements helps you map your educational journey to your career goals. The accounting industry offers clear progression paths, with earnings and opportunities increasing at each level.

FIND SCHOOLS
Sponsored Content

Certificate in Accounting

  • Duration: 6-12 months
  • Credits: 15-30 semester hours
  • Career Options: Bookkeeper, Accounting Clerk, Payroll Assistant
  • Median Salary: $45,860 per year (Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks)

Associate Degree in Accounting

  • Duration: 2 years
  • Credits: 60 semester hours
  • Career Options: Bookkeeper, Junior Accountant, Tax Preparer
  • Median Salary: $45,860 per year

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting

The foundation for professional accounting careers, bachelor’s programs prepare you for entry-level positions and serve as the first step toward CPA licensure. Common degree titles include:

  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (Accounting concentration)
  • Bachelor of Accountancy (BAcc)
Degree Component
Credit Hours
General Education
40-45
Business Core
30-35
Accounting Major
30-40
Electives
15-20
Total
120-130

Career Options: Staff Accountant, Tax Associate, Internal Auditor, Financial Analyst
Median Salary: $79,880 per year (Accountants and Auditors)

Master’s Degree in Accounting

A master’s in accounting serves two critical purposes: meeting the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure and developing specialized expertise. Popular programs include:

  • Master of Accountancy (MAcc)
  • Master of Science in Accounting (MSA)
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) with Accounting Concentration
  • Master of Science in Taxation (MST)

Duration: 1-2 years (30-36 credits)
Career Advancement: Senior Accountant, Tax Manager, Controller, CFO track
Salary Premium: 10-20% higher than bachelor’s degree holders

Doctoral Programs (PhD in Accounting)

  • Duration: 4-6 years
  • Focus: Research and academic careers
  • Career Path: University Professor, Research Director
  • Median Salary: $79,540 per year (Business Teachers, Postsecondary)

The 150-Hour Requirement for CPA Licensure

Since the implementation of the Uniform Accountancy Act, virtually all states require 150 semester hours of college credit to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam. This presents a challenge: most bachelor’s degrees only provide 120 hours.

Common Paths to 150 Hours

Path
Timeline
Cons
Integrated 5-Year Bachelors
5 years
Limited flexibility; Higher upfront cost
Bachelors + Masters
5-6 years
Additional application process
Bachelors + 30 Credits
4.5-5 years
No advanced degree earned
Double Major
4-5 years
Heavy course load

Choosing the Right Accounting School

Selecting an accounting program requires evaluating multiple factors beyond just accreditation. Consider these key criteria:

1. CPA Exam Pass Rates

Top accounting programs often publish their graduates’ CPA exam pass rates. Look for schools with pass rates exceeding the national average of approximately 50% for first-time test takers.

2. Faculty Credentials

Quality programs employ faculty who are:

  • CPAs with active licenses
  • PhD holders in accounting or related fields
  • Industry professionals with current experience

3. Career Services and Placement

Investigate the school’s:

  • Relationships with Big Four accounting firms
  • On-campus recruiting programs
  • Internship placement rates
  • Average starting salaries for graduates

4. Technology and Resources

Modern accounting requires proficiency with:

  • Enterprise accounting software (SAP, Oracle)
  • Tax preparation software
  • Data analytics tools
  • Audit software

5. Specialization Options

Leading programs offer concentrations in:

Online vs. Traditional Accounting Programs

The rise of online accounting degrees has expanded access to quality education. Both formats can prepare you for successful accounting careers, but each has distinct advantages:

Factor
Online Programs
Flexibility
Study anywhere; Set your schedule
Cost
Often lower tuition; No commute costs
Networking
Virtual networking; Alumni connections
Learning Style
Self-directed; Asynchronous options
Technology Skills
Develops digital communication skills

Important: Ensure any online program you consider is accredited and approved by your state’s Board of Accountancy for CPA licensure requirements.

State-Specific Considerations

While the Uniform Accountancy Act creates consistency across states, important differences remain in:

  • Ethics Requirements: Some states require specific ethics courses
  • Course Distribution: Minimum hours in accounting, business, and general education vary
  • Residency Rules: Some states have stricter requirements for out-of-state graduates
  • Experience Requirements: Ranging from 1-2 years under CPA supervision

Accounting Career Outlook and Salary Data

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4% growth for accountants and auditors through 2032, with approximately 126,500 job openings annually. Salaries vary significantly by location, experience, and specialization.

National Salary Overview

Percentile
Annual Salary
10th
$47890
25th
$60920
50th (Median)
$79880
75th
$101790
90th
$132690

Top-Paying States for Accountants

State
Mean Annual Salary
District of Columbia
$110070
New York
$108270
California
$97530
Massachusetts
$95310
Connecticut
$92690

Industries with Highest Accounting Salaries

Industry
Mean Annual Salary
Securities and Financial Investments
$107220
Information Services
$101560
Management of Companies
$92320
Insurance Carriers
$84610
Government (Federal)
$84370

May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data for Accountants and Auditors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed June 2025.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Accounting students have access to numerous funding opportunities:

Federal Aid

  • Pell Grants (up to $7,395 for 2024-25)
  • Federal Student Loans
  • Work-Study Programs

Professional Organization Scholarships

  • AICPA Scholarship for Minority Accounting Students
  • ASCPA Educational Foundation Scholarships
  • IMA Memorial Education Fund Scholarships
  • State CPA Society Scholarships

Employer Assistance

Many accounting firms offer:

  • Tuition reimbursement programs
  • CPA exam preparation support
  • Continuing education funding

Preparing for Success in Accounting School

Before starting your accounting program, strengthen these foundational skills:

Mathematical Proficiency

While accounting isn’t “just math,” you’ll need comfort with:

  • Basic algebra and statistics
  • Percentage calculations
  • Financial ratios and formulas

Technology Skills

Modern accountants must be proficient with:

  • Microsoft Excel (advanced functions)
  • Database management
  • Cloud-based accounting software
  • Data visualization tools

Communication Abilities

Accountants regularly:

  • Write detailed reports
  • Present financial information to non-accountants
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams
  • Advise clients on complex issues

Find Accredited Accounting Schools by State

Select your state below to explore accredited accounting programs in your area. Each listing includes contact information and links to program details.

Alabama

Alaska

Arizona

Arkansas

California

Colorado

Connecticut

Delaware

District of Columbia

 

Featured Programs:
Sponsored School(s)
Featured Bachelor Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online AS and BS in Accounting with a focus in Finance or Forensic Accounting
Request Info
Arizona State University - Online Logo
Arizona State University - Online
Featured Program: Online BS in Accountancy
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: B.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Rasmussen University Logo
Rasmussen University
Featured Program: Certificate, Associate's, and Bachelor's Degree-Completion Program in Accounting
Request Info
Purdue Global Logo
Purdue Global
Featured Program: Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Request Info
Featured Masters Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online MBA and MS in Accounting with numerous focus options
Request Info
Syracuse University Logo
Syracuse University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Professional Accounting
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: M.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Walden University Logo
Walden University
Featured Program: Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) - Accounting
Request Info
Ohio University Logo
Ohio University
Featured Program: Master of Accountancy and Analytics
Request Info

Florida

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Illinois

Indiana

Iowa

Kansas

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maine

Maryland

Massachusetts

Michigan

Minnesota

Mississippi

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Nevada

New Hampshire

New Jersey

New Mexico

 

Featured Programs:
Sponsored School(s)
Featured Bachelor Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online AS and BS in Accounting with a focus in Finance or Forensic Accounting
Request Info
Arizona State University - Online Logo
Arizona State University - Online
Featured Program: Online BS in Accountancy
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: B.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Rasmussen University Logo
Rasmussen University
Featured Program: Certificate, Associate's, and Bachelor's Degree-Completion Program in Accounting
Request Info
Purdue Global Logo
Purdue Global
Featured Program: Online Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Request Info
Featured Masters Programs
SPONSORED SCHOOL(S)
SNHU Logo
SNHU
Featured Program: Online MBA and MS in Accounting with numerous focus options
Request Info
Syracuse University Logo
Syracuse University
Featured Program: Master of Science in Professional Accounting
Request Info
Grand Canyon University Logo
Grand Canyon University
Featured Program: M.S. in Accounting
Request Info
Walden University Logo
Walden University
Featured Program: Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) - Accounting
Request Info
Ohio University Logo
Ohio University
Featured Program: Master of Accountancy and Analytics
Request Info

New York

North Carolina

North Dakota

Ohio

Oklahoma

Oregon

Pennsylvania

Rhode Island

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Vermont

Virginia

Washington

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

Next Steps in Your Accounting Education Journey

Now that you’ve explored accredited accounting schools across the United States, it’s time to take action. Remember, choosing the right program involves more than just location—consider factors like accreditation status, faculty credentials, career services, and alignment with your professional goals.

Ready to Start Your Application?

FIND SCHOOLS
Sponsored Content

For personalized guidance on selecting the best accounting program for your career goals, explore our resources on accounting careers, bookkeeping opportunities, and state-specific CPA requirements.

Remember: The accounting profession offers stability, growth potential, and diverse career paths. Whether you’re just starting or advancing your career, the right education is your foundation for success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What accreditation should I look for in an accounting school?

Look for programs accredited by AACSB, ACBSP, or IACBE. The AACSB offers the most prestigious business school accreditation, with separate accounting accreditation available. Regional institutional accreditation from agencies like MSCHE, NECHE, HLC, NWCCU, SACSCOC, or WSCUC is also essential for ensuring your credits will be recognized by state boards and other institutions.

How many credit hours do I need to become a CPA?

Most states require 150 semester hours of college credit to sit for the CPA exam, which is 30 credits beyond a typical bachelor’s degree. You can meet this requirement through a master’s degree, additional undergraduate coursework, or an integrated 5-year bachelor’s program. Check your state’s specific requirements as course distribution may vary.

Is an online accounting degree as valuable as a traditional one?

Yes, online accounting degrees from accredited institutions carry the same weight as traditional degrees. Many schools use identical curricula and faculty for both formats. The key is ensuring the online program is properly accredited and approved by your state’s Board of Accountancy for CPA licensure requirements.

What’s the average salary for accountants with different degree levels?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for accountants and auditors is $79,880. Entry-level positions typically start around $47,890, while experienced professionals can earn over $132,690. Those with master’s degrees and CPA licenses generally earn 10-20% more than bachelor’s degree holders.

How long does it take to complete different accounting degrees?

Certificate programs typically take 6-12 months, associate degrees require 2 years, bachelor’s degrees take 4 years, and master’s degrees add 1-2 years. If you’re pursuing CPA licensure, factor in the time needed to accumulate 150 credit hours, which often means 5 years of education total.

What’s the difference between a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a BBA with accounting concentration?

A BS in Accounting focuses primarily on accounting coursework with fewer general business requirements. A BBA with accounting concentration provides broader business education with accounting specialization. Both can prepare you for the CPA exam, but the BS typically includes more accounting-specific courses.

Do I need a master’s degree to become an accountant?

No, you don’t need a master’s degree to work as an accountant. Many entry-level positions only require a bachelor’s degree. However, a master’s degree helps meet the 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure and can accelerate career advancement, particularly in public accounting and corporate leadership roles.

What should I major in if I want to specialize in forensic accounting?

Start with a bachelor’s degree in accounting, then consider programs offering forensic accounting concentrations or certificates. Some schools offer specific forensic accounting degrees. You’ll also want to pursue certifications like Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) or Certified Forensic Accountant (CrFA) after gaining experience.

Can I transfer from a community college to a four-year accounting program?

Yes, many students complete general education requirements and introductory business courses at community colleges before transferring. Ensure your community college credits will transfer by checking articulation agreements between schools and verifying that courses meet your target university’s requirements.

What’s the job outlook for accounting graduates?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4% growth for accountants and auditors through 2032, with approximately 126,500 job openings annually. Demand remains strongest for CPAs, forensic accountants, and professionals with technology skills in areas like data analytics and accounting information systems.



author avatar
Tyler Denton
With a Bachelor's in Accounting from Western Washington University and 24+ years of experience across multiple industries, Tyler Denton provides expert guidance on accounting education and career development for AccountingEDU.org readers.
See Full Bio
social network icon