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
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:
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.
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)
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
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:
- Forensic Accounting
- Tax Accounting
- Information Systems Auditing
- International Accounting
- Governmental/Nonprofit Accounting
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:
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
Top-Paying States for Accountants
Industries with Highest Accounting Salaries
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
- Athens State University: 256-233-8100
- Auburn University: 334-844-4835
- Jacksonville State University: 256-782-5274
- Oakwood University: 256-726-7000
- Samford University: 205-726-2364
- The University of Alabama: 205-348-6131
- The University of West Alabama: 1-800-621-8044
- Troy University: 1-800-414-5756
- Tuskegee University: 334-727-8116
- University of Alabama at Birmingham: 205-934-8820
- University of Alabama in Huntsville: 256-824-1000
- University of Mobile: 251-675-5990
- University of Montevallo: 205-665-6000
- University of North Alabama: 1-800-TALK-UNA
- University of South Alabama: 251-460-6101
Alaska
- University of Alaska Anchorage: 907-786-1480
- University of Alaska Fairbanks: 907-474-7211
Arizona
- Arizona State University: 480-965-4227
- Grand Canyon University: 602-639-7500
- Northcentral University: 866-776-0331
- Northern Arizona University: 928-523-9011
- University of Arizona: 520-621-2165
- Webster University: 1-800-981-9801
Arkansas
- Arkansas State University: 870-972-2100
- Arkansas Tech University: 479-968-0389
- Harding University: 501-279-4000
- Ouachita Baptist University: 870-245-5000
- Philander Smith College: 501-370-5221
- Southern Arkansas University: 870-235-4000
- University of Arkansas: 479-575-2000
- University of Arkansas at Little Rock: 501-569-3356
- University of Central Arkansas: 501-450-5000
- Webster University, Little Rock: 501-988-5331
California
- Biola University: 562-903-6000
- California Baptist University: 877-CBU-3615
- California Polytechnic State University: 805-756-1111
- California State University: 562-951-4000
- Chapman University: 714-997-6815
- DeVry University: 866-338-7394
- Loyola Marymount University: 310-338-2700
- Pepperdine University: 310-506-4000
- Point Loma Nazarene University: 619-849-2200
- San Diego State University: 619-594-5259
- San Francisco State University: 415-338-1107
- Santa Clara University: 408-554-4000
- Sonoma State University: 707-664-2377
- University of California (9 campuses)
- University of San Francisco: 415-422-5555
- University of Southern California: 213-740-4838
- University of the Pacific: 209-946-2285
- Webster University: 800-981-9801
- Woodbury University: 818-767-0888
Colorado
- Colorado State University: 970-491-5102
- Fort Lewis College: 877-352-2656
- U.S. Air Force Academy: 1-800-443-9266
- University of Colorado: 303-860-5600
- University of Denver: 303-871-2036
- University of Northern Colorado: 970-351-1890
- Webster University: 800-981-9801
Connecticut
- Fairfield University: 203-254-4000
- Quinnipiac University: 203-582-8200
- Sacred Heart University: 203-371-7999
- U.S. Coast Guard Academy: 800-883-8724
- University of Bridgeport: 800-392-3582
- University of Connecticut: 860-486-5136
- University of Hartford: 860-768-4100
Delaware
- Delaware State University: 302-857-6060
- Goldey-Beacom College: 302-998-8814
- University of Delaware: 302-831-2792
District of Columbia
- American University: 202-885-1000
- Gallaudet University: 202-651-5000
- Georgetown University: 202-687-3851
- Howard University: 202-806-1500
- The George Washington University: 202-994-1000
- University of the District of Columbia: 202-274-5000
Florida
- American Intercontinental University: 888-357-7332
- Barry University: 305-899-3500
- DeVry University: 904-367-4942
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University: 386-226-6000
- Florida A&M University: 850-599-3000
- Florida Atlantic University: 561-297-3000
- Florida Gulf Coast University: 239-590-1000
- Florida International University: 305-348-2751
- Florida Memorial University: 305-626-3600
- Florida State University: 850-644-3090
- Rollins College: 407-646-2405
- Stetson University: 386-822-7100
- The University of Tampa: 813-253-3333
- University of Central Florida: 407-823-2000
- University of Florida: 352-392-2397
- University of Miami: 305-284-4643
- University of North Florida: 904-620-1000
- University of South Florida: 813-974-5176
- University of West Florida: 850-474-2000
- Webster University: 800-981-9801
Georgia
- Albany State University: 229-430-4600
- American Intercontinental University: 1-855-377-1888
- Berry College: 706-232-5374
- Clark Atlanta University: 404-880-8000
- Clayton State University: 678-466-4000
- Columbus State University: 706-507-8800
- Dalton State College: 706-272-4436
- Emory University: 404-727-6270
- Georgia College & State University: 478-445-5497
- Georgia Institute of Technology: 404-894-2600
- Georgia Southern University: 912-478-4636
- Georgia Southwestern State University: 877-871-4594
- Georgia State University: 404-413-2000
- Kennesaw State University: 470-578-6425
- LaGrange College: 800-593-2885
- Mercer University: 1-800-MERCER-U
- Morehouse College: 404-681-2800
- Paine College: 706-821-8200
- Piedmont College: 800-277-7020
- Savannah State University: 912-358-4338
- Southern Polytechnic State University: 678-915-7778
- University of Georgia: 706-542-8100
- University of West Georgia: 678-839-6469
- Valdosta State University: 229-333-5800
Hawaii
- University of Hawaii at Hilo: 808-932-7446
- University of Hawaii at Manoa: 800-823-9771
Idaho
- Boise State University: 208-426-1000
- Idaho State University: 208-282-0211
- Northwest Nazarene University: 208-467-8011
- University of Idaho: 208-885-6111
Illinois
- Bradley University: 309-676-7611
- Chicago State University: 773-995-2000
- DePaul University: 312-362-8000
- Eastern Illinois University: 217-581-5000
- Governors State University: 708-534-5000
- Illinois State University: 309-438-2251
- Lewis University: 815-838-0050
- Loyola University: 312-915-7057
- Millikin University: 800-373-7733
- Northern Illinois University: 800-892-3050
- Saint Xavier University: 844-GOTO-SXU
- Southern Illinois University: 618-453-2121
- Trinity Christian College: 866-TRIN-4-ME
- University of Illinois: 217-333-1000
- University of St. Francis: 800-735-7500
- Western Illinois University: 309-298-2442
Indiana
- Anderson University: 800-428-6414
- Ball State University: 800-382-8540
- Butler University: 317-940-8000
- Indiana State University: 800-468-6478
- Indiana University: 812-855-4848
- Purdue University: 765-494-4343
- Trine University: 260-665-4100
- University of Evansville: 800-423-8633
- University of Indianapolis: 317-788-3368
- University of Notre Dame: 574-631-7236
- University of Southern Indiana: 812-464-8600
- Valparaiso University: 219-464-5000
Iowa
- Drake University: 515-271-2011
- Iowa State University: 515-294-8300
- St. Ambrose University: 563-333-6000
- The University of Iowa: 319-335-0862
- University of Northern Iowa: 319-273-2928
Kansas
- Baker University: 785-594-8470
- Emporia State University: 620-341-1200
- Kansas State University: 785-532-6011
- Pittsburg State University: 620-231-7000
- University of Kansas: 785-864-7500
- Washburn University: 785-670-1010
- Wichita State University: 316-978-3456
Kentucky
- Bellarmine University: 502-272-8131
- Eastern Kentucky University: 859-622-1000
- Kentucky State University: 502-597-6000
- Morehead State University: 800-585-6781
- Murray State University: 800-272-4678
- Northern Kentucky University: 859-572-5220
- University of Kentucky: 859-257-8936
- University of Louisville: 502-852-6440
- Western Kentucky University: 270-745-0111
Louisiana
- Grambling State University: 318-274-2275
- Louisiana State University: 225-578-3211
- Louisiana Tech University: 318-257-4526
- Loyola University New Orleans: 504-864-7944
- McNeese State University: 337-475-5000
- Nicholls State University: 985-448-4171
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana: 318-357-6011
- Southeastern Louisiana University: 800-222-7358
- Tulane University: 504-865-5000
- University of Louisiana: 337-482-1000
- Xavier University of Louisiana: 504-486-7411
Maine
- University of Maine: 207-581-1968
- University of New England: 207-283-0171
- University of Southern Maine: 800-800-4USM
Maryland
- Bowie State University: 301-860-4000
- Frostburg State University: 301-687-4008
- Loyola University Maryland: 410-617-5067
- Morgan State University: 443-885-3333
- Salisbury University: 410-543-6000
- Towson University: 410-704-2000
- University of Baltimore: 410-837-4955
- University of Maryland: 301-405-9363
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore: 410-651-6531
Massachusetts
- Babson College: 781-235-1200
- Bentley University: 781-891-2000
- Boston College: 617-552-3100
- Boston University: 617-353-2650
- Clark University: 508-793-7711
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology: 617-258-5434
- Northeastern University: 617-373-2000
- Simmons University: 617-521-2000
- Suffolk University: 617-573-8000
- University of Massachusetts (All campuses)
- Western New England University: 413-782-1321
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute: 508-831-5000
Michigan
- Central Michigan University: 989-774-4000
- Eastern Michigan University: 734-487-2344
- Ferris State University: 231-591-2000
- Grand Valley State University: 616-331-7100
- Kettering University: 800-955-4464
- Lawrence Technological University: 248-204-3000
- Michigan State University: 517-355-1855
- Michigan Technological University: 906-487-2668
- Northern Michigan University: 906-227-1000
- Saginaw Valley State University: 989-964-4000
- University of Michigan: 734-615-5002
- University of Detroit Mercy: 313-993-1204
- Walsh College: 248-823-1000
- Wayne State University: 313-577-4501
- Western Michigan University: 269-387-5050
Minnesota
- Concordia University, St. Paul: 651-641-8230
- Minnesota State University Mankato: 507-389-1866
- St. Cloud State University: 320-308-0121
- University of Minnesota: 612-625-0027
- University of St. Thomas: 651-962-4200
- Winona State University: 507-457-5000
Mississippi
- Delta State University: 800-GO-TO-DSU
- Jackson State University: 601-979-2121
- Millsaps College: 601-974-1000
- Mississippi College: 601-925-3000
- Mississippi State University: 662-325-2323
- Mississippi University for Women: 877-462-8439
- Mississippi Valley State University: 662-254-9041
- The University of Mississippi: 662-915-5820
- University of Southern Mississippi: 601-266-1000
Missouri
- Drury University: 800-922-2274
- Harris-Stowe State University: 314-340-3366
- Lincoln University of Missouri: 573-681-5599
- Lindenwood University: 636-949-4933
- Maryville University: 314-529-9300
- Missouri Southern State University: 866-818-6778
- Missouri State University: 417-836-5646
- Missouri Western State University: 816-271-4200
- Saint Louis University: 800-758-3678
- Southeast Missouri State University: 573-651-2000
- Southwest Baptist University: 800-526-5859
- Truman State University: 660-785-4000
- University of Central Missouri: 877-729-8266
- University of Missouri: 573-882-2121
- Washington University in St. Louis: 314-935-6000
Montana
- Montana State University: 406-994-4421
- Montana State University Billings: 406-657-2011
- The University of Montana: 406-243-4831
Nebraska
- Chadron State College: 800-CHADRON
- Creighton University: 402-280-2700
- Nebraska Wesleyan University: 800-541-3818
- University of Nebraska: 402-472-2111
Nevada
- University of Nevada, Las Vegas: 702-895-3011
- University of Nevada, Reno: 775-784-1110
New Hampshire
- Plymouth State University: 603-535-5000
- Southern New Hampshire University: 800-668-1249
- University of New Hampshire: 603-862-1234
New Jersey
- Caldwell University: 973-618-3000
- Fairleigh Dickinson University: 800-338-8803
- Georgian Court University: 800-458-8422
- Monmouth University: 732-571-3400
- Montclair State University: 973-655-4000
- New Jersey Institute of Technology: 973-596-3300
- Ramapo College of New Jersey: 201-684-7500
- Rider University: 609-896-5000
- Rowan University: 856-256-4000
- Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey: 732-445-4636
- Seton Hall University: 973-761-9000
- The College of New Jersey: 609-637-5129
- William Paterson University: 973-720-2000
New Mexico
- Eastern New Mexico University: 575-562-1011
- New Mexico Highlands University: 877-850-9064
- New Mexico State University: 575-646-2821
- The University of New Mexico: 505-277-6471
- Western New Mexico University: 800-872-9668
New York
- Adelphi University: 800-233-5744
- Alfred University: 607-871-2115
- Baruch College: 646-312-1000
- Binghamton University: 607-777-2000
- Canisius College: 716-883-7000
- Clarkson University: 315-268-6400
- College of Mount Saint Vincent: 718-405-3200
- Cornell University: 607-255-4526
- Fordham University: 718-817-1000
- Hofstra University: 516-463-9272
- Iona College: 914-633-2000
- Ithaca College: 607-274-3940
- Le Moyne College: 800-333-4733
- Long Island University: 516-299-2900
- Manhattan College: 718-862-8000
- Manhattan College Online
- Marist College: 845-575-3225
- Medgar Evers College: 718-270-4900
- Niagara University: 800-462-2111
- Pace University: 866-722-3338
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute: 518-276-6000
- Rochester Institute of Technology: 585-475-7935
- Siena College: 518-783-2321
- St. Bonaventure University: 716-375-2000
- St. John Fisher College: 585-385-8000
- St. John’s University: 718-990-2000
- SUNY Geneseo: 585-245-5000
- SUNY Brockport: 585-395-2211
- SUNY Oswego: 315-312-2500
- SUNY Plattsburgh: 518-564-3185
- SUNY Polytechnic Institute: 315-792-7500
- Syracuse University: 315-443-3751
- University at Albany, SUNY: 518-442-3300
- University at Buffalo, SUNY: 716-645-3206
- Wagner College: 718-390-3411
- New York University Stern: 212-998-0100
North Carolina
- Appalachian State University: 828-262-2057
- East Carolina University: 252-328-6055
- Elizabeth City State University: 252-335-3291
- Elon University: 336-278-2000
- Fayetteville State University: 910-672-1111
- Greensboro College: 800-346-8226
- Lenoir-Rhyne University: 828-328-1741
- Meredith College: 919-760-8600
- University of Mount Olive: 844-UMO-GOAL
- North Carolina A&T State University: 336-334-7500
- North Carolina Central University: 919-530-5385
- North Carolina State University: 919-515-2256
- Queens University of Charlotte: 704-337-2200
- The University of North Carolina System (17 campuses)
- Wake Forest University: 336-758-5000
- Western Carolina University: 828-227-7211
- Wingate University: 704-233-8000
- Winston-Salem State University: 336-750-2000
North Dakota
- North Dakota State University: 701-231-8651
- University of North Dakota: 701-777-3000
Ohio
- Ashland University: 419-289-4142
- Bowling Green State University: 419-372-2531
- Capital University: 614-236-6011
- Case Western Reserve University: 216-368-2030
- Cedarville University: 937-766-7700
- Cleveland State University: 216-687-2000
- John Carroll University: 888-335-6800
- Kent State University: 330-672-3000
- Malone University: 800-521-1146
- Miami University: 513-529-6992
- Mount Vernon Nazarene University: 740-392-6868
- Ohio Dominican University: 614-251-4500
- Ohio Northern University: 419-772-2000
- Ohio University: 740-593-2000
- The Ohio State University: 614-292-2715
- The University of Akron: 330-972-7111
- Tiffin University: 800-968-6446
- University of Cincinnati: 513-556-7002
- University of Dayton: 937-229-1000
- University of Toledo: 800-586-5336
- Wright State University: 937-775-3333
- Youngstown State University: 330-941-2000
Oklahoma
- Cameron University: 580-581-2200
- East Central University: 580-332-8000
- Langston University: 877-466-2231
- Northeastern State University: 918-456-5511
- Oklahoma Baptist University: 405-275-2850
- Oklahoma Christian University: 800-877-5010
- Oklahoma State University: 405-744-6260
- Oral Roberts University: 918-495-6161
- Southeastern Oklahoma State University: 800-435-1327
- Southern Nazarene University: 405-789-6400
- University of Tulsa: 918-631-2000
- University of Central Oklahoma: 405-974-2000
- University of Oklahoma: 405-325-4221
Oregon
- Oregon State University: 541-737-1000
- Portland State University: 503-725-3000
- University of Oregon: 541-346-3303
- University of Portland: 503-943-7224
Pennsylvania
- Alvernia University: 888-ALVERNIA
- Arcadia University: 215-572-2900
- Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania: 570-389-4000
- Carnegie Mellon University: 412-268-2268
- Cedar Crest College: 800-360-1222
- Clarion University of Pennsylvania: 800-672-7171
- Drexel University: 215-895-2111
- Duquesne University: 412-396-6000
- Edinboro University of Pennsylvania: 814-732-2000
- Elizabethtown College: 717-361-1000
- Gannon University: 814-871-7000
- Geneva College: 855-979-5563
- Holy Family University: 215-637-7700
- Indiana University of Pennsylvania: 724-357-2100
- King’s College: 888-546-4772
- La Roche College: 412-367-9300
- La Salle University: 215-951-1040
- Lehigh University: 610-758-3000
- Marywood University: 570-348-6211
- Millersville University of Pennsylvania: 717-871-4636
- Neumann University: 610-459-0905
- Pennsylvania College of Technology: 570-326-3761
- Robert Morris University: 800-762-0097
- Saint Joseph’s University: 610-660-1000
- Saint Vincent College: 724-532-6600
- Shippensburg University: 717-477-7447
- Susquehanna University: 570-372-4260
- Temple University: 215-204-7676
- Pennsylvania State University: 814-863-0448
- University of Pennsylvania: 215-898-5000
- University of Pittsburgh: 412-648-1531
- University of Scranton: 570-941-7400
- Villanova University: 610-519-4500
- West Chester University: 610-436-1000
- Widener University: 888-WIDENER
- Wilkes University: 800-WILKES-U
- York College of Pennsylvania: 717-846-7788
Rhode Island
- Bryant University: 401-232-6000
- Roger Williams University: 401-253-1040
- The University of Rhode Island: 401-874-2337
South Carolina
- Anderson University: 864-231-2000
- Benedict College: 803-253-5000
- Claflin University: 803-535-5000
- Clemson University: 864-656-3177
- Coastal Carolina University: 843-347-3161
- College of Charleston: 843-805-5507
- Francis Marion University: 800-368-7551
- Lander University: 864-388-8000
- Morris College: 803-934-3200
- South Carolina State University: 800-260-5956
- The Citadel: 843-225-3294
- University of South Carolina: 803-777-3176
- Voorhees College: 803-780-1234
- Winthrop University: 803-323-2211
South Dakota
- Dakota State University: 888-DSU-9988
- University of South Dakota: 877-269-6837
Tennessee
- Belmont University: 615-460-6000
- Cumberland University: 800-467-0562
- East Tennessee State University: 423-439-1000
- Freed-Hardeman University: 800-FHU-FHU1
- Lee University: 1-800-LEE-9930
- Lipscomb University: 800-333-4358
- Middle Tennessee State University: 615-898-2300
- Tennessee State University: 615-963-5000
- Tennessee Technological University: 931-372-3101
- The University of Memphis: 901-678-2000
- University of Tennessee: 865-974-3843
Texas
- Abilene Christian University: 800-460-6228
- American Intercontinental University Houston: 855-377-1888
- Angelo State University: 800-946-8627
- Baylor University: 800-229-5678
- Dallas Baptist University: 214-333-7100
- Hardin-Simmons University: 325-670-1000
- Houston Christian University: 281-649-3000
- Jarvis Christian College: 903-730-4890
- Lamar University: 409-880-7011
- Midwestern State University: 940-397-4727
- Our Lady of the Lake University: 210-434-6711
- Prairie View A&M University: 936-261-3311
- Sam Houston State University: 936-294-1111
- Southern Methodist University: 214-768-1110
- St. Mary’s University: 210-436-3011
- Stephen F. Austin State University: 936-468-2504
- Tarleton State University: 254-968-9000
- Texas A&M University: 979-845-4711
- Texas Christian University: 817-257-6772
- Texas Lutheran University: 830-372-8000
- Texas Southern University: 713-313-7011
- Texas State University: 512-245-2311
- Texas Tech University: 806-742-3188
- The University of Texas System (9 institutions)
- Trinity University: 800-TRINITY
- University of Dallas: 972-721-5000
- University of Houston: 713-743-2255
- University of North Texas: 940-369-8476
- University of the Incarnate Word: 210-829-6005
Utah
- Brigham Young University: 801-422-4121
- Southern Utah University: 435-586-7700
- University of Utah: 801-581-7676
- Utah State University: 435-797-2272
- Utah Valley University: 801-863-4636
- Westminster College: 801-484-7651
Vermont
- Norwich University: 802-485-2000
- University of Vermont: 802-656-3131
Virginia
- Christopher Newport University: 757-594-7000
- College of William and Mary: 757-221-4100
- George Mason University: 703-993-1880
- James Madison University: 540-568-2785
- Longwood University: 434-395-2000
- Lynchburg College: 800-426-8101
- Marymount University: 703-522-5600
- Norfolk State University: 757-823-8600
- Old Dominion University: 757-683-3030
- Radford University: 540-831-5000
- Roanoke College: 540-375-2500
- University of Richmond: 804-289-8000
- University of Virginia: 434-924-3174
- Virginia Commonwealth University: 804-828-1595
- Virginia Military Institute: 540-464-7230
- Virginia Tech: 540-231-2511
- Virginia State University: 804-524-5000
- Virginia Union University: 804-342-3570
- Washington and Lee University: 540-458-8400
Washington
- Central Washington University: 509-963-1111
- Eastern Washington University: 509-359-6200
- Gonzaga University: 800-986-9585
- Northwest University: 425-822-8266
- Pacific Lutheran University: 253-535-7411
- Seattle Pacific University: 206-281-2000
- Seattle University: 206-296-6000
- University of Washington: 206-685-3400
- Walla Walla University: 800-541-8900
- Washington State University: 509-335-3851
- Western Washington University: 360-650-3896
West Virginia
- Bluefield State College: 304-327-4000
- Fairmont State University: 304-367-4000
- Marshall University: 800-642-3463
- West Virginia State University: 800-987-2112
- West Virginia University: 304-293-4092
Wisconsin
- Edgewood College: 800-444-4861
- Marquette University: 414-288-7142
- University of Wisconsin System (26 campuses)
- Viterbo University: 608-796-3190
Wyoming
- University of Wyoming: 307-766-1121
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?
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.