Alabama offers exceptional opportunities for aspiring accountants, with a thriving business environment spanning aerospace, automotive manufacturing, and traditional industries. The state’s robust economy, highlighted by major companies like Toyota-Mazda, Airbus, and United Launch Alliance, creates diverse accounting career paths. This comprehensive guide outlines the educational requirements, licensing process, and career prospects for becoming an accountant in Alabama.
Alabama ranks sixth nationally for business friendliness according to Area Development magazine, creating exceptional opportunities for accounting professionals across growing aerospace and automotive sectors.
Alabama CPA Education Requirements
The Alabama Board of Public Accountancy requires CPA candidates to complete specific educational milestones before pursuing professional licensure. Understanding these requirements ensures you’re on the right path from the beginning of your academic journey.
150-Hour Degree Requirement
Alabama mandates that CPA candidates complete a minimum of 150 semester credit hours, significantly more than the typical 120-hour bachelor’s degree. This comprehensive education requirement includes:
Most students fulfill the 150-hour requirement through a combination of undergraduate and graduate coursework. A master’s in accounting typically provides the additional 30 credit hours needed beyond a standard bachelor’s degree.
Accredited Program Requirements
Your degree must come from an appropriately accredited institution. Alabama accepts degrees from schools accredited by regional accrediting bodies or specialized business accreditation organizations like AACSB International.
Alabama CPA Licensing Process
Alabama operates as a two-tier state, meaning candidates receive a certificate upon passing the CPA Exam but must document appropriate work experience before receiving a license to practice.
Eligibility Requirements
To pursue CPA certification in Alabama, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen (Alabama residency not required)
- Complete the 150-hour education requirement
- Pass the four-section Uniform CPA Examination
- Document one year of qualifying professional experience
Uniform CPA Examination
The CPA Exam consists of four sections, each requiring comprehensive preparation:
Experience Requirements
Alabama requires one year of full-time equivalent experience in public accounting or related fields under CPA supervision. This experience must demonstrate application of accounting knowledge and professional judgment in practical business situations.
Accounting Career Opportunities in Alabama
Alabama’s diverse economy creates numerous pathways for accounting professionals, from traditional public accounting roles to specialized positions in emerging industries.
Job Market Outlook
According to the Alabama Department of Labor, the state employed approximately 17,930 accountants and auditors in 2018, with projections indicating growth to nearly 19,200 by 2028. This 7.1% growth rate, combined with natural workforce turnover, creates an estimated 1,860 annual job openings through 2028.
Major Employment Centers
The Birmingham-Hoover metropolitan area leads Alabama in accounting employment, with 7,180 professionals as of May 2020. Other significant markets include:
- Huntsville: Aerospace and defense contractors
- Montgomery: Government and state agencies
- Mobile: Port operations and manufacturing
- Tuscaloosa: University and regional businesses
Industry Specializations
Alabama’s business landscape offers diverse specialization opportunities:
- Aerospace Accounting: Supporting Airbus, United Launch Alliance, and defense contractors
- Automotive Finance: Toyota-Mazda joint ventures and suppliers
- Management Accounting: Manufacturing and corporate finance roles
- Forensic Accounting: Fraud investigation and litigation support
- Government Accounting: State, county, and municipal positions
Alabama Accountant Salary Information
Accounting salaries in Alabama vary significantly based on experience, specialization, credentials, and geographic location. The following data reflects May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics information for accountants and auditors in Alabama.
Statewide Salary Overview
Salary by Experience and Role
Entry-level and experienced professionals see substantial salary differences across various accounting specializations:
Regional Salary Variations
Salaries vary across Alabama’s major metropolitan areas, with Birmingham-Hoover typically offering the highest compensation:
Top Accounting Schools in Alabama
Alabama offers several excellent accounting programs that prepare students for CPA certification and successful careers. Leading institutions include:
AACSB-Accredited Programs
- University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa): Comprehensive accounting program with strong alumni network
- Auburn University: Highly regarded program with excellent CPA exam pass rates
- University of Alabama at Birmingham: Strong focus on urban business challenges
- University of South Alabama: Growing program with regional business connections
Specialized Programs
Several schools offer specialized concentrations that align with Alabama’s key industries:
- Aerospace and Defense Accounting: Programs focusing on government contracting
- Manufacturing Accounting: Curriculum emphasizing cost accounting and operations
- International Business: Programs preparing for global commerce
When selecting a program, consider factors such as CPA exam pass rates, internship opportunities, and alumni placement in desired career paths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the CPA education requirements in Alabama?
Alabama requires CPA candidates to complete 150 semester credit hours including 33 hours in accounting (excluding introductory courses), 27 hours in business courses (excluding accounting), and 3 hours in business law. Most candidates complete this through a bachelor’s degree plus additional graduate coursework.
How much do accountants make in Alabama?
According to May 2024 BLS data, accountants in Alabama earn a median annual salary of $71,070 statewide. Entry-level positions typically start around $45,000-$55,000, while experienced professionals like controllers can earn $90,000-$130,000 annually. Chief financial officers with CPA credentials often exceed $150,000 annually.
Can I take the CPA exam before completing all 150 credit hours?
Alabama allows candidates to sit for the CPA exam after completing their bachelor’s degree (typically 120 credit hours), but you must complete the full 150-hour requirement before applying for licensure. This provides flexibility in timing your exam preparation while finishing additional coursework.
What work experience qualifies for Alabama CPA licensure?
Alabama requires one year of full-time equivalent experience in public accounting or related fields under CPA supervision. This experience must involve applying accounting knowledge and professional judgment in areas such as audit, tax, financial reporting, or management consulting.
Are there continuing education requirements for Alabama CPAs?
Yes, Alabama CPAs must complete continuing professional education (CPE) to maintain their licenses. The specific requirements include ongoing education in accounting, auditing, taxation, and ethics to ensure professionals stay current with evolving standards and regulations.
How long does the CPA licensing process take in Alabama?
The timeline varies based on individual circumstances, but typically takes 2-4 years from starting college through licensure. This includes completing the 150-hour education requirement, passing the four-section CPA exam, and documenting one year of qualifying professional experience.
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.
