Becoming an accountant in Arkansas opens doors to diverse career opportunities across the state’s thriving business landscape. Whether you’re aiming to join Walmart’s corporate finance team in Bentonville, work with local firms in Little Rock, or pursue CPA licensure, this comprehensive guide provides everything you need to launch your accounting career in the Natural State.
Arkansas offers unique advantages for aspiring accountants, including a lower cost of living compared to neighboring states, growing job opportunities, and access to AACSB-accredited programs. The state’s diverse economy—spanning retail, agriculture, healthcare, and manufacturing—creates varied career paths for accounting professionals.
Arkansas CPA Requirements for 2025
The Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy oversees CPA licensure in the state. Meeting these requirements positions you for advanced career opportunities and higher earning potential.
Education Requirements
Arkansas follows the 150-hour rule for CPA licensure:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 150 semester hours of college credit (most bachelor’s programs provide 120 hours)
- 24 semester hours in accounting courses above introductory level
- 24 semester hours in business courses
Many candidates fulfill the 150-hour requirement by pursuing a master’s in accounting, which typically adds 30 credit hours while deepening expertise.
CPA Exam Requirements
Candidates must pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Experience Requirements
Arkansas requires one year of qualifying experience under a licensed CPA. This experience must include:
- Providing services involving accounting, attest, compilation, management advisory, financial advisory, tax, or consulting skills
- Verification by a licensed CPA
Ethics Requirement
Complete the AICPA Professional Ethics exam with a score of 90% or higher.
Pro Tip: Start gathering your transcripts and documentation early. The Arkansas State Board typically processes applications within 4-6 weeks.
Learn more about specific requirements in our detailed guide on how to become a CPA in Arkansas.
Top Accounting Schools in Arkansas
Arkansas offers several excellent accounting programs, with multiple AACSB-accredited options ensuring quality education that meets CPA exam preparation standards.
AACSB-Accredited Programs
Online Accounting Programs
For working professionals or those seeking flexibility, Arkansas universities offer several online accounting degree options that maintain the same accreditation standards as on-campus programs.
Arkansas Accounting Career Paths
Arkansas’s diverse economy creates opportunities across multiple accounting specializations. Understanding these paths helps you align your education with career goals.
Public Accounting
Three of the “Big Four” firms maintain Arkansas offices:
- Deloitte – Little Rock office
- PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) – Little Rock office
- Ernst & Young (EY) – Rogers office
Regional firms like Frost, PLLC and BKD, LLP also offer excellent opportunities for public accounting careers.
Corporate Accounting
Arkansas hosts several Fortune 500 headquarters, creating demand for management accountants:
- Walmart – World headquarters in Bentonville
- Tyson Foods – Headquarters in Springdale
- J.B. Hunt Transport Services – Headquarters in Lowell
- Windstream Holdings – Major operations center
Government Accounting
State agencies, municipalities, and federal offices employ accountants for budget management, auditing, and financial reporting. The Arkansas Legislative Audit and Department of Finance and Administration represent major employers.
Specialized Accounting Roles
- Forensic Accounting – Growing field with opportunities in law enforcement and consulting
- Healthcare Accounting – Positions with Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Baptist Health, and CHI St. Vincent
- Agricultural Accounting – Serving Arkansas’s substantial farming sector
Employment Outlook for Arkansas Accountants
The accounting profession in Arkansas shows strong growth potential with expanding opportunities across sectors.
Job Growth Projections
According to the Arkansas Department of Workforce Services:
- Current employment: Approximately 9,500 accountants and auditors
- Projected growth rate: 13% through 2028
- Annual job openings: ~980 positions due to growth and turnover
Key Growth Drivers
- Expansion of healthcare and technology sectors
- Increasing regulatory compliance requirements
- Growing startup ecosystem in Northwest Arkansas
- Retirement of current accounting professionals
Arkansas Accounting Salaries by Role and Location
Accounting salaries in Arkansas vary significantly based on experience, credentials, location, and specialization. The following data reflects May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics figures.
Statewide Salary Overview
Salaries by Metropolitan Area
Specialized Accounting Roles
Forensic Accountants: Typically earn in the 75th percentile range ($85,000-$95,000) due to specialized investigative skills required for fraud detection and financial crime analysis.
Controllers: Corporate controllers in Arkansas earn median salaries of $115,000-$145,000, with those at major corporations like Walmart potentially exceeding $200,000 with bonuses.
CPAs in Public Practice: Licensed CPAs with 5+ years of experience typically earn $75,000-$105,000, with partners at regional firms earning significantly more.
Salary Tip: CPA certification typically adds 10-15% to base salary, making the investment in licensure worthwhile for long-term earnings.
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.
Steps to Launch Your Arkansas Accounting Career
1. Choose Your Educational Path
Select between traditional on-campus or online accounting programs. Consider factors like:
- AACSB accreditation status
- CPA exam pass rates
- Career services and recruiting relationships
- Cost and financial aid options
2. Gain Practical Experience
While completing your degree:
- Pursue internships with local firms or corporations
- Join student accounting organizations
- Attend the Arkansas Society of CPAs events
- Volunteer for VITA tax assistance programs
3. Prepare for CPA Licensure
If pursuing CPA certification:
- Complete 150-hour requirement
- Register for CPA exam sections
- Consider CPA review courses
- Network with licensed CPAs for mentorship
4. Build Your Professional Network
Arkansas’s close-knit business community rewards networking:
- Join the Arkansas Society of CPAs
- Attend local chamber of commerce events
- Connect with alumni from your program
- Participate in professional development workshops
Arkansas Accounting Resources
Professional Organizations
- Arkansas Society of Certified Public Accountants (ASCPA)
- Arkansas State Board of Public Accountancy
- Local chapters of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
- Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) – Arkansas Chapter
Continuing Education Providers
- ASCPA professional development programs
- University-based CPE courses
- Online CPE providers approved by the Arkansas Board
Career Development Tools
- Arkansas JobLink for state job postings
- Big 4 campus recruiting programs
- Regional firm career pages
- LinkedIn Arkansas accounting groups
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a CPA to work as an accountant in Arkansas?
No, you can work as an accountant with a bachelor’s degree. However, CPA licensure significantly expands career opportunities and earning potential, especially for public accounting, senior corporate positions, and independent practice.
How long does it take to become a CPA in Arkansas?
Typically 5-6 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional credits (often through a master’s program), plus 1 year of required experience. CPA exam preparation and passing usually occur during the final year of education or shortly after.
What’s the job market like for accountants in Northwest Arkansas?
Northwest Arkansas (Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers) offers excellent opportunities due to corporate headquarters (Walmart, Tyson, J.B. Hunt) and a growing startup ecosystem. The region shows above-average salary levels and strong job growth.
Can I transfer my CPA license to Arkansas from another state?
Yes, Arkansas offers CPA reciprocity through mobility provisions. If you hold an active CPA license from another state with substantially equivalent requirements, you can practice in Arkansas. Permanent reciprocity requires application to the Arkansas State Board.
What are the best entry-level accounting positions in Arkansas?
Strong entry-level options include staff accountant positions at public accounting firms, corporate accounting roles at major employers, government positions with state agencies, and accounts payable/receivable roles that provide foundational experience.
Ready to start your accounting career in Arkansas? Explore accounting degree programs or learn about CPA requirements in other states.
