Colorado’s thriving business environment and growing economy create exceptional opportunities for accounting professionals. From Denver’s bustling financial district to Boulder’s innovative tech sector, accountants play vital roles in organizations across the state. This comprehensive guide explores accredited accounting programs, CPA requirements, and career pathways for aspiring accountants in Colorado.
Whether you’re starting your accounting journey or advancing your career through CPA licensure, Colorado offers a diverse range of educational options and promising career prospects. The state’s accounting professionals earn competitive salaries while contributing to industries ranging from energy and aerospace to healthcare and tourism.
Find out more about CPA requirements in our step-by-step guide on how to become a CPA in Colorado.
Table of Contents
- Top Accounting Schools in Colorado
- Colorado CPA Requirements: Complete Guide
- Accounting Career Paths in Colorado
- Salary Expectations for Colorado Accountants
- Online Accounting Programs for Colorado Students
- Steps to Launch Your Colorado Accounting Career
- Colorado Accounting Industry Outlook
- Resources for Colorado Accounting Students
- Frequently Asked Questions
Top Accounting Schools in Colorado
Colorado is home to several nationally recognized institutions that offer comprehensive accounting programs. These schools provide pathways from undergraduate degrees to doctoral programs, with options for both traditional campus-based and online learning.
Choosing the Right Accounting Program
When selecting an accounting program in Colorado, consider these essential factors:
- Accreditation Status: Prioritize AACSB-accredited programs for quality assurance and CPA exam preparation
- Location and Format: Evaluate campus proximity, online options, and hybrid formats that fit your lifestyle
- Cost and Financial Aid: Compare tuition rates, available scholarships, and return on investment
- CPA Exam Preparation: Ensure programs meet Colorado’s 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure
- Career Services: Research placement rates and employer partnerships
Colorado CPA Requirements: Complete Guide
Becoming a Certified Public Accountant in Colorado requires meeting specific educational, examination, and experience requirements set by the Colorado State Board of Accountancy. Understanding these requirements helps you plan your academic and career path effectively.
Educational Requirements
Colorado requires CPA candidates to complete:
- 150 Semester Hours of college education (225 quarter hours)
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited institution
- 24 Semester Hours in accounting courses, including:
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial/Cost Accounting
- Auditing
- Taxation
- 21 Semester Hours in business-related courses
Most bachelor’s programs provide 120 credit hours, making a master’s degree in accounting a popular path to meet the 150-hour requirement while gaining specialized knowledge.
CPA Exam Requirements
Colorado candidates must pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA):
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Candidates have 18 months to pass all four sections after passing their first section. Colorado allows unlimited exam attempts, though fees apply for each attempt. The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) manages exam administration.
Experience Requirements
Colorado requires one year (1,800 hours) of supervised experience in public or private accounting. This experience must include:
- Providing services requiring substantial accounting or auditing skills
- Supervision by a licensed CPA
- Verification through the appropriate experience affidavit
Accounting Career Paths in Colorado
Colorado’s diverse economy supports numerous accounting career paths across industries. The state’s unique blend of established corporations, growing startups, and specialized industries creates opportunities for accounting professionals at all levels.
Public Accounting Opportunities
All “Big Four” accounting firms maintain significant presences in Denver:
- Deloitte: Major office serving energy, healthcare, and technology clients
- PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers): Focus on financial services and private companies
- EY (Ernst & Young): Strong presence in tax and advisory services
- KPMG: Emphasis on audit and technology transformation
Regional and local firms also offer excellent opportunities, including Grant Thornton, BKD (now Forvis), and EKS&H, Colorado’s largest homegrown CPA firm.
Industry-Specific Accounting Roles
Salary Expectations for Colorado Accountants
Colorado accountants enjoy competitive compensation that often exceeds national averages, particularly in the Denver-Boulder metropolitan area. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, salary ranges vary significantly based on experience, credentials, and specialization.
Entry-Level to Senior Accountant Salaries
CPA Salary Premium
Earning your CPA license typically results in a 10-15% salary premium compared to non-certified accountants. In Colorado’s competitive market, experienced CPAs in specialized roles command even higher premiums.
Geographic Salary Variations
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.
Online Accounting Programs for Colorado Students
Online accounting programs provide flexibility for working professionals and students across Colorado’s diverse geography. These programs offer the same rigorous curriculum as traditional programs while accommodating various schedules and locations.
Benefits of Online Accounting Education
- Geographic Flexibility: Access top programs regardless of location in Colorado
- Work-Life Balance: Continue employment while pursuing your degree
- Cost Savings: Reduce commuting and relocation expenses
- Technology Skills: Develop digital competencies valued by employers
Top Online Accounting Programs Available to Colorado Residents
Several institutions offer fully online accounting degrees accredited by AACSB or ACBSP:
- Colorado State University Global Campus: Fully online bachelor’s and master’s programs
- University of Colorado Denver: Online MS in Accounting
- Regis University: Online BS in Accounting with CPA track
- Southern New Hampshire University: Competency-based options available
- Arizona State University: Top-ranked online programs accepting Colorado residents
Steps to Launch Your Colorado Accounting Career
Building a successful accounting career in Colorado requires strategic planning and a strong commitment. Follow these steps to maximize your opportunities:
1. Choose Your Educational Path
Determine whether to pursue a traditional four-year degree, an accelerated program, or a specialized certification. Consider your career goals, timeline, and financial situation when making this decision.
2. Gain Practical Experience
Seek internships with Colorado employers during your studies. Many firms recruit interns for full-time positions, making these opportunities valuable for launching a career. The State of Colorado’s career portal lists government accounting positions and internships.
3. Build Professional Networks
Join professional organizations such as:
- Colorado Society of CPAs (COCPA)
- Denver Chapter of the Institute of Management Accountants
- Association of Certified Fraud Examiners – Colorado Chapter
4. Prepare for Professional Certification
Whether pursuing CPA, CMA, or other accounting certifications, begin exam preparation early. Many Colorado schools offer review courses and support services.
5. Target Your Job Search
Leverage Colorado’s strong job market by targeting industries aligned with your interests and the state’s economic strengths. Utilize school career services and professional networks for opportunities.
Colorado Accounting Industry Outlook
The Colorado Department of Labor and Employment projects robust growth for accounting positions through 2028, with an expected 20% increase in job openings, nearly double the national average. This growth reflects Colorado’s expanding economy and the increasing complexity of financial regulations.
Emerging Opportunities
- Sustainability Accounting: Growing demand in Colorado’s environmentally conscious business community
- Cannabis Industry Accounting: Unique opportunities in this regulated Colorado industry
- Technology Integration: Increased need for accountants skilled in data analytics and automation
- Remote Work Options: More firms offering flexible arrangements post-pandemic
Resources for Colorado Accounting Students
Maximize your educational investment with these Colorado-specific resources:
Financial Aid and Scholarships
- Colorado Society of CPAs Educational Foundation Scholarships
- Colorado Opportunity Scholarship Initiative
- Individual school merit and need-based aid programs
Professional Development
- COCPA Student Leadership Conference
- Firm recruitment events and career fairs
- Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) programs
Exam Preparation Resources
- CPA review courses offered through Colorado universities
- COCPA exam preparation workshops
- Study groups and peer support networks
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA in Colorado?
Most students complete the education requirements in 5-6 years (bachelor’s plus additional credits), pass the CPA exam within 6-12 months, and gain the required one year of experience. The total timeline typically ranges from 6 to 8 years from the start of college.
Can I become an accountant in Colorado without a CPA license?
Yes, many accounting positions don’t require CPA licensure. However, the CPA credential significantly expands career opportunities and earning potential, particularly for public accounting, audit, and senior management roles.
What’s the job market like for accountants in Colorado?
Colorado’s accounting job market remains strong, with the state having one of the highest concentrations of accounting jobs nationally. Denver ranks second among metro areas for accountant employment concentration.
Are online accounting degrees respected by Colorado employers?
Yes, accredited online programs are widely accepted by employers in Colorado. Many professionals complete online degrees while working, demonstrating time management and self-discipline valued by employers.
What industries pay the highest accounting salaries in Colorado?
Finance, insurance, professional services, and company management typically offer the highest salaries. Specialized roles in energy, technology, and aerospace also command premium compensation.
