How to Become an Accountant in Delaware: 2025 CPA Requirements & Career Guide

Reviewed by Tyler Denton

Delaware’s business-friendly environment and status as America’s corporate capital create exceptional opportunities for accounting professionals. With nearly half of all U.S. public corporations incorporated in the state, Delaware offers a dynamic landscape for accountants at every career stage—from entry-level bookkeepers to certified public accountants (CPAs) serving Fortune 500 companies.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about launching and advancing your accounting career in Delaware, including education requirements, CPA licensure steps, salary expectations, and career opportunities across the First State.


Delaware Accounting Career Paths

Delaware offers multiple pathways into the accounting profession, each with distinct requirements and career opportunities:

Public Accountant (PA) License

Under Delaware law, associate’s degree holders can qualify for a permit to practice as public accountants by completing at least 21 semester hours of accounting courses. Public accountants often operate independent tax preparation services or work within accounting firms, providing essential services to Delaware’s small business community.

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) License

The CPA credential represents the gold standard in accounting and requires:

  • A bachelor’s degree with specific accounting coursework
  • 150 semester hours of college credit (30 hours beyond typical bachelor’s programs)
  • Passing scores on all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam
  • One year of supervised accounting experience
  • Passing score on the AICPA Ethics Exam

Most aspiring CPAs pursue a master’s degree in accounting to efficiently meet the 150-hour requirement while gaining advanced expertise.

Education Requirements for Delaware Accountants

Public Accountant Education Requirements

To qualify as a public accountant in Delaware, you need:

  • An associate’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • Minimum 21 semester hours in accounting courses
  • Coverage of fundamental accounting principles, taxation, and auditing basics

CPA Education Requirements

Delaware’s CPA education requirements align with national standards while offering some flexibility:

To Sit for the CPA Exam (120-Hour Requirement)

  • Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
  • 24 semester hours in accounting courses covering:
    • Financial accounting
    • Cost accounting
    • Auditing
    • Taxation
    • Accounting information systems
  • 24 semester hours in business courses

For CPA Licensure (150-Hour Requirement)

  • All exam requirements plus an additional 30 semester hours
  • The additional 30 hours can be in any subject area
  • Most candidates complete a master’s degree or take additional undergraduate courses

Important: Delaware allows you to sit for the CPA exam with 120 hours, giving you flexibility to complete the remaining 30 hours while gaining work experience.

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Delaware CPA Requirements & Licensure Process

Becoming a CPA in Delaware involves a clear five-step process. The Delaware State Board of Accountancy oversees all licensing, and as of July 1, 2024, new rules and regulations are in effect.

Step 1: Complete Educational Requirements

Ensure your transcripts meet Delaware’s specific requirements:

  • Submit official transcripts from all attended institutions to CPA Examination Services (CPAES)
  • International transcripts must be evaluated by approved services like FACS or ERES
  • Complete education evaluation through the CPA Portal (fee: $90)

Step 2: Apply for the CPA Exam

Once your education is verified:

  • Create an Okta account to access the CPA Portal
  • Apply for individual exam sections (fee: $344.80 per section)
  • Receive your Notice to Schedule (NTS) for each section
  • Schedule exams through Prometric testing centers

Step 3: Pass All Four CPA Exam Sections

The Uniform CPA Exam consists of four sections:

  • Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
  • Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
  • Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
  • Regulation (REG)

Note: Starting in 2024, the CPA exam structure is changing. Credits earned under the current format will transfer according to NASBA’s transition policy, with conditional credit extended to June 30, 2025.

Step 4: Gain Required Experience

Delaware requires one year (2,000 hours) of supervised accounting experience:

  • Experience must be gained after completing your degree
  • Can be in public or private accounting
  • Must be verified by a CPA in good standing (from any U.S. jurisdiction)
  • Supervisor must complete an Affidavit of Supervised Work Experience
  • Experience must be obtained within 10 years of applying for licensure

Step 5: Apply for CPA License

Submit your application with:

  • Completed application form
  • License application fee ($175)
  • Proof of passing the AICPA Ethics Exam
  • Verified work experience documentation
  • All official transcripts

Maintaining Your Delaware CPA License

  • Renew by June 30 of odd-numbered years
  • Complete 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) per two-year period
  • Maintain peer review enrollment if providing attest services

Career Opportunities & Top Employers in Delaware

Delaware’s unique position as America’s corporate headquarters offers diverse opportunities for accounting professionals. The Delaware Department of Labor projects accounting positions to grow from 5,990 in 2018 to 6,290 in 2028, creating approximately 600 new positions annually.

Major Industry Sectors

Financial Services & Banking

As the credit card capital of America, Delaware hosts major financial institutions:

  • JP Morgan Chase – Employs 10,000+ in Delaware, with 25% in technology roles
  • Bank of America – Major operations center in Newark
  • Barclays – U.S. credit card operations
  • Capital One – Significant presence in Wilmington
  • Discover Financial Services – Headquarters in Riverfront Wilmington

Professional Services Firms

Delaware’s Big Four presence includes:

  • PwC – Wilmington office serving corporate clients
  • KPMG – Focus on financial services auditing
  • EY – Strong tax practice for corporate entities
  • Deloitte – Advisory and consulting services

Regional firms with strong Delaware presence:

  • Belfint, Lyons & Shuman – Largest independent CPA firm in Delaware
  • Santora CPA Group – Multi-state firm with Newark headquarters
  • The Siegfried Group – National leadership advisory firm

Corporate Accounting

Major corporations headquartered or incorporated in Delaware:

  • DuPont – Founded in Wilmington, a global chemical company
  • Chemours – DuPont spinoff with headquarters in Wilmington
  • W.L. Gore & Associates – Newark-based manufacturer
  • AstraZeneca – U.S. headquarters in Wilmington

Healthcare & Nonprofit Sector

  • ChristianaCare – Delaware’s largest healthcare system
  • Nemours Children’s Health – Specialists in fund accounting
  • Beebe Healthcare – Southern Delaware’s medical center

Government Accounting

  • Delaware Department of Finance
  • Delaware Division of Revenue
  • New Castle County Finance Department
  • City of Wilmington Finance Department
  • Delaware Army National Guard financial management

Specialized Accounting Roles

Delaware’s diverse economy supports various accounting specializations:

  • Corporate Tax Specialists – High demand due to incorporation services
  • Internal Auditors – Essential for financial institutions
  • Forensic Accountants – Growing field in financial services
  • Risk Management Professionals – Critical for banking sector
  • Financial Analysts – Supporting investment decisions
  • Controllers – Managing corporate accounting departments

Delaware Accountant Salaries by Role

According to May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Delaware’s accounting professionals earn competitive salaries that often exceed national averages. The state’s concentration of financial services and corporate headquarters drives strong compensation packages.

Overall Accountant & Auditor Salaries in Delaware

Percentile
Annual Salary
25th Percentile
$71070
Median (50th)
$84560
Mean (Average)
$95150
75th Percentile
$110290
90th Percentile
$133550

Salaries by Metropolitan Area

Location
Employment
Annual Median
Dover Metro
680
$68740
Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington Metro
29180
$84080
Sussex County Non-Metro
610
$69040

Salary Progression by Experience & Role

Entry-Level Positions (0-2 years)

  • Bookkeepers & Accounting Clerks: $35,000 – $45,000
  • Staff Accountants: $50,000 – $65,000
  • Junior Auditors: $55,000 – $70,000

Mid-Level Positions (3-7 years)

  • Senior Accountants: $70,000 – $95,000
  • Tax Specialists: $75,000 – $100,000
  • Financial Analysts: $80,000 – $105,000

Senior-Level Positions (8+ years)

  • Accounting Managers: $95,000 – $125,000
  • Controllers: $120,000 – $180,000
  • Finance Directors: $150,000 – $200,000+

Executive Positions

  • Chief Financial Officers (CFOs): $200,000+ (even at 25th percentile)
  • VP of Finance: $180,000 – $250,000+
  • Partner-level CPAs: $200,000 – $500,000+

Note: These salaries represent base compensation only. Many positions include bonuses, profit sharing, and other incentives that can increase total compensation by 15-40%.


Best Accounting Schools in Delaware

Delaware offers several excellent options for accounting education, from community colleges to doctoral programs:

University of Delaware (Newark)

  • AACSB-accredited Lerner College of Business & Economics
  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA) with accounting concentration
  • 150-hour CPA track available
  • Strong placement record with Big Four firms

Delaware State University (Dover)

  • AACSB-accredited College of Business
  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • Master of Business Administration option
  • Focus on diversity and inclusion in accounting
  • Affordable tuition for Delaware residents

Wilmington University

  • Multiple campus locations throughout Delaware
  • Bachelor’s and Master’s in Accounting
  • Flexible evening and weekend programs
  • 100% online options available
  • Designed for working professionals

Goldey-Beacom College (Wilmington)

  • ACBSP-accredited business programs
  • Bachelor of Science in Accounting
  • MBA with accounting concentration
  • Small class sizes and personalized attention
  • Strong connections to the local business community

Community College Options

For those starting their accounting journey or seeking an affordable path:

  • Delaware Technical Community College – Multiple campuses offering associate degrees and transfer programs
  • Cecil College – Serves northern Delaware with accounting programs

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main differences between PA and CPA licenses in Delaware?

Public Accountants (PAs) need only an associate’s degree with 21 accounting credits, while CPAs require a bachelor’s degree, 150 total credits, passing the CPA exam, and one year of experience. CPAs have broader practice rights and typically earn 40-60% higher salaries.

Can I start taking the CPA exam before completing 150 credit hours in Delaware?

Yes! Delaware allows you to sit for the CPA exam with just 120 credits and a bachelor’s degree. You must complete the remaining 30 credits before applying for your license.

How long does it take to become a CPA in Delaware?

The typical timeline is 5-6 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional education (often via master’s degree), plus 1 year of required work experience. The CPA exam can be completed during your final year of education or while gaining experience.

What’s the job outlook for accountants in Delaware?

Excellent. Delaware projects 600 new accounting positions annually through 2028. The state’s status as a corporate hub, combined with growth in fintech and blockchain technologies, creates strong demand for accounting professionals.

Do I need to be a Delaware resident to get a CPA license?

No, Delaware does not require state residency for CPA licensure. You can live in neighboring states like Pennsylvania, Maryland, or New Jersey and still obtain a Delaware CPA license.

How much do entry-level accountants make in Delaware?

Entry-level accountants in Delaware typically earn $50,000-$65,000 annually, with higher salaries in the Wilmington metro area. Those with CPA credentials or working for major firms often start at $60,000-$75,000.

What are the continuing education requirements for Delaware CPAs?

Delaware CPAs must complete 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every two years. New licensees may have reduced requirements in their first renewal period.

Can I transfer my CPA license from another state to Delaware?

Yes, Delaware offers CPA reciprocity through substantial equivalency. If your home state’s requirements are substantially equivalent to Delaware’s, you can obtain a Delaware license without retaking the exam.

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For more detailed information about becoming a CPA in Delaware, visit our comprehensive guide: How to Become a CPA in Delaware.

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.

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.