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