Montana offers unique opportunities for aspiring accountants, with its two-tier CPA licensing system and growing job market. Whether you’re starting your accounting journey or advancing your career, understanding Montana’s specific requirements is essential for success in the Big Sky State.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming an accountant in Montana, from education requirements and CPA licensing to current salary data and career opportunities.
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Education Requirements for Montana Accountants
To practice as an accountant in Montana, you’ll need to meet specific educational requirements that vary based on your career goals. While entry-level accounting positions typically require a bachelor’s degree in accounting, becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) requires additional education.
Basic Requirements for Accountants
- Bachelor’s Degree: 120 semester hours, including core accounting courses
- Core Coursework: Financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing
- General Business Courses: Economics, finance, business law, statistics
CPA Education Requirements
Montana follows the 150-hour rule for CPA licensure, requiring:
- 150 semester hours of college education
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- 24 semester hours in accounting courses
- 24 semester hours in business-related courses
Since a typical bachelor’s degree provides only 120 hours, many candidates pursue a master’s degree in accounting to meet the 150-hour requirement while gaining specialized knowledge.
Montana CPA Licensing Process
Montana employs a unique two-tier CPA licensing system that distinguishes it from most other states. Understanding this process is crucial for aspiring CPAs.
Tier 1: CPA Certificate
After completing the education requirements and passing the Uniform CPA Exam, candidates receive a CPA certificate. However, this certificate does not grant full practice rights.
Tier 2: CPA License with Permit to Practice
To obtain full practice rights and work independently, certificate holders must:
- Complete at least one year of approved accounting experience
- Work under the supervision of a licensed CPA
- Gain experience in public, governmental, or academic accounting
- Submit documentation to the Montana Board of Public Accountants
The Montana Board of Public Accountants requires all experience to be verified by a licensed CPA who directly supervised your work.
For detailed step-by-step guidance, see our complete guide on how to become a CPA in Montana.
2024 Salary Data for Montana Accountants
Understanding salary expectations is crucial for career planning. The following data reflects the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics information for Montana accountants and related professions.
Accountant & Auditor Salaries by Experience Level
Salaries by Accounting Specialization
Regional Salary Variations
Salaries vary significantly across Montana’s regions:
- Billings: Typically 10-15% higher than the state average
- West Montana (Nonmetro): Median salary of $77490, ranking 5th nationally among nonmetro areas
- Helena: Government positions offer competitive salaries with excellent benefits
- Missoula: A Growing market with opportunities in the healthcare and education sectors
Career Opportunities & Top Employers
Montana’s diverse economy offers accountants opportunities across multiple industries. Understanding where the jobs are can help guide your career decisions.
Major Accounting Employers in Montana
Public Accounting Firms
- KPMG: Big Four presence with offices in Billings and Helena
- Moss Adams: Regional powerhouse with Billings office
- Anderson ZurMuehlen: Montana’s largest local CPA firm
- Wipfli: National firm with multiple Montana locations
Corporate Employers
- CHS (Cenex Harvest States): Fortune 200 company in Laurel employing financial controllers and sustainability accountants
- First Interstate Bank: Billings headquarters seeks managerial accountants
- Avitus Group: Payroll outsourcing leader hiring tax specialists
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Montana: Healthcare finance opportunities
Government & Public Sector
- State of Montana (Helena): Fund accounting specialists across all departments
- Montana University System: Academic and administrative accounting roles
- Municipal governments: City and county finance positions statewide
Industry Sectors Hiring Accountants
Job Growth & Future Outlook
The Montana Department of Labor and Industry projects exceptional growth for accounting professionals through 2028.
Key Growth Statistics
- 11.5% job growth projected from 2018-2028 (above national average)
- 380 annual job openings expected statewide
- Retirement wave: 30% of current CPAs expected to retire by 2030
- Technology impact: Growing demand for tech-savvy accountants
Emerging Opportunities
Montana accountants with specialized skills are particularly in demand:
- Forensic accounting for fraud investigation
- Environmental accounting for sustainability reporting
- Data analytics and business intelligence
- Cryptocurrency and blockchain expertise
- Remote accounting services for national clients
Accounting Programs in Montana
Montana offers several pathways to meet your accounting education requirements. Choosing the right program depends on your career goals, location preferences, and learning style.
Traditional Four-Year Universities
- Montana State University (Bozeman): AACSB-accredited Jake Jabs College of Business
- University of Montana (Missoula): Comprehensive accounting program with CPA track
- Montana Tech (Butte): Business programs with accounting concentration
- Carroll College (Helena): Liberal arts approach to business education
Community College Options
Start your accounting education affordably at Montana’s community colleges:
- Flathead Valley Community College
- Great Falls College MSU
- Helena College
- Miles Community College
Online Accounting Programs
For working professionals and remote learners, consider online accounting degrees that offer:
- Flexibility for working students
- Access to out-of-state programs
- Self-paced learning options
- Lower overall costs
Professional Resources
Building a successful accounting career in Montana requires ongoing professional development and networking. These resources can help you stay connected and current.
Professional Organizations
- Montana Society of CPAs (MSCPA): Primary professional organization offering CPE, networking, and advocacy
- Montana Board of Public Accountants: Licensing authority with current requirements and regulations
- Greater Yellowstone Chapter of IMA: Management accountants’ professional network
Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
Montana CPAs must complete 120 hours of CPE every three years, including:
- Minimum 20 hours annually
- 4 hours of ethics every three years
- Approved providers include MSCPA, AICPA, and accredited universities
CPA Exam Resources
- Testing Centers: Prometric locations in Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls
- Review Courses: Both in-person and online options available
- Study Groups: MSCPA coordinates candidate support networks
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic requirements to become an accountant in Montana?
To become an accountant in Montana, you need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field with coursework in accounting principles, taxation, auditing, and business law. While certification isn’t required for all accounting positions, many employers prefer candidates with professional credentials.
How long does it take to become a CPA in Montana?
Typically, it takes 5-6 years to become a fully licensed CPA in Montana: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for additional education to reach 150 credit hours, plus 1 year of required experience. The timeline can vary based on your educational path and exam preparation.
What’s the difference between a CPA certificate and a license in Montana?
Montana’s two-tier system means a CPA certificate (earned after passing the exam) doesn’t grant full practice rights. A CPA license with permit to practice requires an additional year of supervised experience and allows independent practice.
Can I sit for the CPA exam before completing 150 credit hours in Montana?
Yes, Montana allows candidates to sit for the CPA exam after completing 120 credit hours with a bachelor’s degree. However, you’ll need the full 150 hours before receiving your CPA certificate.
What accounting jobs are in highest demand in Montana?
Currently, the highest demand is for tax accountants, forensic accountants, government fund accountants, and controllers. Industries experiencing growth include healthcare, technology (especially in Bozeman), and sustainable energy.
Do Montana accountants need to complete continuing education?
Yes, Montana CPAs must complete 120 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) every three years, with a minimum of 20 hours annually and 4 hours of ethics training per reporting period.
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.
