How to Become an Accountant in North Carolina: CPA Requirements & Career Guide

Reviewed by Tyler Denton

North Carolina’s thriving economy and growing financial sector make it an ideal state for launching your accounting career. Whether you’re aiming to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or pursue other accounting specializations, understanding the state’s specific requirements and opportunities is crucial for your success.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about becoming an accountant in North Carolina, from education requirements and CPA licensure steps to salary expectations and career opportunities across the state’s major cities.

North Carolina CPA Requirements at a Glance

To become a licensed CPA in North Carolina, candidates must meet specific education, examination, and experience requirements set by the North Carolina State Board of CPA Examiners. Here’s a quick overview:

Requirement
Details
Education
150 semester hours including bachelors degree
Accounting Coursework
30 semester hours minimum
Business Coursework
24 semester hours minimum
CPA Exam
Pass all four sections
Experience
2 years supervised by licensed CPA
Ethics Exam
Pass NC Accountancy Statutes and Rules exam
Application Fee
$230 initial application

The 150-hour requirement typically means earning a master’s degree in accounting in addition to your bachelor’s degree, as most undergraduate programs provide only 120 credit hours.

Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming a CPA in NC

Step 1: Complete Your Educational Requirements

North Carolina requires 150 semester hours of college education from a regionally accredited institution. Your coursework must include:

  • 30 semester hours in accounting covering:
    • Financial accounting
    • Cost accounting
    • Auditing
    • Federal taxation
    • Accounting information systems
  • 24 semester hours in general business including:
    • Business law
    • Finance
    • Economics
    • Management
    • Marketing

Many candidates pursue an MBA in Accounting or Master of Accountancy to meet the 150-hour requirement while gaining specialized knowledge.

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Step 2: Apply for the Uniform CPA Examination

Once you’ve completed your education requirements, you can apply to take the Uniform CPA Exam through the North Carolina State Board of CPA Examiners. The exam consists of four sections:

Exam Section
Testing Time
Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
4 hours
Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
4 hours
Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
4 hours
Regulation (REG)
4 hours

You must pass all four sections within an 18-month rolling window. Consider using proven CPA exam study materials to prepare effectively.

Step 3: Gain Qualifying Experience

North Carolina requires two years (4,000 hours) of accounting experience under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA. Qualifying experience includes:

  • Public accounting (audit, tax, consulting)
  • Industry accounting
  • Government accounting
  • Academia (teaching accounting at the college level)

Your supervising CPA must have an active license and verify your experience through official forms submitted to the Board.

Step 4: Pass the Ethics Examination

After passing the CPA exam and completing your experience requirement, you must pass the North Carolina Accountancy Statutes and Rules examination. This open-book exam tests your knowledge of:

  • NC General Statutes Chapter 93
  • Title 21, Chapter 8 of the NC Administrative Code
  • Professional ethics and conduct

Step 5: Submit Your License Application

Complete your CPA license application with the North Carolina State Board, including:

  • Official transcripts
  • Experience verification forms
  • Exam score transfers (if applicable)
  • Application fee of $230
  • Background check authorization

Processing typically takes 4-6 weeks after all documents are received.


Top Accounting Schools in North Carolina

North Carolina hosts several AACSB-accredited business schools offering excellent accounting programs. Here are the state’s top institutions for aspiring accountants:

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The Kenan-Flagler Business School offers a prestigious MAC (Master of Accounting) program designed specifically for CPA preparation. With a 90%+ first-time CPA exam pass rate, it’s one of the state’s most successful programs.

North Carolina State University

Located in Raleigh, NC State’s Poole College of Management provides both undergraduate and graduate accounting programs with strong connections to Research Triangle employers.

Wake Forest University

The School of Business offers an MSA (Master of Science in Accountancy) program with tracks in assurance services, tax consulting, and financial transaction services.

Duke University

While primarily known for its MBA program, Duke’s Fuqua School of Business offers accounting concentrations ideal for those pursuing corporate accounting careers.

Consider exploring online accounting degree programs if you need flexibility while working full-time.


Employment Industries for Accountants in North Carolina

North Carolina’s diverse economy provides abundant opportunities for accounting professionals across multiple sectors:

Financial Services

Charlotte, the nation’s second-largest banking center, hosts major employers including:

  • Bank of America (headquarters)
  • Wells Fargo (East Coast headquarters)
  • Truist Financial (headquarters)
  • Ally Financial

These institutions employ thousands of financial accountants, forensic accountants, and internal auditors.

Technology and Life Sciences

The Research Triangle Park area, anchored by Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, features:

  • Cisco Systems
  • IBM
  • Credit Suisse
  • GlaxoSmithKline
  • Biogen

These companies need specialized cost accountants and management accountants familiar with R&D tax credits and intellectual property valuation.

Manufacturing and Aerospace

North Carolina’s manufacturing sector includes:

  • Honeywell (Rocky Mount)
  • General Dynamics (Charlotte)
  • Cessna (Greensboro)
  • Honda Aircraft Company (Greensboro)

Government accountants often work with these defense contractors on cost-plus contracts and compliance reporting.

Public Accounting Firms

All Big Four firms maintain offices in North Carolina:

  • Deloitte: Charlotte
  • Ernst & Young: Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh
  • PwC: Charlotte, Raleigh
  • KPMG: Charlotte, Raleigh

Regional firms like Dixon Hughes Goodman and Cherry Bekaert also offer excellent opportunities for public accountants.


North Carolina Accounting Salaries by Role and Location

Accounting salaries in North Carolina vary significantly based on experience, credentials, location, and specialization. Here’s what you can expect to earn in different roles and cities:

Statewide Salary Overview

Percentile
Annual Salary
10th Percentile
$46470
25th Percentile
$56810
Median (50th)
$78450
75th Percentile
$101330
90th Percentile
$130370

Salaries by Metropolitan Area

Metro Area
Entry Level (25th %)
Experienced (75th %)
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia
$61250
$110410
Raleigh-Cary
$58930
$105890
Durham-Chapel Hill
$59840
$107120
Greensboro-High Point
$54670
$94870
Winston-Salem
$53420
$93150
Wilmington
$51890
$88760

Specialized Accounting Roles

Entry-Level Positions (0-2 years experience):

  • Staff Accountant: $46,000 – $56,000
  • Junior Auditor: $48,000 – $58,000
  • Tax Associate: $50,000 – $60,000
  • Bookkeeper: $35,000 – $42,000

Mid-Level Positions (3-7 years experience):

  • Senior Accountant: $65,000 – $85,000
  • Tax Senior: $70,000 – $95,000
  • Audit Senior: $68,000 – $92,000
  • Forensic Accountant: $75,000 – $105,000

Management and Executive Positions:

  • Accounting Manager: $85,000 – $115,000
  • Controller: $110,000 – $165,000
  • Finance Director: $125,000 – $185,000
  • CFO: $175,000 – $300,000+

Note that Charlotte typically offers salaries 10-15% higher than the state average due to its status as a major financial center. Additional compensation through bonuses, profit sharing, and stock options is common, especially in public accounting and corporate finance roles.

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.


Career Advancement and Continuing Education

Once you’ve earned your CPA license, maintaining and advancing your career requires ongoing professional development:

Continuing Professional Education (CPE)

North Carolina CPAs must complete 40 hours of CPE annually, including:

  • At least 8 hours in accounting and auditing subjects
  • At least 2 hours in professional ethics every three years
  • Courses must be from Board-approved sponsors

Additional Certifications

Consider pursuing specialized credentials to enhance your career:

Career Path Progression

Typical career progression for North Carolina CPAs:

Years Experience
Public Accounting
0-2 years
Staff Associate
3-5 years
Senior Associate
6-8 years
Manager
9-12 years
Senior Manager
12+ years
Partner/Director

North Carolina Accounting Resources

Professional Organizations

  • North Carolina Association of CPAs (NCACPA) – Professional development, networking, and advocacy
  • Greater Charlotte Chapter of IMA – For management accountants
  • Triangle Chapter of ISACA – IT audit and security professionals
  • North Carolina Society of Accountants – Supporting all accounting professionals

Regulatory Bodies

  • North Carolina State Board of CPA Examiners 

    1101 Oberlin Road, Suite 104
    Raleigh, NC 27605
    Phone: (919) 733-4222
    Website: nccpaboard.gov

Testing Centers

Prometric testing centers for the CPA exam are located in:

  • Charlotte (multiple locations)
  • Raleigh
  • Greensboro
  • Wilmington
  • Asheville

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a CPA in North Carolina?

The typical timeline is 5-6 years: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 1-2 years for a master’s degree (to reach 150 hours), plus 2 years of required work experience. The CPA exam can be taken after completing the education requirements.

Can I become a CPA in NC with an online degree?

Yes, as long as the online program is from a regionally accredited institution and includes the required accounting and business coursework. Many North Carolina universities offer online accounting degrees that meet CPA requirements.

What’s the difference between CPA licensure and certification in North Carolina?

North Carolina issues CPA licenses, not certificates. A license allows you to practice public accounting, while certification in other states may have different privileges. NC license holders can provide attest services and represent clients before the IRS.

Do I need to be a North Carolina resident to get a CPA license?

No, North Carolina does not have a residency requirement. However, you must meet all education, examination, and experience requirements, and your supervising CPA must be licensed in North Carolina.

How much does it cost to become a CPA in North Carolina?

Total costs typically range from $3,000-$5,000, including:

  • CPA exam application: $230
  • Exam fees: ~$1,000 (all sections)
  • Study materials: $1,500-$3,000
  • License application: $230
  • Ethics exam: $150

Can I transfer my CPA license to North Carolina from another state?

Yes, through reciprocity. You must have a valid CPA license from a substantially equivalent state, meet North Carolina’s education requirements, and have 5 years of experience. The reciprocal license fee is $230.

What are the best entry-level accounting jobs in North Carolina?

Top entry-level positions include:

  • Audit associate at Big Four firms in Charlotte or Raleigh
  • Tax preparer during the busy season
  • Staff accountant at Research Triangle tech companies
  • Government accountant with the State of North Carolina
  • Corporate accounting analyst at Charlotte Banks

Is the job outlook good for accountants in North Carolina?

Yes, the North Carolina Department of Commerce projects 8.6% growth in accounting jobs through 2028, with approximately 4,020 annual job openings due to growth, turnover, and retirements. Charlotte and the Research Triangle continue to be hotspots for accounting employment.

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Ready to start your accounting career in North Carolina? Research accredited programs, understand the CPA requirements, and plan your path to success in one of the Southeast’s most dynamic business environments.

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.