Ohio’s diverse economy, home to 20 Fortune 500 companies and countless growing businesses, creates strong demand for skilled accounting professionals. Whether you’re considering a career change or just starting your educational journey, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about becoming an accountant in the Buckeye State.
From education requirements and salary expectations to CPA licensing and career specializations, we’ll cover the essential steps to launch your accounting career in Ohio’s thriving business environment.
Quick Facts: Accounting Careers in Ohio
Before diving into the details, here are key facts about accounting careers in Ohio:
Step-by-Step Guide to Becoming an Accountant in Ohio
Becoming an accountant in Ohio requires careful planning and dedication. Here’s your roadmap to success:
Step 1: Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree
The foundation of any accounting career is a bachelor’s degree. Ohio offers numerous accredited programs at both public and private institutions. Most bachelor’s degree programs in accounting require 120 credit hours and take four years to complete.
Key coursework includes:
- Financial Accounting
- Managerial Accounting
- Cost Accounting
- Taxation
- Auditing
- Business Law
- Information Systems
Step 2: Choose Your Specialization
Accounting offers diverse career paths. Consider specializing in areas that align with Ohio’s major industries:
- Public Accounting: Work with firms like Deloitte (Cincinnati, Cleveland offices) or regional firms
- Corporate Accounting: Join Fortune 500 companies like Nationwide (Columbus) or Progressive (Mayfield)
- Government Accounting: Work for state agencies or municipalities
- Forensic Accounting: Investigate financial crimes and fraud
- Tax Accounting: Specialize in tax planning and compliance
Step 3: Gain Practical Experience
Ohio employers value hands-on experience. Consider these opportunities:
- Internships: Many Ohio firms offer summer and semester-long programs
- Part-time positions: Work as a bookkeeper or accounting clerk while studying
- Volunteer work: Help nonprofits with their accounting needs
- Campus organizations: Join accounting clubs and Beta Alpha Psi chapters
Step 4: Consider Professional Certifications
While not required for all accounting positions, certifications significantly boost earning potential:
- CPA (Certified Public Accountant): The gold standard requiring 150 credit hours
- CMA (Certified Management Accountant): For management accounting roles
- CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): For internal audit positions
- EA (Enrolled Agent): For tax specialists
Step 5: Network and Join Professional Organizations
Building connections is crucial for career advancement:
- Ohio Society of CPAs (OSCPA)
- Local chapter meetings of the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)
- American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) events
- LinkedIn networking with Ohio accounting professionals
Ohio CPA Requirements: Path to Certification
The Accountancy Board of Ohio oversees CPA licensing in the state. Here are the key requirements:
Education Requirements
- 150 semester hours of college credit
- Bachelor’s degree at a minimum
- Specific accounting and business coursework
- Ohio Board-approved ethics course
Pro Tip: Since a bachelor’s degree typically provides 120 credit hours, many candidates pursue a master’s degree in accounting to meet the 150-hour requirement.
Examination Requirements
Pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
Experience Requirements
- One year of supervised experience in public or private accounting
- Experience must be verified by a licensed CPA
- Must include various accounting services
Accountant Salaries in Ohio: 2025 Data
According to the May 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, Ohio offers competitive salaries for accounting professionals. Here’s what you can expect across major metropolitan areas:
Statewide Salary Overview
Salaries by Major Ohio Cities
Factors Affecting Salary
- Education Level: Master’s degree holders earn 10-15% more on average
- Certifications: CPAs typically earn 15-20% more than non-certified accountants
- Experience: Each year of experience can add 3-5% to base salary
- Industry: Financial services and manufacturing often pay premium rates
- Company Size: Fortune 500 companies generally offer higher salaries
Top Accounting Employers in Ohio
Ohio’s diverse economy provides opportunities across various sectors:
Fortune 500 Companies Headquartered in Ohio
- Nationwide (Columbus) – Insurance and financial services
- Progressive (Mayfield) – Insurance
- Cardinal Health (Dublin) – Healthcare distribution
- Kroger (Cincinnati) – Retail
- Procter & Gamble (Cincinnati) – Consumer goods
Major Accounting Firms with Ohio Offices
- Big Four Firms: Deloitte, PwC, EY, KPMG
- Regional Firms: Plante Moran, BDO, Grant Thornton
- Local Firms: Clark Schaefer Hackett, Barnes Dennig, Rea & Associates
Educational Pathways: Ohio Accounting Programs
Ohio offers excellent accounting programs at various levels:
Top-Rated Accounting Schools in Ohio
- The Ohio State University (Columbus) – Fisher College of Business
- Case Western Reserve University (Cleveland) – Weatherhead School
- University of Cincinnati – Lindner College of Business
- Miami University (Oxford) – Farmer School of Business
- Xavier University (Cincinnati) – Williams College of Business
Online vs. Traditional Programs
Ohio schools offer both traditional and online accounting degree options:
Career Advancement and Continuing Education
Ohio accountants must stay current with changing regulations and industry trends:
Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
- Ohio CPAs must complete 120 hours of CPE every three years
- At least 24 hours must be completed annually
- Ethics requirements must be met
Advanced Certifications and Specializations
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
- Enrolled Agent (EA)
Ohio Accounting Resources and Support
Take advantage of these Ohio-specific resources:
Professional Organizations
- Ohio Society of CPAs (OSCPA): Professional development, networking, advocacy
- Accountancy Board of Ohio: Licensing, regulations, compliance
- Local IMA Chapters: Management accounting focus
Career Services and Job Boards
- OhioMeansJobs.com – State job portal
- OSCPA Career Center
- University career services offices
- LinkedIn Ohio accounting groups
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an accountant in Ohio?
It typically takes 4 years to earn a bachelor’s degree in accounting, which is the minimum requirement to become an accountant in Ohio. For CPA certification, you’ll need 150 credit hours (about 5 years of education) plus one year of supervised experience.
What is the average starting salary for accountants in Ohio?
According to May 2024 BLS data, entry-level accountants in Ohio earn approximately $47,340 annually, with higher starting salaries in major metropolitan areas like Columbus ($50,140) and Cincinnati ($49,200).
Do I need a CPA license to work as an accountant in Ohio?
No, you don’t need a CPA license for many accounting positions. However, CPA certification significantly enhances career opportunities and earning potential, with CPAs typically earning 15-20% more than non-certified accountants.
What are the best cities for accountants in Ohio?
Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland offer the most opportunities and highest salaries for accountants. Columbus leads with a median salary of $73,850, followed by Cincinnati at $72,980.
Can I become an accountant with an online degree?
Yes, many Ohio employers accept online accounting degrees from accredited institutions. Ensure your program is accredited by AACSB or ACBSP for the best career prospects.
Take the Next Step in Your Ohio Accounting Career
Whether you’re just starting your educational journey or looking to advance your accounting career, Ohio offers excellent opportunities for growth and success. The state’s diverse economy, from Fortune 500 corporations to thriving small businesses, ensures steady demand for skilled accounting professionals.
Ready to begin? Start by researching accredited accounting programs that align with your career goals and location preferences. Consider whether you want to pursue CPA certification early in your planning, as this will influence your educational path.
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.
