Oklahoma offers promising opportunities for aspiring accountants, with strong job growth projected at 11.6% through 2026 and competitive salaries across the state. Whether you’re starting your accounting journey or advancing toward CPA licensure, understanding Oklahoma’s specific requirements and career landscape is essential for success.
The Oklahoma Accountancy Board oversees the state’s two-tier CPA licensing system, requiring candidates to first earn certification before obtaining a permit to practice. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about building a successful accounting career in the Sooner State.
Oklahoma CPA Licensing Requirements Overview
Oklahoma’s path to becoming a licensed CPA involves meeting specific educational, examination, and experience requirements. The state’s two-tier system distinguishes between CPA certification and the permit to practice.
Two-Tier Licensing System
Tier 1 – CPA Certification:
- Complete 150 semester hours of college credit
- Earn at least a bachelor’s degree
- Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
Tier 2 – Permit to Practice:
- Complete one year of public accounting experience
- Apply for a permit through the Oklahoma Accountancy Board
- Meet continuing education requirements
Important: Oklahoma requires CPA candidates to become certified before obtaining a permit to practice, making it essential to understand both tiers of the licensing process.
Education Requirements: The 150-Hour Rule
Oklahoma follows the standard 150 semester credit hour requirement for CPA licensure. Since most bachelor’s programs provide approximately 120 credit hours, additional education is necessary.
Meeting the 150-Hour Requirement
Required Coursework
The Oklahoma Accountancy Board requires specific accounting and business coursework within your 150 hours:
- Accounting Courses: Minimum 30 semester hours above the elementary level
- Business Courses: Minimum 36 semester hours
- General Education: Remaining hours in approved subjects
Popular paths to reaching 150 hours include pursuing an online master’s in accounting, which provides both the required credits and advanced knowledge for career success.
Steps to Become a CPA in Oklahoma
Follow these steps to navigate Oklahoma’s CPA licensing process efficiently:
Step 1: Complete Your Education
- Earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Complete the required accounting and business coursework
- Reach 150 total semester credit hours
Step 2: Apply for CPA Exam Eligibility
- Submit application to the Oklahoma Accountancy Board
- Pay application fees (currently $150)
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
Step 3: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
- Four sections: AUD, BEC, FAR, REG
- Score 75 or higher on each section
- Complete all sections within 18 months
Step 4: Gain Required Experience
- One year (2,000 hours) of public accounting experience
- Work under the supervision of a licensed CPA
- Experience in auditing, tax, or advisory services
Step 5: Apply for Permit to Practice
- Submit a permit application with experience verification
- Complete the ethics exam if required
- Pay permit fees
For detailed requirements and current fees, visit the Oklahoma Accountancy Board’s candidate resources.
Career Opportunities for Oklahoma Accountants
Oklahoma’s diverse economy creates opportunities across multiple sectors, from energy and aerospace to healthcare and government.
Major Accounting Employers in Oklahoma
Big Four Firms:
- Ernst & Young (Oklahoma City, Tulsa)
- KPMG (Oklahoma City, Tulsa)
- Deloitte (Oklahoma City)
- PwC (Regional presence)
Major Corporate Employers:
- ConocoPhillips (Bartlesville): Energy sector accounting, litigation consulting
- Baker Hughes (Oklahoma City): International oilfield services accounting
- Science Applications International Corporation (Multiple locations): Government contracting accounting
- Feed the Children (Oklahoma City): Nonprofit fund accounting
Specialized Accounting Roles
Accountants also find opportunities in management accounting roles across Oklahoma’s manufacturing and healthcare sectors.
Accounting Salaries in Oklahoma by City
Oklahoma offers competitive salaries for accounting professionals, with variations based on location, experience, and specialization.
Accountant and Auditor Salaries by Metro Area
Specialized Accounting Role Salaries in Oklahoma City
Based on industry data for Oklahoma City’s accounting market:
CPA Firm Salaries by Service Line
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.
Job Outlook and Growth Projections
The Oklahoma Employment Security Commission projects robust growth for accounting professionals:
- Growth Rate: 11.6% (2016-2026), exceeding the national average
- Annual Openings: Approximately 1,670 positions statewide
- Highest Demand: Oklahoma City and Tulsa metros
- Emerging Markets: Southeastern Oklahoma showing strong growth
Factors Driving Growth
- Energy sector recovery and diversification
- Expanding healthcare and aerospace industries
- Increased regulatory compliance requirements
- Growing demand for forensic accounting services
Oklahoma Accounting Schools and Programs
Oklahoma offers numerous accredited accounting programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels:
Major Universities with Accounting Programs
- University of Oklahoma (Norman): AACSB-accredited, strong Big Four recruitment
- Oklahoma State University (Stillwater): Integrated 5-year CPA track available
- University of Tulsa: Private institution with personalized programs
- University of Central Oklahoma (Edmond): Affordable programs with flexible scheduling
Many institutions offer online accounting degrees to accommodate working professionals pursuing CPA eligibility.
Continuing Education and Professional Development
Oklahoma CPAs must complete continuing professional education (CPE) to maintain their licenses:
CPE Requirements
- Annual Requirement: 40 hours of CPE
- Ethics Component: 2 hours every three years
- Reporting Period: July 1 – June 30
Professional Organizations
- Oklahoma Society of CPAs: Primary state organization offering CPE, networking, and advocacy
- Local chapters: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and regional chapters
- Specialty groups: Industry-specific networking opportunities
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CPA in Oklahoma?
Typically 5-7 years total: 4-5 years for education (150 credit hours), 6-12 months for CPA exam preparation and passing, and 1 year for required experience. Timeline varies based on individual circumstances and chosen education path.
Can I start taking the CPA exam before graduating in Oklahoma?
No, Oklahoma requires candidates to complete their 150 credit hours and earn their degree before sitting for the CPA exam. Some states allow early testing, but Oklahoma maintains this educational requirement.
What’s the difference between a CPA certificate and a permit to practice in Oklahoma?
A CPA certificate proves you’ve met educational requirements and passed the exam. A permit to practice allows you to offer services to the public and requires one year of qualifying experience plus the certificate.
Are there alternatives to public accounting experience in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma specifically requires one year of public accounting experience for the permit to practice. Government or private industry experience alone doesn’t qualify, though it may count toward experience requirements in other states.
How much do entry-level accountants make in Oklahoma?
Entry-level accountants in Oklahoma typically earn between $38,240-$40,890 annually at the 10th percentile, with median salaries ranging from $66,290-$72,630 depending on location. Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer the highest starting salaries.
Which Oklahoma cities have the best opportunities for accountants?
Oklahoma City and Tulsa offer the most opportunities with major firms and corporate headquarters. However, Lawton has the highest average salaries ($70,060 median), and the Northeast Oklahoma nonmetropolitan area offers surprisingly competitive compensation ($72,010 median).
Start Your Oklahoma Accounting Career Today
Oklahoma’s growing economy and business-friendly environment create excellent opportunities for accounting professionals. Whether you’re drawn to energy sector accounting, government finance, or public practice, the state offers diverse career paths with competitive compensation.
Take the first step toward your CPA license by researching accounting programs in Oklahoma that align with your career goals. With proper planning and dedication, you can join the ranks of Oklahoma’s successful CPAs, making a difference in businesses across the state.
