Tennessee’s accounting profession offers exceptional career opportunities with a projected 16.4% job growth through 2028—more than double the national average. Whether you’re starting your accounting journey or advancing your career to become a CPA, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about education requirements, licensing steps, salary expectations, and career paths in the Volunteer State.
Quick Facts: Accounting Careers in Tennessee
Tennessee Accounting Education Requirements
Tennessee offers multiple pathways to launch your accounting career, each tailored to different career goals and timelines. Understanding these educational routes helps you make informed decisions about your professional development.
Entry-Level Accounting Positions
For bookkeeping and junior accounting roles, you can start with:
- Associate Degree in Accounting (2 years): Qualifies you for bookkeeping, accounting clerk, and payroll positions
- Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting (4 years): Opens doors to staff accountant, junior auditor, and tax preparer roles
CPA Track Education
To become a certified public accountant in Tennessee, you must complete:
- 150 semester hours of college credit (bachelor’s degree typically provides 120 hours)
- 24 semester hours in accounting courses above principles level
- 24 semester hours in business courses
Most aspiring CPAs complete the 150-hour requirement through a master’s in accounting, which also provides advanced knowledge in specialized areas like taxation, auditing, or forensic accounting.
Top Accounting Schools in Tennessee
Tennessee hosts several nationally recognized accounting programs that prepare students for successful careers:
Universities with AACSB-Accredited Accounting Programs
- University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Haslam College of Business
- Offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD in Accounting
- Known for strong corporate partnerships with Big Four firms
- Vanderbilt University – Owen Graduate School of Management
- Elite MAcc program with 100% job placement rate
- Focus on leadership development and analytics
- Middle Tennessee State University – Jennings A. Jones College of Business
- Largest accounting program in the state
- Affordable tuition with strong regional employer connections
- University of Memphis – Fogelman College of Business & Economics
- Comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs
- Strong placement in Memphis corporate headquarters
Steps to Become a CPA in Tennessee
The Tennessee State Board of Accountancy oversees CPA licensure. Here’s your step-by-step path to earning your CPA license:
Step 1: Complete Education Requirements
- Earn 150 semester hours of college credit
- Include required accounting and business coursework
- Obtain official transcripts from all institutions attended
Step 2: Apply for CPA Exam Eligibility
- Submit application through Tennessee State Board of Accountancy
- Pay application fees ($190 initial fee)
- Receive Authorization to Test (ATT)
Step 3: Pass the Uniform CPA Exam
- Four sections: AUD, BEC, FAR, REG
- Must pass all sections within 18 months
- Testing available year-round at Prometric centers
Step 4: Gain Professional Experience
- Complete 1 year (2,000 hours) of supervised experience
- Work under a licensed CPA
- Experience in accounting, auditing, taxation, or consulting
Step 5: Apply for CPA License
- Submit experience verification forms
- Pass ethics exam (if required)
- Pay licensing fees
For detailed CPA requirements and application procedures, visit our comprehensive guide on how to become a CPA in Tennessee.
Tennessee Accountant Salary Guide
Tennessee offers competitive salaries for accounting professionals, with earnings varying by location, experience, and specialization. The state’s lack of income tax effectively increases take-home pay compared to neighboring states.
Statewide Salary Overview
Salaries by Major Tennessee Cities
Specialized Accounting Roles
Forensic Accountants in Tennessee earn approximately 25% above the median, with salaries ranging from $95,000 to $115,000 in major metro areas.
Controllers and Financial Managers command significantly higher salaries:
- Median: $115,000 – $130,000
- Experienced: $150,000 – $185,000
- Fortune 500 companies: $200,000+
CPAs typically earn 15-30% more than non-certified accountants, with experienced CPAs in Tennessee earning $95,000 to $125,000 annually.
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.
Major Industries for Tennessee Accountants
Tennessee’s diverse economy creates opportunities across multiple sectors, each offering unique career paths and specializations for accounting professionals.
Healthcare Industry
Nashville’s status as the healthcare capital makes this sector Tennessee’s largest employer of accountants:
- HCA Healthcare (Nashville) – Nation’s largest hospital operator
- Community Health Systems (Franklin) – Major hospital network
- LifePoint Health (Brentwood) – Rural healthcare specialist
Healthcare accountants specialize in Medicare/Medicaid reimbursements, medical billing systems, and healthcare regulatory compliance.
Manufacturing & Automotive
Tennessee’s automotive corridor employs thousands of cost accountants and financial analysts:
- Nissan North America (Franklin) – Headquarters and manufacturing
- Volkswagen (Chattanooga) – Major production facility
- General Motors (Spring Hill) – Manufacturing plant
Entertainment & Music Industry
Nashville’s unique entertainment sector offers specialized accounting opportunities:
- Royalty accounting for record labels
- Tour accounting for artists and venues
- Entertainment tax specialists
Government & Public Sector
- Tennessee Valley Authority (Knoxville) – Federal corporation
- State of Tennessee – Various departments statewide
- Municipal governments – Cities and counties throughout Tennessee
Professional Development & Certifications
Beyond the CPA, Tennessee accountants can enhance their careers with additional certifications:
Popular Certifications for Tennessee Accountants
Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
Tennessee CPAs must complete 80 hours of CPE every two years, including:
- Minimum 20 hours annually
- 4 hours of ethics every two years
- Approved providers include Tennessee Society of CPAs and AICPA
Career Advancement Opportunities
Tennessee’s growing economy provides clear advancement paths for motivated accounting professionals:
Typical Career Progression
- Entry Level (0-2 years)
- Staff Accountant: $55,000 – $65,000
- Junior Auditor: $58,000 – $68,000
- Mid-Level (3-5 years)
- Senior Accountant: $70,000 – $85,000
- Accounting Supervisor: $75,000 – $90,000
- Management (6-10 years)
- Accounting Manager: $85,000 – $110,000
- Controller: $100,000 – $150,000
- Executive (10+ years)
- CFO: $150,000 – $300,000+
- Partner (Public Accounting): $200,000+
Job Outlook & Market Trends
Tennessee’s accounting job market significantly outpaces national growth projections:
- 16.4% growth rate (2018-2028) vs. 4% nationally
- 2,620 annual job openings from growth and retirements
- Technology integration creating demand for tech-savvy accountants
- Remote work opportunities expanding job options
Emerging Specializations
- Forensic accounting for fraud investigation
- Environmental accounting for sustainability reporting
- Cryptocurrency and blockchain accounting
- Data analytics and business intelligence
Resources for Tennessee Accounting Students
Professional Organizations
- Tennessee Society of CPAs (TSCPA) – State’s premier accounting organization
- Student membership available
- Networking events in major cities
- Career resources and job board
- Nashville Chapter of IMA – For management accountants
- Memphis Chapter of ISACA – For IT auditors
Scholarship Opportunities
- TSCPA Educational Foundation Scholarships
- Tennessee Promise – Free community college
- Tennessee Reconnect – Adult learner program
- University-specific accounting scholarships
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to become an accountant in Tennessee?
The fastest path is earning an associate degree in accounting (2 years) for entry-level positions. However, for better career prospects and CPA eligibility, a bachelor’s degree (4 years) plus additional credits is recommended.
Can I become a CPA in Tennessee with an online degree?
Yes, Tennessee accepts online degrees from regionally accredited institutions. Ensure your program meets the 150-hour requirement and includes necessary accounting and business coursework.
How much does the CPA exam cost in Tennessee?
Total costs typically range from $3,000-$4,000, including application fees ($190), exam fees ($238.15 per section), and study materials ($2,000-$3,000).
Do Tennessee CPAs need to maintain residency in the state?
No, Tennessee offers CPA reciprocity with most states. You can maintain your Tennessee CPA license while living elsewhere, provided you meet continuing education requirements.
What’s the job market like for new accounting graduates in Tennessee?
Excellent. With 16.4% projected growth and major employers actively recruiting, new graduates with strong academic records typically receive multiple job offers, especially in Nashville and Memphis.
How do Tennessee accounting salaries compare to neighboring states?
Tennessee salaries are competitive with neighboring states, and the lack of state income tax provides 5-7% higher take-home pay compared to states with income tax.
