Virginia offers excellent opportunities for aspiring accountants, with competitive salaries averaging $95,650 annually and strong job growth projected through 2028. Whether you’re planning to become a CPA or pursue other accounting specializations, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about launching your accounting career in the Commonwealth.
The Virginia Board of Accountancy oversees CPA licensure in the state, requiring 150 semester hours of education, passing scores on the Uniform CPA Exam, and one year of qualifying experience. With Virginia ranking fifth nationally for accounting job concentration, the state provides diverse opportunities across public accounting, corporate finance, and government sectors.
Virginia Accounting Career Overview
Virginia’s robust economy supports a thriving accounting profession with opportunities ranging from Big Four firms to government agencies. The state’s proximity to Washington, D.C. creates unique opportunities in federal contracting and government accounting, while major business hubs in Northern Virginia, Richmond, and Hampton Roads offer diverse corporate positions.
Job Market and Growth Projections
The Virginia Employment Commission projects a 7.3% increase in accounting jobs between 2018 and 2028, translating to approximately 4,730 annual job openings through retirements, expansions, and natural turnover. This growth rate exceeds many other professional occupations, making accounting a stable career choice.
Major employers include:
- Big Four Firms: PricewaterhouseCoopers (McLean), Deloitte (Arlington), EY (McLean), and KPMG (McLean)
- Regional Firms: Cherry Bekaert (Richmond), Dixon Hughes Goodman (multiple locations)
- Government Agencies: Defense Contract Audit Agency (Fairfax), U.S. Treasury (various locations)
- Corporate Headquarters: Capital One (McLean), Dominion Energy (Richmond), Norfolk Southern (Norfolk)
Salary Expectations for Virginia Accountants
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics May 2024 data, Virginia offers competitive compensation across all experience levels:
Salaries vary significantly by specialization and location within Virginia. Northern Virginia typically offers 10-15% higher salaries due to the cost of living and proximity to federal contracts.
Educational Requirements for Virginia Accountants
While entry-level accounting positions typically require a bachelor’s degree, advancing to CPA status or senior roles often necessitates additional education. Virginia’s 150-hour requirement for CPA licensure means most candidates pursue a master’s degree or additional coursework.
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
A bachelor’s degree in accounting provides the foundation for your career. Key components include:
- 120-128 credit hours of coursework
- Core accounting courses: Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Cost Accounting, Auditing
- Business foundation: Economics, Finance, Business Law, Statistics
- General education requirements
Look for programs with AACSB accreditation, which ensures quality standards recognized by employers nationwide.
Master’s Degree Options
Virginia offers several pathways to meet the 150-hour requirement:
Online vs. On-Campus Programs
Virginia schools offer flexible learning options. Online programs provide convenience for working professionals, while on-campus programs offer networking opportunities and access to campus recruiting. Many schools now offer hybrid options combining both formats.
Consider factors like:
- Work schedule flexibility
- Learning style preferences
- Access to internships and recruiting events
- Technology requirements and support
Virginia CPA Requirements
Becoming a CPA in Virginia requires meeting specific education, examination, and experience requirements set by the Virginia Board of Accountancy. The CPA license opens doors to higher salaries and advanced career opportunities.
150-Hour Education Requirement
Virginia requires 150 semester hours of college education, including:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 24 semester hours in accounting (above elementary level)
- 24 semester hours in business courses
- Coverage of specific topics: auditing, financial accounting, managerial accounting, and taxation
Tip: Many candidates complete the 150-hour requirement by earning a master’s degree, which typically adds 30-36 credit hours to the standard 120-hour bachelor’s degree.
CPA Exam Process
The Uniform CPA Examination consists of four sections, each requiring a minimum score of 75:
Virginia allows 18 months to pass all four sections after passing the first section. Candidates must apply through CPA Examination Services (CPAES) and receive a Notice to Schedule (NTS) before scheduling exam appointments.
Experience Requirements
Virginia requires one year (2,000 hours) of accounting experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA. Qualifying experience includes:
- Public accounting (audit, tax, consulting)
- Industry accounting (financial reporting, internal audit)
- Government accounting (federal, state, local)
- Academia (teaching accounting at the college level)
Part-time experience counts proportionally, and experience can be gained before, during, or after passing the CPA exam.
Top Accounting Schools in Virginia
Virginia hosts numerous AACSB-accredited accounting programs across different regions. Choosing the right school depends on factors like location, program reputation, cost, and career services.
Northern Virginia Programs
- George Mason University (Fairfax): Strong connections to D.C. area employers, excellent federal contracting focus
- Marymount University (Arlington): Small class sizes, personalized attention, convenient Metro access
- Northern Virginia Community College: Affordable foundation courses, seamless transfer agreements
Richmond Area Schools
- University of Richmond (Robins School of Business): Elite private program, strong alumni network
- Virginia Commonwealth University: Large program, diverse specializations, urban campus
- Virginia Union University: HBCU with personalized support, community focus
Hampton Roads Universities
- Old Dominion University (Norfolk): Online options, military-friendly, strong regional reputation
- Christopher Newport University: Liberal arts focus, small class sizes, undergraduate emphasis
- Hampton University: HBCU with strong business school, waterfront campus
Other Notable Programs
- University of Virginia (McIntire School): Top-ranked program, highly competitive admission
- Virginia Tech (Pamplin College): Strong placement rates, Big Four recruiting
- James Madison University: Excellent CPA pass rates, dedicated accounting facility
- Liberty University: Large online program, flexible scheduling
Career Paths for Virginia Accountants
Virginia’s diverse economy supports various accounting career paths, each offering unique challenges and rewards. Understanding these options helps you target your education and early career decisions.
Public Accounting
Public accounting firms provide audit, tax, and consulting services to clients. Career progression typically follows:
Corporate Accounting
Industry positions offer work-life balance and specialization opportunities. Common roles include:
- Financial Analyst: Budgeting, forecasting, variance analysis
- Cost Accountant: Product costing, margin analysis, process improvement
- Internal Auditor: Risk assessment, controls testing, compliance
- Controller: Financial reporting, team management, strategic planning
- CFO: Executive leadership, investor relations, strategic decisions
Government Positions
Virginia’s proximity to Washington, D.C. creates abundant federal opportunities:
- Federal Agencies: IRS, GAO, Treasury, Defense Department
- State Government: Virginia Department of Taxation, Auditor of Public Accounts
- Local Government: County finance departments, school districts, utilities
Government positions often offer excellent benefits, job security, and work-life balance, though salaries may be lower than private sector equivalents.
Specialized Fields
Virginia’s economy supports several accounting specializations:
- Forensic Accounting: Fraud investigation, litigation support (Average salary: $104,950)
- Information Systems: ERP implementation, cybersecurity, data analytics
- Environmental Accounting: Sustainability reporting, carbon accounting
- Healthcare Accounting: Revenue cycle, compliance, reimbursement
Virginia Accountant Salaries by Region and Specialization
Compensation varies significantly across Virginia’s metropolitan areas and specializations. Understanding these differences helps with career planning and negotiation.
Regional Salary Variations
Salary by Years of Experience
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.
Professional Resources and Development
Continuing education and professional networking are essential for career advancement in Virginia’s accounting profession.
Virginia Society of CPAs (VSCPA)
The VSCPA serves as the primary professional organization for Virginia CPAs, offering:
- CPE courses and conferences
- Networking events by region
- Career resources and job boards
- Legislative advocacy
- Young professional programs
Student membership costs approximately $35 annually and provides access to scholarships, mentoring, and career fairs.
Continuing Professional Education (CPE)
Virginia CPAs must complete 120 hours of CPE every three years, including:
- Minimum 20 hours annually
- 2 hours of Virginia-specific ethics every two years
- Courses relevant to your practice area
CPE providers include VSCPA, employers, online platforms, and university programs. Budget $500-$1,500 annually for CPE costs unless employer-provided.
Professional Certifications Beyond CPA
Getting Started: Your Action Plan
Ready to launch your Virginia accounting career? Follow these steps:
- Assess Your Current Status: Determine your educational background and career goals
- Research Schools: Compare programs based on accreditation, cost, location, and specializations
- Plan Your Timeline: Map out education, CPA exam, and experience requirements
- Build Your Network: Join student accounting organizations and attend VSCPA events
- Gain Experience: Pursue internships during college to clarify career interests
- Prepare for CPA Exam: Start studying 6-12 months before graduation
- Launch Your Career: Target fall recruiting for Big Four, spring for other employers
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the CPA requirements in Virginia?
Virginia requires 150 semester hours of education, including a bachelor’s degree, with at least 24 hours each in accounting and business courses. You must pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Exam with scores of 75 or higher and complete one year (2,000 hours) of qualifying accounting experience under a licensed CPA’s supervision.
How much do accountants make in Virginia?
According to May 2024 BLS data, Virginia accountants earn an average of $95,650 annually. Entry-level positions start around $52,730, while experienced professionals can earn $145,750 or more. Salaries vary by location, with Northern Virginia typically offering 10-15% higher compensation than other regions.
What are the best accounting schools in Virginia?
Top accounting programs include the University of Virginia (McIntire), Virginia Tech (Pamplin), James Madison University, William & Mary, and George Mason University. All offer AACSB-accredited programs with strong job placement rates. Consider factors like location, cost, program size, and specializations when choosing.
How long does it take to become a CPA in Virginia?
Most students complete the education requirement in 5 years (4-year bachelor’s plus 1-year master’s). Add 6-12 months for CPA exam preparation and passing, plus one year of required experience. Total timeline: approximately 6-7 years from starting college to CPA licensure.
Can I become an accountant in Virginia without a CPA license?
Yes, many accounting positions don’t require CPA licensure, including staff accountant, bookkeeper, financial analyst, and some corporate accounting roles. However, the CPA license significantly expands career opportunities and earning potential, particularly for public accounting and senior positions.
What’s the job outlook for accountants in Virginia?
Virginia projects 7.3% growth in accounting jobs through 2028, with approximately 4,730 annual openings. The state ranks fifth nationally for accounting job concentration, with particularly strong demand in Northern Virginia due to federal contracting and the technology sector.
Do I need a master’s degree to become a CPA in Virginia?
While not specifically required, most CPA candidates earn a master’s degree to meet the 150-hour education requirement efficiently. Alternatives include double majors, additional undergraduate coursework, or certificate programs, but a master’s degree often provides the best return on investment.
What types of accounting jobs are available in Virginia?
Virginia offers diverse opportunities, including public accounting (audit, tax, consulting), corporate accounting (financial reporting, cost analysis), government positions (federal agencies, state departments), and specialized roles in forensic accounting, information systems, and nonprofit management.
How do Virginia accounting salaries compare to neighboring states?
Virginia’s average accounting salary of $95,650 exceeds the national average and compares favorably to neighboring states. Maryland offers similar compensation, while West Virginia and North Carolina typically pay 10-20% less. Washington, D.C. salaries are higher but offset by increased living costs.
What should I major in to become an accountant in Virginia?
While accounting is the most direct path, Virginia employers also hire graduates with degrees in finance, business administration, economics, or information systems. However, non-accounting majors need additional coursework to meet CPA education requirements and may face more competition for positions.
