If you want to study accounting in USA, you are likely looking for more than a list of universities. You want to know which courses are worth considering, what you will study, how much it may cost, whether the degree supports the CPA route, and what kind of career you can expect afterwards.
The United States remains one of the strongest destinations for accounting students because it offers respected universities, specialist business schools, wide course choice and direct links to employers. Accounting programmes in the US are designed to prepare students for careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, internal auditing, taxation, financial reporting and financial analysis.
Why study accounting in the USA?
Accounting is one of the most practical and versatile degrees you can choose. Every organisation needs professionals who can manage accounts, analyse financial data, prepare reports, support audits and ensure compliance. That means accounting graduates can work across a wide range of industries, including banking, technology, healthcare, consulting, manufacturing and government.
Students choose the USA for accounting because it offers globally recognised universities, strong technical training, clear professional pathways and a large graduate job market for those interested in studying in the United States. The employment outlook is solid, too. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors had a median annual wage of $81,680 in May 2024, and employment is projected to grow 5% from 2024 to 2034, with about 124,200 openings each year on average over the decade.
What will you study in an accounting programme?
Accounting courses in the USA are not limited to bookkeeping or basic number work. A strong programme teaches students how businesses operate, how financial systems are controlled and how accounting supports decision-making.
Depending on the degree and university, you may study:
- financial accounting
- managerial accounting
- auditing and assurance
- taxation
- accounting information systems
- business law
- ethics and governance
- accounting analytics
- internal controls and risk
- corporate finance
These areas appear consistently across leading programmes. For example, the University of Florida highlights financial and managerial accounting, taxation, auditing and accounting information systems in its undergraduate degree, while USC’s MAcc emphasises technical and conceptual knowledge, professional development, ethical standards and careers across public accounting, industry, consulting, financial services and government.
Types of accounting degrees available in the USA
Bachelor’s in Accounting
A bachelor’s degree is the usual starting point for students applying after school. It typically takes four years and gives a broad foundation in accounting, business, economics and finance.
This route is best for students who want to:
- begin their accounting education from the ground up
- enter graduate roles after university
- build towards CPA eligibility later
- develop a broad business background alongside accounting
Master’s in Accounting
A Master of Accounting, Master of Accountancy, or similar postgraduate degree is one of the most popular options for students who want specialist training. Many students choose this route because it is more focused, often shorter overall, and better aligned with professional goals.
Leading universities present these master’s programmes as fast, career-oriented qualifications. Illinois describes its MSA as a one-year programme, Texas McCombs says its traditional MPA can be completed in as little as nine months, and Notre Dame’s MSA is structured as a one-year, 30-credit programme.
A master’s in accounting in the USA is often a strong fit for:
- Graduates with a background in accounting, business or finance
- Students planning for CPA-related study requirements
- International students looking for a career-focused postgraduate degree
- Students who want stronger recruitment access and technical depth
PhD in Accounting
A PhD is intended for students interested in academic research, university teaching or specialist policy work. It is not the typical route for students whose main goal is to work in professional accounting practice.
Best universities to study accounting in the USA
Choosing the best university for accounting is not just about prestige. A strong accounting school should offer good teaching, respected faculty, relevant modules, strong employer links and a clear route into graduate careers.
Some universities are especially strong for undergraduate accounting, while others stand out for master’s degrees, analytics, recruitment or CPA preparation. If you are exploring accounting programmes in the USA, it helps to look beyond the name of the university and focus on what the course actually offers. It is also worth comparing top universities across the country before narrowing down your shortlist.
University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin is one of the strongest names in accounting, particularly through the McCombs School of Business. Its Master in Professional Accounting is a STEM-designated programme, and the traditional MPA is open to students with a bachelor’s degree in any discipline. McCombs also states that students can earn the degree in as little as nine months, which makes it especially attractive for applicants who want a focused and efficient postgraduate route.
UT Austin is a strong fit for students who want a respected accounting brand, clear professional focus and a course that is well known among employers.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is another major name in accounting education. Gies College of Business offers more than one graduate pathway, which is useful for students with different academic backgrounds. Its MSA is presented as a one-year programme designed to add accounting expertise and business leadership skills, while the MAS is a nine-month, STEM-designated option for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree in accountancy.
That makes Illinois especially appealing for students who want a specialist accounting environment and a clear postgraduate route matched to their prior study.
Brigham Young University
Brigham Young University is widely regarded as one of the strongest accounting schools in the country, particularly at undergraduate level. It is best suited to students who want a focused accounting environment rather than a broader general-business route. BYU is often considered by applicants who care about programme quality, structured teaching and strong professional outcomes.
Indiana University Bloomington
Indiana University Bloomington, through the Kelley School of Business, is a strong option for students who want accounting with a modern business and analytics focus. Kelley offers a Master of Science in Accounting with Data and Analytics, alongside other graduate accounting options, and positions its programmes as practical, career-oriented pathways that prepare students to add value quickly in the workplace.
Kelley is often a good fit for students who want strong employer access and an accounting degree that feels both technically solid and commercially relevant.
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania is one of the most recognisable names in higher education, and Wharton adds major business prestige. For accounting students, Penn can be especially attractive if they want accounting within a broader elite business environment and value access to a powerful alumni network.
It may not be the most narrowly accounting-focused option on this list, but it remains a compelling choice for students who want academic reputation and wider business exposure.
University of Michigan
The University of Michigan is another respected name with strong business credibility. It tends to appeal to students who want a high-quality university experience, strong employer recognition and the flexibility to keep their options open beyond accounting alone.
This can be a smart choice for students who see accounting as part of a broader career in finance, leadership or strategy.
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California is a popular option for students who want strong business-school connections and the advantages of a major-city location. USC Marshall states that its Master of Accounting prepares graduates for careers in public accounting, industry, consulting, financial services and government, and that the programme is designed to provide technical and conceptual knowledge alongside ethical and professional standards.
USC often appeals to students who value alumni reach, corporate visibility and a dynamic study environment.
University of Notre Dame
Notre Dame is well regarded for its professional and ethical approach to business education. Mendoza describes its MSA as one of the top programmes in the country, with a curriculum known for quality, rigour and focus on ethics. The school also states that the one-year, 30-credit structure can support students interested in public accounting, corporate finance or government work.
It suits students who want a balance of academic quality, strong professional preparation and a clear sense of purpose.
University of Florida
The University of Florida is frequently seen as a strong-value option among major U.S. universities. Its Bachelor of Science in Accounting covers financial and managerial accounting, taxation, auditing and accounting information systems, while also incorporating business, quantitative study and increasingly important data, AI and technical tools. At postgraduate level, UF says its Master of Accounting is designed for students who already hold an accounting bachelor’s degree and want preparation for more specialised roles.
It can be a particularly good fit for students who want a reputable public university with practical accounting training and good return on investment.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
UNC Chapel Hill is another university often considered by students comparing respected business schools in the USA. Its Master of Accounting offers flexibility in format and coursework, and the school emphasises that the curriculum is designed to prepare students for successful careers as accounting or finance professionals.
UNC can suit students who want strong academic quality, recognised business teaching and a programme that offers more than one study format.
How to choose the right accounting university in the USA
With so many strong options, choosing the right university can feel difficult. The best choice depends on your goals, budget and academic background.
Here are the main factors to compare.
Degree level
Do you need a bachelor’s degree, or are you already a graduate looking for a master’s in accounting? This is the first question to answer because it shapes the type of university and course that will suit you.
CPA alignment
If becoming a Certified Public Accountant is part of your plan, look closely at the curriculum. Many students choose U.S. accounting programmes because they are designed with CPA preparation in mind. Not every course serves this goal equally well, so always check the academic structure carefully.
Recruitment and internship access
Some universities have especially strong links with the Big Four and other major employers. If career placement matters to you, look for schools with strong recruiter presence, alumni connections and internship support.
Curriculum depth
A good accounting programme should not just cover the basics. It should also build skills in financial reporting, auditing, tax, business systems, internal control and analysis.
Location
Location can affect internships, networking and cost of living. Large cities may offer stronger employer access, while smaller college towns may provide a more affordable study environment.
Cost and value
The most expensive course is not always the best option. A public university option in the USA with strong placement and good teaching may offer better value than a more expensive private institution.
Admission requirements for accounting courses in the USA
Admission requirements vary by university and degree level, but most accounting applicants can expect a combination of the following.
For undergraduate programmes
- strong school results or equivalent qualifications
- academic transcripts
- proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL, though some students also explore alternatives to IELTS
- personal statement or application essays
- recommendation letters in some cases
For master’s programmes
- a recognised bachelor’s degree
- academic transcripts
- CV or résumé
- statement of purpose
- recommendation letters
- English language test scores, if required, and in some cases, universities that accept Duolingo may be worth checking
- GMAT or GRE at some universities, though many programmes are now test-optional
These expectations are reflected in the current programme admissions pages. For example, Illinois says its MSA welcomes students with a bachelor’s degree in any academic discipline, subject to certain background prerequisites, while Kelley’s graduate accounting admissions page outlines the need for a graduate application and official transcripts.
Cost of studying accounting in the USA
The cost of studying accounting in the USA depends on the university, the degree level and the location. In general, tuition varies widely between public and private universities, and living costs can change significantly depending on the city.
When planning your budget, make sure you include:
- tuition fees
- accommodation
- food and daily living expenses
- transport
- health insurance
- books and study materials
- visa and application costs
- professional exam costs later if relevant
A bachelor’s degree usually involves a higher total cost because it lasts longer, while a master’s can sometimes offer a shorter and more targeted route.
Studying accounting in the USA as an international student
The USA is a popular destination for international students because of its strong universities, wide programme choice and career-driven education system. Accounting can be especially attractive because it is a subject with clear practical value and broad demand.
For international students, important things to consider include:
- whether the course suits your academic background
- whether the programme supports your professional goals
- whether the university offers strong career support
- total cost, including living expenses
- post-study work options based on current rules
- whether you want a general accounting degree or a master’s with more specialist focus
For eligible F-1 students, practical training may be available. The US government’s Study in the States guidance says Optional Practical Training (OPT) allows eligible students to gain real-world work experience related to their field of study, although the rules are strict and students must follow the required process.
Career opportunities after studying accounting in the USA
An accounting degree can lead to a wide range of careers. This is one of the subject’s biggest advantages. You are not limited to one industry or one job title.
Common career paths include:
- auditor
- tax accountant
- management accountant
- forensic accountant
- financial analyst
- internal auditor
- public accountant
- corporate accountant
- compliance analyst
- advisory associate
Graduates may work in accounting firms, multinational companies, public institutions, banks, consulting firms or start-ups. Some move into specialist roles, while others build towards senior finance leadership positions over time.
Accounting is often seen as a strong-value career choice because it combines stable demand with solid earning potential. As noted above, the BLS reports a median annual wage of $81,680 for accountants and auditors, which helps explain why many students see the subject as a route into stable, well-paid work.
The CPA pathway in the USA
A major reason many students choose to study accounting in the USA is the path towards becoming a CPA. The CPA is one of the most respected accounting credentials and is highly valued in areas such as auditing, taxation, reporting and advisory.
AICPA explains that to become a licensed CPA, candidates must meet education, examination and experience requirements, and all candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Examination. NASBA also emphasises that CPAs are licensed by state boards of accountancy, which is why exact licensure rules differ by state.
In practice, many students plan their education around:
- a relevant accounting degree
- the required academic credit structure
- the CPA examination
- work experience requirements, depending on the state
This is why it is important to choose your university and degree with the CPA pathway in mind from the beginning.
Bachelor’s or master’s in accounting: which is better?
The answer depends on where you are starting from.
Choose a bachelor’s in accounting if you are:
- applying after school
- looking for a full undergraduate degree
- building your knowledge from the foundation level
Choose a master’s in accounting if you are:
- already a graduate
- looking for a more focused and career-oriented course
- planning around CPA-related requirements
- interested in a shorter postgraduate route with strong recruitment potential
For many international students, a master’s degree is especially attractive because it gives them a specialist qualification without having to start again at undergraduate level. Some students also compare accounting with other popular master’s pathways before making a final decision.
Frequently asked questions
Is the USA a good place to study accounting?
Yes. The United States offers respected accounting programmes, strong business schools, broad career pathways and a well-established professional environment. The labour-market outlook for accountants and auditors also remains positive.
Which are the best universities for accounting in the USA?
Some of the best-known universities for accounting include the University of Texas at Austin, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Brigham Young University, Indiana University Bloomington, University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan, University of Southern California, University of Notre Dame, University of Florida and UNC Chapel Hill.
What is the best Master’s degree in the field of Accounting?
The best master’s degree depends on your goals. Some students want a course with strong CPA alignment, while others prioritise analytics, employer links, international student support or overall university prestige.
Can international students study accounting in the USA?
Yes. Many international students choose accounting programmes at U.S. universities because the subject has clear career value and wide professional relevance. Eligible F-1 students may also be able to gain field-related work experience through OPT if they meet the rules.
Are there online accounting courses in the USA?
Yes. There are online and hybrid accounting options in the USA, including master’s programmes. For example, UNC Kenan-Flagler offers an online Master of Accounting format.
Final thoughts
Choosing to study accounting in USA can be a smart step for students who want a practical degree, strong professional preparation and wide career options. The country offers some of the best universities for accounting, a broad range of programmes and clear routes into roles across public accounting, corporate finance, internal audit, taxation and advisory.
The best course for you will depend on your goals. You may want a top undergraduate accounting programme, a specialist master’s degree, a university with strong Big Four recruitment, or a course that supports your CPA plans. Whatever your priority, the key is to choose a programme that matches your background, budget and long-term career direction.
If you want a degree with real-world relevance, broad employer demand and strong progression potential, studying accounting in the USA remains one of the strongest options available.