Dr Mohammad Shafiq
Accounting is a growing field with high demand worldwide. Skilled accountants are needed in every industry. The USA is a popular country for students studying accounting.
US universities provide many career opportunities in accounting and finance. Graduates can work in various fields, like corporate accounting, auditing, or financial analysis. The country also has strong connections with top accounting firms, which can give students great career options.
If you’re planning to study accounting in USA, this article is for you. Because we've covered pretty much everything you need to know about the subject, let's dive in!
The USA is a leading destination for accounting students. It offers world-class education and global opportunities. Some of the top reasons why so many students choose the U.S. for their accounting journey are:
A degree from the U.S. is highly respected worldwide. According to a WES report, 74% of employers value a U.S. degree more than others. International students make up around 5.5% of the higher education population here.
The U.S. offers many accounting programs for all levels. You can choose from bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. Many universities also provide pathways to CPA qualification.
The demand for accountants in the US is rising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 67,400 new accounting jobs are expected by 2032. The field is projected to grow by 4% in the next decade.
Top firms like Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG—known as the "Big Four"—offer excellent career opportunities. Entry-level accounting graduates at these firms earn around $85,000 annually.
According to Payscale, the average salary for accountants is $77,000 annually. CPAs can earn even more, with average salaries reaching $100,000 or higher.
Based on the latest information from the US News, here are the top universities in the US to study Accounting:
The McCombs School of Business at UT Austin consistently ranks as the 1st undergraduate accounting program and one of the best universities for accounting. The school offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting.
McCombs graduates are highly sought after. They have a high placement rate at Big Four accounting firms like Deloitte and PwC. The Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) program is one of the oldest and most prestigious.
Ranked as the 2nd undergraduate accounting program by U.S. News & World Report 2024, Gies College of Business has built a reputation for producing skilled accountants. The accounting department offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs, catering to diverse career goals.
The Master of Accounting Science (MAS) program is particularly popular. Gies also collaborates with top firms to provide hands-on learning experiences, including internships.
The Marriott School of Business is ranked 3rd for undergraduate accounting. It has the best undergraduate accounting programs. BYU’s accounting program attracts students who prefer both technical and moral leadership in their careers.
The school offers Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in accounting and has one of the highest CPA pass rates in the country. Located in Provo, Utah, it provides a student-friendly atmosphere and affordable tuition compared to many other top schools.
The Kelley School of Business is currently ranked 4th in undergraduate accounting. Kelley’s accounting program offers comprehensive financial reporting, auditing, and taxation training. It also has options for specialising in forensic accounting and corporate finance.
The 3/2 MBA Program is a unique feature of this school. It allows students to earn both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in just five years. Kelley graduates have excellent job placement rates, and the school has a strong alumni network.
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is a globally recognized institution for business education. U.S. News Report ranks its accounting program among the top 10 in the U.S.
Wharton offers a range of accounting-focused degrees. Its faculty are pioneers in accounting research. Most of its graduates pursue careers in prestigious organizations, investment banks, and consulting firms.
Another top accounting school is the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. It consistently ranks among the top accounting programs. Its undergraduate accounting program is highly regarded for its quality.
Ross offers Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in accounting. The Master of Accounting (MAcc) program is particularly famous. Graduates often land jobs at Big Four firms and major corporations. Ross boasts strong ties with recruiters. The proximity to major business hubs also benefits students.
The Marshall School of Business at USC ranks among the top 10 accounting programs and the best accounting schools in California. Marshall offers degrees such as a Bachelor’s in Accounting, a Master of Accounting (MAcc), and a PhD in Accounting.
The school emphasizes practical learning. USC’s Master of Accounting (MAcc) program is particularly attractive for international students. Located in LA, students can access an active job market and global firms. Additionally, Marshall’s alumni network is one of the strongest in the country.
Another leading school in accounting in the US is the Mendoza College of Business. The undergraduate program is consistently ranked among the top 10.
Mendoza offers Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Accountancy. Both programs focus on ethical practices and leadership skills. This university’s Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program has a high CPA pass rate, making it a preferred choice for those who aim to excel professionally.
Warrington College of Business is another top destination for accounting education. Its accounting programs are consistently ranked among the best in the US. The school offers a variety of programs, including Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs in accounting.
The MAcc program provides students with a thorough understanding of financial reporting, taxation, and auditing. The school is also well-known for its CPA exam preparation courses, which can contribute to high pass rates among graduates. Graduates from Warrington often pursue careers with global accounting firms.
The Kenan-Flagler Business School at UNC-Chapel Hill is renowned for its strong accounting programs. It ranks among the top accounting schools and offers programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels.
Kenan-Flagler’s Master of Accounting (MAC) program is very popular for its flexibility. The program covers essential areas like financial reporting, taxation, and forensic accounting.
Accounting is a versatile field with various degree options. These degrees help students gain the knowledge and skills needed for successful careers. Let’s look at the main accounting programs offered in the U.S.
A Bachelor’s in Accounting is an entry-level degree. It typically takes four years to complete. Students learn the basics of accounting, financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
This degree prepares students for roles such as staff accountants, auditors, and tax associates. It is also the first step for those planning to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). Some programs may even include internships.
According to BLS data, accountants with a bachelor’s degree earn a median salary of $79,880 annually.
A Master’s in Accounting is an advanced program that usually takes one to two years. It focuses on topics like advanced auditing, managerial accounting, and ethics.
Many students pursue this degree to meet the 150-credit-hour requirement for the CPA exam. Graduates often secure senior-level roles like financial analysts, tax managers, or auditors. Previous records say Big Four accounting firms often hire graduates from these programs.
A PhD in Accounting is ideal for those interested in research or teaching. This degree usually takes four to five years. It focuses on accounting theory, quantitative research, and policy analysis. Graduates often work as professors or researchers in universities.
Becoming a CPA is a major goal for many accounting students. The CPA qualification requires passing a rigorous exam. The exam has four sections:
To apply to most accounting programs, you will need to meet certain criteria:
When applying to accounting programs, you will need to submit various documents:
Graduating with an accounting degree from a top U.S. university opens many career paths. The US has one of the largest job markets for accountants globally. Here are some top career opportunities and what you can expect after earning your degree.
An accounting degree provides access to various job positions. Some of the most common roles include:
Accounting graduates can expect solid earning potential. According to US News, the top 25% of accountants made $103,990 annually, while the lowest 25% earned $62,720.
Here is a more detailed overview of average salaries based on specific roles:
A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a licensed accounting professional who offers tax preparation, auditing, and financial reporting services. They hold a prestigious credential in accounting.
Becoming a CPA shows a high level of expertise and trust. Many businesses and clients prefer hiring CPAs for complex financial tasks. CPAs also provide advice on financial management and tax planning.
To become a CPA, you need to pass the CPA exam. The requirements to sit for the exam are:
You can register for the exam through your state’s Board of Accountancy if you meet these requirements.
Studying accounting in the USA is a great choice for those looking to pursue a rewarding career. The country offers top-tier universities with globally recognized programs. If you decide to study accounting in USA, you’ll gain access to excellent career prospects. With many jobs available in top firms and corporations, you’ll have the chance to work with the best. The USA can be the perfect place to kickstart your accounting journey!
February 05 2025
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