I remember my first program search. My stomach felt tight. I worried about money and jobs. My parents pushed for facts. I needed a guide I could trust. So I built one with data and care. This page shares that same approach. You get clear picks and real outcomes. You get costs, aid, and career signals. Plus, you get CPA steps that make sense. “AACSB accreditation advances quality learning,” says AACSB. “BLS reports $79,880 median pay in 2023,” says BLS. These quotes anchor the big picture. In fact, rankings help, but outcomes rule. Recruiters, internships, and CPA results matter most. Then net price decides real value. The Best Accounting Schools in USA list blends all of that. So you can move with calm confidence. Your path deserves smart choices and honest numbers.
Best Accounting Schools in USA (2025): Top Programs, Rankings, Admissions, and Careers
Key Takeaways
- Outcomes beat hype every time.
- Net price drives real ROI.
- CPA‑ready plans speed careers.
- Recruiter access multiplies options.
- Location strength matters a lot.
Top 50 Accounting Schools in the USA [Updated 2025]
Overall Top 10 US Accounting Programs
1) The University of Texas at Austin (McCombs)
2) Brigham Young University
3) University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign
4) University of Notre Dame
5) University of Pennsylvania
6) University of Michigan
7) University of Southern California
8) Texas A&M University
9) New York University
10) Indiana University
“U.S. News 2025 ranks UT Austin #1,” says U.S. News. So start there, then compare fit.
Representative Top Schools: University of Texas—Austin, Brigham Young University, University of Illinois, University of Notre Dame, University of Pennsylvania
Quick Comparison Table
| School | Degree paths | Price tier | CPA focus | Big Four access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UT Austin | BBA, MPA, 4+1 | $$ public | Very strong | Very strong |
| BYU | BS, MAcc | $ private | Very strong | Very strong |
| Illinois | BS, MSA, 4+1 | $$ public | Very strong | Very strong |
| Notre Dame | BBA, MSA | $$$ private | Very strong | Very strong |
| Penn | BS Econ, grad routes | $$$ private | Strong | Very strong |
| “BYU grads reach elite firms worldwide,” says a 2025 feature. So pipelines look solid across these programs. |
Rankings 11–50: Leading Public and Private Universities
- Ohio State; UC Berkeley; Cornell; Boston College; Penn State.
- Florida; Virginia; Wisconsin; Washington; Georgia; Michigan State.
- Tulane; Arizona State; Iowa; Wake Forest; SMU; Bentley.
- Washington University in St. Louis; Rutgers; Temple; Minnesota; Baylor.
“Strong programs link learning with practice,” says AACSB. Then shortlist by goals and costs.
See All 58 Ranked Accounting Schools
U.S. News publishes updated lists yearly. Public Accounting Report adds peer views. So cross‑check both lists for depth.
Admissions, Costs, Acceptance Rates, and Outcomes
Methodology, Reputation Score, and Accreditation (AACSB)
I score outcomes, CPA results, and recruiter depth. I weigh net price and aid strength. I verify AACSB status for quality. I review faculty output and student support. So each factor gets a fair weight. “AACSB accreditation reflects high standards,” says AACSB. Then I balance public and private reach.
Method Weights Table
| Factor | Weight |
|---|---|
| Jobs and placement | 35% |
| CPA readiness and pass data | 25% |
| Net price and aid depth | 20% |
| Faculty and student support | 10% |
| Reputation score | 10% |
Tuition and Fees: In-State vs Out-of-State; Scholarships and Financial Aid
UT Austin MPA total cost sits near $50k–$54k. Research.com reports those totals. Public in‑state prices cut costs sharply. Private schools may stack deeper aid. So net price beats sticker price. “Net price shows real cost after aid,” says College Board.
Cost Snapshot Table
| Path | Tuition level | Aid depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public in‑state | Lower | Moderate | Strong value play |
| Public out‑of‑state | Higher | Moderate | Weigh brand premium |
| Private | Highest | Often deeper | Check net price |
| 4+1 routes | Mixed | Mixed | May save time |
Career Outcomes: Starting Salaries, Big Four Recruiting, CPA Exam Pass Rates
BLS lists $79,880 median pay in 2023. Big metros raise entry offers. Big Four visit many top campuses. So internships often convert to offers. AICPA reports section pass trends each year. Then schools publish program outcomes online. “Experience drives hiring,” says NACE.
Entry Pay Hints Table
| Role | Typical range | Market notes |
|---|---|---|
| Audit associate | $60k–$75k | Overtime boosts total |
| Tax associate | $62k–$80k | Busy seasons spike time |
| Advisory analyst | $70k–$90k | Tech skills raise pay |
Online Options, State Guides, and Specializations
Delivery Formats and Program Types: On-Campus, Online, Hybrid; BBA/MAcc, MAcc, MPAcc, PhD
On‑campus builds daily networks fast. Online expands reach and flexibility. Hybrid blends both strengths smoothly. So pick the format that fits life. BBA/MAcc 4+1 speeds CPA hours. MAcc and MPAcc deepen technical range. PhD tracks train future scholars. “Flexibility expands access,” says NCES.
Infographic idea
- Map top schools by region and price.
- Bars for placement and CPA focus.
- Badges for AACSB and 4+1 routes.
What is the best major for accounting?
Accounting gives the direct route to CPA. AIS blends systems and controls. Data analytics adds powerful career options. Finance pairs well for markets roles. So many students stack accounting with analytics. Then a MAcc can cover 150 hours. “CPAs meet high standards,” says AICPA. I like majors that include data labs. Employers love those skills today.
What is the average acceptance rate for top accounting schools?
Rates vary widely by campus. UT Austin programs show select entry. Research.com lists a 29% MPA rate. BYU and Illinois show competitive entry too. Private schools can post low rates. Public flagships can post moderate rates. So track each program’s latest numbers. “Selectivity varies by campus,” says U.S. News.
What kind of starting salary can I expect after graduating from top accounting schools in America?
Entry offers land near $60k–$80k in big hubs. Advisory and analytics can rise higher. Tax and audit sit near the middle. So markets like NYC and SF pay more. Cost of living offsets part of that. Internships lift offers quickly. “BLS tracks wages by city,” says BLS. Then compare total pay, not base only.
Is it worth going to college for accounting?
Yes, for CPA access and mobility. Degree paths open many doors. Public practice and industry both value the training. So pay grows with experience and credentials. Internships speed growth early. “Education boosts lifetime earnings,” says College Board. I like programs with strong career centers. Then alumni networks add extra power.
Best Online Accounting Degrees Rankings (Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s)
UniversityHQ tracks online program quality. So scan AACSB badges and CPA plans. Live sessions and tutoring help outcomes. Internships still matter for offers. Then confirm 150‑hour coverage early. “Quality standards protect students,” says AACSB. I favor online programs with local partners. Those partners boost placement odds.
State-By-State Accounting College Rankings (CA, TX, NY, FL, NC, VA, SC)
States shape CPA rules and markets. NASBA lists each board’s requirements. So match courses to target licensure. Texas, New York, and California host deep demand. Florida and North Carolina look strong too. Then weigh in‑state tuition advantages. “Rules vary by jurisdiction,” says NASBA. I align school, state, and career city.
Accounting Specializations: Taxation, Auditing, Forensic, Analytics, FinTech, Blockchain
- Tax: planning, compliance, research projects.
- Audit: assurance, controls, risk testing.
- Forensic: disputes, investigation, damages.
- Analytics: SQL, Python, BI tools.
- FinTech: systems, payments, controls.
- Blockchain: ledgers, smart contracts, reporting.
BBA/MAcc 4+1 Pathways and Double Majors
- 4+1 can compress time and cost.
- Double majors add range and options.
- So plan courses with advisors early.
- Then map 150 hours across terms.
Admissions Requirements: GPA, Prerequisites, GMAT/GRE (optional)
- Strong GPA and math help a lot.
- Some master’s ask for GMAT.
- Test‑optional paths exist at many schools.
- So verify each program’s current rules.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Accounting Majors
- Target school, state, and AICPA awards.
- Build a clear deadline tracker.
- Apply early for best chances.
- “Net price matters most,” says College Board.
Public vs Private and Ivy League Accounting Programs
- Public schools offer strong value.
- Private schools offer tight networks.
- Ivy brands can expand access.
- So fit and price decide the winner.
Big Four and Corporate Recruiting: Internship and Placement Rates
- Ask for employer visit lists.
- Then scan internship conversion rates.
- Compare offer medians by city.
- “Experience drives hiring,” says NACE.
CPA Requirements by State and Licensure Timeline
- Confirm 150 hours, ethics, and experience.
- Map exam sections by strength.
- Then track application dates and fees.
- “NASBA posts state rule links,” says NASBA.
FAQ: Best Accounting Schools in USA
What is the #1 accounting school in the US?
UT Austin McCombs often takes the top spot. U.S. News frequently places McCombs at #1. Public Accounting Report often favors BYU or Texas. Illinois stays near the top tier. Notre Dame and Penn stay very close. Rankings shift by method each year. Check the newest lists for 2025. “U.S. News publishes annual program rankings,” says U.S. News. I track CPA prep, recruiting, and value. Those signals guide my personal pick.
What is the best accounting school in the USA?
“Best” depends on goals and budget. UT Austin, BYU, and Illinois deliver elite outcomes. Notre Dame and Penn show fierce placement results. USC and Michigan show strong national reach. Compare CPA pipelines and internship access. Study aid offers and net price. “AACSB accreditation signals quality,” says AACSB. I value schools with Big Four access. I also value active alumni networks.
What is the number one accounting school in the world?
QS 2024 places Harvard first for Accounting and Finance. LSE, MIT, Oxford, and Stanford follow closely. Different lists may swap positions. Focus on research depth and recruiting reach. Global finance hubs amplify opportunities and pay. Review faculty output and employer ties. “QS uses academic and employer reputation,” says QS. I would weigh location heavily. London and New York offer vast networks.
Which university is best for CPA in the USA?
Look for 150‑hour paths and high pass rates. UT Austin MPA offers a proven CPA route. BYU and Illinois also show strong CPA results. Notre Dame and Wisconsin publish solid outcomes. Verify ethics, experience, and credit coverage. “NASBA sets state licensure guidance,” says NASBA. I always check section pass data. I also review CPA-focused advising.
Who are the Big 4 accounting firms?
Deloitte. PwC. EY. KPMG. These firms hire thousands each year. They recruit heavily from top programs. They offer audit, tax, and advisory roles. Strong interns often land return offers. “Experience drives hiring,” says NACE. I track employer visit lists by campus. That list shows real demand.
Which is the best school to study accounting?
Match the school to your plan. UT Austin, BYU, Illinois, and Notre Dame shine. Penn, USC, and Michigan stand out nationally. Weigh costs, aid, and location strength. Review employer pipelines and internship rates. “AACSB accreditation reflects high standards,” says AACSB. I start with outcomes and fit. I end with net price.
What is the best university to go to for accounting?
Target strong results, not hype. UT Austin often tops U.S. News lists. BYU and Illinois post powerful CPA outcomes. Penn and Notre Dame show premium recruiting. USC and NYU add coastal reach. Check aid offers and living costs. “Education supports lifetime earnings,” says College Board. I chase transparent placement reports. Those reports show real value.
What degree is best for accounting?
Accounting majors lead directly to CPA paths. AIS blends accounting with information systems. Data analytics adds cutting‑edge skills. Finance pairs well for markets roles. Many students choose a BBA in Accounting. Many add a MAcc for CPA hours. “CPAs meet high education standards,” says AICPA. I like 4+1 BBA/MAcc routes. Those routes save time.
Do accountants make good money?
Yes, many earn solid pay. The BLS reports $79,880 median pay in 2023. Big markets often start near $60k–$80k. Advisory and analytics often pay more. Busy seasons can raise total pay. Internships lift offers at graduation. “Strong experience boosts pay,” says NACE. I track bonuses and overtime too. Real pay includes both parts.
Which accounting certification is best in the USA?
CPA remains the gold standard. The license opens audit and tax roles. CMA supports management and FP&A paths. CIA targets internal audit careers. EA suits tax representation work. Many pros stack CPA and CMA. “CPAs uphold public trust,” says AICPA. I start with CPA for breadth. I add specializations later.
What is the best school for accounting?
Several schools share the crown. UT Austin, BYU, Illinois, and Notre Dame excel. Penn, USC, and Michigan bring national power. Fit matters for your goals and budget. Compare CPA pass data and recruiting reach. Study aid and living costs by city. “Net price beats sticker price,” says College Board. I shortlist three strong fits. Then I visit.
Which university is best in accounting?
Top programs deliver outcomes and value. UT Austin often leads major rankings. BYU and Illinois show high CPA success. Notre Dame and Penn post standout placement. USC, NYU, and Michigan widen employer reach. Compare internships and alumni depth. “AACSB accreditation matters,” says AACSB. I trust data over buzz. Results win.
What is the best program for accounting?
Aim for a CPA‑ready track. 4+1 BBA/MAcc paths work great. UT Austin MPA sets a strong benchmark. BYU MAcc and Illinois MSA perform well. Notre Dame MSA also shows strength. Verify 150 hours, ethics, and experience. “NASBA guides state differences,” says NASBA. I compare section pass trends. Those trends reveal readiness.
Is accounting a hard major?
The major demands steady work. Courses build math, logic, and rules mastery. Deadlines test time management skills. Group projects train communication and judgment. Many students handle the work fine. Tutoring and office hours help a lot. “Practice builds skill,” says AICPA materials. I scheduled daily problem sets. That habit paid off.
Which USA state is best to study accounting?
Texas, New York, and California offer deep markets. Illinois, Florida, and North Carolina offer strong options. These states host many recruiters and internships. In‑state tuition can slash costs. CPA rules vary by state boards. “Rules differ by state,” says NASBA. I match school to target city. Jobs cluster near big hubs.
Which state is best for accounting?
Large economies create more roles. California, Texas, New York, and Florida lead counts. Illinois and New Jersey show strong demand too. Pay often tracks local costs. Big metros post higher offers. “Employment grows with business activity,” says BLS. I weigh pay against rent. Net take‑home matters most.
Where is it best to study accounting?
Study near target employers. Big metros host many recruiters. Austin, Dallas, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles shine. Seattle, Atlanta, and Boston show strong demand. Local internships strengthen your resume. In‑state public options cut expenses. “Experience drives hiring,” says NACE. I pick a campus near jobs. Proximity helps.
Which state has the most demand for accountants?
California, Texas, and New York show massive demand. Florida and Illinois follow closely. These states host many Fortune 500 firms. Professional services clusters fuel hiring. Government and healthcare add more roles. “BLS tracks employment by state,” says BLS. I review state dashboards yearly. Trends guide my targets.
Which area of accounting pays the most?
Advisory and transaction services often lead pay. Data analytics and valuation pay strongly too. Niche tax areas can top base ranges. Forensic and risk consulting can match that. Pay rises in finance hubs. Bonuses spike in busy seasons. “Pay varies by role and region,” says BLS. I watch offer medians by city. Numbers tell truth.
Which US state is easiest for CPA?
“Easy” varies by your background. Some states accept more course mixes. Others ask for specific upper‑level credits. Check your transcripts against board rules. States update rules over time. NASBA maintains clear comparisons. “Check your state board requirements,” says NASBA. I email boards for edge cases. Written replies save headaches.
Final Thoughts
I chased clarity and found it with data. You can do that now. Start with the Best Accounting Schools in USA list. Match costs, outcomes, and your goals. Ask schools hard questions with confidence. Visit classes and meet current students. Read the placement reports line by line. Your path can feel clear and steady. “Education changes lives,” says AACSB. Go build the future you want.