Accounting is a highly respected and lucrative profession, and choosing the right school is crucial for those aspiring to become Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). The United States offers some of the best accounting programs globally, known for their rigorous curriculum, top-tier faculty, and excellent job placement rates. In this guide, we will highlight the top accounting schools in the USA, covering key details such as program offerings, tuition fees, scholarships, and more to help you find the best fit for your CPA journey.
1. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania offers one of the best accounting programs in the world. Wharton is renowned for its strong focus on research, innovation, and real-world application, offering students access to a vast network of alumni and career opportunities. The accounting program prepares students not only for the CPA exam but also for leadership roles in finance, consulting, and corporate accounting.
The program integrates accounting theory with practical skills, and students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentoring, and internship opportunities. Wharton also offers various scholarships, making it an attractive option for international students.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania |
| Founded | 1881 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 8.4% |
| Students | Over 20,000 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Business, Economics |
| Famous Alumni | Donald Trump, Anil Kumar |
| Tuition | About $75,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 6:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 96% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Wharton School |
2. University of Chicago (Booth School of Business)
The Booth School of Business at the University of Chicago offers a top-tier accounting program focused on analytical and quantitative skills, which are crucial for modern accounting and finance professionals. Chicago Booth provides students with a solid foundation in accounting principles, financial analysis, and business strategy, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the CPA exam and subsequent careers in the field.
Students can take advantage of the school’s extensive global network and career services, making it easier to land high-paying jobs in top accounting firms. The university also offers a variety of scholarships for both domestic and international students.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Founded | 1898 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 20% |
| Students | Around 8,000 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Business, Economics |
| Famous Alumni | Satya Nadella, John Paulson |
| Tuition | About $70,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 6:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 94% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Booth School of Business |
3. University of California, Berkeley (Haas School of Business)
UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business is one of the top accounting schools in the USA, known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on leadership, ethics, and global business. The accounting program at Haas prepares students for a variety of accounting roles, including CPA, corporate finance, and management positions.
The school’s close ties with leading tech companies in Silicon Valley and top accounting firms provide students with numerous internship and job opportunities. The tuition fees are on the higher end, but Haas offers robust financial aid programs and scholarships to make education more accessible.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Berkeley, California |
| Founded | 1898 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 12.5% |
| Students | Around 2,500 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Business, Marketing |
| Famous Alumni | Steve Wozniak, David Teece |
| Tuition | About $65,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 8:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 91% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Haas School of Business |
4. New York University (Stern School of Business)
NYU Stern is one of the top business schools in the world, offering a highly regarded accounting program that prepares students for CPA exams and beyond. Stern’s accounting faculty is composed of leading experts in the field, and students have access to a wide range of resources, including career counseling, internships, and networking opportunities with major accounting firms and financial institutions in New York City.
The university is located in one of the world’s major financial hubs, offering unparalleled access to internships and full-time jobs in accounting and finance. NYU Stern also offers a variety of merit-based scholarships to help students finance their education.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | New York City, New York |
| Founded | 1831 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 17% |
| Students | Over 3,000 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Business, Marketing |
| Famous Alumni | Martin Scorsese, Ken Langone |
| Tuition | About $75,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 9:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 92% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Stern School of Business |
5. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor (Ross School of Business)
The Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan is well-known for its high-quality accounting program, which focuses on both technical accounting skills and business management. Michigan Ross offers an integrated approach to accounting, combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the field of finance and consulting.
Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and a close-knit alumni network that opens doors to prestigious firms. Michigan Ross also offers various scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Ann Arbor, Michigan |
| Founded | 1924 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 23% |
| Students | Around 2,800 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Business |
| Famous Alumni | Larry Page, Steve Ballmer |
| Tuition | About $65,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 5:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 93% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Ross School of Business |
6. Columbia University (New York City, NY)
Columbia University’s business school offers a competitive accounting program that focuses on both the practical and theoretical aspects of accounting and finance. With access to global networks, internships in top accounting firms, and a prestigious location in New York City, Columbia’s program is one of the best for future CPAs. The faculty is renowned for its expertise, and the alumni network is extensive, offering students excellent career prospects.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | New York City, New York |
| Founded | 1754 |
| Acceptance Rate | About 5.8% |
| Students | Over 8,000 |
| Programs | Accounting, Finance, Economics |
| Famous Alumni | Barack Obama, Henry Kissinger |
| Tuition | About $78,000 per year (plus housing & fees) |
| Class Size | 6:1 student-faculty ratio |
| Career Success | 92% employed or in grad school within 6 months |
| Website | Columbia University |
Conclusion
Choosing the right university is one of the most significant decisions aspiring CPAs will make. The schools listed above offer world-class accounting programs that not only prepare students for the CPA exam but also provide the resources and opportunities needed to excel in the competitive world of accounting and finance. Whether you prefer the analytical rigor of the University of Chicago or the networking advantages of NYU Stern, these universities equip students with the knowledge, skills, and networks to succeed.
FAQs
1. What is the typical cost of attending an accounting program in the USA?
The cost of attending an accounting program at top schools typically ranges from $50,000 to $75,000 per year, depending on the school and living expenses.
2. Are scholarships available for international students in accounting programs?
Yes, many top universities offer merit-based scholarships and financial aid for international students pursuing accounting degrees. Be sure to check each university’s website for specific opportunities.
3. What is the average starting salary for graduates of top accounting schools?
Graduates of top accounting programs typically earn starting salaries ranging from $55,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on their location and the firm they join.
4. How long does it take to complete an accounting program and become a CPA?
Most accounting programs take 4 years to complete for a bachelor’s degree. After graduation, students can take the CPA exam, which may require an additional 1-2 years of preparation, depending on state requirements.
5. What is the job outlook for accounting professionals in the USA?
The job outlook for accountants is strong, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 6% growth rate in accounting jobs from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than the average for all occupations.