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Top 10 Best PhD in Accounting Programs

Accounting is an abstract subject dealing with numbers and calculations. Personal finance requires strong attention to detail — imagine the meticulousness necessary to achieve a PhD in accounting! Prepare for a few years of mathematical and statistical study, and toning your analytical skills. The program offers a bright future, opening vast career possibilities  and excellent job prospects.

A booming field, accounting roles for financial managers are estimated to grow by 17%  from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This represents a much higher growth rate than the average for all professions.

Let’s explore the best accounting PhD programs so you can prepare for the next step in your finance career!

Table of Contents

Best PhD in Accounting Programs

The university of texas at austin, mccombs school of business.

PhD in Accounting

The University of Texas at Austin was ranked number one in the country for Accounting PhD programs by the US World & News Public Accounting Report . The University’s McCombs School offers one of the top accounting doctoral programs that welcomes students with diverse disciplines such as economics, mathematics , finance, and engineering.

• Specializations: Financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation.
• Duration : 5 years
• Delivery : On-campus
• Tuition : $1,000 per credit
• Financial aid:  Grants, loans, assistantships, and fellowships
• Acceptance rate : 32%
• Location : Austin, TX

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Gies College of Business

PhD in Accountancy

The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign is renowned for its top-notch accounting faculty, boasting a high accounting PhD programs ranking by the BYU Accounting Faculty Research Rankings . Out of all the best PhD accounting programs, this one emphasizes productivity and results the most while valuing quality student placements to give you real-world work experience.

• Courses : Mathematical statistics, probability theory, and constructs in accounting research.
• Credits : 96
• Tuition : $652 per credit
• Financial aid : Fellowships, teaching/research assistantships, and tuition waivers
• Acceptance rate : 63.3%
• Location : Champaign, IL

Stanford University, Graduate School of Business

Stanford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with 19 institutes encouraging interdisciplinary learning and a $1.69 billion  sponsored research budget. It offers one of the country’s top accounting PhD programs, emphasizing both empirical and analytical research. Moreover, its balanced curriculum gives equal importance to coursework, research, and teaching.

• Courses : Financial reporting & management control, empirical accounting research, and microeconomic analysis.
• Duration : 4-5 years
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid:  Grants, scholarships, fellowships, and research/teaching assistantships
• Acceptance rate: 5.2%
• Location : Stanford, CA

New York University, Leonard N. Stern School of Business

The Stern School of Business of NYU offers one of the world’s most well-known accounting doctorate programs. The program allows students to study with other schools within the university along with Stern.

• Courses : Empirical research in financial accounting, microeconomic theory, and regression & multivariate analysis.
• Duration : 4 years
• Financial aid:  Fellowships and research/teaching assistantships
• Acceptance rate:  21.1%
• Location : New York City, NY

University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School

The University of Pennsylvania and Wharton School are world-renowned names in education. The school’s PhD in accounting program allows students to study with neighboring departments to gain exposure to other fields and innovative ideas from a wide range of disciplines.

• Courses : Empirical design in accounting research and advanced statistical inference.
• Course units:  16
• Financial aid : Full fellowships
• Acceptance rate : 9%
• Location : Philadelphia, PA

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Stephen M. Ross School of Business

The University of Michigan is a prestigious higher learning institution and one of the best public schools in the country. Its PhD in accounting program encourages extensive collaboration between students and faculty in combined research opportunities.

• Courses : Contemporary accounting issues, pre-candidacy dissertation, and candidacy dissertation.
• Financial aid:  Full funding and graduate assistantships
• Acceptance rate:  26%
• Location : Ann Arbor, MI

Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management

PhD Accounting Information & Management

Northwestern University’s Kellogg School is one of the oldest business schools in the world and has made major contributions to business, management, and marketing fields. It offers an information-focused accounting doctorate program with research scope for subjects like information intermediaries in capital markets, properties, and transformations in the information environment of companies.

• Courses : Research in accounting theory, empirical research in accounting, and special topics in empirical accounting research.
• Duration : 5.5 years
• Tuition : $13,085 per quarter
• Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, and teaching/research assistantships
• Acceptance rate:  9.3%
• Location : Evanston, IL

The University of Chicago, Booth School of Business

The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business is known for its eminent faculty delivering groundbreaking research in accounting. This PhD offers doctoral candidates the freedom to explore their own research interests. They also get the opportunity to perform collaborative scholarly work with faculty members.

• Tuition : $66,096 per three quarters ($32,400 for fifth year)
• Financial aid : Grants, teaching/research assistantships, and fellowships
• Acceptance rate:  7.3%
• Location : Chicago, IL

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Kenan Flagler Business School

UNC at Chapel Hill is the flagship university of the University of North Carolina system. It’s known as a Public Ivy school, offering a high-quality curriculum taught by renowned faculty. UNC’s Kenan Flagler Business School is world-famous, supporting research in international accounting, accounting information in capital markets, and accounting standard-setting.

• Courses : Empirical accounting research, managerial accounting, and tax research.
• Credits : 48-61
• Financial aid:  Teaching fellowship, research/teaching assistantships, and tuition waivers
• Acceptance rate:  25%
• Location : Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The University of Mississippi, Patterson School of Accountancy

The University of Mississippi’s Patterson School is entirely dedicated to accounting studies. Its PhD in accounting program aims to develop scholars with a strong foundation in the historical background of accounting and expert research skills.

• Courses : Contemporary accounting theory, and financial accounting, auditing & accounting information systems research.
• Credits : 77
• Tuition : $504 per credit hour
• Financial aid:  Scholarships, fellowships
• Acceptance rate:  88%
• Location : University, Mississippi

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Accounting?

Generally, you only need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related discipline to apply for a PhD program in accounting. Very few programs require a master’s qualification.

The exact requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll usually need to submit the following to the selection committee:

• GRE or GMAT scores
• Undergraduate transcripts
• Personal essay or research proposal
• Recommendation letters
• Academic resume

Always check specific program requirements for colleges you’re interested in, and contact academic advisors in advance to verify. The top accounting PhD programs can be pretty competitive, so it’s best to carve out ample time to prepare a solid application!

Preparing for an Accounting Doctorate Program

Besides accounting, your PhD program will cover in-depth study of other subjects like economics and statistics. Our advice? Do some background preparation on these subjects, either through self-study or a foundational course.

Additionally, you should prepare yourself for serious research. Unlike undergraduate research, which typically aims to summarize existing knowledge, the goal of a PhD is to make new discoveries. Finally, you should brush up on your teaching skills because your PhD will likely involve giving seminars or tutoring undergraduate students.

Things to Consider When Choosing an Accounting PhD Program

Choosing an accounting PhD program is an individual decision. The right choice depends on various factors that can differ widely depending on the person.

However, here are a few factors that are relevant to practically everyone:

• Budget – What is the cost of tuition and other fees? What financial aid is available?
• Specializations   – What disciplines are offered under the program, and what are the faculty’s areas of expertise? How do these match your passions and career goals?
• Program reputation – Is the school well-known? What accreditations does it have?
• Delivery method  – Is the program offered on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format?
• Location – If you need to attend classes in person, even occasionally, how easy is it for you to get to campus?

Why Get a Doctorate in Accounting?

If you’re proficient with analytical and mathematical skills, a PhD in accounting can help you secure some of the highest-paying jobs in finance and economics. In these roles, you’ll apply the theoretical concepts you studied during your doctorate to solve real market problems, or transfer your knowledge to the next generation by teaching.

Jobs and Salaries for Doctors of Accounting

A doctorate in accounting can qualify you for a range of exciting and high-level roles in the finance sector.

Here are just some of the roles you’ll be eligible for once you’ve completed your PhD in Accounting, with the median annual salary for each:

• Associate Professor in Accounting ( $80,799 )
• Financial Manager ( $95,518 )
• Finance Director ( $115,603 )
• Analyst/Advisor ( $62,924 )
• Senior Financial Analyst ( $83,091 )

For more on job opportunities in the sector, take a look at our guide to the top 10 best jobs for MBA graduates .

What is the Average Cost of PhD Accounting Programs?

The cost of a PhD in accounting can vary greatly depending on the program and school. Remember, the total cost includes not only tuition, but also living expenses, fees and other study expenses.

Generally, prestigious private universities cost more, while public universities offer lower tuition and fees. Additionally, state residents pay less tuition and fees for state universities than non-resident students. Considering all these factors, the total cost for a doctorate in accounting could be anything from around  $10,000 to $70,000 per year.

Wrapping Up

A PhD in accounting will qualify you for some of the best job opportunities in the business and commercial world today. Alternatively, after graduation you could pursue a career in higher education, either in research or as a professor. With experts predicting an increase in accounting job opportunities in the sector in the coming years, the future looks bright for graduates with a doctorate in accounting.

For more on the best courses in finance and accounting, take a look at our guides to the best Master’s in Accounting , the best online MBA Programs , and the top 20 online PhD programs in 2022 .

What Does a PhD in Accounting Do?

With a PhD in accounting, you can work as a professor, consultant, financial manager, analyst, researcher, or one of many high-level jobs in the accounting field.

Can You Get a Doctorate in Accounting?

Yes. Many universities offer doctorate in accounting programs. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria (usually an undergraduate degree in a related field) and present a strong application, you can start your doctorate in accounting.

How Hard is a PhD in Accounting?

Like with any PhD, you need to have a high level of dedication, self-discipline and the ability to conduct strong research to earn a doctorate in accounting. You will also need to demonstrate strong writing, analytical, and presentation skills.

Can an Accountant Have a PhD?

You don’t need a PhD to work as an accountant. Depending on the role, most accountants either have a bachelor’s or a master’s in accounting . However, an accountant who wants to further their career or research in academia may choose to get a PhD in the field.

Do You Need a PhD to Teach Accounting?

A PhD is not typically required to teach accounting in certain settings, such as a community college. However, if you have one, you’ll have a lot more teaching options, including more lucrative positions at universities.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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Our doctoral program in the accounting field offers broadly based, interdisciplinary training that develops the student’s skills in conducting both analytical and empirical research.

Emphasis is placed on developing a conceptual framework and set of skills for addressing questions broadly related to accounting information. While issues of financial reporting, managerial accounting, corporate governance and taxation are the ultimate concern, special emphasis is given to applying basic knowledge of economics, decision theory, and statistical inference to accounting issues.

Spectrum of Interests and Research Methods

Faculty research represents a broad spectrum of interests and research methods:

• Empirical and analytical research on the relation between accounting information and capital market behavior examines the characteristics of accounting amounts, the effect of accounting disclosures on the capital market, the role of analysts as information intermediaries, and the effects of management discretion. Issues examined also include the impact of financial information on stock and option prices, earnings response coefficients, market microstructure, earnings management, voluntary disclosures, and the effect of changes in accounting standards and disclosure requirements.
• Problems of information asymmetries among management, investors, and others are currently under study. This research investigates, analytically and empirically, the structure of incentive systems and monitoring systems under conditions of information asymmetry. Research on moral hazard, adverse selection, risk sharing, and signaling is incorporated into this work.
• Other ongoing projects include research on the economic effects of auditing and regulation of accounting information, and analysis of tax-induced incentive problems in organizations.
• Additional topics of faculty interest include analytical and empirical research on productivity measurement, accounting for quality, activity-based costing for operations and marketing, and strategic costing and pricing.

Preparation and Qualifications

It is desirable for students to have a solid understanding of applied microeconomic theory, econometrics and mathematics (linear algebra, real analysis, optimization, probability theory) prior to the start of the program. Adequate computer programming skills (e.g. Matlab, SAS, STAT, Python) are necessary in coursework. A traditional accounting background such as CPA is not required.

Faculty in Accounting

Christopher s. armstrong, jung ho choi, george foster, brandon gipper, ron kasznik, john d. kepler, jinhwan kim, rebecca lester, iván marinovic, maureen mcnichols, joseph d. piotroski, kevin smith, emeriti faculty, mary e. barth, william h. beaver, david f. larcker, charles m. c. lee, stefan j. reichelstein, recent publications in accounting, fraudulent financial reporting and the consequences for employees, corporate carbon accounting: balance sheets and flow statements, firm boundaries and voluntary disclosure, recent insights by stanford business, your company is on a high-growth list it may not be there next year., how corporate “diversity washers” spin investors, new data on the quality of esg audits catches regulators’ attention.

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PhD in Accounting: Help Fill a Shortage of Accountant Professors

You may not have known there is a doctoral-level degree in accounting. However, there are doctoral degrees in most fields, giving you the option to pursue the highest possible degree level in your academic area of study, including a PhD in Accounting. Accounting is a complex field that is often offered as a major or an area of focus in business school. Most students who pursue a Master’s Degrere in Accounting are already accountants with experience in public accounting and research. They may also be experienced business professionals with a master’s degree in the business world, such as a master of business administration (MBA). 

This is a competitive doctoral-level degree for talented accountants who are truly passionate about pursuing a career in accounting research, consulting, or teaching.

Find your bootcamp match

What is accounting.

Most people think of accountants as the people who do their taxes. Though some accountants, tax accountants, do spend their time helping individuals and corporations with their taxes, accounting goes far beyond these tax-related duties. The accounting field is actually a growing and highly in-demand academic field. Accounting focuses on recording financial transactions and sorting and summarizing them into reports and analyses. Academic accounting is a field that incorporates related subfields like econometrics, statistics, finance, and theory. 

Why Get a PhD in Accounting?

A PhD in Accounting is an excellent degree choice if you are truly committed to the field of accounting and interested in accounting theory. This is because accounting research is often theoretical in nature and like accounting, requires strong analytical and mathematical abilities.  Accounting doctoral students are interested in pursuing theoretical concepts of accounting and applying them to real markets. Some of the country’s best business schools offer master’s degree programs in accounting.

If such a program sounds interesting to you, read on for more information on what you can expect as a PhD accounting student. 

PhD in Accounting Components

Before considering specific programs in-depth, it’s a good idea to look into what most programs require and include. These are competitive, advanced-level degree programs for strong and dedicated students. Each program will have a slightly different set of curriculum requirements and may have different concentration offerings. Here is a general summary of what you should expect.

Application Requirements

When applying to any PhD program, students typically start their search process by researching program faculty members. This is because PhD programs are so rooted in the doctoral thesis, which requires extensive 1:1 advising and mentorship from an academic advisor and faculty members.  One of the most important aspects of your application is a proven academic track record in accounting, math, economics, and finance. Programs require bachelor’s degrees, at a minimum. If you have a Master’s Degree in Accounting and/or are a certified public accountant, you will be a more competitive applicant. Several years of work experience in the field can really help applicants gain entry to their desired program.

Applicants will also be required to submit GRE or GMAT exam scores. Because many doctoral accounting programs are run through business schools, the GMAT is sometimes required.

PhD in Accounting Curriculum

Most universities offer doctoral programs in accounting through their schools of business. For example, one of the best-known programs of its kind is part of Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business.  PhD programs in accounting can take approximately four to seven years to complete, depending on your thesis project and its time requirements. Programs start with foundational coursework that prepares students for the final years of dissertation work. Here are some common courses accounting students can expect to see at the PhD level:

• Research Methods
• Capital Market Research
• Statistical Analysis 
• Quantitative Methods for Accounting
• Econometrics
• Managerial Accounting
• Theories in Accounting

Most PhD programs prepare students for careers as academics, accounting professors, and expert consultants. For this reason, most programs require that students complete teaching practicums as part of the degree process. Students take the important core accounting classes, they develop as researchers, and they learn how to teach.

Concentrations and Dissertations for an Accounting PhD

You will likely choose an accounting concentration within your doctoral program. Some common concentrations are:

• Public Accounting
• Forensic Accounting
• Accounting Information Systems

Regardless of the concentration you choose, you will pursue a major research project as a doctoral student. This research project is commonly called a doctoral dissertation. It is the culmination of several years of research under the mentorship of a faculty advisor. 

It typically results in a published paper and possibly in presentations at conferences and professional organizations. For academics in colleges and universities in the United States, the doctoral dissertation is the first major opportunity to embark on a publishable, in-depth research project. 

Top PhD in Accounting Programs

You should now have a better understanding now of what an accounting PhD entails. Therefore, let’s now take a look at some specific programs. It’s important to note that there is no shortage of programs. In fact, there are 536 different doctoral programs in accounting in the US alone. That said, some programs are much stronger and more competitive than others. 

Below is a list of some of the best PhD accounting programs in the United States. 

Stanford University

The PhD in Accounting at Stanford in Palo Alto, California, is one of the strongest programs in the country. The program requires students to enter with a solid academic foundation in microeconomic theory, econometrics, and math. It also requires students to have basic computer programming skills in programs like STATA, Python, and SAS. After a couple of years of initial coursework, students move on to practicum experiences in teaching and researching before focusing on their dissertation work. 

University of Pennsylvania

The Wharton School, the University of Pennsylvania’s school of business, offers a top-notch program that focuses on analytics. Graduates of the program are prepared to dedicate their academic and professional careers to financial and economic research. 

The University of Michigan at Ann Arbor

Michigan’s flagship state institution offers an extremely competitive PhD program in accounting, only accepting one to three applicants per year. Students can expect to be fully funded for five years and complete the program in as much time. Students can also expect to spend their first two years on focused research into investor relations, managerial investments, and cash holding. 

University of Chicago

The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business and the Accounting Research Center host this exclusive PhD program in accounting. This program is all about flexibility, allowing its students to cater their program according to their interest in an array of different specializations. Courses offered include econometrics, price theory, finance, and economic modeling. This program consistently produces top graduates who go on to become experts in the field. 

The University of Texas at Austin

Out of all of the programs listed here, the McCombs School of Business at the University of Texas offers, by some accounts, offers the top PhD in Accounting program in the country. According to the Public Accounting Report of 2019, it is the #1 program in the nation. 

The Texas McCombs PhD, as the program is officially called, stands apart with distinguished faculty and extremely rigorous preparation for academic life. The program prepares students by helping them develop their research and writing skills and by making them highly competitive when entering the job market or the academic world of accounting. 

Career Outlook With a PhD in Accounting

There is a shortage of accounting professors in the US. This is great news for someone considering the terminal degree in accounting: a doctoral degree. With a PhD in Accounting, you can help fill this shortage and you will be in high demand.  Actually, some students who would have typically stopped their studies with a Master’s Degree in Accounting have decided to continue on to a PhD in Accounting because of the job security the degree offers. Universities need to fill vacancies for accounting professors. This also means that they are willing to pay higher-than-average business faculty salaries to hire and retain accounting professors. The average starting salary for accounting professors under the age of 45 is $101,000.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the overall accounting field is predicted to see faster-than-average growth between 2019 and 2029.

Should You Get Your PhD in Accounting?

The career outlook alone should be enough to help you answer this question. The answer to this question might be yes, if:

• You are passionate about accounting and accounting theory
• You have a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or a related field
• You have some professional experience in the accounting or finance sector
• You are interested in being a university professor in accounting
• You love research

With excellent job security and very comfortable pay, accounting professors can enjoy successful careers. If you’re excited about pursuing this career track, use this article as a guide to launch your PhD in Accounting program research. 

About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication .

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Department of Accounting | Ph.D. Overview

Ph.d. overview.

• Stern’s accounting faculty has a wide range of research interests and continuously publishes works in all major academic accounting research journals such as the Journal of Accounting Research, Journal of Accounting and Economics, the Accounting Review, the Review of Accounting Studies, and Contemporary Accounting Research. Furthermore, Stern’s accounting faculty has published in such major Finance journals as the Journal of Finance, the Journal of Financial Economics, and the Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis.
• The Department boasts a large and diverse body of Ph.D. students, who assist faculty with research projects early on in their doctoral program and often become co-authors to papers published in prestigious accounting journals.
• The admissions process is a rigorous one and important criteria are: an interest in doing research and teaching in accounting, strong quantitative skills, and an ability to communicate effectively. There are no formal education requirements  other than possession of a bachelor's degree - an MBA is not required.
• The quality of our Ph.D. program (ranked 7th in the United States by U.S. News and World Report) manifests itself by, among other things, our success in placing our graduates.

Click here to learn more about the PhD admissions process.

Accounting, Ph.D. Program Coordinators

NYU Stern Henry Kaufman Management Center 44 West 4th Street Suite No. 10-77 Phone:  212-998-0025 Email: [email protected]

Xiaojing Meng

NYU Stern Henry Kaufman Management Center 44 West 4th Street Suite No. 10-84 Phone:  212-992-6812 Email:   [email protected]

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Accounting PhD Program

accounting phd program

Be more than a PhD. Be an accounting powerhouse.

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It all adds up: incomparable faculty, top research publication rankings, excellent teaching opportunities and a history of great post-graduation placements.

The Eller Doctoral Program in Accounting stands out as a leader with its high concentration of bright minds and collaborative research.

Graduate Program Coordinator Denise Burruel

520-621-2697 [email protected]

The Program

Program essentials.

This accounting doctoral program’s aim is to prepare you to excel as an accounting educator or researcher at a top-50 research institution. As you near completion of your Eller program, our goal is to help you gain notice from excellent schools and prospective employers.

Explore the program

Plan of Study

You’ll spend your first two years learning about research areas, disciplines and methods. Years three and four are spent producing a quality dissertation and research pipeline. Your fifth year is dedicated to progressing your dissertation and research, preparing for a final oral defense and job recruiting.

Explore The Plan of Study

Accounting PhD program for archival-tax research BYU Accounting Rankings

Accounting PhD program for archival-auditing research BYU Accounting Rankings

Accounting PhD program for graduates' publication record BYU Accounting Rankings

Studying Accounting at Eller

We know it can be challenging to evaluate a doctoral program. Current doctoral students were in your shoes not too long ago. Here, Eller accounting doctoral students share their perspectives: from living in Tucson to what they’ve experienced so far.

 Student Spotlight

The American Accounting Association (AAA) 2021 Auditing Section Virtual Midyear Meeting has chosen our PhD Alumni'20, Jacob Jaggi's dissertation titled, "When Does the Internal Audit Function Enhance Audit Committee Effectiveness?" for the 2021 Outstanding Auditing Dissertation Award . This award is given to the author of the dissertation who makes the most outstanding contribution to auditing knowledge. Additionally, Professor Preeti Choudhary and Professor Jayanthi Sunder (co-chairs for Jacob’s dissertation) were chosen to receive the Dissertation Committee Chair Award. Jacob dissertation idea received several recognition and awards, such as the 2019 AAA Western Region Conference Best Doctoral Student Paper Award and the 2018 Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA) Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Grant for his dissertation idea, which provided him with financial support. Jacob was placed as an Assistant Professor at Washington State University in May 2020.

Doctoral Admissions Process

Applicants must have a four-year bachelor’s degree, a minimum 3.0 GPA and a minimum 675 GMAT score (taken within the last five years). You’ll need to compile transcripts and test scores, then submit an online application to the University of Arizona Graduate College.

View Admissions PRocess

All of our PhD students are awarded a generous financial package that covers full tuition plus a stipend for living expenses. You may be able to supplement that stipend by teaching extra courses (such as over the summer). Additional scholarships and fellowships are also available.

View Funding Information

Application Deadline

January 15, 2024 :  Next Application Deadline for Fall 2024 Admission (Domestic and International)

Doctoral students are admitted only in the fall semester, and all application materials must be submitted online.

Your coursework will prepare you for cutting-edge research on substantive accounting issues in the areas of managerial accounting, financial accounting, auditing and tax. You can take advantage of the many resources available to you as a doctoral student and sustain our track record of publishing in the top accounting journals.

Explore Research

Our doctoral program strives to prepare our students for competitive faculty positions at Tier-1 accounting research universities. Our past graduates have earned positions at institutions including the University of Chicago, Ohio State University, University of Notre Dame and University of Southern California.

Explore Placement

Accounting Faculty

Our esteemed faculty work closely with doctoral students throughout their coursework and research, mentoring students and guiding them to become successful researchers and teachers. With research ranging from auditing and tax to financial reporting and behavioral and cost accounting, they are a great resource.

Explore Faculty

Start Your Journey to the Top of Your Field

Small class sizes. A great faculty-to-doctoral-student ratio. Incredible research resources. A stellar track record. And you.

Contact us with any questions , or if you're ready to apply to the Eller Doctoral Program in Accounting, just click below. We look forward to making breakthroughs together.

ACCOUNTING PhD

The nation’s top accounting program.

Texas McCombs boasts the most prestigious accounting doctoral program in the country and has graduated more than 300 PhD students since its inception in 1934. Are you ready for the best?

Your Future In Accounting

• PhD Program
• Why McCombs
• Department of Accounting

ACADEMIC LIFE AT McCOMBS

Mentorship and practice, application deadline.

The application deadline for the Accounting Doctoral Program is December 15.

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION

If you are a practicing accountant, these topical areas will be familiar to you. However, we welcome students with backgrounds in Mathematics, Economics, Engineering, Finance, Psychology, or other disciplines to apply. We can remedy any lack of accounting knowledge through additional coursework. Most students enter our accounting doctoral program with some knowledge in these areas:

Financial Accounting

Financial accounting researchers are interested in the use of accounting information by investors, creditors, analysts, and other decision-makers. We are also interested in the preparation of accounting information by managers who may respond to economic incentives and use discretion to manage earnings. Finally, we are also interested in the regulation of accounting information by standard setters and other regulators who are evaluating the relevance and reliability of current and potential accounting information.

Auditing researchers are interested in questions of independence, governance, compliance, auditing processes, and biases. This research helps global standard-setters and regulators adopt standards and policies that protect the integrity of our accounting information. 

Managerial accounting research topics include optimal employee compensation and governance, using information for efficiency management, motivating creativity, etc.

Taxation research covers economic incentives, transfer pricing, compliance with tax enforcement, multistate taxation, and numerous topics about accounting for income taxation, where tax rules overlap with financial reporting standards.

RANKINGS & RESEARCH

Academic leadership, research methodologies.

When you earn a doctorate, most of your time is spent developing deep expertise in research methods. Accounting researchers use three main approaches. In all cases, your doctoral studies will involve a firm grounding in statistics and typically a choice of either economics or psychology as an additional foundation.

Archival research involves the statistical analysis of historical data to examine relevant research questions based on economic theory for its predictions. Thus, archival research requires a strong background in statistics and economics, which we provide through rigorous coursework in the business school and the economics department.

Experimental

Experimental or survey methods are commonly used to obtain data to conduct what is broadly known as behavioral research. Behavioral research relies on psychology for its theories. Because this research is interested in what people do and why they do it, it is often necessary to conduct controlled experiments or survey participants. Using experiment or survey methods, researchers in accounting and finance have provided compelling alternative explanations where economic theories fall short.

Analytical research uses quantitative mathematical models to explain and predict behavior. This research is grounded in game theory from economics. Students wanting to conduct analytical research should have even stronger mathematical backgrounds than other applicants. We will design a program of study that builds on those initial strengths with additional coursework in mathematics and economics.

GET READY TO APPLY

Preparation and qualifications, career placement, the world needs you, career destinations.

The primary goal of the Texas McCombs PhD program is to prepare students for exceptional academic careers. Over the last five years, McCombs Accounting PhD alumni have excelled at top institutions globally.

Recent Graduate Placements

Rui Silva | 2024 | University of Washington

Mandy Ellison | 2024 | Texas State University

Minjae Kim | 2024 | Analysis Group (Industry)

Laura Kettell | 2023 | University of Colorado at Boulder

Abhi Ramchandni | 2023 | University of Hawaii

Anthony Welsch | 2023 | University of Chicago

Jesse Chan   |  2022  |  Boston University

Cassie Mongold   |  2022  |  University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Ryan Hess   |  2021  |  Stanford University (postdoc); Oklahoma State University

Ryan Ballestero   |  2021  |  Kent State University

Dan Rimkus   |  2021  |  University of Florida (October 2021 graduation)

Shannon Garavaglia  |  2020  |  University of Pittsburgh

Jakob Infuehr  |  2019  |  University of Southern Denmark

Antonis Kartapanis  |  2019  |  Texas A&M University

Kristen Valentine   |  2019  |  University of Georgia

Colin Koutney   |  2018  |  George Mason University

Zheng Leitter  |  2018  |  Nanyang Technological University

Brian Monsen   |  2018  |  The Ohio State University

Xinyu Zhang   |  2018  |  Cornell University

Current Students and *Job Market Candidates

Mary adenle, yiying chen*, dorothy dickmann*, kenzie feinberg, michael gonari, read hadfield, nathan herrmann, sean kemsley, kaitlyn kroeger*, jingpei shi, cindi teasley, albert wang, frequently asked questions, how long does the program take.

This is a full-time, in-residence (i.e., in-person) program of coursework and research which usually takes four to five years to complete.

When is the application deadline? What is the timeline for reviewing applications?

Our deadline is December 15 th for admission starting the following fall. The admissions committee will begin reviewing applications shortly after this deadline, so it is in your best interest to make sure all required materials have been submitted by that date. We typically start virtual interviews in January, with campus flyouts for a small group of applicants starting in late January or February.

How many students do you admit per year?

We usually receive about 80 applications each year and are likely to admit two or three students to begin in the following fall term.

What kind of background do I need to be admitted to the program?

Students come from a variety of backgrounds, with some entering the program immediately after their undergraduate degree, others with their degree and work/research experience, and some with work/research experience and a master’s degree. Because our students come from various backgrounds and the competition in the applicant pool changes from year to year, it is difficult to determine the likelihood of acceptance without viewing the strength of your application as a whole compared to the pool of fellow applicants.

How do you evaluate applicants?

The admissions committee takes a holistic approach to admissions. We consider factors such as: intellectual curiosity, reasoning ability, writing ability, quantitative skills, institutional knowledge, work experience, research experience, familiarity with the academic accounting literature, knowledge of what a PhD entails, and insights from recommendation letters.

What kind of math background do I need for an accounting Ph.D.?

Many successful applicants will have already begun taking some math refresher courses, such as engineering calculus I and II and linear/matrix algebra. The longer it has been since these quantitative tools have been used, the harder the doctoral coursework will be. The initial doctoral classes typically also include students in finance and economics, and they typically enter their doctoral programs straight from rigorous quantitative master's degrees.

Will I need a TOEFL score?

For applicants who have completed their undergraduate degree in a country where English is not the primary language, a TOEFL score will be a necessary part of the application. This is a university-wide requirement and is necessary even if a graduate degree has been completed from an accredited university in the United States.  TOEFL scores over two years old will not be accepted. A list of TOEFL-exempt countries can be found on the UT Austin Graduate School website.

Do I need to take the GMAT or GRE? Can this requirement be waived?

For all applicants, the Department requires a GMAT or GRE test score. This requirement cannot be waived. Scores over five years old will not be accepted.

Can the application fee be waived?

The application fee is charged by the Graduate School, which does offer fee waivers for financial hardships for domestic applicants. There are no waivers for international students. Please see the Graduate School website for more details.

Do you offer financial support to Ph.D. students? Do I have to pay tuition?

Financial assistance is offered to all students admitted to the doctoral program and includes fellowship payments as well as a 20-hour teaching assistant/research assistant appointment. This appointment covers the cost of tuition and also provides health insurance coverage. 

The financial support we provide is competitive with other top PhD programs in the U.S. 

ARE YOU READY TO CHANGE THE WORLD?

The Texas McCombs Doctoral Program is seeking individuals who are interested in transforming the global marketplace. Are you one of these future thought leaders?

• The 8 Best Online Doctorates in Accounting Degree Programs

Accounting is an incredibly stable, lucrative profession. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that the 2017 median pay for accountants and auditors was $69,350, or over $33 an hour. They also predicted a 10% growth in accounting/auditing jobs between 2016-26, which is faster than average. In a rapidly evolving economy, advanced economic and accounting skills and knowledge are more valuable than ever. A Master’s degree doesn’t cover quite as much as it once did, and getting a Ph.D. in accounting is a way to incontrovertibly prove your mastery of the subject and open up job opportunities you’d never access without the degree. By earning you Ph.D. in accounting online, you’ll be able to save time and money while often being able to keep your current schedule, or making sure the degree program works around it. DBA’s in Advanced Accounting will give you the ability to use data to ensure an organization’s financial health. In business, students will be prepared to work in roles like chief accountant, senior audit director, and vice president of accounting. You could also apply all you’ve learned working for government agencies, non-profits, or teaching undergraduate or graduate students about accounting, building the next generation of top accountants from the bottom up. We ranked the following Accounting Ph.D.’s based on flexibility, affordability, special features, academic excellence, and more.

1) George Fox University

GFU is a Christian, private university known for its liberal arts and sciences, and professional studies. It’s based out of Newberg, Oregon, and was founded in 1885. It has been commended by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report and Kiplinger’s Personal Finance for its value, academic excellence and quality in its region. GFU offers over 4,100 students (14:1 student-to-faculty ratio) a wide selection of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. It also participates in the Richter Scholars program, which sponsors 15-25 students each year to conduct original research.

GFU offers an online Doctor of Business Administration degree. Most of it can be completed online, but it does require an on-campus residency twice each year. Students can choose between accounting, management or marketing concentrations. It takes 4 years to complete (3 years of coursework and 1 of dissertation work), and 56 credit hours. The curriculum includes a business core, research/dissertation, and a teaching practicum or consulting practicum. The accounting concentration courses are Seminar in Accounting, Advanced Applications of Ethical Reasoning and Compliance in Accounting, and Advanced Topics in Accounting. The entire program costs $50,400 in tuition (which is subject to change). Students will be immersed in a number of business disciplines, while having the option to really delve into accounting. What makes GFU unique is its integration of Christian values into the business world.

• Per credit hour rate: $900-3rd

2) Liberty University

Liberty is a private, non-profit Christian doctoral research university. It was founded in 1971 by Jerry Falwell. Liberty now serves over 120,000 students worldwide. More than 95,000 of those students attend Liberty online. Liberty believes in both the intellectual and spiritual development of its students. Liberty believes understanding biblical truth is a means of achieving success. According to LU, it’s the nation’s largest nonprofit online university, and has been offering distance learning since 1985. Its online programs have over 245 different degrees, and the school has extremely competitive tuition rates.

Liberty offers a 100% online Doctorate of Business Administration (D.B.A.) in Accounting degree. Liberty also separates itself from other comparable programs with its Christian perspective mitigating its instruction in the cutthroat business world. The program features “in-depth analysis of tax and auditing techniques and accounting theory.” It requires 60 total credit hours, a maximum of 15 can be transferred in. There are eight-week courses, eight different start times per year, and no set login times. Students will be prepared to work as leaders in the corporate world, or in many other terminal accounting positions.

• Per credit hour rate: 2nd-$565

3) Walden University

Walden is a for profit private school headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was founded in 1970. Walden is part of a network of 80 universities owned or managed by Laureate Education Inc, most of which are based outside of America. Walden serves over 52,500 students and has an 18:1 student-to-faculty ratio. Walden University has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, a regional accreditation agency, since 1990. A Senate committee that compared Walden to other comparable universities commended the competitiveness of its pricing.

Walden offers a Doctor of Business Administration. It comes in 16 specializations including accounting. It also comes in two options, “…traditional doctoral study or the consulting capstone option, which gives students a unique and innovative opportunity to apply their newfound skills and knowledge to solve real-world challenges as a consultant for an actual client.” The accounting specialization can be taken online, and requires 60 semester credits (up to 30 can be transferred in). Students will also have to do two 4-day residencies as part of this program. The program prioritizes guidance through its student advocates (specially-trained doctoral faculty members), decision-making, leadership skills, and both theory and applied research.

• Per credit hour rate: 4th-$980

4) Capella University

Capella is a private, online university in Minneapolis, Minnesota. It was founded in 1993. The school offers 142 graduate and undergraduate specializations, 25 certificate programs and over 1600 online courses. Capella has over 37,000 students (22:1 student-to-faculty ratio) that come from all 50 states and dozens of foreign countries. The school’s faculty is made up of almost 1,500 professors, 86 percent of which have doctoral degrees. In 2000 Capella began offering Bachelor degree programs, and in 2006 it became a publicly traded company. Capella University’s business programs have been accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs since 2014. It offers admission to any student who passes a Capella-approved exam.

Capella’s School of Business and Technology offers an online PhD program with a concentration in Accounting. In order to graduate students are required to complete 1 core courses, 4 specialization courses in advanced accounting, one doctoral research project, and two residencies. This program offers students many different ways to save on tuition, including scholarships, lenient transfer credits, and a 10% military discount. The program builds research, writing and critical thinking skills, uses practical exercises to help students understand theoretical concepts, and builds knowledge through the study of ethical, legal, and regulatory frameworks that shape accounting theory and practice. Students looking for a streamlined path to a PhD in Accounting online should definitely check out this program.

• Per credit hour rate: $965

5) Northcentral University

Northcentral is a virtual, for-profit university founded in 1996. It’s a Doctoral Research University headquartered in San Diego, California. It is currently owned by Rockbridge Growth Equity, LLC and Falcon Investments, LLC. Northcentral offers undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral degrees in Business and Technology Management, Education, Marriage and Family Therapy, and Psychology. The school’s mottos is “One-to-One Education By Experience.” Currently Northcentral serves Over 10,900 students, and lives by its motto with a spectacular 1:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Northcentral offers an online Doctor of Business Administration. The program prioritizes research as a tool to build strategies that solve organizational issues. The program offers 52 start dates each year, so students can start taking a course they need any week in a year. This program comes in 18 specializations, including advanced accounting. It requires 54 credit hours, and is comprised of 18 courses. The program can be completed in just 39 months.

• Per credit hour rate: 7th-$1053

6) University of Wisconsin Whitewater

UW-Whitewater is a public college and part of the University of Wisconsin system, based out of Whitewater, Wisconsin. It was founded in 1868. It offers 47 undergraduate majors and 13 graduate programs, with over 1,000 courses. Whitewater serves over 12,600 students currently, while maintaining a 21:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The school is also known for its Research Apprenticeship Program (RAP), which gives students paid opportunities to assist faculty and staff with important research. Students attend Whitewater from all over the world (currently around 40 states and 30 foreign countries).

UW-Whitewater offers an online AACSB Accredited Doctorate of Business Administration (DBA) program. The program builds expertise in a specific business area, such as accounting. Through coursework and interactive exercises, students will build organizational knowledge and effectiveness from the tutelage of leading professionals int heir respective fields. This program culminates in a dissertation that contributes to business practice. Students will also need to complete a dissertation that contributes to business practice. The program requires 60 credits and uses a cohort model in which classes are one weekend each month for two years, followed by a year on the dissertation. The online platform for this program also facilitates discussions with faculty, submitting assignments, and engaging in other learning activities.

• Per credit hour rate: 8th-$1400

7) Argosy University

Argosy University is a system of for-profit colleges owned by Dream Center Education Holdings (DCEH), LLC as of 2017, after purchasing the enterprise from the Education Management Corporation (EDMC). It traces its roots to the late 1970’s, through three schools: the American School of Professional Psychology, the Medical Institute of Minnesota, and the University of Sarasota. It began its current incarnation in 2001. An estimated 60,000 students attended the school as of last year. It’s known for its programming in psychology, business, education, and more.

Argosy offers an online Doctoral Degree in Business Administration. You’ll build skills “conducting action research and comprehending theoretical and applied literature,” using them in a specialization of your choice. Students can choose between Marketing, Management, International Business, Information Systems, Customized Professional concentration, and of course, Accounting. The program requires, “60 credit hours distributed as follows: research requirements, 15 credit hours; core course requirements, 18 credit hours; concentration requirements, 12 credit hours; elective requirements, 3 credit hours; and doctoral research requirements, 12 credit hours.” Sample accounting courses include Financial Reporting Theory, Accounting Control Systems, Accounting in a Global Financial Community, and Contemporary Accounting Theory.

• Per credit hour rate: 5th-$995

8) Florida Atlantic University

FAU is a public university based in Boca Raton, Florida, along with five ancillary campuses in the state. It was founded in 1961, and is part of the State University system of Florida. Over 30,500 students attend FAU, which has a 24:1 student-to-faculty ratio. It offers over 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs through ten colleges in arts and humanities, the sciences, medicine, nursing, accounting, business, education, public administration, social work, architecture, engineering, and computer science. The Carnegie Foundation has recognized FAU for its high research activity. In 2014, USNR ranked FAU the 27th most diverse university in the country.

FAU offers a PH.D. program specifically in accounting. It strongly emphasizes research, and building skills needed to excel as a classroom teacher. Students are encouraged to teach while in this program. Sample courses include Advanced Econometrics, Advanced Accounting Theory, and a number of seminars. The program builds towards a qualifying research project, which flows into advanced research in accounting hours of study, then the preparation and execution of a dissertation. To earn this degree you’ll need 80 credit hours beyond a baccalaureate degree.

• Per credit hour rate: 6th-$1024

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Ph.D. in Accounting

Program information.

The doctoral program at the KU School of Business prepares students for research and teaching careers at major universities. As a doctoral student in accounting, you will have the opportunity to work with internationally known faculty members on a variety of research projects.

The program includes a combination of coursework, faculty mentoring and hands-on experience in both teaching and research. Students have access to a wide variety of databases and the small size of the program ensures extensive faculty and student interaction. The program is flexible, with some students leaving in four years and some staying for a fifth year.

KU accounting faculty are ranked No. 1 in audit archival and all audit research contributions over the past six and 12 years, and in the top 15 in archival research across all topics — and our doctoral program graduates are ranked in the top 5 in archival audit research, according to Brigham Young University’s 2021 accounting rankings . Recent doctoral student placements include Clemson University, Kansas State University, Iowa State University, the University of Oklahoma, and the University of Arkansas.

Faculty research interests include the economics of the auditing profession; dynamics of the auditor-client relationship; the impact of regulation on auditors and clients; the causes and consequences of financial reporting failures; voluntary disclosure; information intermediaries; corporate governance; the design of control systems and compensation packages; and many other topics.

Application deadlines

Priority: December 15

Final: January 10

• Application requirements

As a doctoral accounting, you will have the opportunity to work with internationally known faculty members on a variety of research projects. The small size of the program ensures extensive faculty and student interaction.

Part of our mission is to develop effective teachers. To that end, all doctoral students are required to teach at least two sections as independent instructors. The school and university prepare and reward doctoral students for excellence in teaching through various programs and awards.

Program details

Key components.

Find an overview of key components of the program, including details about expectations and major research projects.

View degree requirements and a detailed list of courses in the KU Academic Catalog .

Please note:

A course that is not being offered within a reasonable timeframe, or a course in which a student can demonstrate competence may be, with the approval of the area group and the doctoral team, replaced with another course.

Area-specific core requirements may be changed subject to the approval of the area group and the Ph.D. team.

A minimum of 15 courses, plus FIN 901, BUS 902 and BUS 903 are required for the completion of the degree.

Requirements

Area of concentration.

Most students admitted in accounting typically will select that area as their concentration. However, an aspirant, with the assistance of his or her faculty advisor and the area faculty, may propose an interdisciplinary area of concentration. The aspirant must take at least five advanced courses in the area of concentration. These courses may include those offered outside the School of Business.

Supporting areas

Coursework in the area of concentration is supplemented and strengthened by study in one or two supporting areas. A supporting area is one that supplements and complements the area of concentration. The aspirant will satisfy the supporting area requirement by taking at least four advanced courses in the supporting areas (at least two courses in each of two supporting areas, or at least four courses in one supporting area). Courses recommended for preparation for the qualifiers may not be included in satisfying the supporting area requirement.

Research methodology

For successful qualifier assessment, the student's program of study should include adequate preparation in research methodology.

Coursework and research

Comprehensive exams and research

Dissertation and job market

Year 5 (if necessary)

Program faculty.

• Associate Professor
• Accounting academic area

• Area Director, Accounting
• Deloitte Professor

• Assistant Professor

• C.A. Scupin Professor

• Jack and Shirley Howard Mid-Career Professor

• Larry D. Horner/KPMG Professor

• Interim Dean
• Stanley P. Porter Professor
• School of Business administration
• Dean's Office

• Doctoral Coordinator, Accounting
• Doctoral program

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The 50 Best Accounting Schools in the USA

With so much information available, choosing the best accounting degree program can be difficult. To help out, we’ve compiled a list of the 50 best accounting programs at the best accounting schools in the U.S.

50 Top Accounting Universities in The USA

1. university of texas – austin.

• Certificate
• Bachelor’s of Business Administration
• Master of Science

About: The  McCombs School  at the University of Texas at Austin is considered the best accounting program in the nation. It offers a high-quality undergraduate program and a top-ranked Master of Professional Accounting with the possibility to pursue an integrated five-year program. In fact, the school has been ranked #1 by  U.S. News and World Report  for over a decade.

The curriculum at McCombs offers a solid foundation in accounting principles and related topics. These include financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and business law. Students also benefit from a variety of courses that will help them in their future jobs. These courses include economics, finance, data analytics, and management.

Another thing that makes this one of the best accounting colleges is the faculty and staff. The faculty members are highly experienced in the field and provide an excellent learning environment. In addition to the classroom experience, students have access to numerous resources, such as industry-specific events and networking opportunities.

Accounting students also benefit from state-of-the-art facilities such as the Active Learning Classrooms, as well as career development opportunities, including internships and networking events. McCombs BBA accounting graduates report an  average starting salary higher than the national average.

2. Brigham Young University

• Bachelor of Science

About: Nationwide recognition, high CPA exam pass rates, and an innovative curriculum define the accounting program at Brigham Young University. Both the Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting and the Master of Accountancy programs boast highly effective teaching with close to 100% placement rates for Master’s graduates every year.

The Marriott School at BYU also offers a Ph.D. Prep track to prepare students for a Ph.D. in Accounting. Graduate students are also encouraged to gain experience through volunteering, internships, student organizations, and business competitions as they work toward becoming top-tier personal financial advisors.

Brigham Young University graduates are known to go on to work for the most prestigious accounting firms around the world

3. University of Illinois

About:  The top-rated University of Illinois offers a comprehensive accounting program, including a four-year Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, a Master of Accounting Science, a Master of Science in Accountancy, a Master of Science in Tax, and a Ph.D. program.

Widely recognized for its research, Champaign College rivals any other private research university located in the United States. They allow students to specialize in their desired field as well as prepare for the CPA exam. The school also boasts excellent facilities, high placement rates, and extensive opportunities, including study-abroad trips and the world’s largest student-run consultancy. ( Search Illinois Programs )

4. University of Notre Dame

• Bachelor of Business Administration
• Master of Business Administration

About: This leading accounting program at the University of Notre Dame allows a student to be major in accountancy and become a Certified Public Accountant. Students can qualify for the CPA exam by pursuing a Master of Science in Accountancy or a Master of Business Administration.

What makes their accounting degree programs stand out?

First-rate teaching is supplemented by extra-curricular activities, a Tax Assistance Program, and excellent career services. The University of Notre Dame has been widely recognized for its accounting research, while the Mendoza accounting program has consistently topped national rankings.

5. University of Pennsylvania

About:   The prestigious Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania allows undergraduate students to pursue an accounting concentration with a diverse curriculum, including courses in auditing, tax, and different types of accounting.

Students wishing to sit for the CPA exam can study for the highly ranked MBA (Master of Business Administration Program) at Wharton School and take additional accounting courses. Those who want to enter the field of accounting research can undertake a Ph.D. and benefit from the school’s first-rate research facilities and expertise. And it’s important to note that students who graduate from Wharton regularly get sought-after spots at Big Four accounting firms.

6. University of Southern California

About: Students at the prestigious  Leventhal School of Accounting , part of the Marshall College of Business at USC, can choose to major in accounting as well as study accounting at the postgraduate level. As one of the top accounting schools, according to the World Report,

The Master of Accounting and Master of Business Taxation programs provide in-depth coverage of accounting and taxation and prepare students for on-the-job success. Award-winning University of Southern California faculty members are what this program is most known for.

A flexible curriculum, first-rate research, and a focus on international business practices make this program unique at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Their internships, study abroad programs, and career-related activities also set them apart from other accounting undergraduate programs.

7. University of Michigan

About:   The Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan offers an undergraduate degree in accounting and a Master’s program designed to prepare students for the CPA exam and for a wide variety of careers. This innovative program integrates the Master of Accounting and the MBA program to provide a dynamic education relevant to an ever-changing business world. What’s more, excellent connections with the business community improve the students’ chances to gain experience while studying and to find employment upon graduation. Other undergraduate programs just don’t offer the kind of next-level support found at the Ross School of Business.

8. University of Mississippi

About: Students at the University of Mississippi’s Patterson School of Accountancy can study for a Bachelor of Accountancy, a Master of Accountancy, a Master of Taxation, or a Ph.D. in Accountancy. This prestigious accounting program offers much more than just undergraduate accounting programs.

They provide a broad-based education with the possibility to gain in-depth expertise through elective courses that marry both sides of the brain. This includes liberal arts-focused classes. Excellent opportunities for hands-on learning are provided through the school’s internship program, and extra-curricular activities exist as well. Plus, they have highly regarded faculty composed of CPAs and guarantee first-rate teaching.

9. Indiana University

About:   The University of Indiana has gained an excellent reputation as one of the country’s “Public Ivies” and offers a top-ranked accounting program through its Kelley School of Business. Accounting can be studied at all levels at this Indiana university. Even better, graduate students can choose between a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Accounting to prepare for the CPA exam and a successful accounting career.

Through internships, field study projects, and field consulting experience, students at Kelley School (Indiana University) can gain valuable real-life skills while they pursue a degree in accounting. These opportunities make Kelley one of the best accounting schools in the nation.

10. University of Chicago

About: The highly-rated graduate business school at the University of Chicago offers a blend of in-depth expertise and hands-on learning to prospective accountants and CPAs. The MBA curriculum covers accounting and financial analysis, financial statement analysis, taxation, and managerial accounting. However, it’s important to note that Booth doesn’t offer undergraduate programs in accounting systems.

Students may opt to participate in various extra-curricular activities, including the Corporate Finance Group, Distressed Investing and Restructuring Group, or the American Bankruptcy Institute Corporate Restructuring Competition. In addition, the flexible accounting program at Booth School allows graduate students to pursue the MBA full-time, on evenings or weekends.

11. Ohio State University

About: The  Fisher College of Business  at Ohio State University offers 12 specializations as part of its undergraduate accounting program, including tax, management, government, and non-profit accounting. In addition, graduate students can choose between a prestigious Master of Accounting and a Master of Business Administration.

Through business partnerships and opportunities for real-world experience, Fisher College students can get off to a great start in their accounting careers. Moreover, Ohio State University has been ranked 4th nationwide in accounting research. This is a phenomenal feat!

12. New York University

About: T he Stern School of Business allows students to major or co-major in accounting and prepares them for a wide range of careers in business and finance. So not only does it offer one of the best accounting degree programs, but it also keeps in mind the other interested prospective students might have.

Students wishing to sit for the CPA exam can opt for an undergraduate CPA track or pursue the prestigious Stern MBA program, which provides in-depth expertise in different areas of accounting.

New York University is one of the prominent  accounting universities in New York , one of the country’s largest private universities, and its excellent connections to the business community put its graduates at an advantage.

13. Texas A&M University

Mays Business School  at Texas A&M University consistently ranks among the best accounting schools in the country. The Department of Accounting offers a comprehensive program at all levels designed to help students pass the CPA exam and go on to successful careers in public accounting.

A unique feature of the Mays School is the five-year Professional Program that allows students to complete a BBA and a Master of Science in any business major within five years. With this unique degree in accounting path, your academic credit earnings won’t go to waste.

14. UC Berkeley

About: The UC Berkeley offers a unique accounting program through the prestigious Haas School of Business, while additional accounting courses and a Certificate in Accounting can be earned at U.C. Extension.

While the school does not offer a  major or minor in accounting , students can qualify for the CPA exam by taking a variety of accounting courses. Moreover, postgraduates interested in accounting research can undertake the top-tier Ph.D. program at UC Berkeley. This four-year program offers two years of formal coursework and two years of joint research with the faculty.

Financial analysts come out of UC Berkeley ready to find accounting jobs with some of the best firms. Graduate students are wildly successful when leaving Berkeley with their CPA designations alongside their degrees.

15. Cornell University

About: Cornell University is known for consistently ranking among the top 5 schools in the country in terms of CPA exam pass rates. Students at Dyson School can complete a Bachelor of Science with an accounting concentration, allowing them to prepare for a dynamic business environment. This is a unique offering because it allows students to learn business analytics alongside other important core topics.

Coverage of intermediate and advanced accounting, as well as taxation, auditing, assurance, financial analysis, and modeling, equip Cornell graduates with in-depth expertise for passing the CPA exam and succeeding in a demanding profession.

Another cool thing Cornell has done is partnered with the Raymond A. Mason School of Business at the College of William and Mary to create an accelerated pathway for Cornell students to be accepted into the William and Mary one-year Master of Accounting degree program.

16. Wake Forest University

About: Best known for consistently achieving the best CPA exam pass rates in the country, Wake Forest’s School of Business provides a comprehensive accounting program based on lectures, seminars, and research.

The prestigious undergraduate program at Wake Forest boasts a 97% graduate placement rate, while 98% of 2022 Master in Accounting graduates were employed upon graduation. Nationally recognized for academic excellence, Wake Forest University offers a wide range of accounting specializations, with a unique track in Financial Transaction Services available to Master’s students.

17. University of Tulsa

About: Prospective accountants can earn a certificate in accounting, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting or a Master of Accountancy degree at the Collins College of Business. Students wishing to sit for the CPA exam may qualify by completing a single-major or double-major Bachelor’s degree or by studying for the Master’s degree.

Outstanding students can start studying for the Master of Accountancy degree as undergraduates. Excellent facilities and opportunities to gain experience complete this effective accounting program boasting a 98% graduate employment rate.

18. Stanford University

About: Stanford University offers a highly rated Ph.D. program in accounting that lives up to the high standards of this leading research university. This quantitatively oriented program strives to apply general principles to accounting issues such as financial reporting, taxation, and managerial accounting.

Once you get a high school diploma and a bachelor’s degree, you can consider enrolling in one of the accounting degree options at Stanford. Students looking to become CPAs can opt for the two-year MBA program that includes a selection of accounting electives, as well as compressed courses and a wide range of Stanford courses that can be combined for a personalized experience.

19. University of North Carolina

• Bachelor of Science in Business Administration

About: The comprehensive accounting program offered by the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks among the best in the country. Undergraduate students can specialize in finance and can choose from a huge range of accounting and finance classes.

Their prestigious Master of Accounting program at Kenan-Flagler School provides world-class teaching and hands-on experience, as well as great opportunities to network and start a career as an accountant. The program boasts a 98% graduate placement rate which is much higher than most accounting schools.

20. University of Missouri

The nationally recognized accounting program at Trulaske College of Business offers a combined 150-credit degree in addition to the traditional Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in order to help students on the CPA track. Their accounting degree track is also unique because they consistently rank among the top in the nation for CPA exam pass rates.

Strict college admissions criteria  and an in-depth curriculum are the hallmarks of academic excellence, while experiential learning opportunities such as internships, business competitions, and study abroad programs complement the coursework. Trulaske College boasts a high graduate employment rate and higher-than-average starting salaries for finance and accounting majors.

21. University of Florida

• Bachelor’s
• Post-bachelor’s certificate
• Master’s Doctorate
• Professional practice
• Doctorate – research/scholarship

About: The prestigious Warrington College of Business at the University of Florida offers a top-quality accounting program known for its excellent CPA exam pass rates and rigorous curriculum.

Apart from the Bachelor of Science in Accounting and the Master of Accounting degrees, prospective graduate students can also opt for the 3/2 Program that combines the two degrees over a duration of five years. Another unique feature is the Post-Baccalaureate, which allows students from various backgrounds to complete the prerequisites necessary for enrolling in the Master of Accounting program.

22. University of Richmond

About:   The undergraduate accounting program at the University of Richmond ranks consistently high in terms of CPA exam pass rates and academic excellence.

With employers including the Big Four and high graduate placement rates, the Robins program relies on a comprehensive curriculum with small class sizes and flexible coursework. Graduate students can pursue a highly-rated MBA program that includes courses in accounting and a capstone project that can include accounting concepts.

23. Southern Methodist University

About: The highly-rated undergraduate program in accounting at SMU Cox provides students with a broad business background alongside an accounting core. During their bachelor’s programs, students take courses like intermediate accounting, cost accounting, taxation, auditing, accounting systems, ethics, accounting theory, and business modeling.

Students wishing to sit for the CPA exam can pursue the Master of Science in Accounting with two possible tracks: Assurance and Advisory or Tax. This 32-credit program with a diverse range of electives connects students to a dynamic network of business leaders in the Dallas area.

24. University of Wisconsin

About: The University of Wisconsin – Madison offers a highly regarded BBA in accounting as well as a Master of Accountancy and a Ph.D. program. Students may qualify to sit for the CPA exam by pursuing the Integrated five-year Master of Accountancy. Alternatively, students lacking a solid accounting background may undertake a two-year graduate program.

With plenty of extra-curricular activities and opportunities for networking, this  Wisconsin School  prepares students for career success as well as academic achievements: the school has one of the best CPA exam pass rates in the country.

25. University of Virginia

About: The prestigious McIntire School of Commerce has an excellent reputation for its undergraduate and graduate accounting programs. At the undergraduate level, students follow an Integrated Core Curriculum. While meeting their accounting degree requirements, they can choose a specialization in accounting in their fourth year.

Students on the CPA track may complete the required coursework at the undergraduate level or complete the Master of Science program. This 30-credit program offers concentrations in financial reporting and assurance or tax consulting and is centered on experiential learning. The skills learned here surpass those taught by most accounting programs. This is why undergraduate students and graduate students alike choose McIntire School of Commerce.

26. University of Washington

About: The  Foster School of Business  at the University of Washington offers a top-quality accounting program with a rigorous curriculum and world-class researchers as faculty members. Students can pursue an undergraduate degree with an accounting concentration, as well as a Master of Professional Accounting. Essentially, a student could major in liberal arts or some other area of interest and still complete the requirements of an accounting degree program.

The school boasts links to the thriving Seattle business community, and accounting majors benefit from plenty of opportunities for career development through internships and extra-curricular activities.

27. University of Georgia

About: The School of Accounting at the University of Georgia prides itself on award-winning faculty members and students, excellent student evaluations, and graduate employment rates of nearly 100%. The school offers a BBA in Accounting, as well as a Master of Accountancy and an integrated program including both degrees.

Students pursuing the Master of Accountancy degree may specialize in audit, taxation, or auditing systems alongside a core curriculum in accounting and business.

Getting your accounting degree from the University of Georgia is a big deal since graduates consistently boast one of the top 10 CPA pass rates in the country.

28. Michigan State University

• Bachelor of Arts

About: Students at the prestigious Broad College of Business can choose between a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting, a Master of Science in Accounting or in Business Analytics, and a Ph.D. in Accounting or in  Information Technology Management.

The school also offers a five-year accounting degree program suitable for students wishing to become CPAs. Employability is at the heart of the Broad accounting program, with a curriculum rooted in the real business world and around 200 students participating in internships every year.

29. Tulane University

About: The Freeman School of Business at Tulane University prepares students for the CPA exam and for success in the field through its undergraduate accounting program. A broad background in business and general education is supplemented by specific accounting courses.

Moreover, graduate students can pursue the comprehensive one-year Master of Accounting program, which covers advanced accounting topics, tax, auditing, business law and ethics and offers a number of electives to fit every student’s specific career goals.

30. City University of New York

About: Students at the Stan Ross Department of Accountancy at the City University of New York’s Baruch College have a wide range of choices: a BBA in Accounting, a Master of Science in Accountancy and an MBA with an Accounting major.

Both of the latter programs fulfill the requirements for taking the CPA exam. While the Master of Science in Accounting provides the shortest route to the CPA exam, some students may prefer the MBA for its diverse curriculum and multiple career options.

31. Northern Illinois University

About: The long-standing Northern Illinois University offers a diverse accounting program including a Bachelor of Science in Accountancy, a Master of Accounting Science (Leadership and Professional) and a Master of Science in Taxation.

The undergraduate curriculum covers essential topics in financial accounting, accounting theory, and business law, while the graduate programs offer flexible study options and valuable professional experience. A unique dual MAS/MBA degree option is also available.

32. Miami University

About: The Farmer School of Business at Miami University in Ohio offers an undergraduate degree in accounting, as well as a highly ranked Master of Accountancy program.

Accounting students aiming to qualify for the CPA exam may earn the necessary credits in five years, with outstanding students able to qualify in four years, thanks to the dual degree program. High graduate employment rates and excellent career development opportunities mean students recommend this program as one of the best in the country. So if you’re aiming to work in an accounting department or run one, Farmer School of Business may be your best bet.

33. University of Santa Clara

About: Santa Clara University is the oldest higher learning institution in the Western USA and has a long-standing accounting tradition. The accounting major (bachelor’s degree) offered at the undergraduate level offers a comprehensive overview of accounting topics alongside business and general education courses.

Students also complement their  learning through internships , independent study, and extra-curricular activities. At the graduate level, highly-rated MBA and Master of Finance programs prepare students for a range of careers in the business world.

34. Boston College

About: The Carroll School at Boston College has won widespread acclaim for its rigorous accounting program, which values ethical decision-making in accounting. Undergraduate students at Boston College can choose an accounting major that provides a comprehensive overview of the field, while graduate students can study for a Master of Science in Accounting or Finance or a Master of Business Administration.

Dual degree options are also available, and students can tailor their learning to their individual backgrounds and career goals, such as meeting CPA requirements.

35. Penn State University

About: Prospective accountants can undertake thorough training at the Smeal College of Business, with options including a BSBA in Accounting, a Master of Accounting, and a Ph.D. in Accounting. Students can also opt for an integrated undergraduate-graduate program tailored to provide a direct route to  the CPA exam .

With 95% of Master of Accounting graduates employed upon graduation and recruiters including the Big Four, Penn State is one of the best places in the country to start a career in accounting.

36. University of Utah

About: The competitive accounting program at the Eccles School of Business blends innovative classwork with hands-on experience to provide students with a unique well-rounded education.

Students can work with real-world clients and participate in volunteering programs, as well as complete field projects and undertake short professional courses. It is thus not surprising that the Master of Accounting program at the University of Utah boasts a 96% graduate employment rate alongside high CPA exam pass rates.

37. University of Tennessee

About: The long-standing accounting program at the University of Tennessee focuses on finance, information management, and supply chain management, as well as international business practices.

Accounting students can pursue an undergraduate degree with an accounting major, a Master of Accountancy, or a Ph.D. in Accounting. Excellent teaching is supplemented with internships and hands-on experience. Moreover, Master’s students can choose to specialize in Audit and Controls or Taxation.

38. University of Alabama

About: Undergraduate students at Culverhouse College can major in Accounting and gain expertise in auditing, taxation and managing financial accounts, with the option to specialize in Professional Accounting. At the graduate level, the College offers a Master of Accountancy and a Master of Tax Accounting.

Through its successful blend of high-quality teaching and real-world experience, Culverhouse College consistently achieves high graduate employment rates, with recruiters including the Big Four and Fortune 500 companies.

39. Arizona State University

About:   Business knowledge and technical expertise are at the core of the accountancy curriculum offered to undergraduate students at the Carey School of Business. Moreover, accounting students wishing to embark on a CPA career may opt for the Master of Accountancy or Master of Taxation program.

While the former provides advanced accounting expertise, the latter prepares you for a career in business and tax advisory or tax law. With a nearly 100% graduate employment rate, the graduate program at Arizona State puts students in a great position to start their careers.

Because Arizona State is a public research university, it is committed to scientific and technological discovery. So, if you want to specialize in a tech-related field after earning an accounting degree, one of the Carey School of Business’s accounting degree programs. It’s important to note that while not at the top of the list overall, Arizona State does offer one of the best online accounting programs around.

40. University of Iowa

About:   Tippie College offers a high-quality BBA in Accounting program focused on general skills, business knowledge, and accounting technical competence. Accounting students wishing to become CPAs or to enhance their expertise can pursue the Master of Accounting degree with one of four specializations: managerial accounting, tax, finances, and auditing or management information systems.

Student organizations, volunteering programs, and internships help Tippie students improve their skills and resume to aim for a Big Four job or a successful public accounting career.

41. Oklahoma State University

About: The highly-rated accounting program at the Spears School of Business aims to equip students with a broad knowledge base as well as with advanced expertise in accounting. Students can choose between a BSBA with an Accounting major, a Master of Science in Accounting and a Ph.D. in Accounting.

All courses are taught by instructors with extensive public accounting and research experience. Moreover, excellent professional opportunities allow students to gain experience during their studies and potentially secure a job offer upon graduation.

42. College of William & Mary

About: The College of William & Mary values flexibility and personal choice through the “Individual Program of Study” initiative. Students may choose to major in accounting while also choosing to double major or to add a different concentration to their curriculum.

Students aiming for CPA licensure may pursue the Master of Accounting program and one of its three elective tracks – Auditing, Taxation or Valuation. Non-accounting majors can fulfill the MAcc prerequisites through a Summer Boot Camp.

43. University of Connecticut

About:   Leadership and decision-making are at the core of the University of Connecticut’s innovative accounting curriculum. High CPA exam pass rates and graduate employment rates are proof of the program’s effectiveness, achieved by supplementing classroom learning with opportunities for experience.

Accounting students wishing to apply for a CPA license can pursue the online Master of Science in Accounting, a flexible program designed to complement the undergraduate accounting degree at the University of Connecticut.

44. Bentley University

About: The non-profit Bentley University combines technology and accounting expertise to create an innovative accounting program at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In addition to the undergraduate degree and the Master of Science in Accountancy,

Bentley students can also opt for a five-year program that allows them to qualify for CPA licensing within five years. Moreover, the dual degree option allows MBA students to study simultaneously for a Master of Science degree.

45. American University

About: The Kogod School of Business offers a rigorous Bachelor of Science in Accounting program, as well as a Master of Science in Accounting and a Master of Science in Taxation. While the former is designed to satisfy the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure, the latter focuses on tax code and state taxation.

Both provide in-depth expertise alongside opportunities for career development. Moreover, Master of Accounting students is able to choose from a wide range of specializations, including non-profit and forensic accounting.

46. Washington University in St. Louis

About: Accounting students pursuing a BSBA at the Olin Business School are able to choose a major in accounting during their sophomore year, and they can also opt for a second major from a different school.

Graduate students wishing to take the CPA track can pursue a Master of Accounting program unique for its flexibility: almost half of the required credits consist of elective courses. Other options at this highly-rated school include a Global Master of Finance, MBA, and Ph.D. programs.

47. Ball State University

About: The accounting program at Ball State University is deeply rooted in the local business community and provides an immersive learning experience, as well as rich internship and networking opportunities. Academic quality is ensured by the small class sizes and experienced faculty members.

Ball State accounting students can pursue a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s degree in accounting; while the former provides a solid foundation for an accounting career, the latter allows students to qualify for CPA certification and gain advanced accounting skills.

48. Belmont University

About: Belmont University offers a well-regarded accounting program for undergraduate and postgraduate students. One-third of Belmont graduates typically gain employment with the Big Four, while excellent internship opportunities and high-quality teaching enhance the employability of accounting students.

Students wishing to become CPAs can apply for the Master of Accountancy program, even if they hold non-accounting undergraduate degrees. A flexible schedule and a diverse and rigorous curriculum define the Master of Accountancy program at Belmont University, whose graduates consistently secure employment with major accounting firms.

49. University of Arkansas

About: Students at Walton College can pursue a BSBA in Accounting, a Master of Accountancy, and a Ph.D. in Accounting. Additional options are available, such as the International BSIB program and the five-year integrated MAcc program that allows students to qualify for the CPA exam.

The comprehensive accounting curriculum offered at Walton College is supplemented by internship experiences and extra-curricular activities. Career outlooks are bright for accounting graduates, who report high employment rates and good starting salaries.

50. Bryant University

• MBA (Master of Business Administration)
• MPAcc (Master of Professional Accounting)
• MST (Master of Science in Taxation)

About: Highly rated by the Princeton Review, Businessweek, and U.S. News for its business program, Bryant University offers excellent undergraduate training in accounting, as well as Master’s degrees in Professional Accountancy and Taxation.

With experienced instructors and a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on experiential learning, Bryant University boasts employment rates of 98% and excellent standing in employer surveys. This AACSB-accredited accounting program allows students to enhance their employability through internships, study abroad program,s and directed study projects.

Top 50 US Accounting Programs [Infographic]

Ranking Criteria for Undergrad and Graduate Accounting Programs

Our initial list was collected with the help of the commonly referred U.S. News and Businessweek rankings, as well as subject-specific indicators, including the Public Accounting Report’s survey of accounting professors. Our list was then sorted by several metrics, listed below.

As undergraduate and graduate programs are usually ranked separately, this list provides a ranking of accounting programs that stand out at both levels.

Criteria include quantitative indicators of excellence such as:

• Freshman retention
• Graduation rates
• CPA exam pass rates
• Median starting salary
• Quality of teaching
• Reputation and student feedback

Top Accounting Programs FAQs

Do i need to attend one of the 50 top universities to get an accounting job.

No. There are many paths to landing a great accounting job. However, many of the larger public firms focus their recruiting on these colleges.

What is the best major for accounting?

A BS in Accounting is the foundation of a career path in accounting. It provides the beginning of a successful career in public accounting. However, you can also pursue other business majors and end up with a job in the field of accounting programs.

Is it worth going to college for accounting?

The quick response is a yes. A Bachelors’s or Master’s degree in accounting will improve your career prospects and allow you to enjoy all of the benefits of this field.

Recent publications by Brigham Young University accounting faculty.

Publication records of faculty promoted between 1995 and 2003.

Research rankings of major accounting programs and their Ph.D. graduates.

Advice and suggestions for current and future doctoral students.

A sortable list of faculty, doctoral students, and potential doctoral students from BYU.

The BYU School of Accountancy is part of the Marriott School of Management.