Accounting Schools in Arizona

The following outline of accounting schools in Arizona provides information for those interested in pursuing an accounting degree in the state. Colleges and universities offer many different accounting degree options, such as undergraduate Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting degrees and graduate Master in Accountancy (MAcc) degrees. Some programs are designed for full-time students, while others offer flexible options such as part-time study or online classes. Students who pursue accounting degrees in Arizona may find opportunities to work within the state’s accounting industry after graduation.

Quick Facts

• 22 not-for-profit colleges or universities offer an accounting degree program in Arizona.¹
• 18 schools offer a certificate in accounting.¹
• 15 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.¹
• 7 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.¹
• 4 schools offer a graduate degree in accounting.¹
• 2 schools ranked in College Factual’s Best Accounting Schools 2023.²
• No schools ranked in the Princeton Review’s Best Colleges for Accounting Majors 2023.³
• 2 programs ranked in US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs 2023.⁴
• 3 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023.⁵
• 2 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2022-2023.⁶
• 2 schools are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in Business and Accounting.⁷
• 2 schools have accounting programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).⁸
• No schools have accounting programs accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).⁹

Comparison of Arizona Accounting Schools and Programs

The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in North Carolina to help you compare your options. Programs that appear in bold text offer hybrid or online options. For further school statistics, including median SAT, ACT, and GMAT scores, see the tables on our North Carolina business schools page, which break out information at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Table Notes:
*Median Debt: The median debt is the cumulative federal loan debt, excluding PLUS loans, at the time of graduation for students who completed an undergraduate program (certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree) as reported by College Scorecard for academic year 2020-2021 based on ​​National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) data.
**Median Earnings 10 Years After Entry: Median earnings are the middle value of earnings, at which half earned more and half earned less, measured 10 years (2020-2021) after the first year of study (2010-2011) for all students, institution-wide, who received federal loans and who are employed but not enrolled in school. Note that this value includes those who completed their program of study as well as those who discontinued study without receiving an award.]

Top-Ranked Accounting Schools in Arizona

College rankings can be a useful tool to measure the overall reputation of a school or program. Weighing multiple rankings when evaluating your college choices can be helpful because different publishers may use different ranking factors in their methodologies. While the best program for your goals may rely on a combination of factors not typically considered in overall rankings, such as location or funding, seeing a program ranked on multiple lists can be a strong indication of reputation and academic quality.

College Factual’s Best Accounting Schools 2023

• University of Arizona
• Arizona State University-Tempe²

US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs 2023

• Arizona State University (#19 tie)
• University of Arizona (#40)⁴

US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023

• Arizona State University (#1 tie)
• University of Arizona (#6 tie)
• Northern Arizona University (#44 tie)⁵

US News & World Report’s Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2022-2023

• Arizona State University (#13)
• University of Arizona (#20 tie)⁶

Highest First-Time CPA Exam Pass Rate with a Bachelor’s Degree

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases reports including data on candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.⁷ The following schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in Arizona in 2019 (the most recent report available*) for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall average pass rate for first-time test-takers in Arizona being 55.6%:

1. Northern Arizona University 70.2%
2. University of Arizona 68.1%
3. Arizona State University 65.3%

*As NASBA makes significant changes to the CPA Exam as part of the CPA Evolution initiative, new candidate score reports by state are not anticipated until at least mid-2024.

Schools in Arizona with Accounting Degrees

To give you an idea of the breadth and depth of accounting degrees offered in Arizona, we have profiled select programs below. Be sure to visit the websites of programs of interest for more detailed information on courses, admissions requirements and deadlines, and faculty.

Undergraduate Accounting Programs

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU)-Prescott offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Accounting that is designed for students interested in business careers in the field of aviation. The program includes 85 to 86 credits of business core courses such as Managerial and Organization Behavior and Introduction to Aviation, Aerospace, and Global Business. Students then take required accounting specialization classes including Intermediate Accounting; Financial Statement Analysis Business Valuation; and Auditing Principles and Procedures. ERAU also offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination (FAFE) that covers the four major sections of the Certified Fraud Examiners (CFE) examination: financial transactions and fraud schemes; law; investigation; and fraud prevention and deterrence. Students in the FAFE program take courses such as Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination; Detecting and Preventing Financial Statement Fraud; and Governmental & Not-for-Profit Accounting. Graduates of this program will be eligible to test for the Registered Forensic Investigator (RFI), Government Forensic Accountant (GFA), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certifications.

Northern Arizona University

Students at Northern Arizona University (NAU) can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accountancy. This degree is ideal for those interested in an accounting career in industry, government, or public accounting. Students start with broad liberal studies requirements before completing 43 credit hours of business core classes and 24 units of accounting coursework, including courses such as Accounting Systems, Financial Reporting I, and Income Tax Accounting. These courses cover accounting fundamentals, industry-relevant information technology, and real-world applications of accounting, auditing, and financial analysis. Students interested in pursuing graduate study may apply for NAU’s Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master’s Program, which will allow them to begin working towards a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an Accounting concentration while still completing their BS degree.

Graduate Accounting Programs

Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s (ASU) W.P. Carey School of Business offers both a STEM-designated Master of Accountancy and Data Analytics (MAcc) and a Master of Taxation and Data Analytics (MTax) degree. Both degrees are in a nine-month format, although students without an academic accounting background may need to take some prerequisites before starting either program. The curriculum is designed with input from alumni and other accounting professionals, so students learn applicable knowledge and skills. Classes focus on case methods and group discussion, and coursework emphasizes foundational knowledge as well as strategic thinking and communication skills. Graduates from either program meet the educational requirements to take the CPA examination and apply for licensure. ASU also offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accountancy for those interested in a career in research or education.

University of Arizona

At the Eller College of Management at the University of Arizona (Arizona), students can earn a Master of Accounting (MAcc) or Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) degree. The MAcc program offers concentrations in Audit and Taxation, while MSA students can add a concentration in Audit, Business Analytics, Finance, Healthcare Management, Marketing, MIS/Information Security, or Tax. The MSA program can be completed alone or as part of a dual degree with a Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Finance (MSF), Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MIS), Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA), or Juris Doctor (JD). Arizona’s MAcc program is designed for students who have already earned an undergraduate degree in accounting and can be completed in as little as nine months of full-time study. The STEM-designated MSA program takes 9 to 18 months to complete and has accounting prerequisites built into its curriculum, making it ideal for students without an undergraduate degree in accounting. Students in both programs take required courses such as Advanced Accounting, Business Law for Accountants, and Principles of Auditing. Arizona also offers a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an Accounting Concentration that is designed for working professionals. The program can be completed in 24 months with classes held in-person one evening a week. Students interested in careers in education or research can pursue Arizona’s PhD in Accounting.

Online Accounting Programs

Arizona State University Online

Through Arizona State University (ASU) Online, students can complete a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accountancy or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Business with a Concentration in Corporate Accounting. Both curriculums include accounting fundamentals as well as leadership and management techniques through courses such as Principles of Management and Leadership; Business Law and Ethics for Managers; and Fundamentals of Finance. The BA in Business with a Corporate Accounting concentration prepares students to work in careers in management accounting and is designed to help them prepare for certifications such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). The BS in Accountancy program helps to prepare students for the CPA and CMA examinations. These programs are 120 credit hours, and most classes are taught in an eight-week format.

Ottawa University

Ottawa University (OU) offers a fully online Bachelor of Arts in Accounting (BAcc) and Master of Accountancy (MAcc). The BAcc program offers concentrations in Actuarial Science; Economics; Finance; and Leadership and Management, allowing students to personalize their education to their interests and career goals. BAcc students learn skills in financial accounting, systems analysis, and problem-solving through courses such as Advanced Accounting, Auditing, and Business Ethics. Courses are offered in eight-week terms, allowing students to accelerate their degree completion. Those interested in pursuing graduate study may apply for the BAcc/MAcc concurrent degree program, which allows students to complete both degrees in just five years. OU’s MAcc program does not require an undergraduate degree in accounting or accounting prerequisites to apply, so it is ideal for students who have not completed any accounting-related coursework. The curriculum prepares students for careers as public accountants through courses such as Advanced Financial Accounting and Reporting; Accounting Theory; and Value Systems and Professional Ethics. Graduates of this program are eligible to sit for the CPA examination in most states. OU also offers a 36-credit Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an Accounting Concentration that can be completed entirely online. Required courses include Advanced Auditing and Forensic Accounting; Accounting Information Systems; and Organizational Behavior and Theory.

Yavapai College

Yavapai College (YC) is a community college with six locations throughout Yavapai County and offers several online options for those looking to pursue accounting-related undergraduate degrees or certificates. Their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accountancy is a two-year program ideal for students looking for entry-level employment upon graduation. The AAS in Accountancy includes online courses such as Advanced Tax Planning and Preparation; Payroll Accounting; and Introductory Accounting. Students also have the opportunity to complete an accounting internship, if desired. YC also offers an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business with an Accounting Concentration. This flexible program allows students to complete their degree in as little as two-and-a-half years or part-time in six years. Students learn financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and critical thinking skills through courses such as Accounting Information Systems, Cost Accounting, and Project Management Essentials. Several online undergraduate certificate programs are available in Accounting Assistant, Advanced Tax-IRS Enrolled Agent, Advanced Bookkeeping, Bookkeeping, and Basic Tax.

Related Articles:

• Business Schools in Arizona
• Online MBA Programs in Arizona

Arizona CPA Requirements

The Arizona State Board of Accountancy (the Board) requires that CPA applicants have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university and have completed at least 150 semester hours. At least 24 of these hours must be in accounting courses with an additional 18 hours of related courses. CPA candidates must then pass the CPA examination. After passing the examination, applicants must complete at least 2,000 hours of relevant experience in accounting that is verified by a licensed CPA. They must also complete a professional ethics course and pass an exam in professional ethics with a score of at least 90%. After gaining CPA licensure, individuals must maintain their designation through continuing professional education (CPE) credit obtained through courses, webinars, and other professional development efforts.

Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates in Arizona

After graduation, accounting students in Arizona have several career choices available to them. Major accounting firms in Arizona such as Ascot Accounting, BeachFleischman, and Price Kong may offer accounting positions. Graduates can also pursue work opportunities for major government entities like the State Department, Department of Defense, and other agencies located in the state. Financial companies such as Bank of America, JP Morgan Chase, Northern Trust, and Charles Schwab have centers in Arizona, providing possible accounting positions. Graduates who earn CPA certification may also start their own accounting business or work for other small businesses in the state.

Arizona Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

Arizona Schools with Accounting Degree Programs

Note: Student Reviews are based on the experiences of a few individuals and it is unlikely that you will have similar results. Please review the “Data, Student Reviews and Other Information” section in our Terms of Use and Disclaimers.

Arizona State University
4701 W Thunderbird Rd
Glendale, AZ 85306
(602) 543-5500
https://www.asu.edu/

Student Review: “The Arizona State University Business Accounting and Management program proved to be very different from what I thought it would be. The whole process was somewhat lengthy, as I had to see a career counselor, a guidance counselor, and a schedule coordinator. Once I was enrolled full time, classes were very easy to schedule and work around. The internship process was great, as there were many participating companies eager to take new students under their wings and teach them how to perform properly in the industry. I graduated a semester early due to the coordination that I had with my schedule. Overall, I loved the program and what I took out of it.” -Joshua S., student at Arizona State University

YavaPai College
1100 E. Sheldon Street
Prescott, AZ 86301
(928) 445-7300
https://www.yc.edu/

Student Review: “I have attended two semesters at Yavapai College and overall, I have been impressed with the curriculum and faculty. The classes are challenging yet manageable, and there are ample online programs for those students who do not have time for traditional classes. Yavapai College has an impressive library that is well suited for studying and contains many volumes. I was in the accounting program and I must say that I learned a lot. Additionally, there were ample office hours available for any questions that I had. Also, the scholarship opportunities that the school can provide through their foundation partners are immense. I got very good grades and was able to procure enough scholarships to completely pay for my books and tuition. Overall, it’s a great school with a great staff!” -Student at Yavapai College

Related Accounting Degree State Pages:

• California
• Colorado
• New Mexico
• Nevada
• Utah

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. College Factual Best Accounting Schools 2023: https://www.collegefactual.com/majors/business-management-marketing-sales/accounting/rankings/top-ranked/
3. The Princeton Review. The Best 382 Colleges 2023 Edition. Penguin Random House, 2022.
4. US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/accounting-rankings
5. US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/bachelors/online-bachelors-business-rankings
6. US News & World Report’s Best Undergraduate Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/business-accounting
7. Association to Advance College Schools of Business, Accredited Universities and Schools, Business & Accounting: https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited
8. Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, Accredited Schools, Separate Accounting: https://acbspsearch.org/
9. International Accreditation Council for Business Education, Members: https://iacbe.org/accreditation/member-status-information/results/
10. Department of Education College Scorecard: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/data
11. The NASBA Candidate Performance Report, 2019 University Edition: https://nasbareport.com/
12. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Arizona: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_az.htm