Accounting Schools in Ohio

Ohio’s universities and colleges maintain numerous accounting programs for students interested in studying general accounting, public accounting, government accounting, and many other accounting subjects. Some schools offer online degrees and others provide full-time or part-time schedule formats. The following overview of accounting schools in Ohio will equip you with the information you need to find the program that fits your goals and schedule. Read on below to also find out more information about accounting career outlooks and professional licensure requirements in the state.

Quick Facts

• 78 not-for-profit colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in Ohio.¹
• 31 schools offer a certificate in accounting.¹
• 33 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.¹
• 49 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.¹
• 29 schools offer a graduate degree in accounting.¹
• 11 schools ranked in College Factual’s Best Accounting Schools 2023.²
• 1 school ranked in the Princeton Review’s Best Colleges for Accounting Majors 2023.³
• 1 program ranked in US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs 2023.⁴
• 6 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023.⁵
• 3 schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2022-2023.⁶
• 12 schools are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in Business and Accounting.⁷
• 24 schools have accounting programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).⁸
• 6 schools have accounting programs accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).⁹

Comparison of Ohio Accounting Schools and Programs

The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in Ohio 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 Ohio 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 Ohio

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

• Ohio State University
• Miami University-Oxord
• University of Dayton
• Case Western Reserve University
• University of Cincinatti
• John Carroll University
• Xavier University
• Ohio University-Athens
• Bowling Green State University
• Kent State University at Kent
• Ohio Northern University²

Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Accounting Majors 2023

• Miami University³

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

• Ohio State University (#12)⁴

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

• Xavier University (#12 tie)
• Ohio University (#32 tie)
• University of Toledo (#58 tie)
• Cleveland State University (#79 tie)
• University of Findlay (#91 tie)
• Ashland University (#127 tie)⁵

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

• Ohio State University (#12)
• Case Western Reserve University (#39 tie)
• Miami University-Oxford (#60 tie)⁶

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

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases a report including data on candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.¹¹ The following schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in Ohio in 2019 (the most recent report available*) for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall pass rate for first-time test-takers in Ohio being 55.2%:

1. John Carroll University 79.4%
2. Ohio Northern University 72%
3. Case Western Reserve University 68%
4. Xavier University 66.7%
5. Cedarville University 65.4%
6. Youngstown State University 65.4%

*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 Ohio with Accounting Degrees

To give you an idea of the breadth and depth of accounting degrees offered in Ohio, 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

Miami University

Miami University’s Farmer School of Business offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accountancy. Accountancy students must complete liberal education courses outside of the business school in addition to the required coursework in different business disciplines. The accounting core includes courses such as Managerial Accounting, Financial Accounting Research, Federal Income Tax Accounting, and Financial Leadership in Organizations. These core courses give students a broad understanding of the major areas of accounting and can be supplemented with electives based on the career interests of each student. In these classes, the coursework focuses on experiential learning, critical thinking, and teamwork. Graduates with a BS in Accountancy are prepared for entry-level accounting positions or to pursue graduate business and accounting degrees. Students also have the option to complete a combined degree program, allowing them to earn both a BS in Accountancy and a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) from the Farmer School of Business in just four years.

Ohio State University

Students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with an Accounting Specialization from the Fisher College of Business at Ohio State University (OSU). The curriculum requires core classes in the areas of business, economics, finance, and management, and offers specialization through classes like Cost Accounting; Tax Accounting; Auditing Principles and Procedures; and Government and Non-Profit Accounting. Students learn how to summarize data in financial reports, interpret business figures, and determine taxes and audit records. These skills allow graduates to analyze, prepare, and communicate relevant accounting information to managers, decision-makers, and investors. Accounting students interested in professional networking can also pursue study abroad opportunities or internships through the Office of Career Management, as well as student organizations such as the Accounting Association and Beta Alpha Psi (BAP). OSU accounting students interested in CPA certification can pursue the combined BSBA/Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program to meet the 150-credit hour educational requirement for licensure.

Xavier University

At the Williams College of Business at Xavier University, students can earn a Bachelor of Business Administration (BSBA) in Accounting. This program emphasizes foundational accounting theory and knowledge as well as practical, hands-on experience. Students practice problem-solving, critical thinking skills, and communication strategies. The core curriculum includes classes such as Accounting Information Systems; Financial Accounting and Reporting I; Auditing; and Introduction to Taxation. Students can pursue community outreach opportunities and internships or join student organizations, such as Xavier’s Accounting Society, National Association of Black Accountants (NABA), or Women in Business (XWIB). Those interested in sitting for the Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) examination can combine their BSBA in Accounting with Xavier’s Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree for a total of five years of study.

Graduate Accounting Programs

Bowling Green State University

At Bowling Green State University’s (BGSU) Schmidthorst College of Business, students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc). This 30-credit graduate degree builds on undergraduate accounting knowledge to prepare students to sit for the CPA examination and is designed to be completed in one year. This program is ideal for those interested in public or corporate accounting, and students must have a United States Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)-based undergraduate degree in accounting to be considered for admission. Through courses such as Advanced Financial Reporting; Business Assurance Services; Information Systems Audit and Control (ISAC); and Current Issues in Managerial Accounting, students learn industry-relevant skills and technology applications. Graduates understand business intelligence techniques, data analytics, information technologies, and database systems that are used in the accounting field. MAcc students begin in the fall semester and graduate in the spring.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University’s (CWRU) Weatherhead School of Management offers a 30-credit Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree that can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis. The program focuses on the technical expertise and advanced knowledge necessary to move into management and leadership positions in the field. Students learn about accounting, auditing, taxation, technology, and information systems through classes in Corporate Reporting and Analysis; Tax Practice: Analysis, Planning, and Communications; Advanced Auditing Theory and Practice; and Advanced Federal Taxes. Coursework also focuses on critical thinking, leadership, and communication skills. CRWU’s MAcc program offers the Professional Track for students interested in audit, tax, or management accounting and the STEM-designated Analytics Track that combines accounting with data analysis. Accounting students have the option to complete the Bachelor of Arts (BA)/Bachelor of Science (BS) and MAcc Integrated Study Program, allowing them to earn both accounting degrees in five years. Graduates work in public or corporate accounting, taxation, financial analysis, management, and consulting. Students interested in careers in research or teaching at the collegiate level can pursue CWRU’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Management: Accountancy.

Online Accounting Programs

University of Northwestern Ohio

At the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH), students can earn an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting with one of three tracks: Accounting, Forensic Accounting, and Certified Professional Accountant (CPA). This program teaches students how to prepare financial reports, statements, cost procedures, audits, and taxes for organizations and businesses. Through courses such as Corporate Finance, Financial Statement Analysis, Managerial Accounting, Business Taxes, and other general education courses, students learn foundational accounting knowledge, communication skills, and technology relevant to the field. The general Accounting track is designed for those interested in entry-level positions after graduation, while the Forensic Accounting track focuses on fraud prevention and white collar crime, in addition to preparing students for the Certified Fraud Examiner’s (CFE) examination. The CPA track is a five-year program for students interested in pursuing an advanced degree and sitting for the CPA examination upon graduation. UNOH also offers an Associate of Applied Business (AAB) degree in Accounting offered in flexible student-friendly formats.

University of Toledo

The University of Toledo (UToledo) John B. and Lillian E. Neff College of Business and Innovation offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting that can be completed entirely online or on campus. Students can choose between part-time and full-time enrollment depending on their schedules. The core curriculum includes classes such as Accounting for Business Decision-Making; Data Analytics in Accounting; Individual Taxation; and Accounting Information Systems and Controls, and class lectures are supplemented by real-world examples and hands-on coursework. Graduates from this program work as budget analysts, forensic accountants, and tax specialists. Students also have the option to pursue a graduate degree leading to the Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) designation. UToledo also offers a Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) that accounting students can complete with just one additional year of study through a hybrid of evening and online classes.

Related Articles:

• Business Schools in Ohio
• Online MBA Programs in Ohio
• Online MBA in Accounting

Ohio CPA Requirements

The Accountancy Board of Ohio (the Board) has a 150-hour credit requirement for those who wish to take the Certified Professional Accountant (CPA) examination, and applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree. The credits must have been obtained at an accredited educational institution. At least 24 credits must come from accepted accounting courses and at least 24 from other business courses. Graduates can then sit for the CPA examination. If they pass, applicants must then complete a year of work experience that is supervised and confirmed by a CPA and take a Board-approved course in professional standards in responsibilities (PSR) that emphasizes Ohio accountancy law and Board rules. After all the above, individuals can apply for CPA licensure. Certified CPAs must complete continued professional education (CPE) hours to maintain their designation.

Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates in Ohio

Ohio offers many opportunities for those with accounting degrees to work in the state. Multinational companies such as Procter and Gamble (P&G), based in Cincinnati, along with several other large companies, like Cardinal Health and Kroger, are located in the state. Such businesses may provide many accounting and finance jobs for local graduates. Those with accounting degrees and those with CPA licenses may also find positions at accounting firms, CPA offices, or consulting businesses. Large accounting firms in the state include GBQ, Leppert Company CPAs, and Corrigan Krause. Statewide, regional, and local businesses may offer accounting positions, and those interested in public accounting may find opportunities to work in government or other public institutions.

Ohio Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

Ohio 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.

Bowling Green State University
110 McFall Center
Bowling Green, OH 43403
(419) 372-2531
https://www.bgsu.edu/

Student Review: “Bowling Green State University’s Accounting program has won many awards and ranks as one of the top public universities in the country for Accounting. I thoroughly enjoyed my time here learning about Accounting. The university had many professors that were well versed in the industry side of Accounting. Many professors worked in the industry for well over 10-15 years. Other professors were more focused on academia and studied at the highest level possible to earn their PhD. I am very happy I chose a school that had professors from both sides of the coin. BGSU had many after school clubs and activities to join as well. I decided to focus on Beta Alpha Psi, an Accounting club. This program brought many industry experts to the classroom and helped further my knowledge.” -student at Bowling Green State University

Tiffin University
155 Miami St
Tiffin, OH 44883
(800) 968-6446
https://www.tiffin.edu/

Student Review: “Ivy Bridge College of Tiffin University is an awesome school all around. They have an exceptional faculty. The financial aid department is very helpful and gets their work done in a timely manner. The instructors are also very helpful – they have in-class time to help people who need it and they are willing to be flexible in order to help a student. I was in the accounting program and I was able to be highly successful with the help of my team, including my success coach, my financial aid worker, and my teachers. My success coach was the most influential part of my success with this school.” -student at Tiffin University

Ohio State University
1739 N High St
Columbus, OH 43210
(614) 688-4636
https://www.osu.edu/

Student Review: “I learned a lot from the accounting program that Ohio State University offered to me. It was overall a great experience. We got to do so many hands on activities that better helped me understand more about accounting and learn more about it. It was so easy to understand everything because my professor was great. If I was lost or confused on something, he would stay with me after class until I understood everything. It was almost impossible to fail his class because he was always there to help if I was lost. I liked the fact that we did more hands on activities than worksheets in the class because that prevented it from getting too boring. I didn’t dislike many things at all. If I had to choose something that I disliked it would be that class time was way too long. It was the longest class I had. It was a lot at once because it felt like it was never going to end. It often times got boring because of how long class lasted.” -student at Ohio State University

Student Review: “Ohio State is a school known for its business program, and the accounting program is no different. It is quite difficult to get into business and, by extension, accounting relative to other majors at the school, but those who do make it will find the experience quite rewarding. The professors are top notch who are willing to pay extra attention to each and every student. However, I did have a professor or two (not naming names) who seemed more like a “guest professor” in that they seemed to never be available. I do understand that professors have other obligations, but shouldn’t teaching be near the top of their lists? The classrooms had recently been renovated/upgraded when I was there, so they are relatively modern and cutting edge. The people in the program were mostly tech savvy and things ran smoothly and efficiently. The workload and demands placed on students is demanding, but not overwhelming. All in all, I think their program very thoroughly prepared me for life in the field of accounting.” -student at Ohio State University

Student Review: “My accounting program was very in-depth. It was more of an economics-style program because we learned everything about the stock market, bonds and interest rates as well as tax rates and the forms necessary to be an accountant. I learned how to establish myself as a professional in the program. I learned to be a self-starter, even though that goes against what most accountants do. I learned to track expenses, create reports and update ledgers. I would have to say that this school has one of the top quality accounting programs around and I would highly recommend them.” -student at Ohio State University

University of Akron
302 E Buchtel Ave
Akron, OH 44304
(330) 972-7111
https://www.uakron.edu/

Student Review: “The accounting program in my school requires us to take an entrance exam and based on the results of that exam, admission is granted in the program. The program has many courses that prepare students very well to succeed in the field of accountancy. Professors are well-published and highly connected in the region. This helps in final placement of the students. Of late, the department has begun to hold job fairs to place students.” -Joseph D., student at University of Akron

Student Review: “The University of Akron’s accounting program was one of the most fun experiences of my life. Their school of business is one of the best in Ohio and it really shows. Some of the professors really put us through the ringer, but it was worth it in the end. One of the professors helped set me up with an internship at an accounting firm in the area and it really helped jump start my career. Without that internship, I would not have gotten as large of a starting salary as I have now. One thing I would try to work on is the fact that some of the professors make themselves a little inaccessible due to limited office hours.” -student at the University of Akron

Popular Accounting Degree State Pages:

• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Michigan
• Pennsylvania
• West Virginia

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, Ohio: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_oh.htm