Fastest Way To Become an Accountant in California 2025

Accounting is a rapidly growing field, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With around 130,800 jobs opening up annually, it's a stable field to enter for new graduates.

To become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), however, you'll need to complete the extensive education requirements, which likely include a bachelor's and a master's degree. If you're looking for the fastest way to become an accountant, accelerated courses and programs can help you reach your goals in a shorter timeframe. Keep reading to learn more about this career path, including accelerated program options in California.

What Does an Accountant Do?

An accountant prepares, reviews, and maintains financial records for individuals, businesses, or government entities. Their work is essential for informed decision-making, risk management, and maintaining the financial health of an organization or client.

Accountants often handle tasks like budgeting, payroll, auditing, and tax preparation. They may also offer strategic advice to improve financial performance or reduce costs. Some specialize in areas like forensic accounting, management accounting, or taxation.

To do their jobs well, accountants need a diverse skill set. Some of the skills an accountant must have include:

• analytical and problem-solving abilities
• excellent communication
• organization skills
• time management
• attention to detail

How Long Does It Take To Become an Accountant in California?

Becoming an accountant in California typically takes about five to six years. This includes completing a four-year bachelor's degree and a one or two-year master's degree to meet the 150 semester hours required for CPA licensure, plus time to pass the CPA exam.

The Fastest Way To Become an Accountant in California

To become an accountant in California, you'll need to follow specific requirements concerning education, examination, and experience. To expedite this process, it's essential to understand and strategically navigate each requirement. Below, we discuss all the necessary steps to become an accountant.

1. Earn a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting

To start your career journey, begin by enrolling in a bachelor's degree program in accounting or a closely related field, such as business administration. A typical undergraduate program requires 120 semester units and covers fundamental topics such as financial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law.

Most undergraduate degrees take four years to complete. To accelerate your studies, consider taking a heavier course load each semester or enrolling in summer sessions. Additionally, some accredited colleges offer accelerated programs that allow completion in less than four years.

2. Complete the Additional 30 Semester Hours

California mandates a total of 150 semester units of education for CPA licensure. After your bachelor's degree, you'll need an additional 30 units. These can be obtained through a master's degree in accounting.

California also requires candidates to complete 10 credit hours in ethics study. These courses can often be taken at the same time as your other educational requirements.

Some schools offer an accelerated master's program that can be completed in under two years. Additionally, some other schools offer an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program that allows students to start earning graduate credits toward the end of their undergraduate degree.

3. Pass the Uniform CPA Examination

Accounting students must sign up for the Uniform CPA exam through the California Board of Accountancy (CBA). This rigorous four-section test assesses your knowledge and skills in accounting. Scheduling and passing all four sections as close together as possible can speed up this phase.

4. Fulfill the Professional Experience Requirements

One year (equivalent to 500 hours) of supervised accounting experience is necessary for licensure in California. Seek employment or internships that provide qualifying work experience under the supervision of a licensed CPA. Starting this experience while also completing your additional coursework or studying for the CPA exam can shorten the overall timeline to get your CPA license.

Accelerated Accounting Programs in California

Accelerated online accounting degrees offer a faster path to a degree. These intensive programs combine core coursework with CPA requirements, helping students enter the workforce and pursue licensure quickly. Keep reading to learn about accelerated accounting degrees in California.

University of the Pacific

The University of the Pacific in Stockton offers an accelerated dual degree: a Bachelor of Science (BS) in accounting and a Master of Accounting (MAcc) through its Eberhardt School of Business. This comprehensive program fulfills the 150-credit requirement for licensure and prepares students for careers in various accounting sectors, including corporate, government, and nonprofit organizations.

• Time to completion: Five years
• Tuition cost: $28,912
• Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) International

National University

National University is located in San Diego, though it's well-known as a distance learning institution. Students can complete a bachelor's degree in accounting or a master's degree in accounting online or in person. The master's degree can be completed in only nine months, making it an attractive option for motivated students who wish to become accountants quickly.

• Time to completion: Nine months
• Tuition cost: $477 per credit hour
• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

California Baptist University

California Baptist University offers a BS in accounting featuring accelerated asynchronous courses fully online. The school offers three semesters per year, so students can study year-round and earn their degrees quickly. Students learn basic accounting subjects and principles, as well as ethics from a biblical worldview.

• Time to completion: Two years (if general education requirements are already met)
• Tuition cost: $520 per credit hour
• Accreditation: WASC Senior College & University Commission (WSCUC)

FAQs About the Fastest Way To Become an Accountant in California

If you're looking for the fastest way to become an accountant in California, you may have questions about costs and educational requirements. Below are answers to common questions that can help you navigate your path toward a successful accounting career in the state.

How Much Does It Cost To Become an Accountant in California?

The total cost varies, but earning a bachelor's degree in accounting in California typically ranges from $40,000 to $120,000, depending on the school. Additional expenses may include application fees and continuing education. Scholarships and financial aid can help reduce the overall investment.

What Can I Do With an Accounting Degree in California?

With an accounting degree in California, you can pursue roles such as:

• auditor
• tax consultant
• financial analyst
• controller
• chief financial officer
• payroll specialist

Opportunities exist in public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits. The degree also provides a strong foundation for the California CPA exam, licensure, and career advancement.

What Are the Education Requirements To Become a CPA in California?

To earn a California CPA license, you need 150 credit hours of education, including a bachelor's degree with at least 24 units of accounting courses and 24 hours of business-related subjects. Additionally, 10 hours in ethics are required. These requirements can be met through undergraduate and graduate-level coursework.

Explore Accounting Degrees

If you're ready to start your journey toward becoming an accountant, check out the programs listed on Learn.org. You'll find bachelor's degrees and master's programs that can help propel you to your career goals. Contact any school that interests you for more details on their accounting program.