Explore the different degree levels in accounting, from associate to doctorate. Learn about the career opportunities, salary potential, and goals for each stage.
Accounting degrees are available at several levels, each offering a different depth of knowledge and range of career opportunities. From entry-level programs to advanced graduate degrees, the path you choose in becoming an accountant can shape your long-term goals in the field.
Understanding the different accounting degree levels can help you decide where to start and how far you may want to go in your education. Each option provides a foundation for specific roles, making it easier to align your education with your career plans.
Accounting Degree Overview
Accounting degrees begin at the associate's level and are available through the doctoral level. Career options open up with each degree level. To take the Uniform CPA Examination to become a Certified Public Accountant, a student must have 150 college credits in most states, which is about 30 more than a typical bachelor's degree program. Because of this, many professional accountants continue to a master's degree.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutAccountingEducation">Important Facts About Accounting Education</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Prerequisites</td><td> High school diploma or GED is needed for undergraduate programs, bachelor's degree is required for graduate programs</td></tr>
<tr><td> Common Courses </td><td> Associate degree: mathematics for business and finance, management principles and business statistics<br/> Bachelor's degree: introductory and intermediate accounting, cost management and tax accounting<br/>Master's degree: federal tax research, fraud examination and advanced business law <br/> Doctoral degree: advanced studies in financial management and statistical methods</td></tr>
<tr><td>Online Availability</td><td> Some programs are offered partially or fully online</td></tr>
<tr><td>Continuing Education</td><td> Needed to maintain CPA licensure, requirements vary by state</td></tr>
<tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $77,250 (<i>for accountants and auditors</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 6% (<i>for accountants and auditors</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---AssociateSDegreeInAccounting">Associate's Degree in Accounting</h3><p>An Associate of Applied Science in Accounting degree program teaches the basics of accountancy. Graduates with an associate's degree in accounting can become bookkeepers or clerks.
</p><h3 id="section---BachelorSDegreeInAccounting">Bachelor's Degree in Accounting</h3><p>A Bachelor of Science degree in accounting prepares the student for a career in auditing, corporate accounting and management services. Most professional accountants hold at least a bachelor's degree.
</p><h3 id="section---MasterSDegreesInAccounting">Master's Degrees in Accounting</h3><p>At the master's degree level, students can choose a Master of Science in Accounting or a Master of Accountancy degree program. Those holding a Master of Science degree are qualified for senior positions in accounting and can sit for the Uniform CPA Examination.
</p><p>A Master of Accountancy degree provides a student with additional academic work to promote technical competence and skills of communication, presentation and interpersonal relationships. Auburn University reports that students with a Master of Accountancy degree have a much higher success rate on the uniform CPA examination.
</p><h3 id="section---DoctoralProgramInAccounting">Doctoral Program in Accounting</h3><p>A Ph.D. in Accounting degree program prepares a student for research and teaching. Doctoral programs in accounting are academic degrees for potential accounting professors, rather than professional public accountants.</p>
