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.

Table of Contents

Comparison of Arizona Accounting Schools and Programs

The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in Arizona to help you compare your options. Programs that appear in bold text offer hybrid or online options.

SchoolAccreditationAccounting Degree(s)Acceptance Rate10Grad Rate1Avg Net Price1Median Debt*10Median Earnings 10 Years After Entry**10
Arizona State UniversityAACSBBS-Accountancy;
3-Year BS-Accountancy;
5-Year Integrated BS/MAcc;
5-Year Integrated BS/MTax;
MAcc-Accountancy and Data Analytics;
MTax-Taxation and Data Analytics;
PhD-Accountancy		88.2%67%$14,808$19,500$58,967
Arizona State University OnlineAACSBBS-Accountancy;
BA-Business: Corporate Accounting		70.2%52%N.Av.$19,500$58,967
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-PrescottACBSPBSBA-Accounting;
BS-Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination		73.8%71%$38,909$23,666$82,012
Northern Arizona UniversityAACSBBS-Accountancy;
5-Year BS-Accountancy to MBA-Accounting;
MBA-Accounting		78.4%59%$17,115$19,000$50,118
Ottawa University-Phoenix—BAcc;
BAcc-Actuarial Science;
BAcc-Economics;
BAcc-Finance;
BAcc-Leadership and Management;
MAcc;
MBA-Accounting		N.Av.N.Av.N.Av.$21,500$48,846
University of ArizonaAACSBBSBA-Accounting;
BSBA-Accounting: Healthcare Management;
MAcc-Audit;
MAcc-Tax;
MBA-Accounting/Finance;
MSA;
MSA: Audit;
MSA: Business Analytics;
MSA: Finance;
MSA: Healthcare Management;
MSA: Marketing;
MSA: MIS/Information Security;
MSA: Tax;
Grad Cert-Accounting		87.3%68%$17,075$19,620$59,805
Yavapai College—BS-Business: AccountingN.Av.39%$7,217$9,000$36,221

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.11 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.

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 Accountancy (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.

Arizona CPA Requirements and Steps

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 36 of these hours must be in accounting courses with an additional 18 hours of related courses. There are six steps to complete in order to earn a CPA license in Arizona.

  1. Complete 150 semester hours of college-level education in accounting.
  2. Earn the required hours of experience.
  3. Complete the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) ethics course and exam.
  4. Take the Uniform CPA Examination.
  5. Apply for a CPA License.
  6. Receive a license.

1. Complete 150 semester hours of college-level education in accounting.

Candidates for CPA licensure in Arizona must have completed at least 150 semester hours of college-level education with a bachelor’s degree or higher. Acceptable coursework must include at least 36 semester hours of accounting courses (with at least 30 of these hours in upper-division courses) and 30 semester hours of coursework in business and accounting-related subjects such as:

  • Business administration
  • Statistics
  • Computer science, information systems, or data processing
  • Economics
  • Finance
  • Management
  • Business law
  • College algebra or higher mathematics
  • Advanced written communication
  • Advanced oral communication
  • Ethics
  • Marketing

2. Earn the required hours of experience.

Candidates must complete at least 2,000 hours of experience in accounting practice under the supervision of a licensed CPA or under the supervision of an individual who has the equivalent education and experience. The work may be performed on a full-time, part-time, volunteer, or internship basis or any combination thereof provided the work involves relevant experience in accounting. Self-employment may not be counted towards the required hours. The experience may be earned before or after taking the Uniform CPA Exam.

3. Complete the AICPA ethics course and exam.

Applicants must receive a score of 90% or higher on the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Ethics Exam. The course and exam are self-study and passing scores are good for two years. Those who plan to take the exam and apply for licensure in Arizona may order it through the Arizona Society of Certified Public Accountants (ASCPA).

4. Take the Uniform CPA Examination.

Candidates who have acquired the 150-semester hours of college-level coursework may apply to take the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Uniform CPA Exam. The exam consists of four sections which may be taken in any order over an 18-month period. Candidates for CPA licensure must pass the exam with a score of 75 or higher on all four sections before applying for a license. Candidates can apply for the exam on the NASBA website.

5. Apply for a CPA license.

The Board reviews all CPA applications in the state. Applicants must provide proof of education, experience, citizenship, and passing scores on the AICPA Ethics and Uniform CPA Exams with their application, along with an application fee.

6. Receive a license.

Within 30 days of receiving the application packet, the Board will notify the applicant that the application is complete. The application will then be reviewed by the Certification Committee at their monthly meeting. Upon recommendation from the Committee, the application will be sent to the Executive Director for approval. Approved applicants will be notified by mail.

CPA License Renewal and Continuing Education Information

Once licensed, Arizona CPAs must complete 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE) each renewal period. CPE must include at least 16 hours of in-person or online instruction and a minimum of 40 hours in accounting, auditing, taxation, business law, or consulting services, of which 16 hours must be in the areas of accounting, auditing, or taxation. CPE must also include four hours of ethics education specific to practice in Arizona, with one hour in accounting related ethics and one hour in Board statutes and rules. Renewal periods are biennial and determined by the CPA’s date of birth. You can find additional information on the Board’s website.

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 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

Metro AreaAccountants & Auditors Employed12Average Annual Salary12
Flagstaff360$73,560
Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale19,040$84,840
Prescott400$74,910
Tucson2,760$72,770
Yuma360$70,120

Additional Resources

Top Accounting Firms for Graduates in Arizona

  • RedW LLC: One of the Southwest’s top 10 largest full-service accounting firms with offices in Phoenix and Albuquerque, New Mexico.
  • RSM: One of the largest employers of accountants in Arizona, with offices in Phoenix and Tempe, the firm offers accounting and advising services to middle market clients worldwide.
  • Baker Tilly: With offices in Tempe, Scottsdale, and Casa Grande, the firm offers a full suite of accounting services.

Arizona Accounting Associations

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/
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
13. Arizona State Board of Accountancy: https://www.azaccountancy.gov/