Students in Utah can choose from a variety of quality programs for earning a degree or certificate in accounting. The colleges and universities in this state offer program options from general undergraduate accounting degrees to specialized graduate degrees in concentrations like tax or business analytics. Some universities offer entirely online degree options. The following outline of accounting schools in Utah provides information about program rankings, professional certifications, and job outlooks in the accounting industry in Utah.

Table of Contents

Comparison of Utah Accounting Schools and Programs

The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in Utah 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
Brigham Young UniversityAACSBBS-Accounting;
MAcc;
MAcc-Professional Accountancy;
MAcc-Tax;
Concurrent JD/MAcc		59.2%79%$13,521$11,069$74,630
Southern Utah University—BA-Accounting;
BS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
MAcc		88.7%58%$12,681$12,500$49,051
University of UtahAACSBBA-Accounting;
BS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
MAcc;
MAcc-Accounting Information Systems;
MAcc-Accounting: Business Analytics/Grad Cert: Business Analytics;
MAcc-Accounting: Information Systems/Grad Cert: Information Systems;
MAcc-Audit;
MAcc-Managerial;
PhD-Accounting		95.0%65%$12,399$19,000$64,456
Utah State UniversityAACSBBA-Accounting;
BS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
UG Cert-Accounting;
UG Cert-Accounting Practices;
UG Cert-Professional Bookkeeping		92.6%54%$14,577$14,340$52,764
Utah Tech UniversityACBSPBS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
UG Cert-Accounting & Information Systems;
MAcc		N.Av.36%$14,589$15,000$43,180
Utah Valley University—BS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
UG Cert-Accounting;
MAcc		N.Av.39%$9,346$14,750$54,882
Weber State UniversityAACSBBS-Accounting;
Minor-Accounting;
MAcc		N.Av.42%$10,525$15,113$54,989
Western Governors University—BSBA-Accounting;
MAcc		N.Av.49%$9,207$11,116$52,911
Westminster CollegeACBSPBA-Accounting;
BS-Accounting;
Accelerated BSA/MAcc;
MAcc		75.7%65%$27,068$22,250$60,657

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 Utah

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

  • Brigham Young University (#26)
  • Western Governors University (#120)
  • University of Utah (#139)
  • Westminster College (#156)2

Princeton Review’s Great Schools for Accounting Majors 2023

  • Brigham Young University3

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

  • Brigham Young University (#4)4

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

  • Utah State University (#44 tie)
  • Weber State University (#66 tie)5

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

  • Brigham Young University (#3)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 Utah 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 Utah being 71.1%:

  1. Brigham Young University 80.5%
  2. University of Utah 75.2%
  3. Southern Utah University 70.2%
  4. Utah Valley University 69.4%
  5. Western Governors University 61.5%

*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 Utah with Accounting Degrees

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

Brigham Young University

At the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University, students can earn an AACSB-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. The accounting curriculum has been developed with the input of industry professionals and accounting educators and it teaches fundamental competencies needed in the accounting field. Required courses include Accounting Information Systems, Financial Statement Auditing, and Fundamentals of Taxation, and students can also choose from electives such as Global Supply Chain Management for Accountants; Cost and Managerial Accounting; Strategy and Economics; or Business Law in the Environment. Through these classes, students learn conceptual knowledge and technical skills in accounting, written and oral communication, teamwork, and a global approach to business. Undergraduates are encouraged to join accounting clubs to learn more about the industry and find networking opportunities and many work as interns in the summer between their junior and senior years.

Utah State University

The Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University (USU) offers both a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting. These degree programs are ideal for those interested in working in public or private accounting or as internal auditors, tax specialists, or financial managers. The core curriculum for both the BA and BS in Accounting includes courses such as Intermediate Financial Accounting and Reporting; Individual Taxation; and Systems Strategy and Problem Solving, and emphasizes how to understand and communicate financial information. Students can also choose from a variety of business and accounting electives. Those interested in obtaining their BA in Accounting must also reach proficiency in at least one foreign language. For future job opportunities, students can join university clubs, participate in networking events, or volunteer to prepare taxes in the community. USU also offers a dual major in accounting and economics.

Utah Tech University

Students at Utah Tech University (UT), formerly Dixie State University, can earn an ACBSP-accredited Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. Students first fulfill general education requirements and business core requirements before taking specialized accounting courses. In core classes such as Tax Accounting, Auditing, Intermediate Accounting, Business Calculus, and Forensic Accounting, students learn how to interpret accounting information to make informed business and tax decisions. UT teaches students how to apply accounting concepts through experiential learning opportunities. They can work on accounting projects for local businesses, volunteer in the community during tax season, or complete internships. Graduates can go on to work in entry-level positions in the accounting field, but most continue to pursue graduate studies in accounting. UT also offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree.

Graduate Accounting Programs

University of Utah

At the David Eccles School of Business at the University of Utah (UofU), students can earn an AACSB-accredited Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree. Students in this graduate program learn advanced principles of accounting in addition to competencies in related business disciplines. The program can be completed on a full-time basis in two semesters or part-time through evening classes in four semesters. Graduate students learn business and leadership skills that are applicable to the accounting industry and are prepared to take the CPA examination. UofU’s MAcc program allows a great deal of course flexibility, with up to 18 of the 30 credits being electives. There are also five unique tracks for MAcc students; Audit, Tax, Managerial, Accounting Business Analytics (with a joint graduate certificate in Business Analytics), and Accounting Information Systems (with a joint graduate certificate in Information Systems). UofU also supports post-graduation career opportunities through organizing career fairs, recruiter visits, and networking events. Many graduates become CPAs and pursue careers within business, public, government, or nonprofit accounting.

Utah Valley University

Utah Valley University (UVU) offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) that can be completed on either a full-time or part-time basis. Students have three schedule options to complete their MAcc: a standard full-time schedule that takes three semesters, an accelerated full-time schedule that takes two semesters, and a part-time schedule that takes five semesters of twice-weekly evening courses. Graduates of UVU’s MAcc program are prepared to sit for the Uniform CPA exam and to pursue a variety of other licensing options, including Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA). Required courses prepare students to be leaders in the accounting industry and consist of both accounting and financial core classes. For the final nine credits of their program, students may choose from seven elective courses, including Information Systems Auditing, Partnership Tax, and Management Control Systems.

Online and Hybrid Accounting Programs

Southern Utah University

Students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) either on-campus or entirely online through Southern Utah University (SUU). This program can be completed in just one year (two semesters), and graduates will have fulfilled the 150-credit educational requirement for CPA licensure. The curriculum emphasizes the quantitative analysis and information technology skills needed to understand tax code, government regulation, and monetary regulation in a rapidly changing business world. Students also learn professional skills and practice teamwork, management, and communication. Through a multidisciplinary curriculum, students develop the ability to apply advanced accounting concepts with a global perspective. Graduate students without an academic accounting background may need to take some prerequisite courses, also available online, before admission to the program. A dual MAcc/Master of Business Administration (MBA) is also available online through SUU and can be completed in as little as three semesters.

Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) is an entirely online university that offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc). WGU offers rolling monthly enrollment, so students can start either program on the first of any month. Self-paced courses allow students to graduate ahead of standard schedules. WGU’s MAcc program provides the final 30 credits needed to meet the 150-credit CPA licensure minimum. Those enrolled in the MAcc also have access to Wiley test preparation to help prepare for the Uniform CPA exam. Courses covering accounting, finance, strategy, and management are all included in the MAcc program, which is completed in an average of two years.

Utah CPA Requirements and Steps

The Utah Commerce Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL) requires that CPA candidates hold at least a bachelor’s degree and 120 semester hours of academic credit, including 24 hours of specific accounting coursework. There are seven main steps to complete in order to earn a CPA license in Utah:

  1. Complete at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting.
  2. Accumulate the required hours of experience.
  3. Complete the AICPA ethics course and exam.
  4. Pass the Utah CPA Law and Rules Examination.
  5. Pass the Uniform CPA Examination.
  6. Apply for a license.
  7. Receive a license.

1. Complete at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

Effective July 1, 2026, candidates for CPA licensure in Utah must have at least a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in accounting. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in a subject other than accounting may qualify for licensure by completing a graduate degree or postbaccalaureate education in accounting totaling 150 semester hours. In general, a concentration in accounting is recognized as 24 semester hours of upper-level accounting courses or 18 semester hours of graduate level accounting courses to include financial accounting; auditing; taxation; managerial or cost accounting; and accounting information systems or data analytics. Additional courses may be required depending on the candidate’s educational background. See the Board website for a detailed breakdown of requirements.

2. Accumulate the required hours of experience.

CPA candidates in Utah qualifying with a master’s degree or 150 credit hours must complete at least one year of experience under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA. One year of experience is considered to be at least 2,000 work hours. Candidates qualifying with a bachelor’s degree in accounting must complete two years of experience, equivalent to 4,000 work hours. The work performed must use generally accepted skills in auditing and accounting commensurate with the education requirements and expected practice for Utah licensed CPAs.

3. Complete the AICPA ethics course and exam.

The Board requires CPA candidates to take the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Professional Ethics for CPAs self-study course and exam to fulfill the state ethics requirement for licensure. Candidates may order the exam and course materials from the AICPA website.

4. Pass the Utah CPA Law and Rules Examination.

In addition to the AICPA ethics exam, candidates must complete the Utah CPA Law and Rules Examination with a score of 75% or greater. This exam is open book and is administered through PSI Exams. Candidates may register for the exam online and schedule to take it at the PSI testing center of their choice.

5. Pass the Uniform CPA Examination.

Candidates who have completed a bachelor’s degree and all required accounting and business coursework may apply to sit for the AICPA Uniform CPA Exam in Utah. Candidates should apply through the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) website. The Uniform CPA Exam is a license requirement in all 50 states, and all four sections of the exam must be passed within a 30-month rolling period with a score of at least 75. Candidates who are not sure if their education qualifies them to sit for the exam may request an optional pre-evaluation of transcripts through NASBA.

6. Apply for a license.

Once all of the above criteria have been met, a candidate may submit the CPA license application. Applications can be filed electronically through the Board website once candidates have received notification of a passing score on the Uniform CPA Exam and completed all other requirements. Candidates must be sure to include all requested supporting documentation, including supervisor verification of work experience, to avoid delays in application processing.

7. Receive a license.

Once the application is filed, approved applicants will be notified by email within a day or two. The approval email will include a license number, wallet cards, and a certificate of licensure. At this point, the applicant may begin practicing as a CPA.

CPA License Renewal and Continuing Education Information

CPAs licensed in Utah must complete 80 hours of continuing professional education (CPE), including at least three hours of ethics, and one hour on the subject of Utah regulations on accounting, for each two-year renewal period. Renewal periods begin on January 1 of odd-numbered years and end on December 31 of even-numbered years, but no CPE hours are required at the first renewal after initial licensure. CPAs must maintain current knowledge, skills, and abilities and may be required to complete additional CE to maintain such standards. You can find additional information on the Board’s website.

Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates in Utah

Utah has many possible opportunities for graduates with an accounting degree. Several large companies are located in the state, such as Adobe and Discover Financial Services, and these companies and other regional businesses may have opportunities for those with a background in accounting. Local CPA firms, such as Tanner LLC and Cook Martin Poulson (CMP) PC, or local banks, like Bank of Utah or Central Bank, may offer positions in public accounting. Accounting graduates may also work for small CPA firms or in local, state, or federal government agencies in Utah. Others may start their own businesses in the state.

Utah Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

Metro AreaAccountants & Auditors Employed12Average Annual Salary12
Logan UT-ID510$67,030
Ogden-Clearfield1,640$76,810
Provo-Orem2,290$75,990
Salt Lake City8,470$79,580

Additional Resources

Top Accounting Firms for Graduates in Utah

  • HintonBurdick: One of the largest accounting firms in Utah, with offices across the state, HintonBurdick offers tax, assurance, payroll, and bookkeeping services to a variety of industries including nonprofits, tribal governments, and hospitality.
  • Tanner: One of the premier independent CPA firms in Utah offering accounting services to local, national, and international clients. Tanner hosts a series of meetups and conferences to connect business owners, investors, and clients.
  • Karren, Hendrix, Stagg, Allen & Company (KHSA): A member of AICPA and UACPA, KHSA provides accounting, tax, and consulting services in Utah, Wyoming, and Nevada.

Utah 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, Utah: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_ut.htm
13. Utah Board of Accountancy: https://commerce.utah.gov/dopl/accountancy/