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  • Dissertation Areas and Joint PhD Programs
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PhD in Accounting

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Chicago Booth has one of the preeminent PhD accounting programs. Our faculty conduct groundbreaking scholarly work, and our graduates have played a central role in the evolution of modern accounting research.

As a PhD student in accounting at Booth, you’ll have the freedom to explore and cultivate your research interests from day one—wherever they lead.

You’ll join a collaborative research community and work with prominent scholars whose groundbreaking research is recognized for its impact on the academic literature, accounting practice and policymaking, securities regulation, and elsewhere. In addition to your stipend, you may apply for research and conference travel funding from our research centers and the Stevens Doctoral Program. In research workshops and conferences, you’ll present your work and hear about the work of fellow researchers. 

Our Distinguished Accounting Faculty

As measured by research productivity and impact, Chicago Booth has one of the best accounting faculty groups in the world. The group includes Philip G. Berger, Hans B. Christensen, Merle Erickson, Christian Leuz, Michael Minnis, Valeri Nikolaev, Haresh Sapra, Douglas J. Skinner, and Abbie J. Smith, as well as an outstanding group of research-active junior faculty. The school is committed to maintaining the quality of this group.

These distinguished scholars are also teachers and mentors who will advise you, coauthor papers with you, supervise your thesis, help you find an outstanding job, and serve as colleagues throughout your career.

Philip G. Berger

Philip G. Berger

Wallman Family Professor of Accounting

Hans B. Christensen

Hans B. Christensen

Chookaszian Family Professor of Accounting and David G. Booth Faculty Fellow

Anna Costello

Anna Costello

Jeffrey Breakenridge Keller Professor of Accounting

Merle Erickson

Merle Erickson

Professor of Accounting

Joao Granja

Joao Granja

Associate Professor of Accounting and Jane and Basil Vasiliou Faculty Scholar

Christian Leuz

Christian Leuz

Charles F. Pohl Distinguished Service Professor of Accounting and Finance

Bradford Levy

Bradford Levy

Assistant Professor of Accounting

Charles McClure

Charles McClure

Associate Professor of Accounting

Michael Minnis

Michael Minnis

Deputy Dean for Faculty and Fuji Bank and Heller Professor of Accounting

Maximilian Muhn

Maximilian Muhn

Valeri Nikolaev

Valeri Nikolaev

James H. Lorie Professor of Accounting and FMC Faculty Scholar

Madhav Rajan

Madhav Rajan

Dean and George Pratt Shultz Professor of Accounting

Thomas Router

Thomas Rauter

Amoray Riggs-Cragun

Amoray Riggs-Cragun

Assistant Professor of Accounting and Kathryn and Grant Swick Faculty Scholar

accounting phd programs

Delphine Samuels

Associate Professor of Accounting and James S. Kemper Foundation Faculty Scholar

Haresh Sapra

Haresh Sapra

Charles T. Horngren Professor of Accounting

Douglas Skinner

Douglas J. Skinner

Sidney Davidson Distinguished Service Professor of Accounting

Abbie J. Smith

Abbie J. Smith

Boris and Irene Stern Distinguished Service Professor of Accounting

Chris Stewart

Christopher Stewart

Assistant Professor of Accounting and Fama Faculty Fellow

Rimmy Tomy

Associate Professor of Accounting and Kathryn and Grant Swick Faculty Scholar

Anthony Welsh

Anthony Welsch

Anastasia A. Zakolyukina

Anastasia A Zakolyukina

Alumni success.

The American Accounting Association periodically awards a prize for seminal contributions to the accounting literature. Graduates of the PhD Accounting Program are regular winners of this prestigious prize.

Our PhD graduates in accounting go on to faculty positions  at some of the world's most prestigious institutions.

Kalash Jain, MBA '23, PhD '23

Assistant Professor of Business, Accounting Division Columbia Business School, Columbia University His research examines the impact of information processing frictions and investor decision making on asset prices and firm investment. His dissertation area is in accounting.

Sinja Leonelli, MBA '23, PhD '23

Assistant Professor of Accounting Stern School of Business, New York University Sinja's research primarily examines misconduct reporting, regulation and enforcement, and the use of ESG information by stakeholders such as regulators, employees, and consumers. Her dissertation area is in accounting.

Shirley Lu, MBA ’21, PhD ’21 

Assistant Professor of Business Administration Harvard Business School, Harvard University Shirley Lu studies Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) disclosure, with a focus on climate change and gender diversity. Her dissertation area is in accounting.

Spotlight on Research

Chicago Booth Review frequently highlights the work of accounting PhD students, faculty, and alumni.

One Way Discrimination Creeps into the Supply Chain

A Q&A with Chicago Booth’s Anna Costello about how the pandemic affected which suppliers got paid on time.

AI Reads between the Lines to Discover Corporate Risk

“Corporate risk exposures are often subtly implied in conference call discussions rather than explicitly stated,” write Chicago Booth PhD student Alex G. Kim and Booth’s Maximilian Muhn and Valeri Nikolaev.

Civilization is Based on Accounting

A Q&A with Chicago Booth’s Ray Ball on accounting’s past and future.

Financial Data Privacy Could Help Fight Poverty

Historical data can shape future outcomes, helping to determine whether a prospective borrower has access to a home, car, or other opportunities, write University of Utah’s Mark Jansen, Chicago Booth PhD student Fabian Nagel, and Booth’s Constantine Yannelis and Anthony Lee Zhang.

A Network of Support

Doctoral students at Booth have access to the resources of several research centers  that offer funding for student work, host workshops and conferences, and foster a strong research community.

The Chookaszian Accounting Research Center The Chookaszian Accounting Research Center coordinates accounting research at Chicago Booth and hosts research brown bags and workshops. It also publishes the Journal of Accounting Research , one of the top accounting research journals in the world.

George J. Stigler Center for the Study of the Economy and the State Dedicated to examining issues at the intersection of politics and the economy, the Stigler Center supports research in the political, economic, and cultural obstacles to better working markets.

Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation Chicago Booth’s destination for people committed to tackling social and environmental problems, the Rustandy Center supports the work of PhD students and others who are focused on transforming the social sector.

Inside the Student Experience

For Andrew Sutherland, PhD ’13, coauthoring research with Booth faculty was a highlight of the Stevens Program.

Dark Side of Finance

Video Transcript

Andrew Sutherland, ’13: 00:09 In accounting, there's tons and tons of research on these big public firms that have an army of investor relations people and they constant disclosing things. That's where most of the research was happening, but there's this whole other half of the economy, these private firms, that we didn't really know a lot about. We didn't know a lot about how they got credit. What was interesting to me is that a lot of time, firms are able to get credit without even providing any financial statements or any information whatsoever to the bank. The reason they're able to get credit is that they have a credit score. So in other words, the information is coming, not from the form itself, but from another bank who had dealt with them in the past. What really struck me was there wasn't really a lot of research out there on this information channel. That's when I decided I wanted to learn a little bit more about what this reporting channel does to contract and help firms get credit and how it changes banks' incentives to lend.

Andrew Sutherland, ’13: 01:01 Basically, the firms that have a good credit record or a long track record of borrowing successfully were the ones that were able to shop around. We would think that's a good thing, that giving firms more choice about who to borrow from kind of increases social welfare, you get better matching between lenders and firms. Kind of the dark side is that the firms that have had payment trouble that have defaulted or missed some payments on loans sort of get shut out of the credit part. You have a harder time starting any new relationships with outside lenders. That's kind of a cost.

Andrew Sutherland, ’13: 01:34 The second cost is that information sharing changes the game for lenders. So, if participating in this credit bureau basically allows outside lenders to pick off the firms that are doing better, then that destroys the incentive for lenders to kind of invest in relationships to begin with. That's sort of the second dark side of information sharing, if you will.

Andrew Sutherland, ’13: 01:54 So, I coauthor on a number of projects with the junior faculty member here named Mike Minnis. I probably talked to Mike more than I talk to my wife. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing. But, I mean, as a PhD student, there's only so much you can learn in class, and having a faculty member to work with that's kind of gone through the ropes and understands the review process, that's done something on their own, it gives you a really good opportunity to learn. That's something, I think that was absolutely instrumental in my success

Current Accounting Students

PhD students in accounting come to Chicago Booth with a wide range of interests and goals. Recent dissertations have focused on everything from machine learning to the impact of fiscal monitoring, and graduates have gone on to positions at some of the world’s preeminent institutions, including Columbia Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Current Students

Samuel Chang Jonas Dalmazzo Jewel Evans Lingyu Gu Yanzi (Yvonne) Han Grant Hayes Maria Khrakovsky Alex Kim Ginha Kim Andrew McKinley Pietro Ramella Hanbyul Yoon

Program Expectations and Requirements

The Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth is a full-time program. Students generally complete the majority of coursework and examination requirements within the first two years of studies and begin work on their dissertation during the third year. For details, see General Examination Requirements by Area in the Stevens Program Guidebook below.

Download the 2023-2024 Guidebook!

accounting phd programs

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Wharton’s doctoral program in Accounting takes a multidisciplinary approach (including economics, operations management, and statistics) to meet the needs of today’s complex markets, integrating finance and economics with broader perspectives on organizational issues and the corporate regulatory environment.

The Accounting PhD program trains students to do rigorous research in accounting, a specialized area of financial economics. The program is highly analytical and quantitative. We look for strong undergraduate preparation in microeconomics and mathematics, while some prior accounting or finance training at the undergraduate or graduate level is an advantage. Institutional understanding of how accounting information is used by capital market participants and/or within firms is useful and best obtained through relevant work experience, but is not required of applicants.

Close working relationships with faculty members provide an excellent learning experience while at Wharton and can continue throughout the student’s career. Our program provides students with opportunities to interact with faculty and get started on relevant research early in the program. Required research elements include the accounting workshop colloquium, the first-year research assistantship, and the first and second year summer research papers.

For more information on courses and sample plan of study, please visit the University Graduate Catalog .

Get the Details.

Visit the Accounting Department website for details on program requirements and courses. Read faculty and student research and bios to see what you can do with an Accounting PhD.

accounting phd programs

NYU Stern Logo

PhD | Accounting

accounting phd programs

The Ph.D. in Accounting

Stern’s accounting department is exceptional in its balance between research in empirical financial accounting and theoretical financial and managerial accounting. It is also unusual in the breadth of the research conducted (e.g., capital markets, earnings management, voluntary disclosure/management guidance, corporate governance, and financial institutions and instruments). These attributes result in part from its size, but also from the individual and collective wide-ranging interests of the faculty. The curriculum is designed to provide a thorough understanding of current accounting theory, practice, and research, taught within the framework of modern economic and finance theories as applied to the behavior of today’s corporations and financial markets.

Explore Accounting

Discover our other fields of study.

ACCOUNTING PhD

The nation’s top accounting program.

Texas McCombs boasts the most prestigious accounting doctoral program in the country and has graduated more than 300 PhD students since its inception in 1934. Are you ready for the best?

Your Future In Accounting

  • PhD Program
  • Why McCombs
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ACADEMIC LIFE AT McCOMBS

Mentorship and practice, application deadline.

The application deadline for the Accounting Doctoral Program is December 15.

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION

If you are a practicing accountant, these topical areas will be familiar to you. However, we welcome students with backgrounds in Mathematics, Economics, Engineering, Finance, Psychology, or other disciplines to apply. We can remedy any lack of accounting knowledge through additional coursework. Most students enter our accounting doctoral program with some knowledge in these areas:

Financial Accounting

Financial accounting researchers are interested in the use of accounting information by investors, creditors, analysts, and other decision-makers. We are also interested in the preparation of accounting information by managers who may respond to economic incentives and use discretion to manage earnings. Finally, we are also interested in the regulation of accounting information by standard setters and other regulators who are evaluating the relevance and reliability of current and potential accounting information.

Auditing researchers are interested in questions of independence, governance, compliance, auditing processes, and biases. This research helps global standard-setters and regulators adopt standards and policies that protect the integrity of our accounting information. 

Managerial accounting research topics include optimal employee compensation and governance, using information for efficiency management, motivating creativity, etc.

Taxation research covers economic incentives, transfer pricing, compliance with tax enforcement, multistate taxation, and numerous topics about accounting for income taxation, where tax rules overlap with financial reporting standards.

RANKINGS & RESEARCH

Academic leadership, research methodologies.

When you earn a doctorate, most of your time is spent developing deep expertise in research methods. Accounting researchers use three main approaches. In all cases, your doctoral studies will involve a firm grounding in statistics and typically a choice of either economics or psychology as an additional foundation.

Archival research involves the statistical analysis of historical data to examine relevant research questions based on economic theory for its predictions. Thus, archival research requires a strong background in statistics and economics, which we provide through rigorous coursework in the business school and the economics department.

Experimental

Experimental or survey methods are commonly used to obtain data to conduct what is broadly known as behavioral research. Behavioral research relies on psychology for its theories. Because this research is interested in what people do and why they do it, it is often necessary to conduct controlled experiments or survey participants. Using experiment or survey methods, researchers in accounting and finance have provided compelling alternative explanations where economic theories fall short.

Analytical research uses quantitative mathematical models to explain and predict behavior. This research is grounded in game theory from economics. Students wanting to conduct analytical research should have even stronger mathematical backgrounds than other applicants. We will design a program of study that builds on those initial strengths with additional coursework in mathematics and economics.

GET READY TO APPLY

Preparation and qualifications, career placement, the world needs you, career destinations.

The primary goal of the Texas McCombs PhD program is to prepare students for exceptional academic careers. Over the last five years, McCombs Accounting PhD alumni have excelled at top institutions globally.

Recent Graduate Placements

Jesse Chan   |  2022  |  Boston University

Cassie Mongold   |  2022  |  University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Ryan Hess   |  2021  |  Stanford University (postdoc); Oklahoma State University

Ryan Ballestero   |  2021  |  Kent State University

Dan Rimkus   |  2021  |  University of Florida (October 2021 graduation)

Shannon Garavaglia  |  2020  |  University of Pittsburgh

Jakob Infuehr  |  2019  |  University of Southern Denmark

Antonis Kartapanis  |  2019  |  Texas A&M University

Kristen Valentine   |  2019  |  University of Georgia

Colin Koutney   |  2018  |  George Mason University

Zheng Leitter  |  2018  |  Nanyang Technological University

Brian Monsen   |  2018  |  The Ohio State University

Xinyu Zhang   |  2018  |  Cornell University

Jeanmarie Lord   |  2017  |  University of Montana

Ben Van Landuyt  |  2017  |  University of Arizona

Shannon Chen   |  2017  |  University of Arizona

Prasart Jongjaroenkamol   |  2017  |  Singapore Management University

Ying Huang  |  2017  |  University of Texas - Dallas

Current Students and *Job Market Candidates

Mary adenle, yiying chen, dorothy dickmann, mandy ellison*, kenzie feinberg, michael gonari, nathan herrmann, sean kemsley, minjae kim*, kaitlyn kroeger, jingpei shi, albert wang, are you ready to change the world.

The Texas McCombs Doctoral Program is seeking individuals who are interested in transforming the global marketplace. Are you one of these future thought leaders?

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Top 10 Best PhD in Accounting Programs

Lisa Marlin

Accounting is an abstract subject dealing with numbers and calculations. Personal finance requires strong attention to detail — imagine the meticulousness necessary to achieve a PhD in accounting! Prepare for a few years of mathematical and statistical study, and toning your analytical skills. The program offers a bright future, opening vast career possibilities  and excellent job prospects.

A booming field, accounting roles for financial managers are estimated to grow by 17%  from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This represents a much higher growth rate than the average for all professions.

Let’s explore the best accounting PhD programs so you can prepare for the next step in your finance career!

Table of Contents

Best PhD in Accounting Programs

The university of texas at austin, mccombs school of business.

PhD in Accounting

University of Texas logo

The University of Texas at Austin was ranked number one in the country for Accounting PhD programs by the US World & News Public Accounting Report . The University’s McCombs School offers one of the top accounting doctoral programs that welcomes students with diverse disciplines such as economics, mathematics , finance, and engineering.

  • Specializations: Financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation.
  • Duration : 5 years
  • Delivery : On-campus
  • Tuition : $1,000 per credit
  • Financial aid:  Grants, loans, assistantships, and fellowships
  • Acceptance rate : 32%
  • Location : Austin, TX

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Gies College of Business

PhD in Accountancy

University of illinois logo

The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign is renowned for its top-notch accounting faculty, boasting a high accounting PhD programs ranking by the BYU Accounting Faculty Research Rankings . Out of all the best PhD accounting programs, this one emphasizes productivity and results the most while valuing quality student placements to give you real-world work experience.

  • Courses : Mathematical statistics, probability theory, and constructs in accounting research.
  • Credits : 96
  • Tuition : $652 per credit
  • Financial aid : Fellowships, teaching/research assistantships, and tuition waivers
  • Acceptance rate : 63.3%
  • Location : Champaign, IL

Stanford University, Graduate School of Business

Stanford University logo

Stanford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with 19 institutes encouraging interdisciplinary learning and a $1.69 billion  sponsored research budget. It offers one of the country’s top accounting PhD programs, emphasizing both empirical and analytical research. Moreover, its balanced curriculum gives equal importance to coursework, research, and teaching.

  • Courses : Financial reporting & management control, empirical accounting research, and microeconomic analysis.
  • Duration : 4-5 years
  • Tuition : Refer tuition page
  • Financial aid:  Grants, scholarships, fellowships, and research/teaching assistantships
  • Acceptance rate: 5.2%
  • Location : Stanford, CA

New York University, Leonard N. Stern School of Business

New York University logo

The Stern School of Business of NYU offers one of the world’s most well-known accounting doctorate programs. The program allows students to study with other schools within the university along with Stern.

  • Courses : Empirical research in financial accounting, microeconomic theory, and regression & multivariate analysis.
  • Duration : 4 years
  • Financial aid:  Fellowships and research/teaching assistantships
  • Acceptance rate:  21.1%
  • Location : New York City, NY

University of Pennsylvania, Wharton School

Penn State logo

The University of Pennsylvania and Wharton School are world-renowned names in education. The school’s PhD in accounting program allows students to study with neighboring departments to gain exposure to other fields and innovative ideas from a wide range of disciplines.

  • Courses : Empirical design in accounting research and advanced statistical inference.
  • Course units:  16
  • Financial aid : Full fellowships
  • Acceptance rate : 9%
  • Location : Philadelphia, PA

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Stephen M. Ross School of Business

University of Michigan logo

The University of Michigan is a prestigious higher learning institution and one of the best public schools in the country. Its PhD in accounting program encourages extensive collaboration between students and faculty in combined research opportunities.

  • Courses : Contemporary accounting issues, pre-candidacy dissertation, and candidacy dissertation.
  • Financial aid:  Full funding and graduate assistantships
  • Acceptance rate:  26%
  • Location : Ann Arbor, MI

Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management

PhD Accounting Information & Management

Northwestern University logo

Northwestern University’s Kellogg School is one of the oldest business schools in the world and has made major contributions to business, management, and marketing fields. It offers an information-focused accounting doctorate program with research scope for subjects like information intermediaries in capital markets, properties, and transformations in the information environment of companies.

  • Courses : Research in accounting theory, empirical research in accounting, and special topics in empirical accounting research.
  • Duration : 5.5 years
  • Tuition : $13,085 per quarter
  • Financial aid : Scholarships, fellowships, and teaching/research assistantships
  • Acceptance rate:  9.3%
  • Location : Evanston, IL

The University of Chicago, Booth School of Business

University of Chicago logo

The University of Chicago’s Booth School of Business is known for its eminent faculty delivering groundbreaking research in accounting. This PhD offers doctoral candidates the freedom to explore their own research interests. They also get the opportunity to perform collaborative scholarly work with faculty members.

  • Tuition : $66,096 per three quarters ($32,400 for fifth year)
  • Financial aid : Grants, teaching/research assistantships, and fellowships
  • Acceptance rate:  7.3%
  • Location : Chicago, IL

University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, Kenan Flagler Business School

University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill logo

UNC at Chapel Hill is the flagship university of the University of North Carolina system. It’s known as a Public Ivy school, offering a high-quality curriculum taught by renowned faculty. UNC’s Kenan Flagler Business School is world-famous, supporting research in international accounting, accounting information in capital markets, and accounting standard-setting.

  • Courses : Empirical accounting research, managerial accounting, and tax research.
  • Credits : 48-61
  • Financial aid:  Teaching fellowship, research/teaching assistantships, and tuition waivers
  • Acceptance rate:  25%
  • Location : Chapel Hill, North Carolina

The University of Mississippi, Patterson School of Accountancy

University of Mississippi logo

The University of Mississippi’s Patterson School is entirely dedicated to accounting studies. Its PhD in accounting program aims to develop scholars with a strong foundation in the historical background of accounting and expert research skills.

  • Courses : Contemporary accounting theory, and financial accounting, auditing & accounting information systems research.
  • Credits : 77
  • Tuition : $504 per credit hour
  • Financial aid:  Scholarships, fellowships
  • Acceptance rate:  88%
  • Location : University, Mississippi

What Do You Need to Get a PhD in Accounting?

Generally, you only need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related discipline to apply for a PhD program in accounting. Very few programs require a master’s qualification.

The exact requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll usually need to submit the following to the selection committee:

  • GRE or GMAT scores
  • Undergraduate transcripts
  • Personal essay or research proposal
  • Recommendation letters
  • Academic resume

Always check specific program requirements for colleges you’re interested in, and contact academic advisors in advance to verify. The top accounting PhD programs can be pretty competitive, so it’s best to carve out ample time to prepare a solid application!

Preparing for an Accounting Doctorate Program

Besides accounting, your PhD program will cover in-depth study of other subjects like economics and statistics. Our advice? Do some background preparation on these subjects, either through self-study or a foundational course.

Additionally, you should prepare yourself for serious research. Unlike undergraduate research, which typically aims to summarize existing knowledge, the goal of a PhD is to make new discoveries. Finally, you should brush up on your teaching skills because your PhD will likely involve giving seminars or tutoring undergraduate students.

Things to Consider When Choosing an Accounting PhD Program

Choosing an accounting PhD program is an individual decision. The right choice depends on various factors that can differ widely depending on the person.

However, here are a few factors that are relevant to practically everyone:

  • Budget – What is the cost of tuition and other fees? What financial aid is available?
  • Specializations   – What disciplines are offered under the program, and what are the faculty’s areas of expertise? How do these match your passions and career goals?
  • Program reputation – Is the school well-known? What accreditations does it have?
  • Delivery method  – Is the program offered on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format?
  • Location – If you need to attend classes in person, even occasionally, how easy is it for you to get to campus?

Why Get a Doctorate in Accounting?

If you’re proficient with analytical and mathematical skills, a PhD in accounting can help you secure some of the highest-paying jobs in finance and economics. In these roles, you’ll apply the theoretical concepts you studied during your doctorate to solve real market problems, or transfer your knowledge to the next generation by teaching.

Jobs and Salaries for Doctors of Accounting

A doctorate in accounting can qualify you for a range of exciting and high-level roles in the finance sector.

Here are just some of the roles you’ll be eligible for once you’ve completed your PhD in Accounting, with the median annual salary for each:

  • Associate Professor in Accounting ( $80,799 )
  • Financial Manager ( $95,518 )
  • Finance Director ( $115,603 )
  • Analyst/Advisor ( $62,924 )
  • Senior Financial Analyst ( $83,091 )

For more on job opportunities in the sector, take a look at our guide to the top 10 best jobs for MBA graduates .

What is the Average Cost of PhD Accounting Programs?

The cost of a PhD in accounting can vary greatly depending on the program and school. Remember, the total cost includes not only tuition, but also living expenses, fees and other study expenses.

Generally, prestigious private universities cost more, while public universities offer lower tuition and fees. Additionally, state residents pay less tuition and fees for state universities than non-resident students. Considering all these factors, the total cost for a doctorate in accounting could be anything from around  $10,000 to $70,000 per year.

Wrapping Up

A PhD in accounting will qualify you for some of the best job opportunities in the business and commercial world today. Alternatively, after graduation you could pursue a career in higher education, either in research or as a professor. With experts predicting an increase in accounting job opportunities in the sector in the coming years, the future looks bright for graduates with a doctorate in accounting.

For more on the best courses in finance and accounting, take a look at our guides to the best Master’s in Accounting , the best online MBA Programs , and the top 20 online PhD programs in 2022 .

What Does a PhD in Accounting Do?

With a PhD in accounting, you can work as a professor, consultant, financial manager, analyst, researcher, or one of many high-level jobs in the accounting field.

Can You Get a Doctorate in Accounting?

Yes. Many universities offer doctorate in accounting programs. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria (usually an undergraduate degree in a related field) and present a strong application, you can start your doctorate in accounting.

How Hard is a PhD in Accounting?

Like with any PhD, you need to have a high level of dedication, self-discipline and the ability to conduct strong research to earn a doctorate in accounting. You will also need to demonstrate strong writing, analytical, and presentation skills.

Can an Accountant Have a PhD?

You don’t need a PhD to work as an accountant. Depending on the role, most accountants either have a bachelor’s or a master’s in accounting . However, an accountant who wants to further their career or research in academia may choose to get a PhD in the field.

Do You Need a PhD to Teach Accounting?

A PhD is not typically required to teach accounting in certain settings, such as a community college. However, if you have one, you’ll have a lot more teaching options, including more lucrative positions at universities.

Lisa Marlin

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

  • Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ 12 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students
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  • Lisa Marlin https://blog.thegradcafe.com/author/lisa-marlin/ BA vs BS: What You Need to Know [2024 Guide]
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Accounting in United States

Endor

Why Study Accounting in United States

  • Studying Accounting in United States is a great choice, as there are 44 universities that offer PhD degrees on our portal.
  • Over 957,000 international students choose United States for their studies, which suggests you’ll enjoy a vibrant and culturally diverse learning experience and make friends from all over the world.
  • We counted 119 affordable PhD degrees in United States , allowing you to access quality higher education without breaking the bank. Moreover, there are 297 available scholarships you can apply to.

35  Accounting PhDs in United States

Liberty University Online

Accounting The Accounting program at The University of Alabama is a research-intensive program that provides... The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, Alabama, United States

Accounting The Ph.D. in Business Administration – Accounting program at Texas A&M University is designed to produce... Texas A&M University College Station, Texas, United States

Accounting Develop expertise in accounting principles, quantitative methods, economics, and finance on your way to... Boston College Newton, Massachusetts, United States

Study in United States

The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.

Is United States the right place for you?

Take the test and find out which country is your best fit.

Explore your Accounting degree

Accounting is the foundation of informed decision-making in business. As a student, you'll master recording, analysing, and communicating financial data. It's not just numbers; it's about portraying a company's financial health. Specialisations like Financial Accounting, Management Accounting, Tax Accounting, Auditing, and Forensic Accounting offer diverse career paths. Courses cover financial analysis, cost management, taxation, and more. Accountants need analytical skills, attention to detail, ethics, and communication abilities. Career options include Chartered Accountant, Tax Advisor, Auditor, Forensic Accountant, and Financial Analyst, promising stability and growth.

Is Accounting the best for you?

Take the test and find out if Accounting is the right path for you.

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Accounting Requirements

I. preparation.

It is desirable for students to have a solid understanding of applied microeconomic theory, econometrics and mathematics (linear algebra, real analysis, optimization, probability theory) prior to the start of the program. Adequate computer programming skills (e.g. R, Matlab, SAS, STATA, Python) are necessary in coursework. A traditional accounting background such as CPA is not required.

II. Course Requirements

All required courses must be taken for a grade (not pass/fail or credit/no credit). Exceptions are made if the required course is offered pass/fail or credit/no credit only. Each course must be passed with a grade of P or B- or better. Substitutions of required courses require approval by the faculty liaison. Waiving a course requirement based on similar doctoral level course completed elsewhere requires the approval of the course instructor, faculty liaison, and the PhD Program Office.

The faculty encourages students to take at least three courses (in addition to ACC 698/699) related to the academic program each quarter during the academic year in the first two years of the program and some additional selected courses during their third year of study. Students must complete all required courses in order to advance to candidacy. Students should discuss and confirm course schedules with their faculty liaisons each quarter.

Topic Courses
Accounting
(7+ courses)

Students may be exempt from a required accounting course (or be required to substitute with another accounting course) if the course is not offered in the first three years of the student’s program. In general, students are expected to complete all Accounting PhD courses offered during their first three years in the program.

Economics
(3 courses)
mics II mics III

Possible substitutions include but are not limited to:

Econometrics
(3 courses)

Choose one course from the following

Finance
(3 courses)
Breadth Requirement
(1 course)

One graduate level course in a field other than accounting, finance, or economics. Suitable courses will depend on the student’s research interests, and might include subjects such as behavioral science, statistics, political economy, linguistics, computer science, mathematics, logic or marketing. Course selection for breadth requirements have to be approved by the liaison.

 

III. Practicum

All students are required to register for ACC 698 “Practicum in Teaching” or ACC 699 “Practicum in Research” for one unit in every quarter of the academic year and during the summer quarter. Students register for ACC 698 and ACC 699 on Axess and receive a letter grade for ACC 698 and ACC 699.

We estimate that students in their first and second year will spend 10 hours per week per quarter during the academic year and 20 hours per week in the summer quarter on the practicum. Students in years three through five will spend approximately 14 hours per week per quarter during the academic year and 10 hours per week in the summer quarter on the practicum.

In years three through five, students have the option to work up to 6 hours/week during the academic year and up to 10 hours/week during the summer as an RA or CA. Students sign up for RA or CA work on the CARA system. In addition, at any point during the program, students have the option to work as a grader up to the appropriate limits per school and university policy. Students sign up as a grader on CARA.

International students may be restricted in the number of hours they can work as RA, CA or grader due to their visa status.

Research Practicum

The purpose of the accounting group’s research practicum is to give our doctoral students hands-on exposure to accounting research. In the student’s first academic year of study, each student will be assigned to work with a different faculty member each quarter. During these first-year series of practica, students will gain exposure to the given faculty members areas of research through a variety of activities, such as reading and discussing research papers, collecting data for a research project, working on an aspect of the faculty member’s research or performing a literature review.

In the second year of the program, research practica will involve serving as a research assistant for the sponsoring faculty member. In the third through fifth year of the program, the research practica ideally evolve from a research assistant to collaborative relationship with the sponsoring faculty member. The pace of this evolution is determined by the progress of the student in the program and the research agenda of the sponsoring faculty member. These practica are meant to provide the student with valuable research experience through the initiation, development and completion of both existing and new research projects, writing referee reports under the supervision of the faculty member, and similar career-building activities.

The scope and nature of the research practicum will be determined by the sponsoring faculty member each quarter. In addition to the activities determined by the sponsoring faculty member, students are required to regularly attend the accounting seminars and internal workshops.

Teaching Practicum

The purpose of the accounting group’s teaching practicum is to give our doctoral students hands-on exposure to aspects in teaching. A teaching practicum can involve a variety of activities such as conducting review sessions, or development of teaching material including case writing The scope and nature of the teaching practicum will be determined by the sponsoring faculty member each quarter.

Students are required to enroll in a minimum of two quarters of ACC 698 prior to the end of the fourth year in the program.

IV. Summer Research Papers and Presentations

Satisfactory completion of the following research papers and presentations are required for admission to candidacy.

First-Year Summer Paper

Each student is required to write an original research paper during the summer after the first year of coursework. This research paper is due before the start of the fall quarter of their second year, and is required to be presented to the faculty during an accounting workshop at the beginning of the fall quarter at a time announced by the liaison. The student receives a pass/fail grade for the 1st year summer paper.

Second-Year Summer Paper

Each student is required to write a second original research paper after completing two years of coursework and the area field exam. This second research paper is due at the end of the fall quarter of their third year, and is required to be presented to the faculty during that fall quarter at a time announced by the liaison. The second year summer paper is expected to be more substantive than the first year summer paper. Ideally, it can be developed into a doctoral thesis. The student receives a pass/fail grade for the 2nd year summer paper.

V. Field Exam

The purpose of the field exam in accounting is to examine (1) the student’s command of the past and current academic literature in accounting; (2) the student’s ability to understand, critique and apply the methods used to conduct research in accounting; and (3) the student’s ability to evaluate research in accounting and independently develop suitable research designs to address research questions in accounting.

The field exam tests whether the student has the solid understanding of accounting research necessary to conduct meaningful research in accounting. Studying for the field exam may also help the student identify gaps in the literature as well as research areas and questions of interest to her/him. The questions on the field exam focus on topics covered and skills developed in the students’ coursework during the first two years in the program.

The field exam in accounting is usually a written exam conducted over two days during the summer after the second year. The format and date will be announced by the liaison.

VI. Teaching Requirement

Students are required to enroll in a minimum of two quarters of ACC 698 - Teaching Practicum prior to the end of the fourth year in the program.

VII. Candidacy

Admission to candidacy for the doctoral degree is a judgment by the faculty of the student’s potential to successfully complete the requirements of the degree program. Students are required to advance to candidacy by September 1 before the start of their fourth year in the program.

VIII. University Oral Exam

The oral examination is a defense of the dissertation work in progress. The student orally presents and defends the thesis work in progress at a stage when it is one-half to two-thirds complete. The oral examination committee tests the student on the theory and methodology underlying the research, the areas of application and portions of the major field to which the research is relevant, and the significance of the dissertation research. Students are required to successfully complete the oral exams by September 1 before the start of their fifth year in the program.

IX. Doctoral Dissertation

The doctoral dissertation is expected to be an original contribution to scholarship or scientific knowledge, to exemplify the highest standards of the discipline, and to be of lasting value to the intellectual community. Accounting does not have any general guidelines beyond the University requirements, and instead defer to the student’s Dissertation Reading Committee.

Typical Timeline

Years one & two.

  • Field Requirements
  • Directed Reading & Research
  • Advancement to Candidacy
  • Formulation of Research Topic
  • Annual Evaluation
  • Continued Research

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Program Requirements

  • Program Requirements →

Accounting & Management

A minimum of 13 semester courses at doctoral level are required. Each semester students will consult with the Accounting & Management faculty coordinators to receive approval of their course selections.

Microeconomics Theory : A comprehensive two semester sequence on economic theory:

  • Microeconomic Theory I (HBS 4010/Economics 2020a)
  • Microeconomic Theory II (HBS 4011/Economics 2020b)

All Accounting and Management students are required to have completed one undergraduate or graduate course in introduction to Econometrics. If this requirement has not been fulfilled prior to matriculation, then an equivalent course will be required in the first term of the student's doctoral program.

Courses meeting this requirement include:

  • Introduction to Econometrics (Econ 1123)

Students must take four research methods courses, including one course in research design.

Courses that fulfill this requirement include, but are not limited to:

  • Introduction to Applied Econometrics (Econ 2120); (Econ 2110. Introductory Probability and Statistics for Economists may be a required prerequisite)
  • Econometric Methods (Econ 2140)
  • Topics in Applied Econometrics (MIT 14.387)
  • Advanced Applied Econometrics (Econ 2144)
  • Computational Economics (Econ 2149)
  • Time Series Analysis (Econ 2142)
  • Seminar in Applied Statistical Methods (HBS 4809)

Research methods courses that meet the research design course requirement include, but are not limited to:

  • Advanced Quantitative Research Methodology (Gov 2001)
  • Empirical Methods in Corporate Finance (HBS 4220)
  • Matched Sampling and Study Design (Stat 240); (Stat 140 or Econ 1127 are strongly recommended as prerequisites)
  • Design of Field Research Methods (HBS 4070)
  • Experimental Methods (HBS 4435)

Accounting and Management students are required to take seven additional doctoral courses.

  • Management Control and Performance Measures (HBS 4403)
  • Empirical Research in Financial Reporting and Analysis (HBS 4250)
  • Doctoral Seminar in Accounting (MIT 15.539)
  • Two breadth courses
  • Two elective doctoral courses

All students without an MBA degree are required to complete two case-based HBS MBA courses.

Students are strongly encouraged to attend and participate in seminars throughout their program. In the third year, students are required to attend Accounting & Management Unit Seminars .

Good Academic Standing

Teaching requirement.

Students must teach or assist with teaching in a formally offered course for one full academic term. This engagement should include, at least, 8 hours of front-of-class teaching and 16 hours of teaching preparation time. The requirement may be fulfilled by completing a teaching fellow or instructor assignment at a Harvard University

Special Field Exam

Students are required to pass the Special Field Exam at the end of the second year or beginning of the third year. This exam has two parts: a written exam and an oral exam based on the course syllabi from any relevant doctoral research seminars in financial or managerial accounting undertaken by students in the course of their studies.

Dissertation Proposal

By the end of their third year, all students are required to obtain approval of their dissertation proposal by their Dissertation Chair.

Dissertation

Students are required to write a dissertation, which typically takes the form of three publishable papers, to the satisfaction of their Dissertation Committee. The dissertation defense is oral and open to the public.

before you go

Help us keep in touch — it won’t take long.

The Accounting PhD program is designed to produce great scholars and educators by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and empirical tools of accounting research. Your program of study will be personalized to leverage your background and research interests.

Through coursework, research seminars, and individual original research, you’ll demonstrate your mastery of accounting through summer papers and your dissertation. The Accounting faculty will both supervise your individual research project and engage in collaborative co-authored research.

Our Accounting PhD program requires you to complete:

  • Course requirements as outlined in the Accounting curriculum page
  • A first-year summer research paper and a second-year research paper
  • Qualifying exams in empirical and analytical accounting research
  • Teaching and research assistantship
  • Preliminary exam
  • Dissertation thesis proposal
  • Final dissertation defense exam

Check out the Curriculum

The same Team Fuqua culture that permeates all of Duke’s professional business programs is prominent in the Accounting PhD program.  Innovation through collaboration is our defining characteristic.  Our accounting faculty possesses unmatched topical and methodological span, which we leverage through co-authorships with one another and co-teaching of our PhD seminars.  In addition to involving PhD students in our collaborative research process, students also have access to cutting edge classes in Fuqua’s Finance area, Duke’s Economics department, and the course catalog of our neighboring university, UNC Chapel Hill. 

Our Accounting faculty are engaged with a wide array of accounting research topics.  Some of the more recent topics they are researching include:

  • Properties of accounting numbers
  • Role of accounting in asset pricing
  • Accounting standards
  • Compensation and managerial career concerns
  • Debt contracting
  • Financial analysts
  • Real effects of information disclosure
  • Accounting and the macro economy
  • Firm communication
  • Corporate governance
  • Managerial traits
  • Zeqiong Huang (2016) - Yale University
  • Mani Sethuraman (2016) - Cornell University
  • Thomas Steffen (2015) - Yale University
  • Alex Young (2015) - North Dakota State University
  • Dirk Black (2014) - Dartmouth College
  • Ning Zhang (2013) - Queens University
  • Amanda Gonzalez (2013) - University of Nebraska, Lincoln
  • Gianfranco Siciliano (2013) - Bocconi University
  • Zhenhua Chen (2012) - Tulane University
  • Bin Li (2012) - University of Texas, Dallas

Additional Information about the Accounting Area

Accounting PhD Specialization

General information.

Accounting is an interdisciplinary area, combining study of financial information with areas such as economics, finance, decision theory, and cognitive psychology.

The Ph.D. curriculum in accounting encompasses two major streams of research. The first stream examines the role of accounting information in contracting and capital markets. This first stream is economics-and-finance based and relies heavily on empirical research methods using archival data. The second stream is judgment and decision making in accounting (also known as behavioral decision theory research). This second stream is primarily psychology-based and relies heavily on controlled experiments with human subjects. The accounting Ph.D. program is designed to prepare students to publish research in top-tier accounting journals including The Accounting Review, Journal of Accounting and Economics, and Journal of Accounting Research and to take positions at leading research-based universities.

The Department of Accounting offers both major and minor areas in accounting. The remainder of this page first describes the policies for a major in accounting. This is followed by a description of the policies for a minor in accounting.

Department web site Accounting Faculty

Admission Requirements

Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree at an accredited university and should have reasonable training in mathematics and economics. An admission committee of faculty members reviews all completed applications. While the committee considers all relevant factors in its recommendations, important factors include past academic performance, GMAT scores (the GRE exam can be substituted for the GMAT but the GMAT is strongly preferred), personal statements, and letters of recommendation. Evidence of quantitative aptitude, creativity, commitment to completing a Ph.D., and collegiality are all important.

Recommended Preparation Prior to Entry

In the summer preceding arrival at UW, new doctoral students are strongly encouraged to review important concepts in basic tool areas (e.g., economics, statistics, calculus, and linear algebra). Knowledge of financial and managerial accounting is required. The Ph.D. curriculum is extremely rigorous, so students greatly benefit from getting a head start on key skills important to completing the initial coursework.

Accounting Area Faculty Coordinator

Assistant Prof. Darren Bernard, Accounting Area Faculty Coordinator, would be glad to answer your questions. You can contact him by email .

The Accounting Area Faculty Coordinator advises new students until they establish a supervisory committee by the end of the Spring quarter of their first year. The supervisory committee assists the student in choosing appropriate courses, approves the course of studies, and monitors the student’s progress.

Course Requirements for Accounting Major

All accounting majors must complete the following requirements. The number of credits for each course is indicated in parentheses after the course number.

ACCTG 582 (4) PhD Research Seminar Introduces faculty areas of research
ACCTG 580 (4) Introduction to Accounting Research Includes positive accounting theory
ACCTG 579 (4) Special Topics in Accounting **Experimental seminar
**Analytical seminar
*Python coding
*Innovations in econometric methods
ACCTG 596 (4) Seminar in Financial Accounting Capital markets
ACCTG 599 (1) Accounting Research Workshop Weekly accounting workshop series

*Offered periodically. **Offered every second year.

Accounting majors are expected to register for ACCTG 599 each year in which they are enrolled in coursework (minimum two years). All Accounting majors are expected to attend ACCTG 599 each year they are in residence.

Occasionally, optional special topics classes will be offered reflecting instructor and student interest (for example, empirical research in taxation).

Research Methods Minor Area Requirements

In addition to the major area, students are required to choose three additional areas as minors. Doctoral students in accounting must select Research Methods as one minor area. Coursework in Research Methods should include ECON 580 (or equivalent courses in probability and/or statistical inference), ECON 581, and FIN 585. ECON 580 and 581 are within the econometrics series the UW Department of Economics offers, and FIN 585 is a research methods course the UW Department of Finance and Business Economics offers. These requirements are viewed as minimal background for conducting doctoral level research.

Students should also include at least 3 units (e.g., one course) of additional coursework in Research Methods tailored to their specific interests and selected in consultation with the area advisor. The UW Business School also offers behavioral research method courses BARM 590 and 591. Additional econometric and behavioral research method courses are available in the economics and psychology departments, respectively.

Other Minor Area Requirements

Although Economics is highly recommended as a second minor area, students may petition to substitute another minor area in special circumstances. The courses to be included in the Economics minor should include the three-course sequence ECON 500, 501, 508 and at least 3 additional units (e.g., one course) of coursework selected in consultation with the Economics area advisor. The three-course sequence is the microeconomics series economics doctoral students are expected to complete in the economics department.

The third minor area will depend on the student’s interest. For example, students might choose one of the following minor areas: Finance, Information Systems, International Business, Operations Management, Psychology, or Quantitative Methods. It is also possible to design a special minor area, which more directly addresses a student’s interests. Since many students choose Finance as the third minor area, it is also briefly discussed below.

The Finance minor area is recommended for students interested in financial accounting research. Students can either complete the 4 course doctoral seminar sequence FIN 580, 590, 591, 592 or they can take three courses from this sequence and at least 3 additional units (e.g., one course) of coursework selected in consultation with the Finance area advisor. The four-course sequence includes coursework in financial economics, capital market theory, corporate finance, and advanced finance research.

Typical Course Schedule

Accounting Doctoral Student Planned Courses (as of July 2022) The summer before you begin, you will be expected to do preparatory math and programming work. You will then arrive to campus in early September to begin on-campus math, economics, and programming camps. We will have a “welcome” barbeque sometime in September. This is a way to get to know everyone and have some fun before the semester gets underway, and families/significant others are welcome.

Classes typically begin the last week of September and in the first year all students will have the same course schedule:

Courses: Courses: Courses: Courses:
ECON 500 Microeconomics I ECON 501 Microeconomics II ECON 508 Microeconomics III BA 580 Business Econ
ECON 580 Econometrics I ECON 581 Econometrics II FIN 585 Empirical Methods in Finance
ACCTG 582 Intro to Acctg Research ACCTG 580 Positive Acctg Theory Alternating Accounting Phd Seminar (Analytical or Experimental)
ACCTG 510
Financial Statement Analysis (MBA Class, case-by-case exemptions)
Other: Other: Other: Other:
Workshop series Workshop series Workshop series 1st Year Summer Paper and Presentation

Second Year

Courses: Courses: Courses: Courses:

Finance Doctoral Seminars (FIN 580, FIN 591, FIN 592 (optional))
and/or
Behavioral Research Seminars (BARM 590, BARM 591)

ACCTG 582 (2nd time) Intro to Acctg Research ACCTG 580 (2nd time) Positive Acctg Theory Alternating Accounting Phd Seminar (Analytical or Experimental)
ACCTG 596 Capital Markets Seminar
ACCTG 579 (every other year) Empirical Research Designs and Methods
Other: Other: Other: Other:
Workshop series Workshop series Workshop series Comprehensive Exam
2nd year Summer Paper
Courses: Courses: Courses: Courses:
ACCTG 579 if applicable
ACCTG 596 (2nd time) Capital Mkts Acctg Seminar

Register for BA 800 when you have passed your area exam and have satisfied all your course requirements.

Other: Other: Other: Other:
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Workshop series
2nd year Summer Paper Presentation
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Workshop series
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Spring Workshop Presentation (ideally your dissertation proposal)
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!

Fourth Year

Other: Other: Other: Other:
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Workshop series
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Workshop series
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Spring Workshop Presentation
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)!
Other: Other: Other: Other:
RESEARCH (dissertation and co-authored projects)! JOB MARKET! GRADUATE! Move!
Miami Rookie Conference
(Nov deadline)

Course Requirements for Accounting Minor

Doctoral students minoring in accounting must meet the following requirements:

ACCTG 510 and ACCTG 511 or equivalents ACCTG 580, Introduction to Accounting Research

In addition, students minoring in accounting are required to successfully complete one of the following:

ACCTG 579 (4) Special Topics in Accounting Analytical accounting research
ACCTG 579 (4) Special Topics in Accounting Behavioral accounting research
ACCTG 596 (4) Seminar in Financial Accounting Capital markets

*Offered every second year.

Other Requirements

Written Area Examination After completing all coursework required for a major area in accounting, the student takes a written area examination offered each year during late July or early August. The accounting area examination tests students on coursework as well as on topics of current research. The exam consists of a closed book eight-hour exam.

General Examination It is expected that students will complete all coursework and area exam and begin working on a dissertation proposal by the end of their second year. However, students are encouraged during their third and fourth years to attend the accounting doctoral research seminar in their area of interest (ACCTG 596 for financial accounting empiricists, ACCTG 597 for behavioral or experimental researchers). When the supervisory committee believes that the dissertation proposal is well defined, a general exam is scheduled. During the general exam, the student presents the dissertation proposal and answers questions related to the proposal and/or to courses taken. Members of the supervisory committee, a representative of the Graduate School, and any other interested faculty and students, attend the general exam. The chair of the supervisory committee determines the precise format of the general exam.

Students who have passed their area examination but not their general exam are required to present an accounting research workshop on their research in progress each Spring quarter until they have passed their general exam (and thus have an approved thesis topic). Students are required to present their research paper in the research workshop before sending it out to schools to interview. This presentation should be in early October to allow time for revision before sending the paper out in early November.

Dissertation After passing the general exam, students complete the proposed research and write the dissertation guided by a reading committee. The reading committee may consist entirely of members of the supervisory committee or may include one or more members not previously on the supervisory committee. When formation of the reading committee introduces new members, a new chair of the reading committee would ordinarily become chair of the supervisory committee and new members of the reading committee would ordinarily be placed on the supervisory committee.

Final Examination The supervisory committee administers the final defense of the dissertation.

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  • Master's in Business Administration (MBA)
  • All Programs

An MBA from Commonwealth University means business. Offered 100% online, with accelerated, fast-track, or part-time options, you'll advance your career and be prepared for a leadership role in your field.

  • Zeigler College of Business

Program Details

  • Program Delivery – Offered 100% online — Online courses are offered in convenient, intensive six-week sessions.
  • Flexible Start Dates – Applications are accepted for the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.
  • Coursework – Program includes 12 courses (36 credits). Courses include experiential exercises, case studies, applied projects, and internships.
  • Who Should Apply – Whether you studied communications, psychology, political science, or business — our MBA can enhance the skills you already have and prepare you for a leadership role in your field.
  • AACSB accredited – It's the gold standard for MBA programs, the hallmark of excellence in business education, and has been earned by less than five percent of the world's business programs.
  • 3 Program Options – Accelerated MBA (complete bachelor’s and MBA in four years), Fast-Track MBA (finish in one year), or the Professional MBA (work at your own pace).
  • 6 Concentrations – Tailor your MBA to your career goals, including Accounting, Analytics, Healthcare Management, Leadership and Human Resources, Marketing, and Strategic Global Decisions.
  • GMAT or GRE Waivers – Granted after evaluating an academic GPA above 2.5.

Request Information Cost Estimator

Courses and Curriculum

The accelerated MBA allows students from any major to use MBA classes towards upper-level undergraduate coursework. Students participating in the MBA Accelerated Program should meet the following qualifications:

  • Senior Status
  • 3.0 GPA or Above
  • Complete the MBA Graduate Admissions Application
  • If accepted, students will be enrolled as provisional admission.

Provisional admission: Students participating in the Accelerated MBA Program will need to maintain the following while participating in the program:

  • Maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Graduate with an undergraduate cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Achieve a B+ or higher in MBA courses taken

Coursework Details:

  • Business Students: MBA graduate courses may be used in exchange for undergraduate courses within the Zeigler College of Business. Up to 4 MBA graduate courses can be applied to undergraduate courses with the approval of the advisor, department chair, program coordinator, and dean. These courses can be existing undergraduate business courses or electives. This assessment will be through a collaborative case-by-case process.
  • Non-Business Students: With the permission of their advisor, department chair, MBA program coordinator, and business dean, majors outside of the Zeigler College of Business may enroll in up to 4 MBA graduate courses. These courses may be applied at the discretion of their program and college, for example, undergraduate electives.
  • Performance: Students enrolling in the Accelerated MBA Program must meet the MBA program's expectations and complete the required courses that lead to the award of an MBA degree. If a student's cumulative GPA drops below 3.0 or a letter grade below B+ is received, an assessment will be conducted between the MBA Coordinator and advisor, potentially leading to the removal from the program.
  • Students have an opportunity to take a second concentration and would require 9-credits for the chosen concentration.

The Fast-Track MBA program allows students to complete their MBA in three semesters, taking four courses in the fall, four courses in the spring, and four courses in the summer to complete their degree. Each semester includes a concentration course specific to the student’s chosen track.

Fall Semester

  • MGMT 581 - Principled Leadership, Ethics, and Professional Development (3 credits)
  • ACCT 511 - Financial and Managerial Accounting (3 credits)
  • INFT 520 - Business Intelligence and Analytics (3 credits)
  • Concentration Course #1* (3 credits)

Spring Semester

  • FIN 535 - Financial Management (3 credits)
  • MGMT 584 - Operations and Supply Chain Management (3 credits)
  • MKTG 510 - Marketing Foundation for the Digital Age (3 credits)
  • Concentration Class #2* (3 credits)

Summer Semester

  • LAW 550 - Law, Ethics, and Public Policy (3 credits)
  • INFT 572 - Strategic Information and Technology Management (3 credits)
  • MGMT 592 - MBA Practicum (3 credits)
  • Concentration Class #3* (3 credits)

MBA 500 - Outcomes Assessment (N/C)

*Concentration Degree Requirements

The Professional MBA program allows students to complete their MBA at their own speed. It is recommended over the course of two years, with 6 credits taken each semester.

  • MKT 510 - Marketing Foundations for the Digital Age (3 credits)

Summer Session

  • LAWL 550 - Law Ethics and Public Policy (3 credits)
  • Concentration Class #1* (3 credits)

Complete your Graduate Certificate of Management in as little as two semesters by taking six MBA courses (18 credits).

Schedule of Courses Fall Semester (Required)

  • MKTG 551 - Marketing Management (3 credits)

Spring Semester (Required)

  • MGMT 560 - Operations and Supply Chain Management (3 credits)

Choose Two Courses

  • MGMT 515 - Leadership, Ethics, and Professional Development (3 credits)
  • MGMT 582 - Human Resource Management Skills for Managers (3 credits)
  • MGMT 576 - Global Business (3 credits)
  • MGMT 567 - Managing People in Organizations (3 credits)
  • ITM 590 - Strategic Information and Technology Management (3 credits)
  • MGMT 581 - Strategic Management (3 credits)
  • MGMT 580 - Managerial Decision Making (3 credits)

Concentration Requirements (9 credits)

Accounting Concentration

  • ACCT 525 - Data Analytics for Accounting
  • ACCT 551 - International Accounting
  • ACCT 552 - Controllership

Analytics Concentration

  • INFT 510 - Business Application Development, Programming, and Evaluation
  • INFT 530 - Enterprise Architectures and Cybersecurity
  • INFT 522 - Data Analytics for Business Strategy

Healthcare Management

  • INFT 568 - Healthcare Informatics
  • INFT 577 - Healthcare Analytics
  • Special Topics in Healthcare Management

Leadership and Human Resources

  • MGMT 580 - Managing People in Organizations
  • MGMT 593 - Strategic Management
  • MGMT 583 - Human Resource Skills for Managers

Marketing Concentration

  • MKT 530 - Behavioral Insights
  • MKT 551 - Marketing Management
  • MKT 552 - Marketing Research and Analytics

Strategic Global Decisions Concentration

  • MGMT 582 - Global Business Management
  • MGMT 590 - Managerial Decision-Making

Program Admissions

There is a rolling admission process, so applications are accepted year-round. Students can be admitted to start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters. The program admits students based on an evaluation of past academic achievement, aptitude for advanced study, professional accomplishments, and motivation to succeed.

Complete applications include the following items:

  • Official transcripts from an accredited academic institution indicating an earned baccalaureate degree.
  • Official transcripts from all institutions where the applicant earned undergraduate or graduate college credit must be provided. Degrees earned from non-United States universities will be judged individually.
  • Three letters of recommendation.
  • A current resume.
  • GMAT or GRE: Waivers are granted after evaluating an academic GPA above 2.5.
  • A statement of career goals.

International applicants whose native language is not English must provide official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score within the prior year as well as current evidence of financial capability. International applications must be complete at least four months prior to the start of the semester of application. A translation of transcripts to a GPA on a 4.0 scale is required.

  • Q: Do I need a degree in business to be admitted? A: No! Whether you studied communications, psychology, education, or business — our MBA can enhance the skills you already have and prepare you for a leadership role in your field.
  • Q: How is the program delivered? A: Courses are offered 100% online. You can start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer semesters.
  • Q: How long does it take to complete the program? A: You can choose to take courses on a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time students may be able to finish the program in just one year; part-time students finish at their own pace.
  • Q: When can I start? A: Applications are accepted for the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.
  • Q: Do I need to take the GRE or GMAT to gain admission? A: GRE and GMAT waivers are granted after evaluating an academic GPA above 2.5.

ONWARD AND UPWARD

 AACSB-accredited schools have the highest quality faculty, relevant and challenging curriculum, and provide educational and career opportunities not found at other schools.

6 Concentrations Including: Accounting, Analytics, Healthcare Management, Leadership and Human Resources, Marketing, and Strategic Global Decisions.

You'll learn to manage the people, finances, marketing, and materials that every organization — from museums to manufacturers — need to be successful.

Potential Job Opportunities

  • Chief Technology Officer​
  • Director of Human Resources​
  • Director of Marketing and Communications
  • Management Consultant
  • Financial Analyst
  • Vice President of Finance
  • Marketing Manager​
  • Director of Sales
  • Project Manager
  • Director of Supply Management
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Information Technology Consultant
  • Regional Sales Manager
  • Financial Advisor
  • Supply Chain Analyst
  • Brand Manager

Continue to Explore

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The Fast-Track MBA program at allowed me to not only achieve my professional goals but also my athletic ones. I was able to earn my Master's in one year while getting my final year of eligibility in for lacrosse. Immediately following graduation, I started working as a Production Assistant with an Event planning company in NYC. This all wouldn’t have been possible without this program!

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Bloomsburg was a choice of mine, because it felt like home the moment I stepped on campus. Bloomsburg has a wonderful business program, and the MBA program has helped me further boost my business career knowledge.

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The MBA program has propelled me to heights I would’ve never thought were possible. The professors throughout my Master’s program were hands on and helpful, even through a pandemic. When completing my MBA, and talking to various advisors about what I wanted to do next, I decided that I would go for my Doctorate and attempt to become a professor. The accredited program will serve as an essential tool to get me into a great program.

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Supplying the front lines in the fight against COVID-19

Alex Annan’s first job out of college has not only been the perfect fit for an MBA graduate, it positioned him to be among the key players in the country’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

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New Coaching Software is a Game Changer

Brenden Argomaniz, MBA student and assistant baseball coach is working to revolutionize coaching through a software app. With a friend, Argomaniz created dataBase Analytics, an app that calculates players’ statistics and stores them away to be referenced later, covering everything from pitching stats to full-career development.

Program Faculty

Ronda

Ronda Mariani

  • MBA Program Director/Associate Professor of Marketing and Professional Sales

Darrin

Darrin Kass

Applying to graduate programs, application process.

Review the step-by-step application process for graduate school at Commonwealth University.

By starting your application, you gain access to your personalized application portal to view your progress.

If you have questions, we have answers. Contact us today!

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Grad assistantships.

Help finance your grad degree. Gain professional experience. Grow your network.

Tuition and Fees

Earning an advanced degree is an investment in your future. See just how affordable a graduate degree can be for you.

Understanding Financial Aid

Our Financial Aid team is your guide to navigating the aid process for your graduate degree.

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Accounting vs. Finance Degree: How to Choose Your Path

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Did you know that the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8 percent growth in business and financial operations jobs from 2020 to 2030, adding around 750,800 new jobs? This surge is driven by an expanding economy and complex regulatory environment, making skills in finance and accounting more valuable than ever. As you think about a degree in accounting vs finance, it’s important to understand the unique roles and impacts each field has in the business world.

Both accounting and finance are crucial to the success of any business, but they serve different purposes. Think of accounting as the language of business. It’s all about tracking, reporting, and analyzing financial information. Accountants ensure financial records are accurate and taxes are paid correctly and on time. On the other hand, finance takes this financial data to strategize, plan, and manage assets and liabilities, focusing on future growth and sustainable cash flow. While accountants handle the day-to-day management of financial reports and records, finance professionals use that information to make forecasts, analyze trends, and advise on investment decisions.

Understanding these differences is important to decide which path resonates best with your career goals and interests in the dynamic business world. Whether you’re drawn to the detailed-focused nature of accounting or the strategic planning of finance, both fields offer rewarding opportunities and are essential to the fabric of any business.

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Should You Study Accounting or Finance?

Choosing between an accounting or finance degree can be pivotal for many aspiring professionals. Both fields are essential to the business sector but appeal to different interests and career paths, making a choice not just about what you want to study but where you see your career heading. 

If you have a sharp attention to detail, enjoy working with numbers daily, and are strongly interested in regulatory standards and compliance, accounting might be your path. Accountants are fundamental to a company’s financial health, as they carefully record, report, and analyze financial transactions. This role is vital for ensuring accuracy and providing the factual basis for businesses’ most important financial decisions.

On the other hand, if you enjoy analyzing market trends, making strategic investment choices, and planning financial strategies, then a finance degree might be a better fit for your goals. Finance professionals look at the bigger economic picture, using accountant data to assess risks, manage investments, and ensure a company or client’s financial growth and health.

Both paths offer rewarding careers with strong prospects but require different skill sets and personal interests. Accountants often focus on details and historical data, while finance professionals are geared toward future possibilities and broader financial planning. Your career goals might also influence your decision: do you see yourself as a future CFO benefiting from a solid grounding in finance or as a Chief Accounting Officer, where deep expertise in accounting would be indispensable?

Ultimately, the choice between accounting and finance should reflect your personal strengths and career aspirations. Think about what excites you most about working in business, and use that passion to guide your educational journey. Whether you’re interested in the precision of accounting or the strategic nature of finance, both fields offer valuable and fulfilling career opportunities.

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What is Accounting?

Accounting is often regarded as the systematic process of recording, reporting, and analyzing financial transactions. Here are some essential aspects of accounting:

  • Precision and Compliance: Accountants are tasked with ensuring financial accuracy and adherence to laws and regulations, which are critical for maintaining trust and legality in business operations.
  • Tax Expertise : One of the central roles of accountants involves managing and preparing tax returns and ensuring that companies or individuals comply with tax regulations efficiently.
  • Financial Reporting: Accountants develop key financial documents, such as cash flow statements, balance sheets, and income statements, which indicate a business’s financial health.
  • Audit and Assurance: Many accountants specialize in auditing services, providing independent verification of financial statements to ensure accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Career Pathways : From forensic accounting to management accounting, the field offers diverse specializations that cater to various interests within the broader financial landscape.

What is Finance?

Finance deals with managing, creating, and studying money and investments. Key aspects include:

  • Financial Analysis and Planning: Finance professionals analyze economic trends and market behaviors to forecast future conditions and advise on investment strategies.
  • Capital Management: A significant part of finance is finding efficient ways to manage a company’s or individual’s capital to maximize earnings and reduce risks.
  • Investment Strategies: Finance experts often identify and manage investment opportunities. They assess various assets like stocks, bonds, and real estate for potential growth.
  • Corporate Finance: In corporate settings, finance professionals focus on decisions regarding mergers and acquisitions, capital structure, and investment opportunities to support organizational growth.
  • Risk Management: A big part of finance is spotting and managing potential risks to an asset’s return. Experts use sophisticated models to minimize these risks and keep finances secure.

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Career Opportunities

When it comes to the business world, both accounting and finance professionals are crucial for their ability to manage and strategize around financial systems. Understanding the career opportunities in each field can help you decide which path aligns best with your personal and professional aspirations.

Accounting Careers:

Accounting offers a stable and varied career path with numerous opportunities for specialization. Here are some popular roles:

  • Public Accountant: Often working for an accounting firm, public accountants serve various clients and manage a wide range of financial documentation, including audits, taxes, and financial planning. The work environment can be dynamic, with opportunities to work with diverse industries.
  • Internal Auditor: These professionals review their company’s financial operations to ensure compliance and efficiency. Working mostly within corporate offices, internal auditors help identify risks and recommend improvements.
  • Tax Accountant: Specializing in preparing tax returns and advising on tax strategies, tax accountants play a critical role in helping clients comply with legal requirements. They often work long hours during tax season.

Accountants may also delve into niches like forensic accounting, which involves investigating financial discrepancies and fraud. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average starting salaries for accountants vary but typically range from $40,000 to $60,000 annually, depending on geographic location, educational background, and the specific sector.

Finance Careers:

The field of finance is noted for its lucrative pay scales and the analytical nature of its work. Popular finance roles include:

  • Investment Banker: These professionals help companies and governments raise money by issuing stocks or bonds, and they also provide advice on mergers and acquisitions. Investment banking is fast-paced and can involve long hours, particularly in larger cities where financial activities are concentrated.
  • Financial Analyst: Financial analysts evaluate the performance of various investments, such as stocks and bonds, to advise businesses and individuals on investment decisions. They usually work in offices but may travel to meet clients.
  • Financial Planner: Working directly with individuals, financial planners help manage personal finances, from investments to retirement planning. They need strong interpersonal skills as much of their job involves advising clients on personal financial decisions.

Those in finance might specialize in areas such as corporate finance, which focuses on managing a company’s capital, or venture capital, which involves funding promising startups. Starting salaries in finance also vary, with the BLS reporting an average range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually. These figures can significantly increase with experience and success in the field, especially in high-stakes areas like investment banking.

Both accounting and finance careers offer promising paths filled with professional growth and specialization opportunities. Whether you lean towards the detailed and regulated world of accounting or the dynamic and high-impact realm of finance, both fields offer substantial rewards and challenges.

Professional Associations

Joining professional associations in accounting and finance offers valuable resources, networking opportunities, and certifications. These organizations support career growth and keep professionals updated with industry trends and standards. In this section, we highlight key associations that can enhance your professional journey in these fields.

  • American Institute of CPAs ( AICPA ) : The AICPA provides a range of services, including professional development, ethical standards, and advocacy for Certified Public Accountants.
  • Institute of Management Accountants ( IMA ) : The IMA offers the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) credential and focuses on advancing the management accounting profession.
  • International Federation of Accountants ( IFAC ) : IFAC promotes high-quality international standards and supports the global accountancy profession.
  • CFA Institute : The CFA Institute offers the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) certification and is dedicated to leading the investment profession globally.
  • Financial Planning Association ( FPA ) : The FPA provides support and resources for financial planning professionals and promotes high standards of professional competence and ethical practice.
  • Global Association of Risk Professionals ( GARP ) : GARP focuses on advancing the risk profession through education, training, and the globally recognized Financial Risk Manager (FRM) certification.

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Essential Skills for Success in Accounting and Finance

Both accounting and finance professionals need a core set of skills that enable them to navigate their respective fields effectively. Here are the essential skills required for each:

Skills for Accounting Professionals:

  • Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills : Ability to analyze financial data and solve complex problems is crucial, especially when ensuring compliance and accuracy in financial reports.
  • Meticulous Attention to Detail: Precision is key in accounting to ensure the accuracy of all financial records and the compliance with regulatory standards.
  • Strong Communication Skills: Accountants need to explain financial information in a clear and concise manner, both in writing and when speaking.
  • Proficiency in Accounting Software: Familiarity with software like QuickBooks, Xero, and other financial management tools is essential for modern accounting practices.
  • Research and Investigative Skills: For roles such as forensic accounting, the ability to research and investigate financial discrepancies is vital.

Skills for Finance Professionals:

  • Advanced Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Critical for forecasting, risk assessment, and making strategic financial decisions.
  • Quantitative and Financial Modeling Skills: Essential for analyzing financial data and building models to predict future financial scenarios.
  • Effective Communication and Presentation Skills: It’s important to explain complex financial ideas and concepts in a way that non-experts can easily understand.
  • Strong Research Skills: Staying current with market trends and economic factors is crucial for making sound financial decisions.
  • Negotiation and Interpersonal Skills: Especially important in fields like investment banking, where securing deals and managing client relationships are part of the job.

Both fields share a foundation in strong analytical capabilities, but the application of these skills can vary significantly. Accountants often focus on historical data and precision, while finance professionals are more oriented toward future outcomes and strategic analysis. Each role requires a unique mix of technical skills and soft skills, highlighting the variety of career paths available in the business world. Whether you are meticulously reviewing financial statements or forecasting market trends, these skills will equip you to handle the challenges and opportunities that come with a career in accounting or finance.

accounting phd programs

Should I Study Accounting or Finance at the Graduate Level?

Choosing between a graduate degree in accounting or finance involves carefully considering your interests, skills, and lifestyle preferences. Here’s how to decide which path might be the best fit for you:

  • Detail-Oriented Tasks: If you find satisfaction in handling precise, detail-oriented tasks, a graduate degree in accounting ( Master of Accountancy ) may be ideal. This field focuses on the detailed management of financial records, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
  • Big-Picture Analysis: If you’re more intrigued by strategic analysis and looking at the broader economic picture, a degree in finance, such as a Master of Business Administration in Financial Management , might be more appealing. Finance involves analyzing market trends, investment opportunities, and economic forecasts to guide decision-making at higher levels.
  • Numerical and Data Analysis: Both fields require a strong aptitude for numbers and data analysis. Whether you’re auditing financial statements or forecasting market trends, these skills are foundational.
  • Communication and Interpersonal Skills : While important in both fields, these skills are particularly critical in finance, where explaining complex financial strategies to clients or stakeholders and negotiating deals are routine tasks.

Lifestyle Preferences:

  • Work Environment and Hours: Accounting often offers more predictable work hours, especially for positions in corporate environments or government, making it suitable if you prefer a more structured routine. However, it’s worth noting that tax season can significantly ramp up the workload for accountants.
  • Travel and Pressure: Finance roles, particularly in areas like investment banking or fund management, might involve more travel and higher pressure, dealing with market fluctuations and investment risks. These positions often require a high level of stress management and the ability to thrive in a dynamic setting.

Choosing the right graduate program should align with what excites you most about the field, the skills you want to develop, and how you envision your daily professional life. Both accounting and finance offer robust career paths with the potential for fulfilling, well-compensated roles across industries. As you consider your options, consider where your passions lie and what environment will make you thrive. For more detailed program information and to help guide your decision, explore the Master of Accountancy and Master of Business Administration in Financial Management at National University.

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Making the Right Choice: Accounting vs. Finance Degrees

As we wrap up our exploration of accounting and finance degrees, it’s clear that both fields offer distinct pathways with their own sets of challenges and rewards. Accounting focuses on recording financial transactions, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining compliance with laws and regulations. It’s ideal for those who enjoy detailed work and have a keen eye for accuracy, which is critical in ensuring a business’s financial integrity. On the other hand, finance is all about managing money, handling debts, and planning for future growth. This field suits those who excel at analyzing data to make strategic decisions and thrive in environments where they can evaluate investment opportunities and economic trends.

When choosing between these two impactful fields, consider your interests and skills. Do you prefer the structured world of accounting or the fast-paced field of finance? Each degree will develop different skill sets suited to specific career goals.

National University offers comprehensive programs in both disciplines for those ready to dive deeper. Whether you’re drawn to the Bachelor of Science in Accounting or the Bachelor of Science in Financial Management , or considering a specialized Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance or Accounting , each program aims to prepare you with the knowledge and skills to succeed in your chosen field.

Taking the time to understand your personal and professional desires will ensure that you choose a degree that meets your educational needs and sets you up for a successful and satisfying career. Explore your options, consider your future, and take the next step toward a rewarding career in either accounting or finance.

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5 Reasons to Get a Master of Accountancy Degree

Thursday, February 16, 2023

Carlson School Graduate Programs

Last update: April 19, 2024

Often referred to as the language of business, accounting records, analyzes, and reports on events affecting business entities. A master’s degree in accounting can help launch or pivot your career into this critical field and become central to any business's decision-making process. Here are a few reasons to pursue this degree:

1. Enter a field with high job security

The nature and function of accountancy offer high levels of job security. Whether in times of economic growth or downturn, all organizations need financial oversight and support. This necessity makes accounting less prone to being affected by a recession. Accountants provide guidance and recommendations on key business decisions, such as how to keep up with new regulations and laws and ensure that the organization is in compliance. A complex and dynamic field, professionals who specialize in accounting are always highly sought-after and indispensable to any organization.

A graduate accountancy program, such as the Carlson School’s STEM-designated Master of Accountancy (MAcc), will provide you with the extensive training required to succeed in this industry.

2. Expand the possibilities of your professional future

Specializing in accounting can give you an edge as you develop your long-term professional career. An accountancy program will not only help you master the universal language of business, but also develop critical thinking and analysis skills to form well-reasoned judgments and opinions and guide a company’s decision-making. With these transferable skills, you can work in essentially any industry you want.

The Carlson School’s Master of Accountancy program sharpens your command of core accounting concepts and helps you gain an expansive understanding of business. You’ll bring a well-rounded perspective to any organization you join, and also prepare for a wide variety of future roles. So while you may start in finance and accounting, a few years down the road, you might end up consulting around the world or being the head of a start-up.

3. Qualify for the CPA exam

Completing a master’s degree in accounting degree will help you meet the 150 semester hours of education required to take the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam . A CPA designation is highly valued in the business community as it represents a mastery of accounting knowledge and processes. This prestigious credential may give you an advantage when applying for new positions, increase your earning potential, and open doors to more career options. 

4. Develop the in-depth knowledge you need to excel and thrive

If you studied accounting in undergrad, you probably learned a lot of the hows of accounting. After completing a graduate program, you’ll understand the whys of accounting and develop a deeper understanding of the field. If you come from a non-accounting background, a graduate program will help you develop the skills and hone the knowledge you need to pivot into the field. 

Regardless of your background and experience, the Carlson School’s graduate accountancy program lets you map a degree path that meets your needs and interests. Didn’t study accounting as an undergraduate? We offer a track that will catch you up on core accounting issues.

If you studied accounting in undergrad, complete the Carlson School MAcc program in a year. Need to work? Complete the program part time. The flexibility doesn’t end there. Unlike accounting programs that require you to sign up for a track and take classes accordingly, you’ll be able to create your own adventure based on your interests. Take electives from our tax program, specialize in auditing, or explore any number of business disciplines from marketing to data analytics.

5. Grow your professional network

Developing a professional network is critical to launching and advancing your career. From learning more about a sector you’re interested in to keeping up with industry trends, your network can be a resource for support and information as you navigate each stage of your career. In a master’s program, you’ll have many opportunities to cultivate meaningful relationships with a built-in community of faculty mentors, peers, staff, and alumni. 

At the Carlson School, we provide individualized support so you can develop a sound career strategy and reach your goals. Beyond career fairs and professional networking events, our Business Career Center provides one-on-one career coaching for life. Whether you need to prepare for an interview or learn strategies for negotiating job offers, we’ve got you covered.

Accounting regulations are constantly changing due to societal and geo-political changes. Accountants help companies stay informed of these changes and adapt accordingly. In this exciting and ever-evolving field, there are always new things to learn. If you’re a lifelong learner and avid problem-solver who is consistent and can weather constant development, a master's in accountancy can help you excel in the industry and beyond. Learn more about how Carlson School’s STEM-designated Master of Accountancy program can take your career to the next level whether you’re new to the field or seeking to advance.

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accounting phd programs

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PhD Admission Requirements

The goal of the Accounting PhD program is to train students to do rigorous research in accounting, a specialized area of financial economics. An institutional understanding of how accounting information is used by capital market participants and/or within firms is useful and best obtained through relevant work experience, but is not required. The program is highly analytical and quantitative. Thus, a strong undergraduate preparation in microeconomics and mathematics is an advantage, as is some prior training at the undergraduate or graduate level in accounting, finance, or economics.

Except for the GMAT or GRE general test which is required of all applicants, there are no formal admission requirements. The TOEFL test must be taken by applicants whose native language is not English.

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CWU ceramics graduate discovers her true self through art

  • June 18, 2024

Rune Torgersen

accounting phd programs

As with many of her classmates, McKenzee Guzman started at CWU in the middle of the pandemic.

She had planned to become an art teacher through CWU’s renowned education program, but once she was able to get back in the ceramic studio, she discovered that her career might be heading in a different direction.

“I originally came here to be an art teacher, but I was just so drawn to the joy of the creative process that I decided to pursue that full-time,” said Guzman, who graduated June 8. “I went back and forth for a few years, but once I got into the ceramic studio after the pandemic, I was like ‘yeah, this is where I’m meant to be.’”

With a new path in her sights, Guzman set about refining her technique and putting in the work that would be necessary to make her artistic vision a reality.

“I really struggled with throwing ceramics in high school, so once I got to college, I knew that was something I wanted to overcome,” she said. “After doing the work for a while, it suddenly just clicked for me, and it’s all I’ve wanted to do since.”

Photo of Guzman working on Nestle

As a fine arts major specializing in ceramics and drawing, Guzman got to work alongside a broad variety of fine arts faculty, all of whom helped her connect further with herself along the way.

“Art is different from a lot of other majors in that you really get to connect with your professors on an emotional level,” she said. “Obviously, they’ve mentored me and helped me develop my technical skills, but they’ve also let me really become the person I was meant to be.”

While Guzman’s focus has been on practical earthenware like pots and cups, she finds inspiration for her work in more abstract concepts like family and her surroundings in the Pacific Northwest. Her final exhibition pulled together all of her favorite work from her time at CWU into one cohesive exploration of those influences.

“My art focuses a lot on the interconnections between memory, identity, and our surroundings,” Guzman said. “Setting up the exhibition was a cathartic experience, getting to see everything I’ve worked for over the last four years come together and be recognized by my peers.”

Guzman’s final project for her undergraduate degree was “Nestle,” a ceramic sculpture funded through CWU’s C. Farrell Fine Arts and Research scholarship. The piece reflects her upbringing in the shadow of Mount Rainier near Spanaway. It fuses the mountain’s iconic silhouette with that of a female figure, drawing parallels between the roles anatomy and geography play in housing the human experience.

“This piece reflects the difference between finding home, which can be a façade or structure that you project outwards, and finding yourself, at home in your body, which is something you’ll carry with you forever,” Guzman said. “Just as you live within a certain geographical area, you live within yourself, too. The intent was to take everything I do and somehow combine it, which has turned out to be a monstrous, yet cathartic, undertaking.”

With her bachelor’s degree in hand, Guzman is focusing on building out her portfolio to eventually pursue a graduate degree in her field. She says her life so far has taught her the importance of accepting change and taking her time to get where she needs to go.

accounting phd programs

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  4. Accounting & Management

    The doctoral program in Accounting and Management, which falls under the PhD in Business Administration, focuses on understanding the role of information and measurement systems for: allocating resources among firms in the economy and between departments or divisions of individual firms; rewarding and monitoring the performance of managers; formulating, executing and evaluating strategy by ...

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    Learn how to become a successful academic researcher in accounting at Wharton. The program offers rigorous coursework, mentoring and research projects with faculty members, and a dissertation and publishable research.

  6. 2023-2024 Top Doctor of Accounting Graduate Programs

    Doctoral Student: Capella University offers comprehensive online programs for adult learners, focusing on academic excellence and practical skills. The university's flexible learning environment enables students to juggle their studies with work and family obligations. Students are prepared by the university's emphasis on practical skills and ...

  7. Department of Accounting

    Ph.D. Overview. The Stern School of Business of New York University offers one of the finest Ph.D. programs in accounting in the world. The curriculum is designed to provide a thorough understanding of current accounting theory, practice and research, taught within the framework of modern economic and finance theories as applied to the behavior ...

  8. Doctorates in Accounting

    Many doctoral programs in accounting are designated as Ph.D. degrees in business or management with a concentration in accounting. Some schools also offer a professional degree, like the doctor of business administration, with a specialization in accounting. However, several universities offer a Ph.D. in accounting with various sub-disciplinary ...

  9. Accounting

    Learn how to do rigorous research in accounting, a specialized area of financial economics, at Wharton. The program is highly analytical and quantitative, and requires strong undergraduate preparation in microeconomics and mathematics.

  10. Accounting

    Learn about the Ph.D. in Accounting at NYU Stern, a program that covers empirical and theoretical accounting research within the framework of modern economic and finance theories. Explore the curriculum, faculty, and fields of study in accounting.

  11. Accounting PhD

    ACADEMIC LEADERSHIP. Both U.S. News & World Report and Public Accounting Report rank the Texas McCombs Accounting PhD program number one in the nation, reflecting the program's diversity and excellence across education and scholarship. Our distinguished faculty members research various specializations, including financial reporting ...

  12. Top 10 Best PhD in Accounting Programs

    PhD in Accounting. Stanford is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, with 19 institutes encouraging interdisciplinary learning and a $1.69 billion sponsored research budget. It offers one of the country's top accounting PhD programs, emphasizing both empirical and analytical research.

  13. Accounting in United States: 2024 PhD's Guide

    Why Study Accounting in United States. Studying Accounting in United States is a great choice, as there are 44 universities that offer PhD degrees on our portal. Over 957,000 international students choose United States for their studies, which suggests you'll enjoy a vibrant and culturally diverse learning experience and make friends from all ...

  14. PhD in Accounting

    Learn about the accounting PhD program at UNC Kenan-Flagler, a leading center of research on financial reporting, tax, international accounting, and more. Explore the curriculum, faculty, and student opportunities in this innovative and collaborative program.

  15. Accounting Requirements

    A traditional accounting background such as CPA is not required. II. Course Requirements. All required courses must be taken for a grade (not pass/fail or credit/no credit). Exceptions are made if the required course is offered pass/fail or credit/no credit only. Each course must be passed with a grade of P or B- or better.

  16. Program Requirements

    All Accounting and Management students are required to have completed one undergraduate or graduate course in introduction to Econometrics. If this requirement has not been fulfilled prior to matriculation, then an equivalent course will be required in the first term of the student's doctoral program.

  17. PhD: Accounting Program

    The Accounting PhD program is designed to produce great scholars and educators by providing a solid foundation in both the theoretical and empirical tools of accounting research. Your program of study will be personalized to leverage your background and research interests. Through coursework, research seminars, and individual original research ...

  18. Accounting PhD Specialization

    The accounting Ph.D. program is designed to prepare students to publish research in top-tier accounting journals including The Accounting Review, Journal of Accounting and Economics, and Journal of Accounting Research and to take positions at leading research-based universities. ... Accounting Doctoral Student Planned Courses (as of July 2022)

  19. Program: Accounting, M.Acc.

    Graduate Academic Intervention Policy. Graduate business students who are placed on academic probation by the university will be placed on Academic Intervention by the Parker College of Business Graduate Programs Office until they are no longer on probation.Within 30 days of being notified by the Registrar's office or Graduate School, the student must complete and submit the Parker Graduate ...

  20. Master of Accounting Program

    Pacific's Master of Accounting (MAcc) program is designed to prepare students for licensure as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) under California's new education rules. Offered on Pacific's beautiful Stockton campus, the program can be completed in as little as 2 semesters for those with an undergraduate degree in accounting, or 3-4 semesters ...

  21. Master's in Business Administration Online (MBA)

    Program Details. Program Delivery - Offered 100% online — Online courses are offered in convenient, intensive six-week sessions.; Flexible Start Dates - Applications are accepted for the Spring, Summer, and Fall semesters.; Coursework - Program includes 12 courses (36 credits). Courses include experiential exercises, case studies, applied projects, and internships.

  22. Accounting vs. Finance Degree: How to Choose Your Path

    Choosing the right graduate program should align with what excites you most about the field, the skills you want to develop, and how you envision your daily professional life. Both accounting and finance offer robust career paths with the potential for fulfilling, well-compensated roles across industries.

  23. 5 Reasons to Get a Master of Accountancy Degree

    A graduate accountancy program, such as the Carlson School's STEM-designated Master of Accountancy (MAcc), will provide you with the extensive training required to succeed in this industry. 2. Expand the possibilities of your professional future. Specializing in accounting can give you an edge as you develop your long-term professional career.

  24. Overview

    Sit shoulder-to-shoulder with graduate students who bring real-world work experience to the classroom. Participate in class discussions that mimic workplace environments where teams of diverse experience, levels, and expertise work together. Learn from faculty who are leading their fields, and work with them as you hone your own skills and ...

  25. PhD Admission Requirements

    PhD Admission Requirements. The goal of the Accounting PhD program is to train students to do rigorous research in accounting, a specialized area of financial economics. An institutional understanding of how accounting information is used by capital market participants and/or within firms is useful and best obtained through relevant work ...

  26. CWU ceramics graduate discovers her true self through art

    CWU ceramics graduate discovers her true self through art As with many of her classmates, McKenzee Guzman started at CWU in the middle of the pandemic. She had planned to become an art teacher through CWU's renowned education program, but once she was able to get back in the ceramic studio, she discovered that her career might be heading in a ...

  27. Elektrostal, Russia: All You Must Know Before You Go (2024

    A mix of the charming, modern, and tried and true. See all. Apelsin Hotel. 43. from $48/night. Apart Hotel Yantar. 2. from $28/night. Elektrostal Hotel.

  28. State Housing Inspectorate of the Moscow Region

    State Housing Inspectorate of the Moscow Region Elektrostal postal code 144009. See Google profile, Hours, Phone, Website and more for this business. 2.0 Cybo Score. Review on Cybo.

  29. Tuition and Fees 2024-2025

    Non-degree, non-matriculated and certification students are charged the per-credit rate for each credit registered according to the level (graduate or undergraduate) of each course. All non-immigrant alien visa holders (this includes F's, J's and H's) regardless of New Jersey residency are charged out-of-state tuition and fees.

  30. Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

    Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia in WGS 84 coordinate system which is a standard in cartography, geodesy, and navigation, including Global Positioning System (GPS). Latitude of Elektrostal, longitude of Elektrostal, elevation above sea level of Elektrostal.