Accounting major
Accounting: courses, careers, and where to study
Accounting prepares graduates for the CPA exam and careers in public accounting, corporate finance, audit, tax, and forensic accounting — a major with high job placement.
Accounting is one of the most career-direct business majors. The standard 4-year BS in Accounting covers financial accounting, managerial accounting, intermediate and advanced accounting, audit, taxation, and accounting information systems. To sit for the CPA exam, most states now require 150 credit hours — students typically complete the BS plus an MS in Accounting (or MBA) for that fifth-year requirement. Average starting salaries at Big Four firms are competitive, and the profession has predictable career advancement (Senior → Manager → Senior Manager → Partner).
What you'll study
- Financial accounting (GAAP, IFRS basics)
- Managerial / cost accounting
- Intermediate and advanced accounting
- Audit principles and procedures
- Federal and state taxation
- Accounting information systems and ERP
- Forensic accounting and fraud examination
- Business law and ethics
Typical careers
- CPA / Public Accountant
- Auditor
- Tax Accountant
- Corporate Accountant
- Forensic Accountant
- Controller
Starting salary range: $56,000–$78,000 starting (BLS accountant median $79,880)
Find a Accounting program
CampusPin lists U.S. universities and community colleges that offer Accounting programs. Filter by state, tuition, school size, acceptance rate, and campus setting — no account required.
Related majors
Business Administration
Business Administration is the most popular U.S. major — a broad foundation in accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics that prepares graduates for nearly any industry.
Finance
Finance majors learn how money moves — corporate finance, investments, financial markets, and risk management — preparing for roles in banking, investments, and corporate analysis.
Economics
Economics studies how individuals, firms, and governments allocate resources — combining theory with empirical analysis and a strong mathematical foundation.