Top Graduate Accounting Programs

According to the CPA Personnel Report's 23rd Annual Professor's Survey conducted by the Public Accounting Report (2004), The University of Texas at Austin was ranked first for its graduate accounting programs, followed by Illinois in 2nd place and Brigham Young in 3rd position.

The University of Texas at Austin

The University of Texas at Austin claimed the top position in the 2004 rankings, reaffirming its long-standing reputation as a leader in accounting education. The university’s graduate accounting programs were highly regarded by both academics and industry professionals, making it the first choice for many prospective students aiming for a career in public accounting, auditing, or financial management. Texas’ success in the rankings can be attributed to its robust curriculum, which blends technical accounting expertise with critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Moreover, the university’s close ties with the accounting industry, its world-class faculty, and extensive alumni network have all contributed to the strength of its program.

The graduate accounting program at Texas is not just focused on academic excellence; it also emphasizes the development of leadership skills and ethical decision-making, key aspects of a successful career in accounting. These attributes make it a preferred choice for students interested in entering top accounting firms or corporations after graduation.

University of Illinois

Following closely behind Texas was the University of Illinois, which secured the second spot in the rankings. Illinois has long been known for its rigorous and comprehensive accounting programs, which offer students a broad-based education in accounting, finance, and business. The university’s accounting faculty is renowned for its research and its commitment to preparing students for both technical proficiency and strategic thinking in the accounting field. The strong academic foundations at Illinois, coupled with its emphasis on hands-on learning and internship opportunities, ensure that its graduates are well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the evolving global accounting landscape.

Illinois also benefits from its strategic location and proximity to Chicago, a major hub for accounting firms and financial institutions. This allows students to form connections with potential employers and gain real-world experience in the industry. The university’s reputation for producing highly qualified accounting professionals who excel in both public accounting and corporate finance has contributed to its high ranking in the 2004 league table.

Brigham Young University

In third place was Brigham Young University (BYU), which also continued to demonstrate its strength in accounting education. BYU’s Marriott School of Management has a distinguished reputation for its accounting program, which has produced many successful professionals in both public accounting and private industry. The university’s focus on ethical leadership, coupled with its solid academic curriculum, helps students excel in various accounting fields, from auditing to corporate finance.

BYU's program is known for its rigorous coursework, strong faculty support, and a curriculum that incorporates the latest trends in accounting and business. The university’s strong connections with top accounting firms through its recruitment events and alumni network also play a significant role in ensuring that its graduates are highly sought after in the job market.

Other Key Players in the League Table

Beyond the top three, several other institutions maintained strong positions in the 2004 rankings, reflecting the diversity and excellence of accounting programs across the United States. Notably, the University of Southern California (USC), University of Notre Dame, and the University of Michigan rounded out the top six. These institutions were recognized for their high academic standards, distinguished faculty, and strong industry connections.

University of Southern California (USC): Ranked 4th, USC’s accounting program is recognized for its strong ties to the entertainment industry, which adds a unique dimension to its curriculum, particularly for students interested in accounting roles in Hollywood and media companies.

University of Notre Dame: Ranking 5th, Notre Dame is known for its emphasis on ethical leadership and character development, ensuring that graduates are prepared to take on leadership roles in accounting and finance.

University of Michigan: Ranked 6th, Michigan’s program is celebrated for its academic rigor, research contributions, and the successful placement of its graduates in top-tier accounting firms and companies.

Other universities, such as University of North Carolina, Indiana University, Michigan State University, and Texas A&M University, were also prominent players, each known for producing highly capable accounting graduates ready to enter the workforce. The rankings reflected not only the quality of education but also the strength of each school’s professional networks, industry engagement, and the caliber of its faculty.

League Table 2004:
1 The University of Texas at Austin
2 University of Illinois
3 Brigham Young University
4 University of So. California
5 University of Notre Dame
6 University of Michigan
7 University of North Carolina
8 Indiana University
9 Michigan State University
10 Texas A&M University
12 The Ohio State University
12 Northern Illinois University
14 Univ of Alabama
14 Univ of Pennsylvania
16 Univ of Florida
16 Univ of Missouri
17 Arizona State Univ
18 Univ of Georgia
20 Univ of Wisconsin
20 Univ of Tennessee

League Table 2003:
1 The Univ of Texas at Austin
2 Univ of Illinois
3 Brigham Young Uni
4 U of So. California
5 U of Michigan
6 U of Notre Dame
7 U of North Carolina
8 The Ohio State Uni
9 Indiana Uni
10 Northern Illinois Uni

Source: CPA Personnel Report's 23rd Annual Professor's Survey-2004