Top Graduate Accounting Programs (US)

Among the many institutions offering graduate accounting programs, several universities have distinguished themselves through exceptional academic rigor, strong faculty expertise, and high rankings in national and international surveys:

The University of Texas at Austin (McCombs School of Business)

The University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School of Business is widely regarded as one of the premier institutions for accounting education in the United States. According to the U.S. News & World Report 2013 Graduate School Rankings, McCombs' graduate accounting program was ranked No. 1 in the nation. This prestigious ranking reflects the school's commitment to providing students with the highest level of accounting education, along with an extensive array of opportunities for professional development.

One of the main reasons McCombs is so highly ranked is its rigorous curriculum, which emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application. The Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) program at McCombs is designed to prepare students for the CPA exam and for leadership roles in accounting firms, corporations, and public agencies. The program offers a variety of specializations, including assurance, taxation, and consulting, allowing students to tailor their education to their career interests.

In addition to its strong academic program, McCombs boasts a robust network of alumni and connections to major accounting firms, such as Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), and Ernst & Young. This network provides valuable job placement opportunities, with McCombs graduates being highly sought after by top employers in the accounting profession. The school's consistent ranking as the top accounting program underscores its leadership in the field and its dedication to preparing students for success in a rapidly changing global business environment.

University of Chicago (Booth School of Business)

Ranked second in the nation for graduate accounting programs, the University of Chicago's Booth School of Business is another institution renowned for its rigorous academic offerings and high-quality faculty. While Booth is often associated with its MBA programs and finance courses, its accounting program is equally distinguished and provides students with a strong foundation in both financial and managerial accounting.

Chicago Booth’s graduate accounting program focuses on advanced technical knowledge and strategic thinking. The curriculum is designed to ensure that students gain a deep understanding of accounting principles and practices, as well as their broader implications for business decision-making and financial strategy. The school’s emphasis on data analytics and quantitative methods also sets it apart, as these skills are increasingly important for accounting professionals in the digital age.

Moreover, Booth’s reputation for academic excellence and its connections to a wide network of leading firms in finance, consulting, and accounting provide students with significant career opportunities. Graduates of Chicago Booth’s accounting program are well-prepared for leadership roles in both the private and public sectors, and the school’s strong job placement record speaks to the value of its education.

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)

Ranked third in the nation, the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania offers one of the most prestigious graduate accounting programs in the United States. Wharton’s accounting department is internationally recognized for its thought leadership and academic research in the field of accounting, and its graduate program reflects this excellence. Wharton combines rigorous academic coursework with an emphasis on research and practical experience, providing students with a comprehensive education in accounting.

The Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) program at Wharton prepares students for a variety of careers in accounting, auditing, and consulting. Wharton’s curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including financial accounting, managerial accounting, corporate governance, and taxation, while also providing opportunities for students to engage with real-world business challenges through case studies and internships.

One of the key strengths of Wharton’s accounting program is its integration with the broader business curriculum at the university. As part of a world-renowned business school, accounting students at Wharton benefit from exposure to interdisciplinary courses in finance, management, and strategy, which helps them gain a holistic understanding of business operations. Wharton’s extensive alumni network and connections to leading firms across various industries also play a significant role in ensuring the career success of its graduates.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign’s accounting program is ranked fourth in the nation by U.S. News & World Report. Illinois is particularly known for its strong academic foundation, innovative research in accounting, and the success of its graduates in securing top positions in the accounting industry. The school’s Graduate Accounting Program offers a Master of Science in Accounting (MSA) as well as a PhD program for those interested in academic careers.

Illinois’ accounting faculty is known for its research contributions to the accounting profession, and the school’s accounting curriculum is deeply rooted in both theory and practice. Students at Illinois benefit from the opportunity to learn from leading experts in the field, while also gaining hands-on experience through internships and collaborations with prominent accounting firms.

The University of Illinois is also recognized for its high job placement rate, with graduates often going on to work at Big Four accounting firms, multinational corporations, and prestigious financial institutions. The school's strong academic reputation, coupled with its commitment to student success, makes it a leading choice for those pursuing graduate-level accounting education.

University of Notre Dame

While not traditionally considered among the top five in overall business school rankings, the University of Notre Dame consistently ranks highly for its graduate accounting program. In the 2013 U.S. News Best Graduate Schools rankings, Notre Dame’s accounting program was ranked 17th nationwide, with its Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program consistently ranking in the top 10 nationally. In 2011, the Public Accounting Report ranked Notre Dame’s MSA program as No. 6 nationwide.

Notre Dame’s MSA program is known for its strong emphasis on both technical skills and ethical decision-making, reflecting the university’s commitment to producing accountants who not only excel in their profession but also understand the broader social and ethical implications of their work. The program provides students with an opportunity to specialize in areas such as auditing, tax, and management accounting, and it offers a comprehensive preparation for the CPA exam.

Notre Dame’s accounting program also benefits from its strong alumni network, particularly in the Midwest, where many graduates have gone on to hold senior positions in top accounting firms and corporate finance departments. The school’s reputation for academic excellence and its focus on developing well-rounded professionals make it a top choice for students interested in pursuing advanced accounting education.

University of Florida (Warrington College of Business)

The University of Florida’s Warrington College of Business is ranked 11th among public institutions and 24th overall in the U.S. News & World Report rankings for graduate accounting programs. The school’s accounting program is known for its strong focus on both the technical and strategic aspects of accounting, with a curriculum that prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, and consulting.

The Warrington College of Business offers a Master of Accounting (MAcc) program designed to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the accounting profession. The program includes specializations in areas such as assurance, taxation, and forensic accounting, and it prepares students for the CPA exam with a comprehensive review of accounting principles and practices.

In addition to its strong academic curriculum, the University of Florida has an extensive network of corporate partnerships, which helps facilitate job placements and internships for its graduates. Many of Warrington’s accounting graduates go on to work for Big Four accounting firms, as well as for multinational corporations and government agencies.

Georgia State University (J. Mack Robinson College of Business)

Georgia State University’s J. Mack Robinson College of Business is ranked 27th in the U.S. News & World Report 2013 rankings for graduate accounting programs. Robinson’s accounting program offers a Fast-Track Master of Professional Accountancy (MPA) program, which is designed for students who wish to complete their degree in one year. This program offers a streamlined path to a career in accounting, providing students with the technical knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in the profession.

The Fast-Track MPA program at Georgia State University is unique in that it allows students to gain an advanced understanding of accounting principles and practices in a short amount of time. The program also emphasizes professional development, preparing students for careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and government accounting. Georgia State’s location in Atlanta, a major business hub, provides students with access to internships and job opportunities at leading accounting firms and corporations.