Top 25 PhD Accounting Programs

The University of Chicago has earned the distinction of being rated as the number one institution for doctoral programs in accounting, according to the 27th Annual Professor’s Survey conducted by Public Accounting Report (PAR). This survey is a vital assessment of the most prestigious and competitive doctoral programs in accounting, with academic rigor and research excellence as its benchmarks. The University of Chicago's top position in this ranking reflects its commitment to producing high-quality research in accounting and its ability to train and prepare scholars for successful careers in academia and industry. Its doctoral program in accounting emphasizes advanced research methodologies, innovative financial theories, and practical applications of accounting concepts, solidifying its place as the leader in this academic field.

Stanford University follows closely behind, securing the second spot in the rankings. Stanford’s Ph.D. program in accounting offers students access to a dynamic curriculum focused on financial reporting, managerial accounting, and the intersection of accounting principles and economic theory. The university's world-class faculty, combined with its emphasis on cutting-edge research, has positioned Stanford as one of the most competitive destinations for students pursuing advanced degrees in accounting. The interdisciplinary approach of Stanford’s accounting Ph.D. program also makes it an attractive option for students interested in exploring intersections between accounting and other fields like economics and management.

Notably, the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania secured the third position in the same Public Accounting Report survey. Wharton’s reputation is synonymous with academic excellence, and its accounting doctoral program is no exception. Wharton boasts a faculty with a diverse range of expertise and provides students with the necessary training and research opportunities to engage with both theoretical and practical problems in accounting. Its program is highly research-intensive and equips students with an in-depth understanding of advanced accounting systems, financial data analysis, and corporate financial strategies. The Wharton School’s position in the top three reflects its continued leadership and innovative approach to accounting education.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign also garnered attention in the 27th Annual Public Accounting Report (PAR) survey, as it was ranked exceptionally highly in multiple categories. The university secured the second spot in both undergraduate and graduate accounting programs, a strong upward trajectory from its previous rankings. Its doctoral accounting program was ranked sixth, though it experienced a slight decline from the fifth position in 2007. Nevertheless, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign remains a leader in accounting research and education. The university is widely respected for its combination of rigorous academic programs, world-class faculty, and commitment to the training and development of successful accounting professionals and researchers.

The University of Mississippi is also highly regarded for its accounting programs. According to the Public Accounting Report, the doctoral and graduate programs at the University of Mississippi were both ranked 15th nationwide, signaling the program's strength in producing well-prepared graduates in the accounting field. Additionally, the undergraduate program was ranked 18th in the same survey, showcasing the university's ability to offer high-quality programs across all levels of study. The consistent strong placement of the University of Mississippi’s accounting programs highlights its emphasis on academic rigor, practical learning, and research opportunities that enable students to engage with modern trends in the discipline of accounting.

Similarly, the University of Missouri’s School of Accountancy has made notable strides in its national rankings, reflecting its growth and commitment to excellence in the discipline. According to the Public Accounting Report, the University of Missouri's master's program was ranked 15th nationwide, while its doctoral program achieved the 19th position in the latest survey. This marks an improvement for the Ph.D. program, as it was previously ranked 25th in 2007, representing its highest-ever ranking. This significant climb indicates that the University of Missouri’s focus on research, practical applications of accounting knowledge, and support for students' academic endeavors are paying dividends. The Ph.D. program at the University of Missouri emphasizes innovative research methods, advanced statistical analysis, and the intersection of theory and practice, thereby positioning its graduates for successful careers in both academia and the professional world.

These rankings collectively underscore the prominence of the leading institutions in the field of accounting education and research. The University of Chicago stands out as the top institution for doctoral accounting programs, followed closely by Stanford University and the Wharton School. Meanwhile, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, the University of Mississippi, and the University of Missouri also demonstrate their strength and growth within the academic accounting field. These universities are consistently ranked for their exceptional faculty, diverse research opportunities, and innovative approaches to accounting scholarship.

Top 25 PhD Programs in Accounting:
1 University of Chicago
2 Stanford University
3 Wharton School of University of Pennsylvania
4 University of Texas-Austin
5 University of Michigan
6 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
7 Cornell University
8 University of Washington
9 University of Iowa
10 Harvard University
11 University of Georgia
12 University of Southern California
13 Massachusetts Institute of Technology
14 Pennsylvania State University
15 University of Mississippi
16 Oklahoma State University
17 Ohio State University
18 Texas A&M University
19 Indiana University Bloomington
19 University of Missouri-Columbia
21 University of Wisconsin-Madison
22 University of South Carolina
23 Florida State University
23 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
25 University of Rochester
25 University of South Florida
Source: Public Accounting Report (2008)