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An MBA in accounting can take your career to the next level. But which program is right for you? Learn about top-ranked programs and how to choose the best fit.
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Earning a master's degree in accounting can prepare you for career advancement and higher-paying roles. But when should you choose an MBA in accounting instead of a master of accountancy?
With its focus on organizational leadership and management, an MBA prepares graduates for management careers. An accounting concentration blends core business classes with advanced accounting coursework. Earning an MBA in accounting allows you to pursue work as a certified public accountant (CPA), accounting manager, or financial controller.
Our guide introduces the best MBA in accounting programs to help you find the right fit for your budget, schedule, and career goals.
Popular Online MBA Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Accounting MBAs
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#1 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
The University of Texas at Dallas
Richardson, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UT Dallas' MBA with a concentration in accounting provides in-person full-time and online part-time options. The online program offers classes synchronously and asynchronously. Online students must complete exams in testing centers. The part-time program offers three start dates throughout the year.
The 53-credit curriculum includes 32 core and 21 elective credits. Part-time students can complete the program at their own pace but must finish within six years.
Applicants may need to submit GMAT or GRE scores if their undergraduate GPA is 3.3 or less. Successful MBA enrollees had an average undergraduate GPA of 3.6 and a median age of 28.
Highlights
Online career support
Dual MS and MBA program available
Considerations
Only part-time program for online attendees
Attendees may need to complete a no-credit prerequisite course
The guaranteed tuition rate plan has a higher starting cost than the variable tuition rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$16,412
Out-of-state
$45,100
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,088
Out-of-state
$29,252
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
65%
Students Enrolled
30,885
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Touro University
New York, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Touro's MBA program offers seven specializations, including forensic accounting. The 42-credit curriculum consists of 30 general and 12 specialization credits. Forensic accounting students can choose from 12 electives, including international accounting, leadership, or advanced auditing.
Students must complete a capstone course, including a project that demonstrates business knowledge. Students may also complete a business-related internship for 3-6 credits. Part-time attendees typically complete the program in 2-3 years.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Individuals with a GPA below 3.0 may require an interview or prerequisite course. Forensic accounting MBA applicants must also have completed seven prerequisite courses with a grade of B or better.
Highlights
Sign up for a free audit course before enrolling
Students and alums can have one-on-one sessions with career counselors
Considerations
MBA courses cost $950 per credit
Limited MBA scholarship opportunities
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,560
Out-of-state
$18,560
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,068
Out-of-state
$13,068
Retention Rate
84%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
11,111
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#3 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Georgia
Athens, GA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UGA's MBA program offers an optional concentration in accounting that provides fully online and asynchronous lectures. Students can complete the part-time program within 17-23 months if they commit 20 hours per week to studying and coursework. The program has accreditation from the AACSB.
The curriculum consists of 16 courses, including 10 core and six elective classes. Students may need to work with classmates to complete live assignments. The program offers optional certifications in leading change, workforce diversity, and Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. Students can participate in an in-person domestic or international residency to gain real-life work experience.
Highlights
Team-based assignments to connect with classmates
Virtual information sessions
Automatic scholarship consideration
Considerations
Requires two years of working experience
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,790
Out-of-state
$28,830
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,878
Out-of-state
$25,186
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
37%
Students Enrolled
41,615
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
20%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Denver
Denver, CO
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
DU's full-time MBA program offers multiple concentration options, including accounting. The degree consists of 80 course credits and a no-credit summer internship. Students must have an overall 3.0 or higher GPA to graduate.
Students must complete four real-world projects, including entrepreneurship, social, corporate, and global challenges. These team-based projects require working with a faculty advisor and personal coach to help a corporate, local, or global partner. The entrepreneurship project consists of creating a theoretical startup while the other projects may vary.
Prospective students must have at least two years of work experience in any field. Applicants do not need to submit GMAT or GRE scores.
Highlights
Tuition includes a trip abroad
Over 80% of admitted students receive merit-based financial aid
Automatic scholarship consideration
Considerations
One start date per year
Two-year tuition cost of $98,880
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,260
Out-of-state
$55,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$55,260
Out-of-state
$55,260
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
13,384
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Clark University
Worcester, MA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Clark's MBA provides multiple concentration options, including accounting and expanded accounting. The expanded accounting concentration provides courses that help students prepare for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination. The MBA program has received accreditation from the AACSB.
The MBA degree offers multiple options, including in-person, accelerated, full-time, and part-time programs. The online MBA program does not offer an accounting concentration. Students must complete 12 courses, including three electives and nine core courses. Additionally, students must complete a summer internship.
Individuals can apply by submitting an online form, application fee, and required documentation. The school requires GMAT or GRE scores, but offers waivers for qualified students. Waiver requirements include an undergraduate degree with a 3.2 or above GPA, CPA licensure, or five years of managerial work experience.
Highlights
Individuals with three or more years of managerial experience may receive a course waiver
Opportunity to work on research projects
Considerations
Must complete an economics prerequisite course through an accredited university
Cost of $1,658 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,000
Out-of-state
$52,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,650
Out-of-state
$47,650
Retention Rate
88%
Acceptance Rate
42%
Students Enrolled
4,148
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Fairleigh Dickinson University-Florham Campus
Madison, NJ
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
FDU's MBA offers a specialization in accounting. Attendees interested in taking the CPA exam can schedule a meeting with the department chair to discuss exam requirements and recommended courses.
The MBA program offers in-person and hybrid choices. The hybrid option offers online asynchronous courses and a weekly Saturday in-person class. Students can typically complete the AACSB-accredited program within 2-3 years.
The curriculum consists of 15 courses, including three accounting specialization classes and a capstone course. Students can waive up to four courses if they meet the minimum grade requirement, complete the course within the last five years, and provide a course syllabus copy.
Highlights
In-person and hybrid programs have the same tuition rate
Classes have a 25-student limit
Considerations
Lack of elective options; the program pre-selects all courses
The MBA accounting concentration does not qualify for the bachelor's-to-master's path
Minimum 3.0 GPA from an AACSB-accredited school or 3.2 GPA from a non-AACSB accredited school for admission
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,811
Out-of-state
$38,811
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$21,279
Out-of-state
$21,279
Retention Rate
80%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
2,823
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Chapman University
Orange, CA
4 years
Campus
What You Should Know
Chapman's full-time MBA program offers eight concentrations, including accounting. The MBA curriculum has 50 credit units, including 35 core and 15 elective credits. Students can pursue the concentration by taking at least three qualified accounting electives. Attendees must maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher to graduate. Each course must have a grade of C+ or higher to count towards graduation.
Individuals can apply online by submitting an application, required documentation, and a GRE or GMAT score. The MBA class profile consists of attendees with an average 3.4-3.9 GPA, 600-660 GMAT score, and 1-4 years of working experience.
Highlights
Offers merit-based scholarships
Has employer partnerships, on-campus recruiting events, and career development services
Considerations
Required interview for admittance
Tuition cost of $2,015 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$60,288
Out-of-state
$60,288
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$37,603
Out-of-state
$37,603
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
9,961
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#8 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
University of Bridgeport
Bridgeport, CT
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
UB's MBA program offers a concentration in accounting that focuses on integrating business and accounting skills. The program offers fully online and in-person choices. On-campus courses provide flexible options, including day, evening, and weekend classes.
The program's curriculum has 36 credits, including core, concentration, and capstone courses. Students must complete three capstone courses, including an integration, practicum, and experiential course. The experiential course offers various choices, including a case study, internship, or thesis.
Students with a non-business degree may need to complete two preparatory classes in accounting and management. They can take these preparatory classes through the MBA program.
Highlights
Business degree-holders can waive up to 12 credits
Can complete the degree within a year
Seven years to finish the program
Considerations
The school only offers $3,000 and $4,000 graduate scholarships
In-person MBAs cost 50% more than the online MBA
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$32,860
Out-of-state
$32,860
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$19,096
Out-of-state
$19,096
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
3,988
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#9 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Iowa State University
Ames, IA
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
Iowa State's MBA offers 11 specialization options, including accounting and accounting analytics. Attendees can pursue up to two specializations concurrently. The accounting specialization focuses on traditional accounting skills, while the accounting analytics specialization focuses on data and receives a STEM designation.
The program's curriculum has 48 credits, including 30 required and 18 elective credits. Attendees can select nine relevant elective credits to complete a specialization. Up to one course can be used in two different specializations.
Students can pursue a bachelor's-to-MBA or dual-degree option. The bachelor's-to-MBA option can be completed within five years. Applicants for the bachelor's-to-MBA program typically have a minimum 3.0 GPA and 600 GMAT score.
The dual-degree program allows attendees to combine an MBA with another master's degree. Some courses can count toward both degrees, lowering the overall cost and time commitment. Students can choose among 10 applicable dual-degree programs, including a master of accountancy or master of business analytics.
Highlights
MBA students can add a 12-15 credit graduate certificate
Scholarships and assistantships do not require additional forms
Mandatory two-day business case competition
Considerations
Only 30-35 competitive assistantships offered per year
In-state students pay $818 per credit while out-of-state students pay $1,825 per credit
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$26,168
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,572
Out-of-state
$26,776
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
89%
Students Enrolled
30,177
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best MBA in Accounting Programs 2025
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
What You Should Know
CSU's MBA with a concentration in accounting caters to working professionals by offering courses on Friday evening and Saturday. The curriculum includes 36 credits and can be completed within four semesters.
Students must take core courses, concentration electives, and one capstone class. The capstone course offers three focuses, including management for nonprofit organizations, entrepreneurial management, and strategic management.
Prospective students need an undergraduate degree with a minimum 2.75 GPA. Applicants should also have completed prerequisite courses in accounting, statistics, economics, and finance. Individuals can meet the prerequisite requirements through undergraduate courses, standalone accredited classes, or relevant work experience.
Highlights
Offers a for-cost, on-campus daycare for children aged 3-5. Parents may qualify for childcare assistance
Provides full-time and part-time internship opportunities
Considerations
Mandatory interview during the application process
Charges mandatory fees based on credit hours
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,656
Out-of-state
$7,656
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,976
Out-of-state
$11,679
Retention Rate
55%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
2,317
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
Our Ranking Methodology
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
If you want to become a CPA, earning an MBA in accounting can help you meet the 150-credit requirement for licensure. Many states require business classes and accounting courses, and an MBA can provide an ideal way to meet your state's educational requirements.
Increase Earning Potential
An MBA can help you increase your earning potential. According to April 2025 Payscale data, professionals with MBAs earn an average salary of $99,000. In comparison, Payscale data from this period also reveals that individuals with master of accounting degrees earn an average of $83,000. Earning potential varies widely by job title, location, and industry.
Move Into Management Roles
The leadership and management courses in an MBA program offer strong preparation for management roles, including as a financial manager or accounting manager. These career advancement paths offer greater responsibilities and stronger earning potential.
What to Expect From an Accounting MBA
MBA programs emphasize management and leadership abilities. Enrollees can develop foundational business skills across multiple disciplines, including core courses in finance, marketing, human resources, and management.
Most business schools offer concentrations for students to focus their coursework in specific subsets of the field. In an accounting MBA concentration, learners take graduate-level accounting and auditing courses to prepare for CPA licensure, management and consulting roles, or careers that require strong accounting and finance skills.
Learners take graduate-level accounting and auditing courses to prepare for CPA licensure, management and consulting roles, or careers that require strong accounting and finance skills.
Earning an MBA typically takes two years, though some programs offer accelerated one-year options. MBA students complete 30-36 credits, though some schools may require a higher credit load. Choosing an accredited business school ensures that the program meets high standards for academic quality.
Many business schools offer online MBA degrees. These programs use a flexible delivery format that appeals to working adults. Accredited online MBA programs meet the same high standards as in-person MBA programs.
Is an online MBA in accounting the right fit for you? Consider your schedule and learning style to decide whether to earn an MBA online.
Distance learners can potentially save money compared to in-person students — virtual delivery can expand access to more affordable programs beyond local universities.
An MBA applicant typically needs a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution for admission. While MBA programs generally do not require undergraduate business degrees, they often expect prerequisite courses in financial accounting and statistics. Many programs also require or recommend a minimum of 2 years of professional experience.
In addition, prospective students often submit GMAT or GRE scores as part of their application. Programs also typically request a resume, statement of purpose, and 1-3 letters of recommendation.
Business school admissions can be highly competitive. Review the admission requirements and processes when researching schools to find a good fit.
What courses will you take during an MBA in accounting? While each program sets a specific curriculum, most incorporate core business classes in finance, marketing, and management. MBA students typically complete courses in their specialization during the second year of a two-year program. Here are some common courses you'll find in MBA in accounting curriculums:
Financial Management: Courses in financial management strengthen financial planning and forecasting skills. Learners explore diverse approaches and tools to manage finances and improve organizational performance. By studying capital budgeting, risk analysis, and international financial markets, MBA students can prepare for roles that require financial management skills.
Strategic Management: Coursework emphasizes approaches such as competitive analysis and organization assessment to make strategic decisions. The course develops leadership and management skills, emphasizing the development and implementation of administrative decisions.
Taxes and Business Strategy: Learners examine the connections between taxes and business decisions in organizational structures and international enterprise. Topics such as mergers and acquisitions help to build industry-specific knowledge about tax strategy. The course prepares MBA graduates for roles requiring strong taxation skills.
Analytics for Accounting: This course introduces analytics software and tools for assessing financial data. Learners expand their statistical analysis skills to apply their knowledge in business decision-making contexts.
MBA students typically complete courses in their specialization during the second year of a two-year program.
How Much Do Accounting MBA Programs Cost?
The cost of an accounting MBA program varies widely depending on the business school. While some MBA programs charge under $20,000 per year in tuition, others cost more than $100,000. These differences can make it difficult to budget for an MBA degree.
What factors affect the price of an MBA? While the top-ranked business schools often come with a higher price tag, school prestige is only one factor that affects cost. In general, public universities charge lower tuition rates than private universities. Students who qualify for in-state tuition typically pay the lowest rates. Online programs may also charge lower tuition rates or allow non-residents to pay the same tuition as state residents.
The cost of an accounting MBA program varies widely depending on the business school. While some MBA programs charge under $20,000 per year in tuition, others cost more than $100,000.
Financial aid affects the total cost of your degree. Applying for scholarships, fellowships, and grants will lower your net price. You should submit the FAFSA annually to qualify for need-based aid and student loans. Employer tuition reimbursement programs may also help lower costs. Learn more about financing your MBA with the resources below.
An MBA can open the door to higher salaries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), management occupations report the highest salaries of any occupation group, with a median pay of $122,090 as of May 2024,
But what jobs can you get with an MBA in accounting? Common career paths include financial and accounting management roles. Graduates can also pursue CPA licenses.
Accounting managers oversee staff accountants and accounting departments. They can find employment with accounting firms, public and nonprofit organizations, and private businesses. Accounting managers ensure that accounting departments create accurate financial records and align accounting practices with the organization's goals.
These analysts evaluate organizations' processes to identify opportunities to improve efficiency and increase profits. Analysts who specialize in accounting may focus on accounting practices, auditing, or financial reporting policies. Management analysts contribute to organizational strategies and may also work as outside consultants.
Financial planners and advisors recommend investment, savings, and tax strategies for their clients. They help budget for long-term goals, structure businesses strategically, and comply with financial regulations. Some financial planners work for individual clients, while others work in corporate settings.
CPAs specialize in financial reporting and taxation for government agencies and companies that report earnings. They also prepare taxes for individual clients, and some specialize in auditing. They must maintain current CPA licensure to practice.
Should you earn an MBA in accounting or a master's in accounting? The two graduate programs share similar coursework but differ in focus and career paths.
While an MBA in accounting and a master's in accounting can help you prepare for CPA licensure, an MBA emphasizes broader business and management skills. If your goals include management roles, an MBA might be a better fit.
What other factors should you consider when choosing your program? Here are some key considerations that can help you find the best fit.
Cost and Financial Aid
The right MBA should fit your budget. In addition to the program's tuition rate, research your financial aid opportunities, including institutional scholarships.
Location and Delivery Method
With online, in-person, and hybrid options, you'll want a program that matches your schedule, budget, and learning style. Location can also affect cost and employment opportunities.
Business School Resources
Beyond the reputation of each business school, consider its student resources, career services, and alumni network.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
Completing an internship during your MBA can broaden your professional network and lead to employment opportunities after graduation. Make sure to research each program's practical learning expectations before applying.
Finally, make sure to choose an accredited university for your MBA to make sure your degree meets licensure and financial aid requirements. Prioritize accredited business departments as well, as these programs meet industry-specific quality standards.
Common Questions About MBAs in Accounting
What is an MBA in accounting?
An MBA in accounting is a graduate degree in business with a concentration in accounting. MBA students take core business classes and advanced accounting courses to develop analytical, strategic, and decision-making skills.
Is an MBA higher than a CPA?
An MBA is a master's degree, while a CPA is a professional license. Completing MBA programs can help prospective CPAs meet the education requirements to earn licensure and work as CPAs.
What pays more: CPA or MBA?
CPAs and MBAs report similar salaries, with CPAs earning an average of $101,000 (Payscale, April 2025) and MBAs taking home an average of $99,000 (Payscale, April 2025). An MBA in accounting can prepare graduates for CPA licensure.
Is an accounting MBA worth it?
An accounting MBA can pay off if you're interested in management roles or becoming a CPA. The blend of management and accounting coursework prepares graduates to pursue accounting manager and financial controller careers.
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