Accounting is one of the most popular college majors for students with good reason. Accounting graduates typically earn about 3% more than the average college grad, with early career salaries of $44,500 and mid-career salaries of $75,100.
In addition, the Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the job outlook for accountants and auditors is growing faster than average with roughly 140,300 new jobs opening up in the next 10 years.
The following list ranks the best colleges and universities in the U.S. for an Accounting degree in order of quality. College Factual’s ranking methodology includes factors such as education quality, average earnings of graduates, accreditation, and several other relevant factors. Salary data is sourced from PayScale.Com.
1. Bentley University, Massachusetts
Bentley University is a private school known for its laser-focus on business programs. Students from the accounting program at Bentley University earn 25% more than the average accounting grad with early-career salaries as high as $51,000.
The accounting program is the most popular at the school, with over 200 students graduated with an accounting degree in 2016.
Students at Bentley enjoy small class sizes, a diverse campus, and a location in a busy city that provides plenty of opportunities for networking, internships and job opportunities.
2. University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign, Illinois
It is difficult to beat University of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign if you want to study Accounting. The university is a public school offering a very popular accounting program, with over 400 students graduating from it in 2016.
The average earnings of their accounting grads in the first five years of their career is $55,000. The school also offers graduate degrees in accounting for those interested in earning an advanced degree.
Illinois has one of the best graduation rates in the nation, with nearly 70% of students graduating in four years, and 85% graduating in six years. Located in Champaign, this school is a strong choice for students who enjoy the excitement of a major city.
3. University of Notre Dame, Indiana
University of Notre Dame is a well-known and well-ranked private school, so it’s not too surprising that the accounting program ranks so highly. It is the 2nd most popular major at the school.
About 150 students graduated with a degree in accounting from Notre Dame in 2016 and those students anticipate average early career salaries of up to $60,000! Those interested in further education can also receive a graduate accounting degree at this school.
Located in Notre Dame, Indiana, the area is safe and suburban which should appeal to many students and their parents. The school also boasts several top-ranked sports programs.
4. Bryant University, Rhode Island
Bryant University is a private university that has developed a focus on business degrees and accounting is one of the most popular. The average accounting grad from Bryant will earn about $52,000 in the first five years of their career. Bryant has a high freshman retention rate of 87%.
Bryant is established in the suburban area of Smithfield, Rhode Island. Sports fans will love cheering on the university’s top-ranked men’s football team as they perform at home and on the road.
5. Boston College, Massachusetts
Boston College is a great decision for students pursuing an Accounting degree. About 150 students graduated from the accounting program in 2016, and went on to jobs where they are likely to earn up to $57,000 in their early career. Those who wish to pursue a graduate degree in accounting can also do so at Boston.
The location in the historic city of Boston is ideal for young people looking for excitement, culture, and plenty of networking and internship opportunities. Only 1% of BC students default on federal loans, which is quite good considering 7% of college grads are in default.
6. University of Southern California, California
For students on the West Coast, the University of Southern California might be their best option for an accounting degree.
The average accounting grad from USC earns 38% more than other accounting students. Their average early career salary is about $55,000. An accounting graduate program is also available for students who wish to continue their studies.
Don’t worry if you’re not from California, you won’t feel out of place at this school as about 44% of students come from another state.
7. Binghamton University, New York
Students who graduate with an accounting degree from Binghamton University earn 30% more than the standard college grad with the same degree. Positioned in Vestal, New York, offers a secure, suburban atmosphere for young people.
With the diverse population at Binghamton University, you will have a lot of opportunities to meet individuals from many cultures. Seeking to steer clear of as many student loans as you can? Binghamton University and its $20,900 yearly net price could be a good match for you.
8. The University of Texas at Austin, Texas
After getting their bachelor’s degree at the University of Texas at Austin, accounting students usually earn an average of $51,000 at the beginning of their careers. Over 200 students graduated from the accounting department in 2016, making it sizable.
This public school keeps costs low and has a large and diverse student body. The student loan default rate is below average.
9. Lehigh University, Pennsylvania
Lehigh graduates of the accounting program go on to earn roughly $55,000 in their early career, which is at the top of the field.
This program is a bit more small and intimate, with about 80 students graduating from the program in 2016. Those who want to possible earn more can stay at Lehigh for a few more years to earn an accounting graduate degree.
This private school has a 10 to 1 student to faculty ratio and 85% of the teachers are full time. 74% of students graduate within four years.
10. Michigan State University, Michigan
With more than 20,000 undergraduates, this public institution is one of the biggest schools in the nation. Those who graduate from Michigan State with an accounting degree tend to make about $52,000 in their early career.
This may be a good choice for you if you’re looking for a large class body, as over 240 students graduated from the accounting program in 2016.
This large public school keeps costs low for students, although it is slightly more selective than average. Make sure you get good grades on your SAT and this could be a great option for you.
By Carly Stockwell
Author Bio: Carly is the Content & Media Director for CollegeFactual.Com, a website that helps students find the best colleges for them.
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