For those Americans interested in financial careers, getting into one of the top accounting schools in the U.S. is a necessary step. Though opportunities in accounting, general business, and marketing do exist for people who did not attend one of the top accounting schools in the U.S., obtaining a great job after graduating is easier for graduates of well-known colleges and universities.
A number of online degree programs for associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in accounting are available, but rarely are any of these institutions considered one of the top accounting schools in the U.S. However, institutions such as DeVry University, University of Phoenix, Florida Tech Online, and Western Governor’s University can be good options for people who do not have the time to attend an in-person accounting program due to job or family obligations.
One of the top accounting schools in the U.S. is at the University of California, Los Angeles Anderson School of Management. Those interested in a financial career can study financial accounting, management accounting, and taxation. UCLA offers account programs from the undergraduate level through Ph.D. It is also a great educational value financially, especially for California residents.
The Account and Management Unit at Harvard Business School is another fine accounting program at one of the world’s most prestigious private Ivy League universities. Accounting offerings up to the Ph.D. level include options in management and business economics. While the education at Harvard Business School is extremely expensive, often exceeding $40,000 per year, there are a number of scholarships and fellowships available. Harvard indisputably opens a number of career doors that are shut to most people, so any expense or loans incurred are usually worth it especially when it comes to an accounting career.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is another one of the top accounting schools in the U.S. that offers a good educational value, especially for residents of North Carolina.
Getting into a good business or accounting program usually requires excellent SAT or GRE scores, good grades, a variety of math courses, and an excellent admissions essay. State schools are usually the most affordable option, but they give priority to applicants from their own state. Anyone looking for a serious career in accounting should strongly consider going beyond an undergraduate degree.
Students short on money may want to seek an associate’s, or two-year degree, in accounting from a local community college. Then they could start working in the field, usually as a clerk or assistant, and attend a local four-year college at night for their bachelor’s degree. Getting into one of the top accounting schools in the U.S. as a transfer from a community college is also a great way to make up for grade deficiencies at the high school level. Those hoping to get an advanced degree in business or accounting need to do as well as possible in their undergraduate major and also take on extracurricular activities.
No matter what your financial situation or educational background is, with enough dedication and patience you can start a career in accounting with the aid of a good state or private college.
