Accounting Schools in Arizona

Arizona Accounting Schools

Arizona State Board of Accountancy100 N. 15th – Suite 165
Phoenix, AZ 72201
Phone: 602-364-0804
Fax: 602-364-0903
Email: info@azaccountancy.gov

With a few accredited accounting degree programs located throughout the state, there has perhaps never been a better time to pursue an accounting degree in Arizona. Some of Arizona’s university accounting degree programs consistently rank among the top 20 programs in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report surveys. Here are some topics typically covered in Arizona accounting degree programs:

  • accounting theory
  • financial accounting
  • managerial accounting
  • cost accounting
  • principles of auditing
  • technology for accountants: Access and Excel
  • international financial reporting standards
  • technology for accountants: Sage and Peachtree
  • financial statement analysis
  • communication skills for accountants
  • principles of control and profitability planning
  • taxation
  • accounting for non-profit organizations
  • business law and liabilities

Arizona accounting degree programs contain comprehensive course work designed to prepare students for successful careers in private, governmental, and multinational corporations. Many programs begin by teaching students about the institution of accountancy, and experienced faculty emphasize the ethical leadership expected of members within this career field. After laying the foundation for accounting integrity, these degree programs provide structured learning experiences for students based upon broad business principles and specialized accounting functions. Some of Arizona accounting degree programs incorporate project work that is judged by actual industry professionals. The relationships that students have the opportunity to develop with industry leaders while still in an academic setting often lead to internships and future career possibilities. It is also common for accounting degree curricula in Arizona schools to include study abroad and summer apprenticeship programs with industry organizations that have relationships with the schools.

Total Accounting Schools: 50
Total Accounting Students: 23,936
Average Tuition: $6,348
Average Scholarship Package: $2,953
Average Grant Amount: $4,620
Average Classroom Size: 17 Students
Online Accounting Programs: 33
Average Online Tuition: $6,165
Online Undergraduate Programs: 32
Online Graduate Programs: 12
Top Accounting Schools:Arizona State University
Arizona State University
University of Arizona
Northern Arizona University
Largest Accounting School:Arizona State University
• 9,254 Students Currently Attending
Cheapest Accounting School:Northland Pioneer College
• $1,558 Annual Tuition Charges
School With Largest Financial Aid Packages:Grand Canyon University
• $11,556 Average Financial Aid Award

Salary and Job Outlook for Accountants in Arizona

The Arizona Society of Practicing Accountants has a strong governmental and industry presence within the state that supports accountants employed within its borders. The society supports continued training and education of both certified and unlicensed accountants so that members of accountancy are fully prepared to meet the expectations of Arizona employers. Arizona accountants work in the financial services, accounting and tax preparation services, health care, and technical consulting services industries. These accountants also have a strong presence within state and local government agencies.

The number of accountants in Arizona is projected to increase by 15% between 2018 and 2028 – that’s nearly four times the projected national increase of 4% during this time. The state expects to see about 1,260 annual job openings for accountants in Arizona during this ten-year period leading to 2028 due to a combination of new job growth, retirements, and natural job turnover.

The average salary for Arizona accountants was $68,680 as of May 2020. The top earners here (90th percentile), which represent those with a graduate degree like the master’s in accounting degree, senior and executive titles, and the CPA designation, earned about $115,380 during this time. Accountants in the Yuma metro region were among the top earners in the state as of May 2020, with the top pros here (90th percentile) earning about $146,230. Note that these numbers reveal only base salaries and not the salary incentives that are commonplace in this profession, particularly among those in senior-level roles.

May 2020 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market data for accountants and auditors represents state data, not school-specific information.

Job growth projections for 2018-2028 sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored O*Net database represents state data, not school-specific information.

Conditions in your area may vary. Data Accessed May 2021.