Top 8 Universities for Chartered Accountancy (CA) Students in the USA
While the Chartered Accountant (CA) designation is globally recognized, it is not the standard accounting qualification in the United States. Instead, the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification is the American equivalent. However, many universities in the U.S. offer outstanding programs in accounting and related fields that prepare students for careers in public accounting, auditing, taxation, and finance—similar to what one might pursue as a CA in other countries. Below are the top eight universities in the USA for accounting students who are seeking a pathway to careers that align with CA or CPA qualifications.
1. University of Texas at Austin
The University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business is consistently ranked as one of the best schools in the U.S. for accounting. McCombs offers top-tier undergraduate and graduate programs that prepare students for the CPA exam and careers in accounting, auditing, and taxation. The university’s Master in Professional Accounting (MPA) program is especially renowned and attracts students from around the world.
McCombs provides students with a strong foundation in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and tax. The school’s deep connections with the Big Four accounting firms—Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC—provide excellent internship and employment opportunities for its students.
2. University of Southern California (USC)
The University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business is another top destination for accounting students. USC’s Leventhal School of Accounting is highly regarded for its rigorous academic programs that combine accounting theory with real-world applications. The school offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in accounting, with a strong focus on preparing students for the CPA exam.
USC’s accounting program is notable for its emphasis on leadership, ethics, and global business perspectives. The school’s location in Los Angeles, a major financial hub, provides students with numerous opportunities to intern with top accounting firms and multinational corporations.
3. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has one of the most prestigious accounting programs in the country. Its Gies College of Business is well-known for producing highly qualified graduates who excel in both academia and industry. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in accounting, and its graduates have a strong track record of success on the CPA exam.
The school’s Master of Accounting Science (MAS) and Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) programs are particularly well-regarded for their flexibility and specialized tracks, including data analytics, auditing, and taxation. The program’s strong industry connections ensure that students have access to top internship and job opportunities.
4. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business is consistently ranked among the top business schools in the U.S., and its accounting program is no exception. Ross offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in accounting, with an emphasis on leadership, analytical thinking, and ethical decision-making. The program prepares students for various career paths, including public accounting, corporate finance, and consulting.
The school’s Master of Accounting (MAcc) program is particularly strong, with a curriculum that includes advanced coursework in financial reporting, auditing, and tax. Ross also has a strong focus on experiential learning, giving students hands-on experience through internships and real-world projects.
5. New York University (NYU)
New York University’s Stern School of Business is known for its strong accounting and finance programs. NYU Stern offers a Bachelor of Science in Business with a concentration in accounting, as well as a Master of Science in Accounting that is designed to prepare students for the CPA exam. The program combines rigorous coursework with practical experience, making it a top choice for students aiming to enter the world of public accounting.
Located in the heart of New York City, Stern provides students with unmatched access to the financial industry and accounting firms. The school’s connections with major accounting firms and financial institutions ensure that students have excellent career prospects upon graduation.
6. University of Notre Dame
The University of Notre Dame’s Mendoza College of Business is another top school for accounting students. Notre Dame offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in accounting, with a strong focus on ethics and leadership. The school’s Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA) program prepares students for the CPA exam and is highly regarded for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on moral decision-making in business.
Notre Dame’s accounting program is known for its strong sense of community and collaboration. The school’s close-knit alumni network and relationships with top accounting firms provide students with excellent job placement opportunities after graduation.
7. University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)
The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania is one of the most prestigious business schools in the world, and its accounting program is no exception. Wharton offers a Bachelor of Science in Economics with a concentration in accounting, as well as a PhD in Accounting for students interested in academic or research careers. The program’s focus on quantitative analysis, financial reporting, and managerial accounting prepares students for leadership roles in public accounting, finance, and consulting.
Wharton’s strong emphasis on research and analytics, combined with its extensive network of alumni and connections to top firms, makes it a top choice for accounting students who want to pursue careers at the highest levels of business.
8. University of California, Berkeley
The Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley offers a top-tier accounting program that prepares students for the CPA exam and careers in public accounting, corporate finance, and consulting. Haas offers a rigorous curriculum that covers all aspects of accounting, from financial reporting and auditing to taxation and managerial accounting.
Berkeley’s location near Silicon Valley provides students with unique opportunities to work with tech companies and startups, in addition to traditional accounting firms. The school’s emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship sets it apart from other accounting programs and prepares students for a rapidly changing business environment.
Conclusion
The USA offers a wealth of top-tier universities for accounting students seeking to pursue careers that align with the Chartered Accountant (CA) designation or its American equivalent, the Certified Public Accountant (CPA). These universities provide rigorous academic training, hands-on experience, and strong connections to the accounting and finance industries, ensuring that students are well-prepared to excel in their careers. Whether you are interested in public accounting, auditing, taxation, or finance, these eight universities offer exceptional programs that will help you achieve your professional goals.