2026 Best Accounting Schools in Virginia – How to Become a CPA in VA

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Choosing an accounting school in Virginia is not just a question of which campus has the best reputation. Students also need to know whether the program supports CPA eligibility, fits their budget, offers the right format, and connects them with internships, employers, and specialized accounting tracks. This guide is designed for prospective undergraduate students, graduate students, career changers, and working professionals comparing accounting programs in Virginia for 2026.

Below, you will find a practical overview of accounting careers in Virginia, CPA education requirements, program length, costs, school options, online versus campus formats, accelerated pathways, certifications, internships, and related career directions. The goal is to help you compare programs with the same criteria employers and licensing boards care about: accreditation, credits, curriculum, experience, and long-term career fit.

Virginia Accounting Schools Guide Contents

Is accounting a strong career choice in Virginia?
How do you become an accountant or CPA in Virginia?
How long do accounting programs in Virginia take?
What do accounting programs in Virginia cost?
Accounting schools in Virginia for 2026
How to choose an accounting program in Virginia
Why internships matter for Virginia CPA candidates
How accounting connects with healthcare careers in Virginia
Online versus campus accounting programs in Virginia
How accelerated accounting programs support CPA candidates
When a graduate accounting certificate makes sense
How healthcare billing can expand an accounting career
How technology is changing accounting work in Virginia
Can accountants move into teaching in Virginia?
How urban planning knowledge can support accounting work
Why networking matters for accounting students and professionals
How legal knowledge can strengthen accounting careers
Specialized certifications for accounting career growth
Alternative career paths for accounting students
How forensic science can complement accounting
Continuing education strategies for Virginia accountants

Quick Answer: Are Accounting Schools in Virginia Worth Considering?

Yes, accounting schools in Virginia can be a strong option for students who want to work in public accounting, corporate finance, auditing, taxation, government accounting, consulting, or compliance. Virginia reports strong demand for accountants, and the median salary for accountants and auditors in Virginia was $95,780 as of 2024, compared with the national median salary for accountants of $83,010.

The best choice depends on your goal. If you want to become a CPA, confirm that the program helps you meet Virginia Board of Accountancy education rules, including the required accounting and business coursework. If you want a faster path, compare accelerated bachelor’s-to-master’s options. If you are working full time, an online or hybrid program may be more realistic than a traditional campus schedule.

Is accounting a strong career choice in Virginia?

Accounting can be a practical career path in Virginia because the state has a documented need for accounting professionals, and compensation is competitive compared with national figures. As of 2024, the median salary for accountants and auditors in Virginia reached $95,780, which is higher than the national median salary for accountants of $83,010.

That said, salary depends on several factors: location, employer type, CPA status, years of experience, specialization, and whether the role is in public accounting, government, industry, consulting, or nonprofit finance. Students comparing accounting with adjacent business paths should also review how accounting and finance salaries differ, because the better option may depend on whether they prefer compliance, reporting, analysis, tax, auditing, or investment-oriented work.

Question	Practical answer for Virginia students
Is accounting employable in Virginia?	Virginia has high demand for accountants, and accounting skills are used across public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, nonprofits, and consulting firms.
Is a CPA required?	No. Many accounting jobs do not require a CPA, but CPA licensure is often important for advancement in public accounting, auditing, and certain leadership roles.
Is accounting better than finance?	Neither is automatically better. Accounting is usually stronger for audit, tax, reporting, compliance, and controllership paths, while finance may fit students interested in investments, corporate finance, valuation, or financial planning.
What should students prioritize?	CPA alignment, accreditation, internship access, employer connections, accounting technology coursework, cost, and total credits toward licensure.

How do you become an accountant or CPA in Virginia?

Students can enter accounting roles with a bachelor’s degree, but becoming a licensed CPA in Virginia requires meeting education, examination, experience, application, and continuing education requirements. The steps below summarize the path for students planning to become a Virginia CPA.

Complete the required education. Virginia CPA candidates must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with at least 120 semester hours. Coursework must include 24 semester hours of accounting courses and 24 semester hours of business courses. Students may study on campus or online, including through an affordable online accounting-related degree, as long as the coursework is accepted by the Virginia Board of Accountancy.
Pass the Uniform CPA Exam. The CPA Exam includes four sections covering areas such as accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law. Candidates must pass all four parts within an 18-month period. Before scheduling the exam, students should review Virginia CPA exam requirements carefully so they understand credit, transcript, and application expectations.
Gain qualifying work experience. Virginia requires one year of full-time, paid accounting or auditing experience under CPA supervision. Public accounting remains one major entry route; in 2024, public accounting firms reported hiring 11,985 new graduates.
Apply for licensure. After completing the education, exam, and experience requirements, candidates apply through the Virginia Board of Accountancy.
Maintain the license. A Virginia CPA must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years to keep the credential active.

Stage	What to confirm before moving forward
Bachelor’s coursework	Check whether your accounting and business credits satisfy Virginia Board of Accountancy requirements.
CPA Exam preparation	Ask whether the school offers CPA review support, exam advising, or courses aligned with CPA topics.
Experience requirement	Look for internships, co-ops, alumni connections, and employer pipelines that can lead to supervised accounting experience.
Licensure application	Keep transcripts, employment documentation, and exam records organized before applying.
Continuing education	Plan for ongoing professional development after licensure, not only before your first accounting job.

How long do accounting programs in Virginia take?

Most bachelor’s-level accounting programs in Virginia are designed to take four years for full-time students. Students who already hold an undergraduate degree in accounting or business may be able to complete additional accounting coursework or a graduate program in 12-18 months, depending on transfer credits, prerequisites, course availability, and whether they study full time or part time.

Degree background also matters. According to Zippia, 56% of CPAs majored in accounting, while 24% majored in business. This suggests that accounting is the most direct academic route, but business students may also build toward CPA eligibility if they complete the required accounting and business coursework.

Student profile	Typical timeline	Best-fit option
First-time undergraduate student	Four years	Bachelor’s degree in accounting, accounting information systems, or business with an accounting major
Accounting major seeking CPA eligibility	Four years plus additional credits, or an integrated pathway	Bachelor’s-to-master’s or 150-credit accounting plan
Business graduate missing accounting credits	12-18 months may be possible	Master’s program, certificate, or targeted prerequisite coursework
Working adult	Varies by course load	Online, hybrid, evening, part-time, or accelerated format

What do accounting programs in Virginia cost?

Accounting program costs in Virginia vary by institution, residency status, degree level, delivery format, fees, and whether a student needs extra credits to become CPA-eligible. Private institutions generally cost more than public institutions, while online programs may reduce some expenses connected to commuting, housing, or relocation. Students comparing graduate options should also review online master’s degrees in accounting if they need flexibility or want to compare tuition beyond campus-based programs.

Based on Research.com’s review, the average tuition for an undergraduate accounting program in Virginia is $21,561, while the average tuition for a graduate accounting program in Virginia is $20,339. Out-of-state students should pay close attention to residency rates because the tuition gap can be substantial.

Program level	In-state tuition	Out-of-state tuition
Undergraduate accounting program	$21,561	$32,561
Graduate accounting program	$20,339	$31,339

Cost factors students often overlook

Credits beyond the bachelor’s degree: CPA candidates may need additional coursework beyond a standard 120-credit bachelor’s degree.
Exam preparation: CPA review materials, application fees, and exam-related costs can add to the total investment.
Residency rules: Public universities may charge much higher rates to out-of-state students.
Transfer credit policies: A lower tuition rate may not save money if the school accepts fewer transfer credits.
Internship access: A program with stronger employer connections may provide better practical value even when its tuition is higher.

Accounting schools in Virginia for 2026

Research.com reviewed public information for accounting programs relevant to students comparing Virginia accounting education options for 2026. The factors considered include program accreditation, faculty expertise, student-to-faculty ratios, academic quality, affordability, enrollment indicators, and other available program details. Rankings and school lists should be used as a starting point, not as a substitute for confirming CPA eligibility, cost, admissions requirements, and current curriculum directly with each institution.

1. James Madison University

James Madison University offers a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting that introduces students to accounting as a core language of business. The program is designed for students pursuing careers in areas such as finance, auditing, consulting, and information systems. Its School of Accounting is housed in the College of Business, and many students continue into graduate study to help satisfy CPA-related credit expectations. Notable features include employment connections, internship opportunities, and an on-campus CPA exam review course.

Program length: Four years
Relevant coursework and focus areas: Corporate Financial Reporting; Legal and Ethical Environment of Business; Accounting Information Systems
Cost per year: $25,840
Required credits to graduate: 150 hours
Accreditation: AACSB International (AACSB)

2. University of Richmond

University of Richmond offers accounting through the Robins School of Business. The department emphasizes conceptual understanding rather than memorization, helping students build a foundation for public accounting, corporate accounting, nonprofit finance, and local business roles. Many graduates begin in public accounting firms, while others move into organizations that need strong reporting, audit, and tax knowledge.

Program length: Four years
Relevant coursework and focus areas: Cost and Managerial Accounting; Accounting Information Systems; Federal Tax
Cost per year: $81,320
Number of units in program: 15 units
Accreditation: AACSB

3. Virginia Commonwealth University

Virginia Commonwealth University offers a Bachelor of Science in Accounting for students preparing for entry-level accounting roles. The curriculum covers financial records, compliance, data-based recommendations, and professional accounting concepts. The program can be completed on campus or fully online. Graduates may pursue roles such as accountant, auditor, financial analyst, tax examiner, and related positions. The program can help students qualify for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination in Virginia, although CPA certification requires 150 college credit hours.

Program length: Four years
Relevant coursework and focus areas: Advanced Tax Accounting; Business Intelligence and Data Mining; Data Management and Visualization
Cost per credit: $249
Required credits to graduate: 120 hours
Accreditation: AACSB

4. Virginia Tech

Virginia Tech offers accounting education through its Department of Accounting and Information Systems. The bachelor’s program blends business, accounting, and information systems. Students may choose between the Accounting option and the Information Systems Audit option. The Accounting option prepares students for work in accounting, auditing, tax, and financial roles, while the Information Systems Audit option supports students interested in assurance services and systems auditing. Virginia Tech also offers a 152-Hour Program that combines undergraduate and graduate coursework for students planning to become CPAs and earn degrees in Accounting and Information Systems.

Program length: Four years
Tracks: Information Systems Audit; Accounting
Cost per year: $32,274
Required credits to graduate: 125 credits
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

5. West Virginia University

West Virginia University offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with accounting preparation for students pursuing accounting, business leadership, CPA-related roles, corporate accounting, data analytics, and forensic accounting. The program is accredited by AACSB International and includes options connected to CPA Exam preparation, corporate and organizational accounting, analytics, and forensic work. Students should confirm residency, location, tuition, and CPA applicability if comparing it alongside Virginia-based institutions.

Program length: Four years
Relevant coursework and focus areas: Analytics for Accounting Analysis; Corporate Financial Management; Internal Auditing
Cost per credit: $458
Required credits to graduate: 120 credit hours
Accreditation: AACSB

School	Program detail to verify	Best-fit student profile
James Madison University	150-hour structure and CPA preparation support	Students who want an integrated accounting pathway with strong employment preparation
University of Richmond	Private-school cost, unit requirements, and public accounting placement options	Students seeking a business-school environment with close academic support
Virginia Commonwealth University	Online availability, CPA credit planning, and data-focused electives	Students who want flexible delivery and practical accounting preparation
Virginia Tech	Accounting versus Information Systems Audit track requirements	Students interested in accounting technology, audit systems, or a combined undergraduate-graduate route
West Virginia University	Residency, location, CPA applicability, and specialized tracks	Students comparing regional options with analytics, internal audit, or forensic accounting interests

How to choose an accounting program in Virginia

The right accounting program should do more than award credits. It should help you meet your academic goal, prepare for CPA requirements if needed, build workplace skills, and connect you to internships or entry-level jobs. Start with accreditation. Business and accounting accreditation from organizations such as AACSB International can signal that a program has met recognized standards, but students should still verify licensure alignment directly with the Virginia Board of Accountancy.

Students should also look at curriculum depth. Programs that include auditing, tax, financial reporting, accounting information systems, analytics, ethics, and business law may provide broader preparation than programs focused only on basic bookkeeping or general business. Technology is increasingly important: students who understand analytics, systems, and automation may be better positioned for modern accounting roles. For example, accountants who explore what data scientists do can better understand how data skills are reshaping financial analysis and decision support. The demand for data scientists is expected to grow by 34% between 2024 and 2034.

Selection factor	Why it matters	Question to ask
Accreditation	Accreditation can affect quality assurance, employer perception, and credit acceptance.	Is the business or accounting program accredited by a recognized accreditor?
CPA alignment	CPA candidates must satisfy specific education requirements.	Will this degree plan meet Virginia CPA education requirements, or will I need extra credits?
Internship support	Experience can improve readiness and may lead to full-time offers.	Which firms, agencies, or companies recruit accounting students here?
Format	Online, hybrid, evening, and campus formats fit different schedules.	Can I complete required accounting courses in the format I need?
Cost and aid	Total cost includes tuition, fees, housing, books, exam prep, and added CPA credits.	What will the full program cost after transfer credits and financial aid?
Specialization	Tracks can support tax, audit, analytics, forensic accounting, or information systems roles.	Does the program offer electives aligned with my target career?

Common mistakes when comparing accounting schools

Choosing by reputation alone: A well-known school may not be the best fit if it lacks the format, cost structure, or CPA planning you need.
Ignoring the 150-credit issue: A 120-credit bachelor’s degree may not be enough for CPA licensure without additional coursework.
Looking only at tuition: Fees, housing, transfer-credit limits, commuting, and CPA review costs can change the real price.
Assuming every online program works for CPA eligibility: Always confirm the coursework is accepted for Virginia’s requirements.
Skipping internship questions: Employer connections can be one of the most valuable parts of an accounting program.

Why internships matter for Virginia CPA candidates

Internships are especially valuable for accounting students because they connect classroom concepts to actual client files, financial systems, deadlines, and workplace expectations. For CPA-focused students, internships can also clarify whether public accounting, corporate accounting, tax, audit, government work, or nonprofit finance is the best long-term fit.

They turn theory into practice: Students see how tax preparation, audit testing, reconciliations, controls, and financial reporting work outside textbooks.
They build software familiarity: Interns may gain early exposure to tools such as QuickBooks, SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, or employer-specific accounting systems.
They create professional contacts: Supervisors, alumni, recruiters, and coworkers can become references, mentors, or sources of future job leads.
They strengthen communication skills: Accountants must explain financial information clearly to clients, managers, auditors, and nonfinancial teams.
They can lead to job offers: Some employers use internships as a hiring pipeline for full-time accounting roles after graduation.

How accounting connects with healthcare careers in Virginia

Healthcare organizations need accounting professionals who understand budgeting, reimbursement, compliance, internal controls, and cost management. Students interested in healthcare finance may benefit from learning how hospitals, clinics, insurers, and medical practices operate. This does not mean an accountant must become a clinician, but understanding healthcare roles can improve communication with operational teams. Students exploring the broader healthcare field can compare accounting with clinical pathways by reviewing how nurse practitioners prepare for practice in Virginia.

Online versus campus accounting programs in Virginia

Online and traditional accounting programs can both prepare students for accounting careers, but they serve different needs. Online programs are often better for working adults, students outside commuting range, or learners who need schedule flexibility. Campus programs may provide more face-to-face networking, in-person recruiting, student organizations, and direct access to faculty. Students interested in specialized tax study may also compare options such as an affordable online master’s in taxation.

Program format	Advantages	Possible drawbacks	Best for
Online accounting program	Flexible scheduling, less commuting, wider access to programs	Requires self-discipline and may offer fewer in-person recruiting events	Working adults, parents, transfer students, and students outside campus areas
Campus accounting program	In-person faculty access, campus recruiting, student accounting clubs, peer networking	Less flexible and may involve housing or commuting costs	Traditional students who want a campus business-school experience
Hybrid accounting program	Combines flexibility with some in-person interaction	May still require travel on specific days	Students who want structure without a fully campus-based schedule

How accelerated accounting programs support CPA candidates

Accelerated accounting programs can help Virginia students reach CPA eligibility more efficiently by combining undergraduate and graduate coursework or by creating a planned route to the additional credits many CPA candidates need. These programs are often attractive to students who already know they want to pursue CPA licensure and are prepared for a demanding course load.

Because Virginia’s median salary for accountants is higher than the national median, students may view an accelerated route as a way to enter the labor market sooner with stronger credentials. However, speed should not be the only consideration. Students should compare cost, workload, CPA Exam support, and whether the accelerated format leaves enough time for internships.

Benefits of accelerated accounting pathways

Shorter time to advanced credentials: Some pathways allow students to complete bachelor’s and master’s-level accounting study in about five years.
More structured CPA planning: Many accelerated accounting degree programs help students organize coursework around CPA-related credit expectations.
Potential cost efficiency: Combining degrees can sometimes reduce duplicated coursework, housing time, or enrollment gaps.
Stronger early-career positioning: Graduates may enter the job market with graduate-level coursework and clearer CPA readiness.

Who should consider an accelerated accounting program?

An accelerated program is best for students who are academically prepared, comfortable with a heavier workload, and committed to becoming CPAs. It may not be ideal for students who need to work many hours, want to explore several majors, or are unsure whether accounting is their long-term field.

When a graduate accounting certificate makes sense

A graduate certificate in accounting can be useful for professionals who already have a degree but need focused accounting coursework, updated technical skills, or prerequisites for a career change. Certificates may be especially practical for students who do not need a full master’s degree but want additional preparation in areas such as tax, auditing, reporting, analytics, or accounting systems.

Before enrolling, students should ask whether certificate credits can transfer into a master’s program, whether courses count toward CPA education requirements, and whether the curriculum matches their target role.

How healthcare billing can expand an accounting career

Healthcare billing knowledge can make an accountant more useful in medical practices, hospitals, insurance-related organizations, and revenue-cycle teams. Professionals who understand coding, billing workflows, reimbursement, and compliance can better analyze cash flow, claims denials, accounts receivable, and operational costs. Students interested in this niche can review medical billing and coding preparation in Virginia to understand how the billing side of healthcare connects with accounting work.

How technology is changing accounting work in Virginia

Accounting work increasingly involves cloud platforms, automation, analytics, cybersecurity awareness, and digital compliance processes. Entry-level accountants are still expected to understand debits, credits, financial statements, tax concepts, and audit procedures, but employers may also value skills in data visualization, enterprise systems, workflow automation, and controls over digital information.

Students should choose programs that do not treat technology as an optional add-on. Accounting information systems, data analytics, audit technology, and business intelligence courses can be useful for students preparing for modern accounting teams. Students who plan to become licensed should also keep current with CPA requirements in Virginia, since education, exam, and licensing expectations shape the path into regulated accounting work.

Can accountants move into teaching in Virginia?

Accounting professionals who enjoy explaining financial concepts may eventually consider teaching business, accounting, mathematics, or related subjects. This path can be rewarding for professionals who want to mentor students, move into academic work, or combine practice with instruction. Teaching requirements are different from CPA requirements, so accountants should review education, licensure, and subject-area rules before making a transition. A helpful starting point is this guide to teacher preparation requirements in Virginia.

How urban planning knowledge can support accounting work

Urban planning and accounting can overlap in areas such as municipal budgeting, infrastructure financing, real estate development, public-sector reporting, and cost-benefit analysis. Accountants working with local governments, developers, transportation projects, or public-private initiatives may benefit from understanding zoning, land use, capital planning, and community development finance. Students curious about this adjacent field can explore urban planning careers in Virginia.

Why networking matters for accounting students and professionals

Networking can influence an accounting career from the first internship through senior-level advancement. Students in campus, online, or accelerated accounting programs should build professional relationships early because accounting hiring often involves referrals, campus recruiting, alumni connections, and internship pipelines.

Mentorship: Experienced accountants can help students understand public accounting, corporate finance, tax, audit, government roles, and CPA timelines.
Career information: Professionals can explain which specializations are growing, which employers hire entry-level staff, and which skills are most useful.
Continuing education: Professional events, webinars, and seminars can help accountants stay informed about standards, technology, and regulatory changes.
Long-term mobility: A strong network can help accountants move into management, consulting, advisory, forensic accounting, or industry-specific roles.

How legal knowledge can strengthen accounting careers

Legal knowledge can be valuable for accountants working with contracts, compliance, tax matters, fraud investigations, corporate governance, internal controls, and dispute support. Accountants do not need to become lawyers to benefit from understanding legal processes, but familiarity with documentation, regulations, and risk can improve decision-making. Students interested in a legal-adjacent skill set can learn more about paralegal career preparation in Virginia.

Specialized certifications for accounting career growth

The CPA is the most recognized accounting credential for many public accounting and audit-focused roles, but it is not the only credential available. Specialized certifications such as Certified Management Accountant (CMA) or Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) can support careers in management accounting, corporate finance, internal controls, forensic accounting, and fraud examination.

Students comparing academic options should consider whether the curriculum supports future certification goals. Attending one of the top business schools in Virginia may provide access to broader business coursework, faculty expertise, employer recruiting, and accounting specialization options. However, the best program is the one that fits your target credential, schedule, budget, and career direction.

Credential or focus	Career use	When it may be worth considering
CPA	Public accounting, audit, tax, controllership, advisory, and regulated accounting roles	When you want strong mobility in accounting and meet Virginia licensure requirements
CMA	Management accounting, budgeting, planning, analysis, and corporate finance	When you prefer internal business decision support over public accounting
CFE	Fraud examination, forensic accounting, internal investigations, and compliance	When you are interested in investigative accounting or risk-related work
Accounting analytics	Data-driven reporting, audit analytics, dashboards, controls, and financial systems	When you want to combine accounting knowledge with technology and data skills

Alternative career paths for accounting students

Accounting students are not limited to traditional staff accountant roles. The same skills used in accounting—analysis, documentation, reporting, ethics, controls, and business communication—can transfer into finance, consulting, data analysis, education, compliance, operations, and government work. Students interested in teaching younger learners can review elementary school teacher requirements in Virginia to compare that path with accounting-focused careers.

Financial analyst: Uses accounting data to evaluate performance, budgets, forecasts, and investment-related decisions.
Internal auditor: Reviews controls, risk, compliance, and operational processes inside organizations.
Tax specialist: Focuses on tax preparation, planning, compliance, and advisory services.
Forensic accountant: Investigates fraud, financial disputes, and irregular transactions.
Business consultant: Helps organizations improve reporting, systems, costs, processes, and controls.
Accounting educator: Teaches accounting or business concepts in academic or professional settings.

How forensic science can complement accounting

Forensic accounting depends on investigative thinking, careful documentation, pattern recognition, and evidence-based analysis. Students who are drawn to fraud detection, financial crime, litigation support, compliance, or internal investigations may benefit from learning how forensic methods are used in other fields. Exploring forensic science education in Virginia can help students understand investigative techniques that may complement financial analysis and fraud examination.

Continuing education strategies for Virginia accountants

Continuing education is not only a licensing requirement; it is also how accountants keep pace with tax updates, auditing standards, financial reporting changes, technology, cybersecurity issues, ethics, and industry-specific regulations. Virginia CPAs must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, but professionals should choose learning activities strategically rather than treating them as a checklist.

Match learning to your role: Tax professionals, auditors, controllers, analysts, and government accountants need different continuing education topics.
Build technology skills: Courses in analytics, automation, accounting systems, and data visualization can improve day-to-day performance.
Strengthen communication: Accountants who can explain financial results clearly are more valuable in advisory and leadership roles.
Use teaching as development: Professionals interested in part-time instruction or academic work can explore related teaching pathways, including how to become a high school math teacher in Virginia.
Track credits carefully: Keep documentation organized so license renewal does not become a last-minute problem.

How to make the final school decision

Before committing to an accounting program, compare schools using your actual goal. A future CPA should prioritize board-approved coursework, total credits, internship access, and CPA Exam preparation. A working adult may place more weight on online course availability and part-time pacing. A student interested in analytics should look for accounting information systems, business intelligence, and data management coursework. Students comparing tuition should also consider the differences between public and private universities, because institutional type can affect price, aid, class size, and campus experience.

Questions to ask before enrolling

Will this program help me meet Virginia CPA education requirements?
How many accounting and business credits will I have at graduation?
Does the school offer CPA Exam advising or review support?
Which employers recruit accounting students from this program?
Can I complete internships while staying on track to graduate?
Are online courses available for all required accounting classes?
How many transfer credits will the school accept?
What is the total cost after tuition, fees, housing, books, and exam preparation?
Does the curriculum include technology, analytics, ethics, tax, audit, and accounting systems?
If I change my goal, will the degree still support finance, consulting, analytics, or business roles?

Key Insights

Virginia can be a strong accounting market: The state’s median salary for accountants and auditors was $95,780 as of 2024, compared with the national median salary for accountants of $83,010.
CPA planning should start before enrollment: Virginia CPA candidates need a bachelor’s degree, at least 120 semester hours, 24 semester hours of accounting courses, 24 semester hours of business courses, CPA Exam completion, qualifying experience, licensure approval, and continuing education.
Program length depends on your starting point: A bachelor’s degree commonly takes four years, while students with prior accounting or business study may complete additional coursework or graduate study in 12-18 months.
Cost comparison requires more than tuition: Research.com’s review found average Virginia accounting tuition of $21,561 for undergraduate programs and $20,339 for graduate programs, but students should also calculate fees, housing, transfer credits, extra CPA credits, and exam preparation.
Accreditation and curriculum matter: Look for recognized accreditation, CPA-aligned coursework, accounting information systems, analytics, tax, audit, ethics, and strong internship support.
Online programs can be credible if they meet requirements: Online accounting study may work well for working adults, but students must confirm that courses satisfy Virginia CPA education rules.
Specialization can improve career fit: Tax, audit, information systems, forensic accounting, healthcare finance, data analytics, and management accounting can lead to different roles and credentials.
Rankings are only a starting point: The best accounting school is the one that matches your CPA goals, budget, schedule, learning style, and preferred career path.

References

U.S. BLS. (2025, August 28). Accountants and Auditors https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm
U.S. BLS. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Tables https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_va.htm
U.S. BLS. (2025, August 28). Data Scientists: Occupational Outlook Handbook: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm
Virginia Board of Accountancy. Education requirements Virginia Board of Accountancy. https://boa.virginia.gov/cpa-exam/requirements
Zippia. (2025, January 8). Best Colleges and Degrees For Certified Public Accountants Zippia. https://www.zippia.com/certified-public-accountant-jobs/education

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a CPA in VA

Which schools in Virginia offer accounting programs, and what distinguishes them?

Several schools in Virginia offer notable accounting programs, including the University of Virginia, which is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and strong industry connections. Virginia Tech offers a comprehensive program focusing on technological integration. James Madison University is distinguished by its experiential learning opportunities, preparing students effectively for CPA exams.

How much does it cost to pursue accounting programs in Virginia?

Average tuition for undergraduate accounting programs in Virginia is $21,561 for in-state students and $32,561 for out-of-state students. For graduate programs, the average tuition is $20,339 for in-state students and $31,339 for out-of-state students.

What should aspiring accountants look for when considering accounting programs in Virginia?

Factors to consider include accreditation, faculty expertise, alumni networks, program specialization, and alignment with professional certifications like CPA. Special emphasis on emerging areas like data analytics can enhance career prospects.

What are the median salary expectations for accountants in Virginia?

The median salary for accountants and auditors in Virginia was $89,180 in 2022, surpassing the national median salary for accountants.

Is there a difference in job opportunities between graduates of public and private accounting schools in Virginia?

Job opportunities may vary depending on factors such as the reputation of the institution, alumni networks, and individual qualifications. However, both public and private accounting schools in Virginia offer opportunities for career advancement.

What role does accreditation play in choosing an accounting program in Virginia?

Accreditation from recognized bodies like AACSB International ensures program quality and credibility, enhancing graduates' marketability and eligibility for professional certifications.

How does specialization, such as data analytics, impact career prospects for accountants in Virginia?

Specializations like data analytics are increasingly valuable in the accounting field. Programs offering such specializations equip graduates with in-demand skills, enhancing their competitiveness in the job market and opening up diverse career opportunities.