Accounting Faculty Careers: Pathways and Opportunities

Explore academic careers in Accounting within Business & Economics. Opportunities range from teaching positions at universities to research roles in top institutions, offering a blend of theoretical and practical expertise in financial management and analysis.

Unlock Thrilling Accounting Faculty Careers: Where Numbers Meet Impactful Teaching!

Accounting faculty jobs offer a dynamic gateway into academia, blending rigorous financial expertise with the joy of shaping future business leaders. At its core, accounting is the foundational practice of recording, summarizing, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions to inform decision-making in organizations worldwide. For novices, think of it as the universal language of money—tracking everything from a small business's daily sales to multinational corporations' complex tax strategies. Whether you're eyeing tenure-track professor roles or adjunct positions, the field demands precision, ethical judgment, and an knack for explaining intricate concepts like Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) to students at various levels.

Career pathways in accounting academia start with a strong undergraduate degree in accounting or a related field, often followed by professional certifications like Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Chartered Accountant (CA), which validate real-world skills in auditing, taxation, and financial reporting. To land full-time faculty positions, pursue a master's (e.g., Master of Accountancy, MAcc) and then a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Accounting, typically a 4-6 year commitment involving advanced coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research dissertation on topics like forensic accounting or sustainability reporting. Industry experience as a controller or auditor boosts your resume, as universities value professors who bridge theory and practice. Recent trends show a faculty shortage: the American Accounting Association reports a 10-year decline in PhD completions amid rising retirements, driving demand up 15-20% in the U.S. since 2015. Globally, similar gaps exist—in the UK, lecturer roles have grown 12% per HESA data, while Australia's Group of Eight universities seek specialists in data analytics-integrated accounting.

Salaries reflect this demand and expertise. In the U.S., entry-level assistant accounting professors average $135,000-$155,000 annually (per 2023-24 AAUP data), escalating to $180,000-$220,000 for associates and $250,000+ for full professors at top institutions, with bonuses for research publications. Check detailed breakdowns on professor salaries for U.S., UK, and Canadian comparisons. In Europe, expect €70,000-€120,000 depending on seniority and location—explore openings in hubs like New York, London, or Sydney. Networking is key: attend conferences via the American Accounting Association (AAA) and leverage platforms like higher ed jobs for listings.

For students eyeing accounting opportunities, dive into undergraduate or graduate programs at renowned institutions. Top U.S. programs include the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School (ranked #1 by U.S. News for 10+ years) and the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, known for cutting-edge research in tax and audit. Internationally, the London School of Economics excels in global standards. Before enrolling, review faculty on Rate My Professor for insights into Accounting instructors' teaching styles—search for those specializing in managerial accounting to gauge course rigor. Many programs offer co-ops or internships, paving the way to faculty paths. Pro tip: Build a standout profile early by joining Beta Alpha Psi honor society and publishing undergrad research.

Ready to step into this rewarding field? Browse thousands of accounting jobs, from lecturer positions to department chairs, on AcademicJobs.com. Tailor your academic CV using our free resume template, get salary benchmarks via professor salaries, and rate Accounting professors on Rate My Professor to inform your journey. Start exploring higher ed jobs today and turn your passion for numbers into a thriving academic career!

Discover Accounting: The Backbone of Business and Boundless Academic Opportunities

Accounting, often called the language of business, is the systematic process of recording, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions to provide accurate insights into an organization's economic activities. Its roots trace back over 7,000 years to ancient Mesopotamia, where clay tablets tracked trade and taxes, evolving through the Renaissance with Luca Pacioli's 1494 invention of double-entry bookkeeping—the foundation of modern practices still used today. Key concepts include financial accounting (preparing statements like balance sheets and income statements), managerial accounting (internal decision-making tools), auditing (independent verification), and taxation (compliance with laws like the U.S. Internal Revenue Code).

In today's global economy, accounting's relevance has surged with digital tools like AI-driven analytics, blockchain for secure ledgers, and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) reporting amid climate concerns. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), accountants and auditors held over 1.4 million jobs in 2023, with median pay at $78,000, but accounting professor salaries average $147,000 annually per recent AAUP data, rising to $200,000+ for full professors at top schools. Over the past decade, faculty hiring trends show steady demand, up 6% since 2015, driven by retirements and expanding business programs.

For jobseekers eyeing Accounting faculty jobs, a PhD from accredited programs is essential, often paired with CPA (Certified Public Accountant) certification. Pathways include master's degrees, research publications, and teaching experience as adjuncts—check adjunct professor jobs to build credentials. Students, start with foundational courses at top institutions like the University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School or University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, rated #1 and #2 for undergraduate accounting by U.S. News. Use Rate My Professor to select inspiring Accounting educators.

Financial hubs offer prime opportunities: explore New York, San Francisco, or Houston for tenure-track roles. Actionable insights: Network at American Accounting Association conferences, master data analytics via tools like QuickBooks or Tableau, and leverage higher ed career advice on AcademicJobs.com. Whether pursuing professor jobs or student pathways, accounting promises stability and impact in a tech-evolving field.

Qualifications Needed for a Career in Accounting

Pursuing a career in Accounting, especially as faculty on higher-ed jobs platforms like AcademicJobs.com, requires a solid foundation in education, certifications, and skills. Accounting professionals handle financial reporting, auditing, taxation, and advisory roles, but academic positions demand expertise in teaching and research. Whether you're a jobseeker eyeing professor salaries or a student exploring pathways, understanding these qualifications is key to landing Accounting faculty jobs.

Required Education

A bachelor's degree in Accounting or a related field like Finance is the entry point, covering fundamentals such as financial accounting and managerial accounting. For faculty roles, a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Accounting is essential for tenure-track positions at universities. According to the American Accounting Association (AAA), over 90% of new assistant professors hold a doctorate from AACSB-accredited programs. Master's degrees, like an MBA with Accounting concentration, suffice for adjunct or lecturer roles. Top institutions include the University of Texas at Austin and University of Chicago for PhD programs.

Key Certifications

  • 📜 CPA (Certified Public Accountant): The gold standard, requiring 150 semester hours of education, passing the Uniform CPA Exam, and work experience. Vital for credibility in teaching auditing and tax courses.
  • CMA (Certified Management Accountant): Focuses on cost management; ideal for business school faculty.
  • CIA (Certified Internal Auditor): Enhances auditing expertise, useful for specialized research.

Check rate my professor reviews for Accounting educators with these credentials to see their impact.

Essential Skills

Core skills include analytical thinking for data interpretation, attention to detail for compliance, and communication for explaining complex standards like GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) or IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards). Faculty need research skills for publishing in journals like The Accounting Review and teaching prowess, often demonstrated via experience as a teaching assistant.

Steps to Strengthen Your Profile

  1. Gain practical experience through internships or roles at firms like Deloitte or PwC before academia.
  2. Publish research; aim for 2-3 peer-reviewed papers during your PhD.
  3. Network at AAA conferences and build a portfolio on higher-ed career advice resources.
  4. Pursue online courses from Coursera or edX for emerging areas like forensic accounting.

AICPA CPA requirements provide state-specific details. For global opportunities, explore US, Canada, or Los Angeles markets where demand is high. Jobseekers, tailor your CV with quantifiable achievements—e.g., 'Led audit reducing errors by 20%'—and check rate my professor for department insights. Students, start with community college courses via community college jobs listings. These steps position you for roles averaging $120,000-$250,000 annually for assistant professors, per 2023 AACSB data.

🎓 Unlock Rewarding Career Pathways in Accounting Academia!

Embarking on a career as an Accounting faculty member offers intellectual challenge, job stability, and the chance to shape future finance leaders. Whether you're a student eyeing graduate programs or a professional transitioning to academia, understanding the step-by-step journey is key. This path typically spans 10-15 years, blending rigorous education, certifications, practical experience, and research. Demand for Accounting professors remains strong globally, with U.S. assistant professors earning a median salary of $152,000 in 2023, rising to $200,000+ for full professors at top schools, per recent faculty compensation surveys. In the UK, lecturers start around £45,000, scaling to £70,000 for seniors.

Timeline of Accounting Faculty Career Milestones

StageDurationKey Requirements & MilestonesTypical Age Range
Bachelor's Degree in Accounting4 yearsCore courses in financial reporting, auditing, taxation; GPA 3.5+; internships at firms like Deloitte or PwC18-22
Master's (MAcc or MBA)1-2 yearsAdvanced topics; CPA exam prep; first research paper22-24
CPA Certification (optional but advantageous)1-2 yearsPass 4-part exam; 150 credit hours; 1-2 years work experience23-26
PhD in Accounting4-6 yearsDissertation on topics like behavioral auditing; publish 2-3 papers; teaching assistantships24-30
Postdoc/Visiting Positions1-2 yearsBuild publication record; network at conferences like AAA meetings30-32
Assistant Professor (Tenure-Track)5-7 years to tenureSecure job via AEA Job Market; teach 2-3 courses/year; 3-5 pubs32+

After your bachelor's, pursue a master's to deepen expertise—many top PhD programs require it. The PhD, Doctor of Philosophy in Accounting, is essential for tenure-track roles, involving coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research published in journals like The Accounting Review. Internships during undergrad provide real-world insights, such as auditing client financials, boosting your resume for grad admissions.

Pitfalls abound: PhD completion rates hover at 50-60% due to intense workloads; the 'publish or perish' culture demands early papers—start submitting during dissertation. Job markets are competitive, with only 100-150 U.S. tenure-track openings yearly versus 500+ applicants. Avoid by gaining teaching experience via adjunct roles; check adjunct professor jobs early.

  • 🎯 Network relentlessly: Attend American Accounting Association conferences; leverage LinkedIn for mentors.
  • 📊 Pursue CPA early: Enhances credibility—over 70% of Accounting faculty hold it.
  • 🔬 Research focus: Target niches like sustainability accounting, booming post-2020 ESG trends.

For inspiration, rate Accounting professors at institutions like the University of Chicago Booth on our Rate My Professor page to learn from top educators. Explore professor salaries for location insights—California hubs like Stanford pay premiums. Students, browse scholarships for PhD funding. Jobseekers, apply via higher ed faculty jobs. In the US, check US opportunities; UK via UK jobs. Read our advice on becoming a university lecturer. Verify paths at AACSB, accrediting elite programs like Wharton or UT Austin McCombs.

💰 Unlock Competitive Earnings in Accounting Academia

Accounting faculty positions offer some of the most attractive compensation packages in higher education, driven by a persistent shortage of PhD-qualified instructors and high demand from business schools. Whether you're an aspiring assistant professor or a seasoned full professor, understanding salary breakdowns, trends, influencing factors, negotiation strategies, and comprehensive benefits is crucial for maximizing your career potential. Explore detailed insights below to inform your job search on Accounting faculty jobs.

Salary Breakdown by Role and Location

RoleUS Average (2023, USD)Top Institutions ExampleInternational Comparison
Assistant Professor (entry-level tenure-track, typically 1-7 years post-PhD)$140,000 - $180,000$200,000+ at UT Austin McCombs£45,000 - £55,000 (UK Lecturer)
Associate Professor (tenured mid-career, 7-12 years)$180,000 - $220,000$250,000+ at WhartonAUD $150,000 - $190,000 (Australia)
Full Professor (senior, research leaders)$220,000 - $300,000+$350,000+ at Chicago Booth€80,000 - €120,000 (Germany)

Locations matter significantly: coastal US hubs like California (/us/california/los-angeles) and New York (/us/new-york/new-york) pay 20-30% premiums due to cost of living, while Texas and Midwest offer strong value. For global opportunities, check UK academic jobs or Canadian postings.

Trends and Key Statistics

  • 📈 Salaries rose 4.5% annually from 2018-2023 (AACSB data), outpacing inflation amid PhD shortages.
  • Business schools pay 15-20% above humanities averages (AAUP Faculty Compensation Survey).
  • Women in Accounting earn 92% of male counterparts, improving with equity initiatives.

Over the past decade, demand for Accounting expertise in auditing, tax, and forensics has boosted tenures, with adjuncts earning $5,000-$10,000 per course.

Factors Influencing Compensation

  • 🎓 Publications in top journals (e.g., The Accounting Review) add $20k-$50k.
  • 🏫 Institution prestige: R1 research universities vs. teaching-focused colleges.
  • 📍 Geography and unionization: Northeast US often higher due to COL adjustments.

Negotiation Tips and Benefits

Negotiate holistically: base salary (5-10% bump common), signing bonuses ($10k-$30k), summer research support, reduced teaching loads, and spousal hires. Research comparables via professor salaries on AcademicJobs.com. Benefits shine in academia—comprehensive health insurance, 403(b) matching up to 10%, sabbaticals every 7 years, and tuition remission for dependents. Visit Rate My Professor for Accounting faculty insights on real compensation experiences. For career advice, see how to become a university lecturer. Tailor your approach on higher ed faculty jobs listings.

Stay informed with professor salaries updates and rate my professor reviews specific to Accounting to benchmark effectively.

Location-Specific Information for Accounting Careers

Accounting faculty positions offer diverse global opportunities, with demand driven by evolving regulations like International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), the rise of forensic accounting, and integration of data analytics in auditing. North America leads in high-paying roles, while Europe emphasizes work-life balance, Asia-Pacific shows rapid growth in business hubs, and regions like the Middle East provide tax-free incentives. Jobseekers should assess visa requirements, cost of living, and cultural fit—such as the US's emphasis on research output versus Australia's focus on teaching excellence. Explore professor salaries by location to compare earnings, and check Rate My Professor for insights on accounting faculty in target areas.

Region Demand Level Avg. Associate Professor Salary (USD equiv., 2024) Key Hubs (Links to Jobs) Local Quirks & Tips
North America High (faculty shortage per AACSB) $150,000–$180,000 Los Angeles, New York, Toronto Tenure-track competitive; prioritize publications in top journals like The Accounting Review. Network at AAA conferences.
Europe Moderate-Steady $90,000–$130,000 London, Berlin, Paris Permanent contracts common; multilingual skills boost hires. EU funding for research grants abundant.
Asia-Pacific High Growth $110,000–$160,000 Sydney, Singapore, Shanghai English-taught programs rising; focus on fintech accounting. Expat packages often include housing.
Middle East & Africa Emerging $120,000–$200,000 (tax-free) Dubai, Riyadh Luxury perks for internationals; Islamic finance specialization key. Summers off due to heat.

For accounting jobseekers, target high-demand US hubs via US higher ed jobs, where Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 4% growth through 2032, faster in academia amid retirements. In the UK, post-Brexit roles favor EU-experienced candidates—review accounting professor ratings at LSE or Manchester. Australia offers work visas for PhDs; check faculty positions in Melbourne. Students, pair location research with career advice and salary data. Verify trends at BLS.gov or AACSB insights.

Top Institutions Specializing in Accounting

Discover premier universities renowned for their Accounting programs, ideal for students pursuing degrees and jobseekers targeting faculty roles in this high-demand field. These institutions excel in rigorous curricula covering financial reporting (FR), auditing, taxation, and managerial accounting, preparing graduates for Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure and academic careers. With Accounting faculty jobs booming due to regulatory changes and global business needs, alumni from these schools often secure top positions. Research from U.S. News & World Report highlights their strengths in research output and placement rates over the past decade.

University of Texas at Austin (McCombs School of Business)

Consistently ranked #1 for undergraduate Accounting, McCombs offers BS, Master of Professional Accounting (MPA), and PhD programs emphasizing data analytics and assurance services. Benefits include 98% CPA pass rates and strong industry ties in Austin's tech hub. Faculty positions here offer competitive salaries averaging $180K+ per professor salaries data.

Explore McCombs Accounting

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Gies College of Business)

A powerhouse for PhD research in Accounting, with specializations in empirical financial accounting and auditing. Known for producing prolific scholars; graduates land tenure-track roles at elite schools. Benefits: Access to iMSA online master's for flexibility and high ROI with median starting salaries over $70K for undergrads.

Visit Gies Accountancy

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)

Wharton's elite Accounting program integrates economics and finance, offering PhD tracks with Nobel laureate faculty. Ideal for jobseekers eyeing Ivy League faculty jobs; boasts unparalleled networks for Big Four placements and academia.

Wharton Accounting Programs

Brigham Young University (Marriott School)

Top for placement (100% undergrad employment), with MS and PhD in Accounting focusing on tax and audit. Ethical training aligns with CPA requirements; great for international students seeking U.S. faculty pathways.

InstitutionU.S. News Rank (2024)Key PhD StrengthJob Placement BenefitLocation Link
UT Austin (McCombs)#1 UGData Analytics98% CPA PassAustin Jobs
UIUC (Gies)#2 UGEmpirical ResearchTop Faculty PlacementsUrbana Jobs
UPenn (Wharton)Top 5 GradFinance IntegrationIvy NetworksPhiladelphia Jobs
BYU (Marriott)#3 UGTax/Audit100% EmploymentProvo Jobs

Advice for Students and Jobseekers: Aspiring Accounting students, prioritize these schools for CPA prep and research exposure—check Rate My Professor for faculty insights in Accounting courses. Jobseekers, tailor applications highlighting publications; network via conferences. Review faculty jobs and career advice on AcademicJobs.com. For global paths, consider UK options like LSE via UK academic jobs. Target emerging trends like ESG reporting for competitive edges.

Verify rankings at U.S. News Accounting Rankings.

Tips for Landing a Job or Enrolling in Accounting

Securing a faculty position in accounting or gaining admission to a top program requires strategic planning, dedication, and a clear understanding of the academic landscape. With a projected shortage of accounting educators due to retirements—over 75% of current faculty expected to retire by 2030 according to the American Accounting Association—the timing is ideal for prepared candidates. These 10 proven strategies offer step-by-step guidance for jobseekers pursuing tenure-track roles and students entering the field, blending practical advice, ethical considerations, and resources like professor salaries data to inform your decisions.

  • Pursue a PhD in Accounting from an AACSB-accredited program. Start with a bachelor's in accounting or related field (e.g., finance), then complete a master's, aiming for a PhD which is essential for tenure-track faculty jobs. Top programs like the University of Texas at Austin or University of Chicago Booth School emphasize research; apply early, highlighting GPA above 3.5 and GRE scores. Ethically, choose programs aligning with your research interests to avoid mismatched dissertations. Check rate my professor reviews for Accounting faculty to select mentors.
  • Earn professional certifications like CPA or CMA. Jobseekers boost competitiveness by passing the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, requiring 150 credit hours—plan coursework accordingly. Students can start with eligibility via internships. Example: CPAs earn 10-15% higher salaries per BLS data. Ethically disclose all experience; use AICPA resources for prep without shortcuts.
  • Gain teaching experience as a TA or adjunct. Enroll as a teaching assistant during grad school to develop syllabi and grade exams, transitioning to adjunct roles via sites like adjunct professor jobs. Step-by-step: Volunteer first, then apply locally. Builds portfolio for interviews; ethical tip: Prioritize student feedback over grades.
  • Build a strong research portfolio with publications. Target journals like The Accounting Review; start with working papers at conferences. Jobseekers: Aim for 3-5 pubs pre-market. Students: Collaborate with professors. Track trends on higher ed career advice; ethically cite sources rigorously to uphold academic integrity.
  • Network at key conferences and associations. Attend American Accounting Association (AAA) meetings—submit papers early. Connect via LinkedIn with alumni from target schools. Global jobseekers: Join IFAC events. Example: 60% of hires from conference networking per surveys. Ethical: Build genuine relationships, not transactional ones. Visit AAA website.
  • Tailor applications to job postings on AcademicJobs.com. Customize CV highlighting teaching evals (4.5+ average) and research fit. Use free resume template; cover letters reference department specifics. Step: Analyze ad keywords like 'financial accounting'. Ethical: Avoid embellishing metrics.
  • Prepare rigorously for job talks and interviews. Practice 45-minute seminars on topics like auditing standards; record mocks. Research salaries—assistant profs average $150K-$180K US, higher in California via US California jobs. Students: Mock interviews for grad apps. Ethical: Be transparent on gaps.
  • Research institutions and locations thoroughly. Use rate my professor for Accounting insights and professor salaries for benchmarks ($200K+ full profs at top schools). Prioritize research-intensive vs. teaching-focused. Global: UK roles via jobs ac uk.
  • Leverage career resources and scholarships. Students: Apply for funding via scholarships; jobseekers explore higher ed jobs faculty. Read become a university lecturer blog. Ethical: Disclose aid fully.
  • Commit to lifelong learning and ethics. Stay updated via MOOCs on emerging trends like ESG reporting. Ethical cornerstone: Uphold AICPA code in research/teaching. Track progress yearly; reassess if stalled.

👥 Diversity and Inclusion in Accounting

In the field of Accounting, diversity and inclusion (D&I) are essential for fostering innovative teaching, research, and professional practice that reflects today's global business landscape. Accounting faculty roles increasingly emphasize D&I to prepare students for diverse workplaces, where varied perspectives drive better financial decision-making and ethical standards. AcademicJobs.com highlights these opportunities in Accounting faculty jobs, connecting jobseekers with inclusive institutions worldwide.

Demographics reveal ongoing challenges: in the US, women comprise over 60% of accounting graduates but only about 23% of partners at top firms and roughly 30% of tenured faculty, per 2023 AICPA reports. Underrepresentation persists among Black (3%), Hispanic (6%), and Asian (10%) accountants in senior academia roles. Globally, similar trends appear in the UK, where BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) individuals hold under 10% of senior positions, according to 2024 ICAEW data. These gaps stem from historical barriers like limited access to mentorship and networking in male-dominated networks.

Policies are evolving: major universities maintain dedicated Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices, mandating bias training and diverse hiring committees. The American Accounting Association (AAA) promotes initiatives like the Diversity Section, while firms support pipeline programs. In Europe, the European Accounting Association advocates for gender-balanced faculties. These efforts influence hiring, with many job postings prioritizing D&I statements in applications for higher ed faculty jobs.

The benefits are clear: diverse Accounting faculties enhance student outcomes, with studies showing 20-30% improved critical thinking in inclusive classrooms. It attracts top talent, boosts innovation in areas like sustainable accounting, and models equity for future CPAs (Certified Public Accountants). For jobseekers, embracing D&I signals cultural fit—check average professor salaries varying by institution diversity focus.

  • Tip 1: Craft a D&I statement in your CV highlighting experiences mentoring underrepresented students; reference it when applying via higher ed jobs platforms.
  • Tip 2: Join affinity groups like the AAA's Women in Accounting or AICPA's minority scholarships for networking—vital for global pathways.
  • Tip 3: Rate and learn from diverse Accounting professors on Rate My Professor to identify inclusive departments; explore Rate My Professor for real student insights.

Examples include Howard University's strong Black faculty presence in Accounting and the University of Texas's DEI hiring surges post-2020. Students, consider D&I-focused courses at top institutions like Wharton or LSE. For career advice, visit higher ed career advice. Learn more from trusted sources like AICPA Diversity & Inclusions or AAA Diversity Insights.

🤝 Important Clubs, Societies, and Networks in Accounting

Joining professional clubs, societies, and networks in Accounting is a game-changer for students and jobseekers alike. These groups offer invaluable networking, skill-building workshops, research collaborations, conference access, and job postings that propel careers forward—whether you're pursuing Accounting faculty jobs, adjunct roles, or doctoral studies. For novices, think of them as communities where beginners learn fundamentals like Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP, the standard framework for financial reporting in the US) alongside experts. Participation signals commitment on your CV, aids in securing recommendations for tenure-track positions, and connects you to mentors. Students gain internships and honors; faculty find collaborators for publications. Start locally via university chapters, then go global. Pro tip: Attend virtual events first to build confidence, and check Rate My Professor for Accounting faculty insights before networking.

American Accounting Association (AAA)

The premier hub for Accounting academics worldwide, with over 9,000 members. Benefits include annual meetings, journals like The Accounting Review, research funding, and job boards crucial for faculty hires. Significance: Boosts scholarly output, vital for promotions. Join via aaahq.org ($200/year for professionals; student rates $40). Advice: Present papers early to gain visibility.

Beta Alpha Psi (BAP)

International honor society for Accounting, finance, and info systems students at 300+ chapters. Offers scholarships, CPA exam prep, and employer recruiting. Key for undergrads entering faculty paths via honors distinction. Lifetime membership ~$100 initiation. Visit bap.org. Advice: Excel in 12 Accounting credits for eligibility; network at chapter events for grad school recs.

Institute of Management Accountants (IMA)

Focuses on management Accounting (strategic cost analysis for businesses). 140,000+ members get CMA certification, webinars, and salary surveys (e.g., median CMA salary $128K in 2023). Ideal for faculty teaching managerial topics. Join at imanet.org ($295/year). Tip: Use their global chapters for international job leads via higher-ed faculty jobs.

Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA)

Global body with 252,000 members in 180 countries, emphasizing international standards like IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards). Offers qualifications, ethics training, and career resources. Great for non-US faculty. Membership from £100/year. See accaglobal.com. Advice: Pair with local CPA for hybrid roles; attend webinars for trends.

Accounting & Financial Women's Alliance (AFWA)

Supports women in Accounting via mentorship, leadership summits, and scholarships. 9,000+ members tackle gender gaps (women hold 22% partner roles per 2023 stats). Valuable for diverse faculty hires. Dues $200/year at afwa.org. Tip: Leverage for work-life balance advice in academia; link to professor salaries data.

American Institute of CPAs (AICPA)

Represents 400,000+ CPAs (Certified Public Accountants, licensed pros handling audits/taxes). Provides CPE credits, advocacy, and tools for faculty curricula. Essential for US-focused teaching. Join via aicpa.org ($345/year). Advice: Volunteer on committees for resume boosts toward higher-ed career advice.

These networks have driven career leaps—e.g., AAA alumni dominate top Accounting programs. Explore Rate My Professor for member faculty ratings and tailor your involvement to boost prospects in competitive fields.

Resources for Accounting Jobseekers and Students

Discover essential tools and platforms tailored for aspiring Accounting professionals, from faculty jobseekers pursuing tenure-track roles to students building foundational skills in financial reporting and auditing. These resources provide certifications, career data, networking opportunities, and educational pathways to launch your career in academia or industry.

  • 📚 American Accounting Association (AAA): This leading organization for accounting academics offers research journals, annual meetings, job placement services, and teaching resources. Use it to access the Placement Center for faculty positions in Accounting departments, network with professors, and stay updated on trends like sustainability accounting. It's helpful for jobseekers targeting university roles, providing insider advice on CVs and interviews. Advice: Join as a student member for discounted access to webinars. Visit AAA.
  • 📊 AICPA (American Institute of CPAs): Delivers certification prep for CPA (Certified Public Accountant), the gold standard for auditors and tax experts, plus job boards and salary surveys. Students use free study guides; jobseekers apply CPA credentials to stand out in faculty searches. Helpful for understanding qualifications like 150 credit hours needed for licensure. Advice: Pair with AcademicJobs.com professor salaries data showing Accounting faculty earning $120K-$200K. Explore AICPA.
  • 🌍 ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants): Global qualification for international Accounting careers, covering 13 exams on ethics, taxation, and strategy. Ideal for students eyeing UK/EU faculty jobs; use mock exams and career hubs. Helpful for non-US paths where ACCA boosts employability. Advice: Combine with higher ed jobs searches. ACCA Global.
  • 💼 Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): Provides free data on Accounting occupations, projecting 4% growth through 2032 with median pay at $78,000, higher for professors. Jobseekers analyze regional demand; students track trends like forensic accounting. Helpful for location decisions, e.g., high salaries in California. Advice: Cross-reference with US California jobs. BLS Outlook.
  • Rate My Professor: Reviews from students on Accounting faculty nationwide, revealing teaching styles at top schools like Wharton or UT Austin. Use to research mentors or departments before applying. Helpful for gauging program culture. Advice: Search Accounting profs via AcademicJobs.com Rate My Professor integration for job prep.
  • 🎓 Higher Ed Career Advice: AcademicJobs.com hub with guides on adjunct roles, CV writing, and lecturer paths. Offers tips for Accounting interviews, like discussing IFRS (International Financial Reporting Standards). Helpful for beginners navigating PhD-to-faculty transitions. Advice: Read on lecturer earnings up to $115K; link to become a lecturer.
  • 🔗 Coursera Accounting Specializations: Free/paid courses from universities like University of Pennsylvania on managerial accounting basics. Students build portfolios; jobseekers upskill for adjunct gigs. Helpful for self-paced learning on double-entry bookkeeping. Advice: Earn certificates for adjunct professor jobs. Start on Coursera.

🚀 Unlock the Lucrative World of Accounting: Endless Opportunities Await!

Pursuing a career or education in Accounting opens doors to financial stability, intellectual challenge, and professional respect worldwide. Whether you're a student eyeing a versatile degree or a jobseeker aiming for faculty roles, the field offers robust job prospects driven by constant demand for financial expertise amid evolving regulations and technologies like blockchain and AI-driven auditing. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than average, with over 130,000 openings annually due to retirements and business expansion.

Salaries stand out as a major draw: entry-level accountants earn around $60,000-$80,000 USD globally, but Accounting faculty command premium pay. In the US, assistant professors average $165,000, associates $200,000, and full professors exceed $250,000 annually (2023 AAUP data), varying by institution prestige and location—higher in tech hubs like San Francisco or financial centers like New York. Check professor salaries on AcademicJobs.com for detailed breakdowns by rank and region.

  • 💰 High Earning Potential: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)—a prestigious credential requiring a bachelor's degree, 150 credit hours, and passing a rigorous exam—boost salaries by 10-15%. Leverage this by pursuing CPA certification early for academia or industry transitions.
  • 🤝 Networking Powerhouse: Join organizations like the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) or global bodies like ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) for connections that lead to faculty positions. Attend conferences or use Rate My Professor to research mentors in top programs.
  • 🏆 Prestige and Stability: Accounting roles weather economic downturns, offering prestige in boardrooms and classrooms. Examples include alumni from University of Texas at Austin's McCombs School or University of Illinois Gies College leading at Big Four firms (Deloitte, PwC) before academia.
  • 🌍 Global Mobility: Skills transfer across borders; UK lecturers earn £50,000-£80,000, while Australia's demand surges in Sydney (Sydney).

To maximize outcomes, build a strong foundation with a master's or PhD for faculty paths—explore faculty jobs and career advice. Students, rate courses via Rate My Professor at institutions like Wharton or LSE. Visit the BLS Accountants page or AICPA for more insights. Start today on Accounting jobs!

🎓 Perspectives on Accounting from Professionals and Students

Gaining insights into the world of Accounting from those who live it daily can profoundly shape your academic and career decisions. Students frequently share on RateMyProfessor that standout Accounting professors excel at demystifying intricate concepts like Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), often using practical examples from Fortune 500 companies such as KPMG or Ernst & Young. High-rated instructors, averaging 4.2 out of 5 stars across top business schools, emphasize interactive case studies and group projects that mirror real auditing scenarios, helping novices build confidence from zero knowledge.

Professionals in Accounting faculty roles echo these sentiments, highlighting the thrill of mentoring future Certified Public Accountants (CPAs). Seasoned academics advise jobseekers pursuing Accounting faculty jobs to blend PhD research in emerging areas like forensic accounting or sustainability reporting with industry certifications. One common tip from professor salaries data discussions: expect median earnings of $130,000-$180,000 annually in the US, rising at institutions like the University of Texas or Wharton, but networking via conferences is key to landing roles amid a 6% projected growth through 2032 per Bureau of Labor Statistics.

To aid your choices, explore RateMyProfessor reviews for Accounting courses at your target schools—look for professors with strong "clarity" and "helpfulness" scores above 4.0. Students recommend avoiding overly theoretical lecturers; instead, seek those with practical experience. Aspiring faculty should check higher ed career advice on crafting CVs that showcase publications in journals like The Accounting Review. For global perspectives, review faculty at specialized programs like the London School of Economics. Actionable advice: Start by rating your own professors on RateMyProfessor to contribute to the community while scouting mentors. This blend of student feedback and pro wisdom equips you to thrive in Accounting academia.

Ready to apply? Browse higher ed faculty jobs and higher ed jobs for openings that match your expertise.

Associations for Accounting

Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What qualifications do I need for Accounting faculty?

A PhD in Accounting (or related field like finance with accounting focus) is required for tenure-track accounting faculty positions at universities. Most candidates also hold a CPA license, demonstrating expertise in auditing and tax. Research publications in top journals, teaching experience as a graduate assistant, and sometimes a master's in accountancy strengthen applications. For non-tenure roles at community colleges, a master's suffices. Build credentials via PhD programs at strong institutions and check RateMyProfessor for professor insights.

💼What is the career pathway in Accounting?

The accounting career pathway begins with a bachelor's in accounting, followed by a master's (MAcc) for CPA eligibility. Pursue a PhD (4-6 years) focusing on research. Post-PhD, enter the academic job market through conferences like AAA Job Market, securing assistant professor roles. Advance to associate professor after 5-7 years with tenure, then full professor. Alternative paths include industry experience at Big Four firms before academia. Explore openings on AcademicJobs.com.

💰What salaries can I expect in Accounting?

Accounting faculty salaries are attractive: assistant professors average $150,000-$190,000, associates $180,000-$240,000, and full professors $220,000-$350,000+, per surveys from BYU and AACSB. Top schools like Stanford offer higher, with bonuses for research. Public universities pay slightly less but include benefits like TIAA retirement. Location impacts totals—Northeast higher base, South better purchasing power. Factors like publications boost offers.

🏫What are top institutions for Accounting?

Leading accounting programs include University of Pennsylvania (Wharton), Stanford GSB, University of Chicago Booth, UT Austin McCombs, University of Illinois Gies, and University of Michigan Ross. These excel in research output and placement. For niche areas like tax, try UNC Kenan-Flagler; forensic accounting at West Virginia University. Students and jobseekers benefit from strong networks—review faculty on RateMyProfessor.

📍How does location affect Accounting jobs?

Location shapes accounting faculty jobs: high-cost areas like New York (NYU, Columbia) and California (UCLA, Berkeley) offer $200k+ salaries but intense competition. Texas (UT Austin, Rice) balances pay (~$160k avg) with lower living costs. Midwest hubs like Chicago Booth provide research focus. Coastal cities integrate fintech; South emphasizes public accounting. Search New York jobs or California jobs on AcademicJobs.com.

📚What courses do Accounting students typically take?

Core courses: Principles of Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Intermediate Accounting I/II, Auditing, Federal Taxation, Cost Accounting. Advanced: Business Law, Governmental Accounting, International Accounting, Data Analytics for Accountants. Electives cover forensics or sustainability. These build skills for CPA exams and faculty prep.

🎯How to prepare for the Accounting faculty job market?

Excel in PhD with 3+ publications, strong teaching evals, and conference presentations. Network at AAA meetings, tailor CV to research fit. Practice job talks. Use AcademicJobs.com for listings and RateMyProfessor to research departments.

👍What are the benefits of an Accounting professor career?

Benefits include job security post-tenure, flexible schedules, sabbaticals, consulting income, and impacting students. Competitive pay, health benefits, and retirement match. Contribute to policy via research.

📜Is a CPA required for Accounting faculty roles?

Not always required but highly valued, especially for teaching practice-oriented courses. About 70% of faculty hold it. Straight-PhD paths exist for research-focused roles.

How can RateMyProfessor aid Accounting career decisions?

It offers student reviews on professors' teaching clarity, fairness, and expertise. Use it to select programs, avoid mismatches, and identify mentors for PhD apps or job hunts.

🇺🇸What are the best states for Accounting faculty jobs?

Texas, California, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania lead in openings and rankings. Texas grows fast; California innovates in tech accounting.
276 Jobs Found

Foothill-De Anza Community College District

12345 El Monte Rd, Los Altos Hills, CA 94022, USA
Academic / Faculty
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Closes: Mar 28, 2026

University of Tampa

University of Tampa, Tampa, FL 33606, USA
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Closes: Mar 28, 2026

The Ohio State University

Columbus, OH, USA
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Closes: Feb 12, 2026

Community College of Allegheny County

595 Beatty Rd, Monroeville, PA 15146, USA
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Closes: Mar 24, 2026
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