Best Accounting Programs in Phoenix

Key Takeaways

• Phoenix offers a wide range of accredited accounting programs, from affordable community college pathways to nationally ranked business schools.
• The top programs combine strong CPA exam preparation, flexible online or hybrid formats, and local employer connections.
• Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and Maricopa Community Colleges are leading options for accounting degrees in the Valley.
• Students can pursue accounting degrees from associate to master’s levels, depending on career goals and CPA licensure requirements in Arizona.

Best Accounting Programs in Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona, is one of the nation’s fastest-growing business hubs. For aspiring accountants, that translates into an active job market, strong median salaries, and accessible accounting programs across the metro area. The best accounting programs in Phoenix combine rigorous academics with real-world experience, providing pathways toward CPA certification and long-term career success.

How We Ranked These Programs

The programs featured here were evaluated using five key criteria relevant to prospective students:

1. Accreditation: AACSB or ACBSP accreditation ensures academic quality and employer recognition.
2. CPA Readiness: Alignment with Arizona’s CPA licensure requirements (150 semester hours with specific accounting coursework).
3. Cost and Value: Tuition rates and financial aid options for in-state and online learners.
4. Flexibility: Availability of on-campus, online, or hybrid formats.
5. Career Outcomes: Graduate placement rates, industry partnerships, and average earnings.

Top Accounting Programs in Phoenix

1. Arizona State University – W. P. Carey School of Business

Degrees Offered: BS in Accountancy, Master of Accountancy (MACC), and Master of Taxation (MTax)

Accreditation: AACSB

Location: Downtown Phoenix and Tempe campuses; online options available

The W. P. Carey School of Business consistently ranks among the nation’s best for undergraduate and graduate accounting. The program develops a strong foundation in cost accounting, auditing, and managerial finance while emphasizing analytics and ethics. The MACC and MTax programs are highly sought-after, often leading to Big Four job offers. ASU’s robust internship network connects students with top employers like Deloitte, KPMG, and Ernst & Young.

Estimated Tuition: $11,600 per year (in-state undergraduate)

2. Grand Canyon University – Colangelo College of Business

Degrees Offered: BS in Accounting, BS in Applied Business Analytics, MBA with Accounting emphasis

Accreditation: ACBSP

Location: West Phoenix campus and fully online

Grand Canyon University (GCU) offers flexible accounting degrees that cater to working professionals. The BS in Accounting combines technical accounting knowledge with leadership and ethics courses, aligning with current CPA exam competencies. The online delivery model allows students to complete coursework asynchronously, making it ideal for students balancing work and education.

Estimated Tuition: $16,500 per year

3. University of Phoenix

Degrees Offered: BS in Accounting, MS in Accountancy

Accreditation: ACBSP

Location: Phoenix campus and online

The University of Phoenix focuses on career-oriented learning with practical coursework in auditing, taxation, and business systems. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized guidance, and accelerated formats. The program aligns with Arizona’s CPA requirements and includes tools for exam preparation. Its flexible structure appeals to adult learners seeking career advancement or a mid-career pivot into accounting.

Estimated Tuition: $398 per credit hour

4. Paradise Valley Community College (Maricopa Community Colleges District)

Degrees Offered: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting, Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Accounting

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Location: North Phoenix

As part of the Maricopa Community Colleges, Paradise Valley offers affordable entry-level pathways in accounting. The AAS in Accounting prepares graduates for bookkeeping and staff accounting roles or seamless transfer into a bachelor’s program at universities like ASU or GCU. The program emphasizes QuickBooks, tax fundamentals, and managerial accounting.

Estimated Tuition: $97 per credit (in-district)

5. Glendale Community College

Degrees Offered: AAS in Accounting, Transfer Pathway to ASU or NAU

Accreditation: HLC

Location: Glendale (Northwest Phoenix)

Glendale Community College (GCC) offers one of the most structured community college accounting programs in the Valley, designed to transition smoothly into Arizona’s top universities. Students gain hands-on experience with financial software, tax prep, and analytics, and can complete general education requirements affordably before transferring.

Estimated Tuition: $2,500 per year (in-state full-time)

6. Arizona Christian University

Degrees Offered: BS in Accounting

Accreditation: HLC

Location: North Phoenix

This private university integrates a liberal arts framework with a focus on ethics and stewardship in business. The BS in Accounting curriculum covers auditing, cost analysis, and corporate reporting with a mission-driven perspective. Students often pursue roles in nonprofit and faith-based organizations as well as corporate accounting.

Estimated Tuition: $31,000 per year

Comparing Phoenix Accounting Programs

Institution Degree Options Accreditation Format Approx. Annual Cost (In-State) Arizona State University BS, MACC, MTax AACSB Campus/Online $11,600 Grand Canyon University BS, MBA (Accounting) ACBSP Campus/Online $16,500 University of Phoenix BS, MS ACBSP Campus/Online $398/credit Paradise Valley CC AAS, CCL HLC Campus $97/credit Glendale CC AAS HLC Campus $2,500 Arizona Christian University BS HLC Campus $31,000

Path to Becoming a CPA in Arizona

To become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Arizona, candidates must complete 150 semester hours of college-level education, including at least 36 hours in accounting-related coursework. Applicants then pass the Uniform CPA Exam, administered by the Arizona State Board of Accountancy. Most Phoenix-area programs, particularly ASU’s W. P. Carey and GCU’s accounting degrees, are structured to help graduates meet these requirements. Combining a bachelor’s with a master’s, or completing a dual-degree track, is a common path to fulfill the 150-hour rule.

Job Outlook for Accountants in Phoenix

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for accountants and auditors in Arizona is projected to grow about 6% through 2031, outpacing national averages. The Phoenix metro area offers strong employment opportunities in sectors such as technology, construction, healthcare, and government contracting. The median salary for accountants in the region is approximately $73,000 per year, with top earners exceeding $110,000. Graduates from AACSB-accredited programs often secure higher-paying roles in public accounting or corporate finance.

Why Study Accounting in Phoenix

• Network-rich environment: The city hosts major CPA firms and Fortune 500 companies, creating abundant internship opportunities.
• Affordable education options: Community colleges provide a low-cost starting point, while public universities offer strong ROI.
• Growing economy: Phoenix’s expanding finance and business services sectors drive steady demand for accounting professionals.
• Flexible learning: Most institutions now include hybrid or online options tailored for working adults.

Choosing the Right Program

When selecting an accounting program in Phoenix, prioritize accreditation and CPA exam alignment. Evaluate transfer pathways if beginning at a community college and consider the total cost to reach 150 credit hours. Students planning corporate or public accounting careers will benefit most from universities with AACSB accreditation and established employer partnerships. Meanwhile, working adults or career changers may prefer GCU or University of Phoenix for online flexibility.

Frequently Asked Questions about Accounting Programs in Phoenix

What accounting degrees can you earn in Phoenix?

In Phoenix, you can earn accounting degrees from the associate level up to the master’s level. Options include AAS and certificates at community colleges, BS degrees at universities, and graduate programs such as MACC, MTax, and MS in Accountancy.

Which Phoenix schools are known for strong accounting programs?

Arizona State University’s W. P. Carey School of Business, Grand Canyon University, and the Maricopa Community Colleges (such as Paradise Valley and Glendale) are well-regarded options for accounting degrees in the Phoenix area.

How do Phoenix accounting programs prepare you for the CPA in Arizona?

Many Phoenix programs align their coursework with Arizona’s CPA rules, which require 150 semester hours and at least 36 hours of accounting credits. Schools like ASU and GCU often structure bachelor’s and master’s paths to help you reach the 150-hour requirement and prepare for the Uniform CPA Exam.

Are there affordable ways to start an accounting degree in Phoenix?

Yes. Community colleges in the Maricopa Community Colleges District, such as Paradise Valley and Glendale, offer low-cost AAS and certificate programs. You can complete your first two years there and then transfer to a university like ASU or GCU to finish a bachelor’s degree.

Can you study accounting online in Phoenix?

You have several online or hybrid options. Arizona State University, Grand Canyon University, and the University of Phoenix all offer online accounting programs designed for flexibility, including formats that work well for full-time employees or career changers.

What is the job outlook and salary for accountants in Phoenix?

Accounting jobs in Arizona are projected to grow by about 6% through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the Phoenix metro area, the median salary for accountants is around $73,000 per year, with experienced professionals earning more than $110,000.