Accounting Schools in Idaho

This outline of accounting schools in Idaho contains information about the accounting schools and programs available in the state. Numerous public and private schools in Idaho offer undergraduate and graduate programs designed to prepare you for a career in the accounting field. Prospective students can choose between different types of degrees, specializations, and academic offerings. Read on below to find out more information about accounting school rankings, career possibilities, and professional licensure in Idaho.

Quick Facts

• 10 not-for-profit colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in Idaho.¹
• 6 schools offer a certificate in accounting.¹
• 6 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.¹
• 7 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.¹
• 4 schools offer a graduate degree in accounting.¹
• No schools ranked in College Factual’s Best Accounting Schools 2023.²
• No schools ranked in the Princeton Review’s Best Colleges for Accounting Majors 2023.³
• No programs ranked in US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs 2023.⁴
• 1 school ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023.⁵
• No schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2022-2023⁶
• 3 schools are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in Business and Accounting.⁷
• 1 accounting program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).⁸
• 1 school has an accounting program accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).⁹

Comparison of Idaho Accounting Schools and Programs

The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in Idaho to help you compare your options. Programs that appear in bold text offer hybrid or online options. For further school statistics, including median SAT, ACT, and GMAT scores, see our Idaho business schools page.

Table Notes:
*Median Debt: The median debt is the cumulative federal loan debt, excluding PLUS loans, at the time of graduation for students who completed an undergraduate program (certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree) as reported by College Scorecard for academic year 2020-2021 based on ​​National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) data.
**Median Earnings 10 Years After Entry: Median earnings are the middle value of earnings, at which half earned more and half earned less, measured 10 years (2020-2021) after the first year of study (2010-2011) for all students, institution-wide, who received federal loans and who are employed but not enrolled in school. Note that this value includes those who completed their program of study as well as those who discontinued study without receiving an award.

Top-Ranked Accounting Schools in Idaho

College rankings can be a useful tool to measure the overall reputation of a school or program. Weighing multiple rankings when evaluating your college choices can be helpful because different publishers may use different ranking factors in their methodologies. While the best program for your goals may rely on a combination of factors not typically considered in overall rankings, such as location or funding, seeing a program ranked on multiple lists can be a strong indication of reputation and academic quality.

US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023

• Boise State University (#24 tie)⁵

Highest First-Time CPA Exam Pass Rate with a Bachelor’s Degree

The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases reports including data on candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.¹¹ The following schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in Idaho in 2019 (the most recent report available*) for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall pass rate for first-time test-takers in Idaho being 57.8%:

1. Brigham Young University Idaho 66.9%
2. University of Idaho 56.4%
3. Idaho State University 55.6%
4. Lewis-Clark State College 52.9%

*As NASBA makes significant changes to the CPA Exam as part of the CPA Evolution initiative, new candidate score reports by state are not anticipated until at least mid-2024.

Schools in Idaho with Accounting Degrees

To give you an idea of the breadth and depth of accounting degrees offered in Idaho, we have profiled select programs below. Be sure to visit the websites of programs of interest for more detailed information on courses, admissions requirements and deadlines, and faculty.

Undergraduate Accounting Programs

Brigham Young University Idaho

Students at Brigham Young University Idaho (BYUI) can complete a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. Students learn a combination of functional knowledge, technical and analytical accounting skills, and professional tools to succeed in the accounting industry. The core curriculum covers accounting fundamentals and other interdisciplinary subjects for a well-rounded perspective on business. Students also learn how to use current computer technology, accounting software, auditing standards, and tax law databases that are commonly utilized in the field. All students complete an internship experience in their junior or senior year, and undergraduates can also seek out professional opportunities through the Student Accounting Society. Graduates from BYUI can go on to pursue an advanced accounting degree or seek entry-level positions in the accounting field.

Idaho State University

At Idaho State University’s (ISU) College of Business, students can earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Accounting Technology or a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Accounting. The AAS program focuses on software, communication, and research skills to prepare students for entry-level accounting positions. Required courses include Payroll Procedures and Computerized Accounting. Students in the BBA program can add an optional area of emphasis in Data Analytics or Operations Management. The curriculum teaches broad business concepts and accounting fundamentals through courses such as Intermediate Accounting, Auditing, and Accounting Information Systems. The coursework also emphasizes applicable skills in auditing, assurance, and taxation. ISU offers experiential learning opportunities through internships and local networking or professional development events. Graduates from the BBA program can pursue further advanced study or find entry-level positions in companies, government, or not-for-profit organizations. ISU also offers an Intermediate Technical Certificate in Accounting Technology that can be completed in one year. Undergraduate students interested in graduate-level study can pursue ISU’s Master of Accountancy (MAcc) or Master of Business Administration (MBA) with an Accounting Emphasis.

The College of Idaho

At The College of Idaho, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting. The curriculum begins with a well-rounded liberal arts foundation and offers students the option to add two specializations to their degree in areas such as finance, business, or marketing. All students must choose three minors to complement their major program. Approximately one-third of the 124-credit BA in Accounting program is dedicated to major-specific coursework, with the rest consisting of electives and classes required for the minors. Accounting students must take required classes such as Financial Accounting, Tax Accounting, Legal Environment, and Principles of Finance in addition to completing an accounting internship. The College also offers a 150-credit Accounting major that takes five years to complete and meets the educational requirement for CPA licensure. Graduates from this program are prepared for careers in the public and private sectors, government, and business.

Graduate Accounting Programs

Boise State University

Boise State University’s (BSU) College of Business and Economics offers a Master of Science (MS) in Accountancy degree with the option to add an emphasis in Infomation Systems and Controls or Taxation. Courses are offered on-campus in a combination of daytime and evening classes. Students interested in the CPA designation can complete this program to fulfill state educational requirements and be prepared to sit for the examination. Coursework covers accounting principles and industry procedures as well as the financial, managerial, legal, and tax ramifications of business transactions. In addition to advanced knowledge in auditing, accounting, and taxation, the curriculum also emphasizes how to communicate this knowledge in order to make business decisions. Through classes such as Advanced Auditing and Accounting and Financial Analytics, students learn a combination of technical expertise and business fundamentals that is necessary to succeed in the accounting field. BSU also offers a concurrent MS in Accountancy with a Taxation Emphasis (MSAT) and Juris Doctorate (JD) program.

University of Idaho

The College of Business and Economics at the University of Idaho (U of I) offers a Master of Accountancy (M.Acct.) degree. The core curriculum focuses on advanced accounting knowledge as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Coursework also emphasizes research techniques and interpersonal skills for collaboration and teamwork. Students have the option to add an emphasis in Audit and Fraud Examination or Taxation, allowing them to tailor their degrees to suit their interests and career goals. Required courses for the M.Acct. program include Accounting for Public Sector Entities, Fraud Examination, and Comparative Accounting Theory. Students can also complete hands-on learning opportunities through internships, college clubs, or international study abroad experiences. These real-world experiences can count for academic credit and allow students to gain work experience before even graduating. U of I also offers a concurrent M.Acct. and Juris Doctorate (JD) program for students interested in studying both law and accountancy.

Online and Hybrid Accounting Programs in Idaho

Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College (LC State) offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting entirely online. LC State’s accounting curriculum is based on the Common Body of Knowledge recommended by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA) and focuses on concepts related to accounting, marketing, finance, and management. Online accounting students take required core courses such as Principles of Accounting, Auditing Concepts, Business Law, and Financial Management. These classes emphasize accounting fundamentals as well as critical thinking skills. Students learn the accounting processes necessary to report, understand, and communicate business operations and decisions. Graduates from LC State can go on to pursue further graduate study or technical or specialist entry-level positions in public, private, governmental, or not-for-profit accounting.

Northwest Nazarene University

Students can complete an Associate of Arts (AA) in Accounting and an accelerated BS in Accounting through Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) entirely online. Both programs can be finished in as few as two years, although students in the AA program with transfer credits may finish in even less time The core curriculum for both programs includes courses such as Financial Accounting; Managerial Accounting; Income Taxation; and Non-Profit and Governmental Accounting. Coursework is flexible and can be customized based on students’ schedules, but online students are encouraged to work together and form an online community. NNU also offers an online Master of Accountancy (MAcc) program with tracks in Management Accounting and Public Accounting. This 30-credit program can be completed in as few as 11 months for students with an undergraduate degree in accounting. Required courses include Managerial and Cost Accounting; Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination; and Accounting and Tax Compliance Research. Graduates of this program are prepared to sit for the CPA or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) examination and meet the educational requirement for CPA licensure.

Related Articles:

• Business Schools in Idaho
• Online MBA Programs in Idaho

Idaho CPA Requirements

The Idaho State Board of Accountancy (the Board) requires that candidates for the Uniform CPA examination complete at least a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent at an accredited college or university with 30 semester hours in business administration and 20 hours in advanced accounting. After passing the CPA examination and meeting the 150-hour educational requirement, candidates must complete at least 2,000 hours, or one year, of work in public accounting that is verified by a licensed CPA. Finally, applicants can obtain their CPA license, which must be kept up-to-date through continuing professional education (CPE) hours.

Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates in Idaho

Accounting graduates in Idaho can choose from many different career paths in the state. Some graduates choose to start their own firms or small businesses, while others pursue positions with major accounting firms in Idaho such as Deloitte, Eide Bailly LLP, and CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen LLP). Major employers like Micron Technology, Hewlett-Packard Company, and Wells Fargo may need skilled accountants and financial advisors with technical accounting knowledge. Graduates may also find positions in governmental accounting, working for state or city governments, the FBI, or the Department of Defense.

Idaho Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

Idaho Schools with Accounting Degree Programs

Note: Student Reviews are based on the experiences of a few individuals and it is unlikely that you will have similar results. Please review the “Data, Student Reviews and Other Information” section in our Terms of Use and Disclaimers.

Brigham Young University-Idaho
525 S Center St
Rexburg, ID 83460
(208) 496-1411
https://www.byui.edu/

Student Review: “The Accounting program at Brigham Young University-Idaho was competitive, challenging, and educational. The program offered challenging classes that prepared the students for the real experience of working as an accountant. Although the classes were challenging they were also equally rewarding. The materials in most of the classes were used during an internship with Deloitte and Touche. The Excel spreadsheet class that was included in the curriculum was the most challenging with no use in the real world. Accounting information systems and the financial accounting classes were most enjoyable because of the teachers and it was designed to help us prepare for the CPA. The teachers were very flexible and generous with their time to the students. Each class had free tutors that helped with course materials and questions if the teachers were not available.” -Lucas J., student at Brigham Young University-Idaho

Idaho State University
921 S 8th Ave
Pocatello, ID 83209
(208) 282-0211
https://www.isu.edu/

Student Review: “I really enjoyed my schooling in the accounting program at Idaho State University. I felt that I learned a sufficient amount of material and skill to prepare me for the world of working as a CPA. Many of my professors were very difficult, had a very large knowledge base, and yet made the concepts seem simple for students learning about the topic for the first time. I really liked the professors that I had, especially the accounting and finance professors. One thing that I didn’t like about the overall experience was that I was required to take many management classes that I felt were superfluous. I had to take one to two management classes each semester in order to complete all of the college of business requirements for my degree. I felt that these classes didn’t add much to my knowledge base, but I thought instead that most of what was taught were simple leadership skills. Beyond that, I had no complaints about Idaho State University’s accounting program.” -Matthew B., student at Idaho State University

Related Accounting Degree State Pages:

• Montana
• Nevada
• Oregon
• Washington State
• Wyoming

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. College Factual Best Accounting Schools 2023: https://www.collegefactual.com/majors/business-management-marketing-sales/accounting/rankings/top-ranked/
3. The Princeton Review. The Best 382 Colleges 2023 Edition. Penguin Random House, 2022.
4. US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/accounting-rankings
5. US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/bachelors/online-bachelors-business-rankings
6. US News & World Report’s Best Undergraduate Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/business-accounting
7. Association to Advance College Schools of Business, Accredited Universities and Schools, Business & Accounting: https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited
8. Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, Accredited Schools, Separate Accounting: https://acbspsearch.org/
9. International Accreditation Council for Business Education, Members: https://iacbe.org/accreditation/member-status-information/results/
10. Department of Education College Scorecard: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/data/
11. The NASBA Candidate Performance Report, 2019 University Edition: https://nasbareport.com/
12. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Idaho: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_id.htm