Accounting
The universal language of business - precision meets impact
Every business, government, and nonprofit needs accountants. Accounting provides a rock-solid career foundation with clear certification paths (CPA, CMA), recession-resistant demand, and pathways to executive leadership. Forensic accounting and data-driven auditing are transforming the field with exciting new opportunities.
An auditor's day begins with reviewing client workpapers and testing internal controls. Tax professionals research code changes and prepare returns. Forensic accountants investigate unusual transactions. The busy season (January-April) involves 55-70 hour weeks, but off-season offers better work-life balance. Many firms offer compressed summer schedules.
Salary Progression by Role
Job Growth Projection (2024-2034)
Strongest Dimensions for This Major
Quantitative
Avg: 4.5/5.0
Analytical
Avg: 4.3/5.0
Systems
Avg: 3.9/5.0
Accounting Knowledge Quiz
Test Your Accounting Knowledge
6 questions covering core concepts, terminology, and real-world applications in accounting.
Top Employers for Accounting
Entry-Level Roles
Entry-Level Roles
Entry-Level Roles
Entry-Level Roles
Entry-Level Roles
Key Skills to Develop
Internships & Opportunities (8)
Support audit engagements for mid-market and enterprise clients.
Prepare tax returns and research tax code changes for corporate clients.
Help prepare tax returns and learn the fundamentals of tax code.
Shadow experienced CPAs during busy season to learn real-world accounting.
Provide free tax preparation for underserved communities through the IRS volunteer program.
Support risk advisory engagements and internal controls testing for enterprise clients.
Assist internal audit team with SOX compliance and operational audits.
Assist professors researching fraud detection methods and financial irregularities.
Recommended College Programs (12)
McCombs School of Business consistently ranked top 20 nationally.
Mays Business School with strong alumni network and career placement.
Kelley School is a top 10 undergraduate business program.
Warrington College offers exceptional value with low in-state tuition.
Gies College of Business with top 3 accounting program nationally.
Stern School of Business in the heart of Wall Street.
Ross School of Business - world-class action-based learning.
Strong transfer pathway to UT Austin with guaranteed admission tracks.
Excellent business foundations with transfer agreements to Texas universities.
Transfer agreements with University of Houston and other Texas 4-year institutions.
Largest community college in Texas with strong transfer advising and business coursework.
Part of Alamo Colleges with transfer pathways to UTSA, Texas State, and Texas A&M.
Ready to explore more pathways?
Take the full 30-question Major Match Quiz to see how you fit across all 8 business majors.