You can become a CPA without an accounting degree by completing required accounting coursework, passing the CPA exam, and meeting experience and ethics requirements set by your state board. Most states allow non-accounting majors if they complete 150 credit hours, including specified accounting subjects.
Overview: Becoming a CPA Without an Accounting Degree
You do not need an accounting degree to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in several U.S. states. However, you must meet education, exam, and experience requirements set by state boards.
- A bachelor’s degree is mandatory.
- You must earn specific accounting credit hours (usually 15–24).
- You need to pass all parts of the Uniform CPA Examination.
- At least one year of verified accounting experience is required.
- You must pass an ethics exam, such as the AICPA Ethics Exam.
Non-accounting majors including those in finance, business administration, or economics — often qualify after completing additional college credits in accounting.
CPA Requirements: Education and Experience Breakdown
CPA licensure is handled by individual state boards of accountancy. Each has its own education and experience requirements, but most follow a similar structure:
Table: How to Become a CPA Without a Degree in Accounting
| Step | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Check State Requirements | Only five states (Alaska, Georgia, Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts) allow non-accounting degrees. |
| 2. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree | A bachelor’s degree is required, but the major does not have to be accounting in those states. |
| 3. Complete Accounting Coursework | You must complete a specific number of accounting credit hours (ranges from 15–24 depending on the state). |
| 4. Gain Professional Experience | At least one year of professional accounting experience is required. |
| 5. Pass the CPA Exam | All candidates must pass all four sections of the Uniform CPA Examination. |
| 6. Apply for Licensure | Submit proof of education, experience, and exam results to the state board for licensure. |
Educational Requirements: Accounting Coursework Without an Accounting Major
Even if your degree is not in accounting, you must complete core accounting courses. These may include:
- Financial accounting
- Auditing
- Tax preparation
- Business law
- Cost accounting
You must complete 150 total credit hours, with 15–24 credits in upper division accounting courses. These can come from:
- Accredited online courses
- Community colleges
- Post-baccalaureate certificates
- Additional undergraduate coursework
Accredited institutions must issue all transcripts.
Experience Requirements: Work Under a Licensed CPA
To get a certified public accountant license, you need at least one year (2,000 hours) of relevant accounting experience. This experience must be:
- Supervised by a licensed CPA
- In public, corporate, or government accounting roles
- Involving tasks like financial analysis, tax preparation, or auditing
Accepted job settings include:
- Public accounting firms
- Corporate accounting departments
- Government agencies
The CPA Exam: Passing All Four Sections
All CPA candidates must pass the Uniform CPA Examination, which includes four parts:
- Auditing and Attestation (AUD)
- Business Environment and Concepts (BEC)
- Financial Accounting and Reporting (FAR)
- Regulation (REG)
The exam includes:
- Multiple-choice questions
- Task-based simulations
- Written communication tasks (in BEC)
Most states require you to complete your accounting coursework before applying for the CPA exam. Use CPA review courses to improve pass rates.
CPA exam application must be submitted through NASBA or your state board.
CPA Licensure: Final Steps to Get Certified
After passing the exam and fulfilling your experience requirement:
- Submit your application for CPA licensure to your state board.
- Provide proof of education, experience, and exam scores.
- Complete the ethics exam, such as the AICPA Ethics Exam.
Once licensed, you receive the CPA designation and can begin practicing as a certified public accountant.
Many states also require Continuing Professional Education (CPE) to maintain your license.
Common Paths for Non-Accounting Majors
Non-accounting majors can become CPAs if they:
- Hold a business administration, finance, or economics degree
- Complete required accounting courses
- Pass all CPA requirements
These paths are ideal for:
- Career changers with a background in financial services
- Certified Management Accountants (CMA) looking to gain CPA certification
- International Certified Professional Accountants working toward U.S. credentials
FAQs (and Answers) About Becoming a CPA Without an Accounting Degree
Below are common questions we get asked.
Can I use online or community college courses to fulfill the required accounting credits?
Yes. Accredited online or community college courses count, as long as they meet the state’s educational requirements.
If my bachelor’s degree is from a foreign country, can I still become a CPA in these states?
Yes, but your credentials must be evaluated by an approved agency for U.S. equivalency and subject match.
Do the required accounting credits have to be completed before taking the CPA exam, or can I finish them after?
Most states require completion before the exam, but a few allow you to finish coursework before applying for CPA licensure.
Can professional certifications (like CMA or CIA) substitute for accounting coursework requirements?
No. Certifications do not replace accounting credit hours, but they may support your career path and experience.
What are the most commonly accepted non-accounting degrees for CPA eligibility in these states?
Finance, business administration, and economics are most common. You still must complete the accounting coursework.
If I become a CPA in one of these states, can I transfer my license to another state that requires an accounting degree?
Maybe. License mobility depends on the state’s rules. You may need extra coursework or meet other CPA requirements.
Tips for Success Without an Accounting Background
To succeed without an accounting degree:
- Use CPA review courses like Becker or Wiley
- Choose online courses from accredited colleges
- Get experience in corporate accounting, tax preparation, or audit roles
- Join AICPA or your state’s CPA society for resources
Resources
- AICPA (American Institute of CPAs): Provides the ethics exam and national standards
- NASBA (National Association of State Boards of Accountancy): Handles exam registration
- State Boards of Accountancy: Approve licensure applications
- Accredited Colleges and Universities: Offer required accounting coursework
- CPA Review Course Providers: Help prepare for all CPA exam sections
Conclusion
Becoming a CPA without an accounting degree is possible in five U.S. states, but you must still meet education, exam, and experience requirements. Complete the necessary accounting courses, gain professional experience, pass the Uniform CPA Examination, and apply for CPA licensure.
Focus on accredited learning, use available resources, and follow your state’s rules to earn your certified public accountant license even without an accounting degree.
