Accounting Programs at Stony Brook: A Pathway to the CPA

accounting students and industry

A High-Demand Career with Strong Earning Potential

Accounting is more than just numbers—it’s a career path with stability, flexibility, and impressive growth potential.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for accountants and auditors is projected to grow 6% from 2023 to 2033, outpacing the average for all occupations. The field consistently earns recognition as one of the most desirable in business—U.S. News & World Report ranked accounting as the #11 Best Business Job for 2025.

In 2024, CNBC named accounting the #1 remote job, highlighting the profession’s adaptability and relevance in today’s evolving workplace.

Competitive Salaries Across Career Stages

Average U.S. salary for accountants: ~$68,000
Experienced professionals: $150,000–$200,000+ (ZipRecruiter)

Whether you're just starting out or looking to advance your career, accounting offers a strong return on investment and a wide range of opportunities in nearly every industry.

In New York and nearly every state, you must have 150 credit hours of study for CPA eligibility, 30 credits more than the typical undergraduate degree. Your 150 credits cannot just be any credits – they need to include 36 credits of business and 33 credits of accounting.

Stony Brook has two pathways for students to attain the additional 30 credits to meet the 150 credit hour requirement, as well as be prepared to sit for the CPA exam: The MBA in Accounting and the MS in Accounting and Analytics (MSAA).

If you would like to speak with an advisor about accounting programs, please email COBgraduate@stonybrook.edu or call 631-632-7171.