The largest state in the contiguous U.S., Texas also had the world's 9th largest economy as of 2021, despite nationwide economic challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Forbes, Texas is one of the best U.S. states for business.
Texas is projected to add about 24,000 new accounting jobs from 2018-2028. Accountants can find work in the state's array of industries, including retail, manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services. Texas accounting professionals can work as financial analysts, accounting managers, and real estate appraisers, among other roles.
An online accounting degree in Texas allows learners to build their education and network in the state where they plan to begin their careers. Explore this page to learn more about accounting degrees in Texas, degree financing options, and potential career paths for graduates.
Top Online Bachelor's
Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.
Top Accounting Programs in Texas
#1 Best Accounting Programs in Texas
Trinity University
- San Antonio, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Overlooking downtown San Antonio, Trinity is a member of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities and a designated National Liberal Arts College. The school offers more than 110 majors and minors and serves more than 2,500 students.
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Trinity's Michael Neidorff School of Business offers a bachelor of science in accounting. The program emphasizes leadership and service in global business. Trinity reports that 90% of its qualified accounting majors earn paid internships at global public accounting firms.
The curriculum includes classes in accounting, finance, and international business. Students can concentrate in management or marketing. They must complete either a study-abroad experience or foreign language class. Enrollees need a "C" or higher in classes such as financial accounting and microeconomics before advancing to major courses.
Applying to Trinity
Applicants need a strong academic record with honors or advanced placement. Trinity prefers applicants who complete extracurricular leadership activities. Application materials include personal essays and recommendations. Trinity makes ACT and SAT scores optional.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $47,390 per year
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: Four years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
1%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Accounting Programs in Texas
Texas Lutheran University
- Seguin, TX
- 4 years
- Campus
Seguin-based TLU emphasizes arts and sciences education from a Christian perspective. A Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities member, TLU serves about 1,400 students.
Bachelor of Business Administration with Accounting Specialization
TLU's bachelor's degree with an accounting specialization covers the fundamentals of business theory. Learners get an introduction to accounting, ethics, finance, and strategy. The accounting specialization covers topics like financial management and profit maximization.
Students can pursue optional internships at companies like PricewaterhouseCoopers and Ernst & Young. They can also gain money-management experience by investing in the TLU Bulldog Investment Company. Many organizations offer students community service projects and portfolio-building opportunities. These include the student chapter of the American Marketing Association and the Alpha Kappa Psi business fraternity.
Applying to TLU
Applicants submit high school or GED transcripts. They must also submit personal essays or graded writing samples. TLU requires ACT or SAT scores. Candidates can request test-optional admission. This may require additional writing samples or recommendation letters.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $33,300 per year for full-time students
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: Four years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Accounting Programs in Texas
The University of Texas at Austin
- Austin, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
UT, the flagship campus of the University of Texas system, offers 156 undergraduate and 237 graduate programs for its 52,000 students. A top research university, UT attracts funding for innovations in science, medicine, engineering, and business.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Undergraduates at UT's McCombs School of Business can major in accounting. Students develop skills in financial analysis, legal compliance, and preparing financial records. Learners move through the program as part of a cohort.
Students complete a required internship. Career coaches help enrollees meet recruiters and potential employers. The business school encourages an optional semester-long study-abroad experience.
Graduates earn a bachelor of business administration. They may work as accountants, auditors, banking analysts, or tax consultants.
Applying to UT
A competitive admissions process requires an ApplyTexas or Coalition for College application. Applicants also submit an essay, responses to short-answer questions, high school transcripts, and class rank. Prospective students submit college transcripts, if applicable. UT makes ACT and SAT scores optional.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $10,860-$13,580 per year for in-state students; $38,650-$46,500 per year for out-of-state students
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: Four years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
25%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Accounting Programs in Texas
McMurry University
- Abilene, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, McMurry features small classes and 45 majors in arts, business, education, and science. Established in 1923, the school occupies 52 acres in Abilene.
Bachelor of Business Administration with a Concentration in Accounting
Accounting students at McMurry can earn a bachelor of business administration. Enrollees hone skills in analysis and communication. They also develop skills in comparing and interpreting facts and figures. Graduates may work as accountants or internal auditors. They also qualify for industry certification exams to become CPAs.
Degree-seekers complete classes like managerial accounting, cost accounting, and federal tax research. Enrollees with 60 credits and a 3.5 GPA can enroll in honors classes. The honors curriculum requires a thesis.
Applying to McMurry
Applicants submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. Application review considers GPAs, test scores, and extracurricular activities. Prospective students can request test-optional admission. However, some classes require test scores for enrollment.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $29,970 per year for full-time students
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: Four years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
36%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Accounting Programs in Texas
Saint Edward's University
- Austin, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1885, Austin's St. Edward's offers Catholic-based education to students of all backgrounds and beliefs. The school holds membership in the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities. St. Edward's gave merit scholarships to 96% of first-year students in 2021-2022.
Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting
Bill Munday School of Business students can major in accounting and pursue their bachelor of business administration. Internships offer hands-on experiential learning. The curriculum prepares learners for credentialing exams. Graduation requires a strategic management capstone project.
Enrollees can join an accounting club and attend an annual accounting students retreat. They can also serve the community by providing tax preparation for low-income Austin residents. Study-abroad options offer skill-based learning in global business.
Many St. Edward's students complete internships at the Big Four firms. Alumni hold accounting positions at KPMG, Deloitte, Texas Mutual, and St. David's HealthCare.
Applying to St. Edward's
Candidates provide high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, an essay, and recommendation letter from a former teacher. Applicants can use the St. Edward's application, the Common Application, or ApplyTexas. They can request a test-optional admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business; Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $24,570 per year for full-time students; $1,640 per credit for part-time students
- Required Credits: 120
- Program Length: Four years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
5%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Our Ranking Methodology
Accounting.com ranks the best accounting degrees using reputable sources such as the U.S. Department of Education. We build our rankings with four main metrics in mind: academics, cost, reputation, and program availability. We also consider subfactors like retention rate, federal aid amounts, and return on investment to help you find the right program for you.
This ranking is from 2024. Learn more about our process by visiting our school rankings methodology page.
Texas at a Glance
|
Population
|
30,976,800
|
|
Climate
|
Average Annual Temperature: 64.8 ℉
Annual Precipitation: 28.9 inches
|
|
Major Sports Teams
|
Dallas Cowboys
Houston Astros
Houston Texans
San Antonio Spurs
Dallas Stars
|
|
Number of Higher Learning Institutions
|
224
|
|
Per Capita Income
|
$37,514
|
|
Fortune 500 Companies
|
95
|
|
Accountants in Texas
|
111,160
|
Sources: World Population Review, Current Results, NCES, U.S. Census ACS, Fortune, BLS
Why Get an Accounting Degree in Texas?
Texas' business-friendly economy creates plentiful jobs for accountants. Industries like aerospace, information technology, and advanced manufacturing thrive in Texas. This creates unique learning, networking, and career opportunities for accounting professionals.
BLS data for the second half of 2021 shows employment in Texas to be steadily improving. Increased job availability in the financial, professional, and business services industries may benefit accounting professionals.
Texas emphasizes educational excellence across all levels of schooling. In the latter half of the 20th century, the Texas Board of Education prioritized reforms to allocate public school funding and measure student success more equitably.
According to the Texas Higher Education Accountability System, the six-year graduation rate for public college and university students who began school in 2014 was 64.9%. The state developed the 60x30TX plan to help at least 60% of Texans aged 25-34 get a certificate or degree by 2030. The program also encourages graduates to gain marketable skills.
Industries like aerospace, information technology, and advanced manufacturing thrive in Texas. This creates unique learning, networking, and career opportunities for accounting professionals.
In-state learners can benefit from Texas' below-average cost of living. Some public two-year and four-year institutions also charge below-average tuition. Out-of-state learners can benefit from below-average nonresident tuition as well. Students from some bordering states qualify for out-of-state tuition waivers.
Education Statistics for Texas
Texas ranks among the states with the most four-year and two-year colleges, at 148 and 96, respectively.
Texas' higher education data mirrors national averages in many areas, including the percentage of students enrolled in distance education and the percentage of adults over 25 with a bachelor's degree.
The following table compares Texas higher education data with national numbers.
| Higher Education Statistics |
Texas Data |
National Data |
Four-Year Colleges
|
109
|
3722
|
|
Two-Year Colleges
|
57
|
934
|
|
Students Enrolled in Distance Education
|
74.3%
|
72.8%
|
|
Postsecondary Education Appropriations per Full-Time Student
|
$8,147
|
$8,636
|
|
Tax Revenue Allocated to Higher Education
|
$13,669
|
$15,276
|
|
Adults Over 25 With an Associate Degree
|
7.2%
|
8.5%
|
|
Adults Over 25 With a Bachelor's Degree
|
19.5%
|
19.8%
|
|
Adults Over 25 With a Graduate Degree or Higher
|
10.4%
|
12.4%
|
Sources: NCES, SHEEO, U.S. Census ACS
Accreditation for Texas Schools
Accreditation is a process to ensure academic quality at higher education institutions. Schools without proper accreditation may not provide an education that meets professional and academic standards. Credits from unaccredited schools might not transfer to accredited institutions.
Accreditation comes in two forms: institutional and programmatic. Most reputable schools in Texas hold institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Accounting programs may also earn subject-specific accreditation from the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
Considerations for Accounting Programs in Texas
Choosing an accounting degree that meets your needs is a must for any learner.
Students should examine details like program format, career services, and financial aid when researching accounting degrees in Texas. Cost of living and tuition influence affordability. Online, on-campus, and hybrid formats affect students' learning experience.
The following sections detail key factors to consider for accounting degrees in Texas.
On-Campus Versus Online Program Options
Texas students attend school online, on campus, or through hybrid programs that combine online and on-campus components. Compare these options below.
On-Campus Programs
On-campus programs provide hands-on learning and networking opportunities. Students who prefer working more closely with peers and instructors may succeed with on-campus programs.
In addition, Texas has a lower-than-average cost of living that can make attending an on-campus program in the state affordable for learners.
Online Accounting Degrees in Texas
Online programs require self-motivation and time management. Some programs have synchronous online class sessions, while others are entirely self-paced. Students living in other states can pursue an online accounting bachelor's degree in Texas. Flexible scheduling can also help learners with personal obligations complete their studies.
Hybrid Programs
A hybrid accounting degree in Texas blends on-campus and online classes. For example, students may complete coursework online during the week and attend in-person sessions every Saturday, or attend one week of in-person learning each month. These hybrid programs work well for learners who require some scheduling flexibility but still want face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers.
Explore our nationwide rankings for the best accounting programs on campus and online.
Paying for Your Accounting Degree
Average tuition for public schools in Texas falls below the national average. Still, attending a college or university can still be expensive. Students can apply for financial aid. Scholarships and grants do not require repayment. In contrast, loans require repayment with interest.
Texas learners can also fill out the Texas Application for State Financial Aid if they are ineligible to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The form determines eligibility for Texas-specific financial aid programs.
Learn more about financial aid for accounting programs in Texas at the following links:
In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition
The average in-state tuition for public schools in Texas is about one-third the average cost of out-of-state tuition. However, distance learners pursuing an online accounting degree in Texas might qualify for in-state tuition rates even if they live out of state.
Institutions may also offer a nonresident waiver for eligible students to receive reduced tuition. These waivers are usually reserved for learners with academic success or studying in specific fields. Eligible out-of-state students from Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, or Oklahoma can apply for a bordering state waiver to receive in-state tuition.
Texas' Cost of Living
In addition to tuition, learners should consider Texas' cost of living when determining if the state is compatible with their financial situation. Cost of living measures the relative cost of necessities such as housing, healthcare, and food.
Texas scores 91.5 on the cost of living index, lower than the national average score of 100. Combined with its lower-than-average public college tuition, Texas can be a relatively affordable place for students to pursue an education.
Careers for Accounting Graduates in Texas
U.S. News & World Report ranks Texas as the 9th best economy in the country. The state also ranks 12th for employment, 17th for business environment, and 10th for growth. Texas' unemployment rate has steadily dropped throughout the second half of 2021. Employment has increased in accounting sectors like financial services, government, and professional services.
Texas is also home to offices for each Big Four accounting firm. These firms have locations in some of Texas' largest metropolitan areas, including Dallas, San Antonio, Fort Worth, and Houston. Accountant and auditor jobs in Texas are projected to grow 18.8% from 2018-2028.
U.S. News & World Report ranks Texas as the 9th best economy in the country.
Texas' diverse industries make the state an attractive place to start businesses and careers. Accounting professionals can find jobs in high-demand sectors like utilities and transportation, business services, and healthcare.
Below, explore accounting careers in Texas.
Select Accounting Careers in Texas
Property appraisers assess the value of residential or commercial properties. They use real estate market trends, similar property values, and property-specific characteristics to determine value. Texas' lower-than-average cost of living and growing population increase the demand for real estate and, subsequently, property appraisers. These professionals typically enter the field with a bachelor's degree.
Job Outlook in Texas (2018-28): +15%
Financial analysts help organizations make financial decisions. They evaluate company data, industry trends, and future goals to determine the best course of action. A master's degree is preferable for financial analysts. These professionals work for healthcare organizations, financial services firms, and other industries in Texas.
Job Outlook in Texas (2018-28): +19%
A compliance officer ensures a company and its employees follow tax and financial regulations. Texas' bustling economy creates a demand for compliance officers in medium-to-large organizations across industries. Generally, these professionals need a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
Job Outlook in Texas (2018-28): +14%
Texas Employment Trends
Projected Job Growth for Accountants
| Job Availability |
Texas |
National |
|
2022 Employment
|
115,697
|
1,538,400
|
|
2022 Projected Employment
|
137,595
|
1,605,800
|
|
Projected Job Growth, 2022-32
|
18.9%
|
4.4%
|
Source: Projections Central
Accounting Salaries by Career
| Career |
Texas Employment |
Texas Average Annual Salary |
National Average Annual Salary |
|
Associate Degree Recommended
|
|
Bookkeeping and Auditing Clerks
|
140,550
|
$46,520
|
$47,440
|
|
Credit Counselors
|
3,960
|
$45,420
|
$53,440
|
|
Payroll Clerks
|
14,170
|
$50,710
|
$54,690
|
|
Bachelor's Degree Recommended
|
|
Compliance Officers
|
38,770
|
$75,490
|
$80,190
|
|
Cost Estimators
|
20,240
|
$76,340
|
$79,520
|
|
Property Appraisers and Assessors
|
4,680
|
$71,130
|
$76,110
|
|
Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents
|
41,120
|
$101,650
|
$109,710
|
|
Tax Examiners and Collectors
|
3,410
|
$61,430
|
$65,370
|
|
Master's Degree Recommended
|
|
Accountants and Auditors
|
111,160
|
$88,820
|
$90,780
|
|
Budget Analysts
|
3,770
|
$81,760
|
$90,880
|
|
Financial Analysts
|
25,100
|
$102,590
|
$112,950
|
|
Financial Managers
|
63,800
|
$170,970
|
$174,820
|
|
Personal Financial Advisors
|
18,740
|
$118,390
|
$150,670
|
Source: BLS OEWS
Texas is one of the top-employing states for all the aforementioned accounting careers. The average Texas salaries for many of these careers exceed national averages. This is the case for compliance officers, cost estimators, and property appraisers and assessors.
Generally, the highest average Texas accounting salaries are for master's degree positions, including financial managers and personal financial advisors.
Texas Requirements for Certified Public Accountants
Each state requires specific steps to become a certified public accountant (CPA). If you plan to CPA licensure in Texas, you should check with the state's accountancy board for a complete list of certification requirements. Generally, future Texas CPAs should meet the following criteria:
-
Education: Candidates must hold at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with transcript verification. They must also complete at least 150 semester hours through additional courses or a master's degree. At least 30 semester hours must be accounting coursework, and 24 hours must cover upper-level business studies.
-
Experience: Texas requires CPA candidates to hold at least one year of full-time or 2,000 hours of part-time work experience under the guidance of a licensed CPA.
-
Exam: Candidates must pass the CPA exam sections with a minimum score of 75.
-
Other: Before taking the CPA exam, Texas requires candidates to complete an approved ethics course covering topics such as ethical reasoning, core values, and objectivity. They also need to pass a federal background check.
Questions About Accounting Degrees in Texas
Is accounting a good career in Texas?
Yes. Texas' robust economy fosters growth in various industries, many of which need accountants. Accounting professionals can find work in healthcare, manufacturing, and other leading Texas sectors.
How much do accountants earn in Texas?
According to 2020 BLS data, accountants and auditors in Texas earn an average annual salary of $80,170. The state trails slightly behind higher-paying states for accountants, like North Carolina, Georgia, and Colorado.
What accounting jobs are there in Texas?
Accounting roles in Texas include financial managers; financial analysts; and securities, commodities, and financial services sales agents. Thanks to the state's bustling business environment, accountants can find work in various positions in Texas.
Can I get an online accounting bachelor's degree in Texas?
Yes. An online accounting degree in Texas allows learners to prepare for an accounting career and CPA certification while attending school virtually. Some Texas schools offer reduced tuition to out-of-state learners through nonresident and bordering state waivers.
