Accounting Schools in North Dakota

In North Dakota, there are several accounting programs from which students can earn a degree. The following guide to accounting schools in North Dakota provides high-level information so that you can understand your options and make the right decision. Accounting programs in North Dakota provide options for concentrations in areas such as financial planning, corporate accounting, and data analytics. Pursuing an online accounting degree is another possibility you may wish to consider. Studying online can save you time commuting to and from school while providing a flexible learning model for self-directed students. Accelerated programs are also an option for students who wish to complete graduate studies and pursue CPA status.

Quick Facts

7 public colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in North Dakota.¹
3 private not-for-profit colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in North Dakota.¹
2 schools offer a certificate in accounting.*¹
4 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.*¹
6 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.*¹
2 schools offer a graduate degree in accounting.*¹
No programs ranked in US News Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2018.²
No programs ranked in US News Best Graduate Accounting Programs 2018.³
No schools ranked in the Princeton Review Great Schools for Accounting Majors 2018.⁴
No schools ranked in Bloomberg Businessweek Best Undergraduate Business Schools 2016.⁵

*Public or private not-for-profit colleges and universities only.

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

Each year, the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases a report including data on candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.⁷ The following business schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in North Dakota in 2015 for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall average pass rate for North Dakota being 62.1%:

North Dakota State University 64.8%
University of North Dakota 57.8%
Jamestown College 53.9%
Dickinson State University 52.9%

Schools in North Dakota with Accounting Degrees

Undergraduate Accounting Programs

Minot State University

Students at Minot State University can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting that provides an overview of accounting theory and practice. Students in this 120-credit program learn business and economic fundamentals before moving onto complex accounting theory. This broad approach gives students the ability to explore all facets of business and finance, preparing them for a wide variety of careers upon graduation. Students are given the opportunity to delve deeper into specialty accounting topics with courses such as Fraud Examination, Accounting Information Systems, and Advanced Auditing and Assurances. Students are also encouraged to participate in an accounting internship prior to graduation, to gain real-world experience and make valuable networking connections.

University of Jamestown

The University of Jamestown offers a 124-credit Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Accounting that provides students with a well-rounded business education while preparing them to sit for the CPA exam. Accounting majors at the University of Jamestown take 34 credits of accounting coursework and 30 credits of business, finance, and mathematics core. Students work in a collaborative, team-based environment to master accounting concepts and learn effective technical and communication skills. Data analysis and critical-thinking skills are also emphasized to provide students with the confidence to make major financial and business decisions. Coursework includes Income Tax Accounting, Governmental and Nonprofit Accounting, and Cost and Managerial Accounting. Accounting students are also given the option of pursuing a 21-credit concentration in Financial Planning.

University of Mary

Students at the University of Mary can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting that provides a variety of options for preparing for CPA licensure. Students in this 124-credit program may choose to participate in an accelerated program and graduate in three and a half years with the intention of going onto graduate studies. Accounting majors also may choose to complete a Business Administration minor with an emphasis on preparing for the CPA exam. Auditing and Attestation, Cost Management and Strategy, and Business Income Taxation are courses accounting students can choose from. Leadership opportunities are also emphasized in this degree program, providing students with the skills necessary for a successful career in business. The Accounting major at the University of Mary is offered in a traditional format as well as an online and evening format for students who require more flexibility.

Graduate Accounting Programs

University of North Dakota

Students at the University of North Dakota are can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) designed for students who already hold an undergraduate degree in accounting. Three concentrations are offered: Data Analytics, Organizations and Leadership, and Public Administration. Regardless of concentration, students take courses designed to emphasize critical thinking skills. The course Seminar in Accounting Issues develops students’ professional judgment through examination of contemporary accounting problems. Students are also encouraged to participate in an internship to gain hands-on experiences prior to graduation. This program can be completed either full-time or part-time, allowing for flexibility in scheduling.

North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) which prepares students for CPA licensure. This program is designed for both students with an undergraduate degree in accounting and those with non-accounting degrees who wish to make a career switch. North Dakota State University uses a collaborative approach to help students solve complex business problems. Technical competency, research skills, and accounting theory are all emphasized in this 30-credit program. Students can expect to take courses like Information Resources Management, Fraud Examination, and Government and Non-Profit Accounting. Upon graduation, students will be prepared for a wide variety of accounting and financial roles.

Online Accounting Programs

University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota offers a Bachelor of Accountancy (BAcc) that prepares students for a career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). This 126-credit program provides graduates with the education needed to pass the CPA exam, although an additional 24 credits are required to become a CPA in North Dakota. Students are given the option to take several courses online, providing flexibility for working professionals. This accounting program focuses on technical knowledge, communication skills, and critical analysis to give students the confidence to solve complex accounting problems. Students will learn about all facets of business by also taking courses in operations management, business law, and marketing. Advanced Spreadsheet Applications, Accounting Information Systems, and Assurance Services are courses students can expect to take in UND’s degree program.

Dickinson State University

Dickinson State University offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting which can be completed fully online. This 121-credit degree gives students the option between a Corporate or Professional Track. The Corporate Track emphasizes business administration courses to provide a well-rounded view of the business world with 28 credits of accounting core coursework. Organizational Behavior, Business Policy, and Financial Statement Analysis are all required courses for this degree. The Professional Track requires 46 credits of accounting core coursework, allowing students to delve deep into specialized topics. Students can expect to take courses such as Financial Institutions and Markets, Business Valuation, and Computerized Accounting.

CPA Requirements in North Dakota

To take the CPA in the state of North Dakota, candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree and completed 150 credit hours at an accredited institution of higher learning. Applicants may sit for the CPA exam up to six months prior to fulfilling the education requirement. 24 credits of accounting courses and 24 hours of general business courses are required. Before receiving the CPA designation, at least one year of qualifying experience in the field must be logged. If an applicant has already passed a portion of the exam in a different state, the scores from those will be honored in North Dakota and can be used toward passing the overall exam.

Career Opportunities for Accounting Grads in North Dakota

Accounting graduates in North Dakota have a positive job outlook. Many major corporations are headquartered in the state, making it a great location for business-savvy graduates. MDU Resources Group, Investors Real Estate Trust, and Titan Machinery are all multi-billion dollar companies located in North Dakota. Bank of North Dakota, First International Bank, and Gate City Bank are also headquartered in the state. Entrepreneurial graduates may also choose to open their own practice. Accounting positions may also be available in the state or local government sectors.

North Dakota Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

Metro Area	Accountants & Auditors Employed	Average Annual Salary
Bismarck	800	$65,650
Fargo	1,280	$59,960
Grand Forks	350	$59,990

Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of May 2017.⁸

North Dakota Schools with Accounting Degree Programs

Bismarck State College
1500 Edwards Ave
Bismarck, ND 58506
(701) 224-5400
https://bismarckstate.edu/

Dickinson State University
291 Campus Dr
Dickinson, ND 58601
(701) 483-2507
http://www.dickinsonstate.edu/

North Dakota State University
1340 Administration Ave
Fargo, ND 58102
(701) 231-8011
https://www.ndsu.edu/

University of North Dakota
264 Centennial Dr
Grand Forks, ND 58202
(701) 777-2011
http://und.edu/

Popular Accounting Degree State Pages:

References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. US News & World Report Best Undergraduate Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/business-accounting
3. US News & World Report Best Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/accounting-rankings
4. The Princeton Review. The Best 382 Colleges 2018 Edition. Penguin Random House, 2017.
5. Bloomberg Businessweek Best Undergraduate Business Schools 2016: https://www.bloomberg.com/features/2016-best-undergrad-business-schools/
6. AACSB-Accredited Universities and Schools, Accounting: https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited
7. The NASBA Candidate Performance Report, 2015 University Edition: https://nasbareport.com/
8. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2017 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, North Dakota: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_nd.htm