Accounting Schools in Vermont
Vermont’s colleges and universities offer a broad array of programs in accounting, from general accounting to advanced programs focused on CPA licensure. This overview of accounting schools in Vermont will help you find a program that matches your skills and career goals. Students in Vermont have options for programs that emphasize technical skills, experiential learning, and study abroad options. As an alternative to traditional accounting programs, some students find that online accounting schools are a more convenient and efficient way to earn a degree to support their accounting careers.
Quick Facts
- 5 public colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in Vermont.1
- 4 private not-for-profit colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in Vermont.1
- 2 schools offer a certificate in accounting.*1
- 3 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.*1
- 7 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.*1
- 3 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
- 1 schools ranked in Bloomberg Businessweek Best Undergraduate Business Schools 2016.5
*Public or private not-for-profit colleges and universities only.
Top-Ranked Accounting Schools in Vermont
Bloomberg Businessweek Best Undergraduate Business Schools 2016
- University of Vermont (Grossman School of Business)
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 schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in Vermont in 2015 for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall average pass rate for Vermont being 66.3%:
- Saint Michael’s College 69.6%
- University of Vermont 68.2%
- Castleton State College 60.0%
Schools in Vermont with Accounting Degrees
Undergraduate Accounting Programs
St. Michael’s College
St. Michael’s College offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting that provides students with the ability to understand and interpret financial data and communicate effectively to businesses. Students gain a solid understanding of accounting concepts before participating in a final research project. The St. Michael’s program is closely connected with community businesses, which provide students with local internship opportunities. Students who chose not to complete an internship participate in the course Organizational Problem Solving, which teaches them to work in teams to solve accounting challenges for organizations. Students are also encouraged to participate in study abroad opportunities to learn about global business practices. Elective course options include Excel and Business Applications, Nonprofit Accounting, and Capital Budgeting.
Norwich University
Students at Norwich University can complete a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. In this accounting degree program, students gain a foundation in management, economics, and computer information systems to understand how business functions on all levels. Critical analysis and communication skills are emphasized so students can properly interpret financial data and make important financial decisions. Students also gain experience with accounting technology and software to learn how to properly prepare income taxes. External auditing practices are an area of focus, providing students with a full understanding of the planning, risk assessment, and reporting practices required for audits. Students can expect to take courses such as Cost Accounting, Corporate Finance, and Business Law.
College of St. Joseph
The College of St. Joseph in Rutland, Vermont, offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting that gives students a broad understanding of accounting concepts. Financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, and auditing are all emphasized to provide students with the ability to understand financial data and effectively communicate it to others. Students are encouraged to complete an internship to learn hands-on applications of these accounting concepts. In their final year, students participate in the capstone class Advanced Accounting to demonstrate problem-solving and technical skills developed through previous coursework. Graduates from this program are prepared to pursue graduate-level coursework and entry-level work in the private, public, and non-profit sector.
Popular Articles: Business Schools in Vermont | Online MBA Programs in Vermont
Graduate Accounting Programs
University of Vermont
The Grossman School of Business at the University of Vermont offers a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) that prepares students for CPA licensure. While developing professional writing and presentation skills, students learn about auditing, tax research, and financial reporting. Students gain an understanding of US and international financial reporting standards to prepare them for careers in both domestic and international business. Required coursework such as CPA Law and Accounting Research, Regulations, and Ethics help students solve relevant accounting issues while imparting the full impacts of US law and regulations. Full-time students can complete the UVM accounting master’s degree in as little as two semesters. An accelerated program is also offered to undergraduate students completing a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) at the University of Vermont.
Castleton University
Castleton University offers a Master of Science (MS) in Accounting that prepares students for high-level accounting careers and licensure. This program focuses on financial accounting, ethics, management accounting, and taxation. Students in this online degree program learn critical thinking and in-depth research skills to effectively solve complex accounting problems and properly communicate those decisions. Course titles include Case Studies in Financial Management, Fraud and Forensic Accounting, and Advanced Auditing and Professional Ethics. GMAT scores and a baccalaureate degree are required to apply. Students without an undergraduate degree may apply, but prerequisite coursework will be required.
Online Accounting Programs
Champlain College
Champlain College in Burlington, Vermont offers a fully online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting designed to prepare students for a successful career in business. Accounting majors work closely with experienced faculty in small classes, through one-on-one interactions and mentorships. Champlain’s accounting program emphasizes experiential learning by encouraging students to participate in nearby internships and work in the Accounting and Finance Lab. Students are also given the opportunity to work with the community through the Vermont Income Tax Assistance Program, where they gain experience preparing income taxes for low-income and elderly residents. In addition to the online BS in Accounting, Champlain also offers several 100% online accounting certificates, including a general Accounting Certificate, an Advanced Accounting Certificate, a Cost Accounting Certificate, and a Forensic Accounting Certificate.
Northern Vermont University
Students at Northern Vermont University can earn an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. This accounting program emphasizes real-world experience to prepare students for a broad range of business careers. Students participate in case studies, computer simulations, and projects for real clients to train students to be effective leaders and problem solvers. Small class sizes allow students to work closely with experienced accounting faculty. After gaining a foundation in math, information systems, and management, students go on to take specialized courses such as Forensic Accounting, Auditing and Assurance Services, and Strategic Management. Courses at NVU are offered on a flexible rolling schedule, making this degree accessible to all types of students. NVU also offers on-campus accounting bachelor’s degrees.
Vermont CPA Requirements
To become a Certified Public Accountant in Vermont, applicants must complete 150 semester hours, 42 of which must be accounting related. One year of experience working under a licensed CPA is also required. Applicants may sit for the Uniform CPA Exam after completing 120 semester hours of coursework, 30 of which must be accounting related.
Career Opportunities for Accounting Grads in Vermont
Vermont’s diverse business community allows ample opportunities for accounting graduates. Ski resorts are a major industry in Vermont, with companies such as Killington Grand Resort, Jay Peak Resort, and Okemo Mountain Resort being major employers in the state. Burton Snowboards is also headquartered in Burlington, Vermont. Other large employers in Vermont include IBM, Interconnect, and GE Aviation. Several banks and healthcare businesses in the area also have a constant need for professional accountants, and those with CPA licensure and an entrepreneurial spirit may choose to open a private accounting practice.
Vermont Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area
| Metro Area | Accountants & Auditors Employed | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington-South Burlington | 1,480 | $79,600 |
| Southern Vermont nonmetropolitan area | 760 | $73,080 |
| Northern Vermont nonmetropolitan area | 880 | $70,610 |
Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics as of March 2018.8
Schools with Accounting Degree Programs in Vermont
University of Vermont
85 S Prospect St
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 656-3131
https://www.uvm.edu/
Castleton State College
62 Alumni Dr
Castleton, VT 05735
(802) 468-5611
http://www.csc.vsc.edu/
Champlain College
163 S Willard St
Burlington, VT 05401
(802) 860-2700
https://www.champlain.edu/
Norwich University
158 Harmon Dr
Northfield, VT 05663
(802) 485-2000
http://www.norwich.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 2016 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, Vermont: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_vt.htm