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    Accounting Schools in West Virginia

    Table of Contents

    1 – Comparison of Schools and Programs
    2 – Top-Ranked Schools in West Virginia
    3 – Highest First-Time CPA Exam Pass Rates
    4 – School Profiles
    5 – West Virginia CPA Requirements
    6 – Career Opportunities for Graduates

    West Virginia’s colleges and universities offer a wide variety of accounting programs for those interested in careers in the accounting and business fields. Programs differ in format, area of specialization, and curriculum, but students can choose the degree that best fits their schedule and career goals. Graduates from accounting programs in West Virginia may find opportunities to work in the state or start their own businesses after graduation. Continue reading below to find out more information about school rankings, professional accounting licensure, and career outlooks in West Virginia.

    Quick Facts

    • 21 not-for-profit colleges and universities offer an accounting degree program in West Virginia.1
    • 7 schools offer a certificate in accounting.1
    • 7 schools offer an associate’s degree in accounting.1
    • 15 schools offer a bachelor’s degree in accounting.1
    • 8 schools offer a graduate degree in accounting.1
    • No schools ranked in College Factual’s Best Accounting Schools 2023.2
    • No schools ranked in the Princeton Review’s Best Colleges for Accounting Majors 2023.3
    • No programs ranked in US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs 2023.4
    • 1 school ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023.5
    • No schools ranked in US News & World Report’s Best Undergrad Accounting Programs 2022-2023.6
    • 2 schools are accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) in Business and Accounting.7
    • 9 schools have accounting programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).8
    • 2 schools have accounting programs accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).9

    Comparison of West Virginia Accounting Schools and Programs

    The table below provides detailed information on not-for-profit accounting programs in West Virginia to help you compare your options. Programs that appear in bold text offer hybrid or online options. For further school statistics, including median SAT, ACT, and GMAT scores, see our West Virginia business schools page.

    SchoolAccreditationAccounting Degree(s)Acceptance Rate10Grad Rate1Avg Net Price1Median Debt*10Median Earnings 10 Years After Entry10
    Bethany College—BAcc;
    BAcc/BS-Computer Science;
    Minor-Accounting
    5-Year BAcc to MBA    		73.6%42%$17,605$27,000$45,183
    Blue Ridge Community and Technical College—AAS-Accounting;
    UG Cert-Bookkeeping    		N.Av.35%$4,219$13,000$38,576
    Bluefield State UniversityACBSPBSBA-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting;
    UG Cert-Bookkeeping    		96.9%35%$11,759$18,250$38,646
    BridgeValley Community & Technical CollegeACBSPAAS-Accounting and BookkeepingN.Av.23%$9,159$9,829$36,541
    Concord UniversityACBSPBSBA-Accounting: CMA;
    BSBA-Accounting: CPA;
    Minor-Professional Accountancy    		95.6%40%$8,464$18,900$40,246
    Davis & Elkins CollegeIACBEAS-Accounting;
    BS-Accounting    		77.6%48%$20,126$27,000$38,710
    Eastern West Virginia Community and Technical College—AAS-Accounting;
    UG Cert-Accounting    		N.Av.37%$6,734$8,500$35,285
    Fairmont State UniversityACBSPBS-Accounting98.8%46%$10,794$21,000$38,538
    Marshall UniversityAACSBBBA-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting
    5-Year BBA to MS-Accountancy;
    MS-Accountancy    		97.8%50%$8,756$23,250$43,564
    Mountwest Community and Technical College—AAS-Accounting;
    UG Cert-Accounting/Bookkeeping    		N.Av.19%$8,671$7,446$31,293
    New River Community and Technical College—AAS-Business: Accounting;
    UG Cert-Bookkeeping    		N.Av.36%$2,694$7,250$27,495
    Shepherd University—BS-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting;
    5-Year BS to MBA;    		96.4%48%$9,827$21,600$47,268
    Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College—AAS-Business AccountingN.Av.26%$6,215$9,190$28,877
    University of CharlestonACBSPBSBA-Accounting;
    BSBA-Accounting: CPA;
    3-Year Accelerated BSBA-Accounting;
    4-Year BSBA-Accounting to MBA    		69.7%42%$21,308$19,500$46,166
    West Liberty UniversityIACBEBSBA-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting;
    MBA-Forensic Accounting    		73.9%61%$13,788$23,250$41,989
    West Virginia State UniversityACBSPBSBA-Accounting;
    UG Cert-Forensic Accounting;
    Grad Cert-Accounting    		96.6%35%$11,684$23,338$38,235
    West Virginia UniversityAACSBBSBA-Accounting: Corporate and Organizational Accounting;
    BSBA-Accounting: CPA Exam;
    BSBA-Accounting: Data Analytics and Big Data;
    BSBA-Accounting: Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination;
    Minor-Accounting;
    4-Year BSBA to MAcc;
    4-Year BSBA to MS-Forensic and Fraud Examination
    MAcc-Assurance, Forensic and Fraud Examination;
    MAcc-Business Data Analytics;
    MAcc-Tax;
    MS-Forensic and Fraud Examination: Business Cybersecurity Management/Compliance;
    MS-Forensic and Fraud Examination: Business Cybersecurity Technically-Focused;
    MS-Forensic and Fraud Examination: Business Data Analytics;
    MS-Forensic and Fraud Examination: Management;
    Grad Cert-Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination    		89.8%62%$12,202$22,500$55,073
    West Virginia University at ParkersburgACBSPBASBA-Accounting & Financial Management;
    BSBA-Accounting    		N.Av.30%$3,029$12,570$32,799
    West Virginia University Institute of Technology—BS-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting;
    Minor-Fraud Management;
    UG Cert-Fraud Management    		66.4%34%$9,529$22,500$55,073
    West Virginia Wesleyan College—BS-Accounting
    BS-Accounting: CPA;
    5-Year BS-Accounting to MBA    		84.4%53%$20,470$27,000$48,086
    Wheeling UniversityACBSPBS-Accounting;
    Minor-Accounting;
    MSA    		78.1%70%$19,998$25,125$57,251

    Table Notes:
    *Median Debt: The median debt is the cumulative federal loan debt, excluding PLUS loans, at the time of graduation for students who completed an undergraduate program (certificate, associate, or bachelor’s degree) as reported by College Scorecard for academic year 2020-2021 based on ​​National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) data.
    **Median Earnings 10 Years After Entry: Median earnings are the middle value of earnings, at which half earned more and half earned less, measured 10 years (2020-2021) after the first year of study (2010-2011) for all students, institution-wide, who received federal loans and who are employed but not enrolled in school. Note that this value includes those who completed their program of study as well as those who discontinued study without receiving an award.

    Top-Ranked Accounting Schools in West Virginia

    College rankings can be a useful tool to measure the overall reputation of a school or program. Weighing multiple rankings when evaluating your college choices can be helpful because different publishers may use different ranking factors in their methodologies. While the best program for your goals may rely on a combination of factors not typically considered in overall rankings, such as location or funding, seeing a program ranked on multiple lists can be a strong indication of reputation and academic quality.

    US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023

    • West Virginia State (#112 tie)5

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

    The National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) releases reports including data on candidate performance on the Uniform CPA Exam.11 The following schools had the highest first-time CPA exam pass rates in West Virginia in 2019 (the most recent report available*) for candidates with a bachelor’s degree, with the overall pass rate for first-time test-takers in West Virginia being 45.5%:

    1. Fairmont State University 75.0%
    2. West Virginia State University 69.2%
    3. Shepherd University 60.0%
    4. West Virginia University 48.6%
    5. Marshall University 48.0%

    *As NASBA makes significant changes to the CPA Exam as part of the CPA Evolution initiative, new candidate score reports by state are not anticipated until at least mid-2024.

    Schools in West Virginia with Accounting Degrees

    To give you an idea of the breadth and depth of accounting degrees offered in West Virginia, we have profiled select programs below. Be sure to visit the websites of programs of interest for more detailed information on courses, admissions requirements and deadlines, and faculty.

    Undergraduate Accounting Programs

    Shepherd University

    Students at Shepherd University’s College of Business can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. This program emphasizes the fundamentals of the accounting industry as well as the management and leadership skills needed to succeed in the field. The core curriculum includes courses such as Managerial Accounting, Federal Taxation of Individuals, Auditing, and Business Law. Through real-world case studies and relevant coursework, students learn problem-solving skills and critical thinking strategies applicable to the modern accounting field. Students interested in CPA certification can pursue Shepherd’s MBA 4+1 Program, which allows them to complete their undergraduate degree and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in five years. Graduates from this program go on to pursue advanced degrees in accounting and positions in public, governmental, private, or not-for-profit organizations.

    West Virginia Wesleyan College

    At the Thomas H. Albinson II College of Business at West Virginia Wesleyan College (WVWC), students can earn a 120-credit Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. WVWC’s accounting curriculum is designed around CPA exam standards and focuses on topics related to auditing and attestation; financial accounting and reporting; and business environment and concepts. Students learn core business and accounting knowledge, communication strategies, and critical thinking and analytical skills. Coursework includes classes such as Cost Accounting, Auditing, and Income Tax Accounting. Students have the option to add a 30-credit CPA track to meet the educational requirement for CPA licensure. College of Business students receive one-on-one academic and professional advising and can pursue student groups and internships. WVWC undergraduate students interested in pursuing a graduate degree can apply for the 5-Year Master of Business Administration (MBA) option, allowing them to complete both degrees with one additional year of study. Graduates from the BS program can go on to work in many different roles in accountancy or business.

    Wheeling University

    Wheeling University’s Department of Business Administration offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Accounting. Students learn the fundamentals of a broad range of subjects such as accounting, finance, marketing, management, and economics. The curriculum also focuses on the interpersonal tools needed in the modern business environment, like communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. Required courses include Accounting Information Systems; Auditing Theory and Practice; and Accounting for Government and Not-for-Profit Organizations. Accounting majors explore real-life examples of business structures and processes, as well as how to use the technical software and databases common in the industry. Wheeling’s student body has multiple clubs and student organizations devoted to accounting and business, and students can find opportunities to network and pursue professional development events through the university. Many students also choose to complete internships at local banks, law firms, or businesses. Students interested in CPA certification can pursue Wheeling’s 30-credit Master of Science in Accountancy (MSA).

    Graduate Accounting Programs

    Marshall University

    Marshall University’s Brad D. Smith College of Business offers a Master of Science (MS) in Accountancy degree. Through this program, individuals interested in becoming licensed CPAs can fulfill the educational requirements and be prepared to sit for the CPA examination. The program’s core curriculum focuses on advanced knowledge needed in professional accounting and fundamental business skills through courses such as Advanced Income Tax Procedure, Advanced Controllership, and Government and Business Relationships. Students learn accounting research methods, gaining experience using electronic databases and computer auditing techniques. Graduate students also learn communication and leadership methods necessary to succeed in the accounting industry. Some students choose to pursue part-time internships or other learning opportunities while in the graduate program. Those without an undergraduate accounting degree may need to complete some prerequisite courses before beginning the program. A fully online version of Marshall’s MS in Accountancy program is also available.

    West Virginia University

    At West Virginia University’s (WVU) College of Business and Economics, students can earn a Master of Accountancy (MAcc) degree with the choice of two areas of emphasis: Assurance, Forensic, and Fraud Examination; Business Data Analytics; and Tax. This program is ideal for individuals interested in the CPA designation, as the curriculum includes CPA review courses and students must complete at least two sections of the CPA examination before graduating. All students take required core classes such as Accounting/Economic Decision Making; Mergers and Acquisitions; Financial Accounting Theory and Practice; and Assurance Services and Professional Standards. They are also required to complete experiential learning courses in partnership with the West Virginia State Auditor’s Office. This program can be completed in one year of full-time study, and top undergraduate accounting students at WVU can apply to the 3+1 program which allows them to earn an undergraduate and MAcc degree in just four years.

    Online and Hybrid Accounting Programs

    West Liberty University

    The Gary E. West College of Business at West Liberty University offers an online Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a Forensic Accounting Concentration. This 30-credit program offers classes in an accelerated seven-week format and can be completed in as little as one year, although applicants without an undergraduate degree in business may need to complete online learning modules prior to enrollment. MBA students take advanced business courses in addition to classes in marketing, finance, and human resources. Required coursework for the Forensic Accounting Concentration includes classes such as Detection and Prevention of Fraudulent Financial Statements; Auditing and Forensic Accounting; White Collar Crime; and Investigation with Computers. In addition to preparing students for the Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) examinations, graduates from this program also meet the educational requirement for CPA licensure.

    West Virginia State University

    West Virginia State University (WVSU) offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Accounting degree completely online. Students with previous academic credit may be able to transfer some course credit, so this program can be completed in two to four years. The BSBA curriculum first starts with general education courses and a business core. Accounting majors then complete classes such as Cost Accounting, Auditing, Intermediate Accounting, and Personal Income Tax Procedure. Students learn a mix of fundamental theory and real-world skills in accounting technology. The coursework also emphasizes critical thinking skills, decision-making leadership, and effective communication. Graduates from this online program may go on to pursue further advanced accounting study or entry-level positions in the accounting field.

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    West Virginia CPA Requirements

    The West Virginia Board of Accountancy (the Board) requires students interested in the CPA designation to complete 150 semester hours of education at an accredited college or university, although they may sit for the CPA examination after completing 120 hours. Of the 150 hours required for licensure, 30 hours must be in accounting courses, three hours in ethics, three hours in business law, and 27 hours in business and business-related courses. After passing the CPA exam, candidates need to complete at least one year of accounting-related work experience in public or private practice, government, industry, or academia that is verified by a licensed CPA. Individuals can then apply for CPA licensure, and this professional designation must be maintained through the completion of continued professional education (CPE) hours.

    Career Opportunities for Accounting Graduates in West Virginia

    Graduates from accounting programs in West Virginia may find positions with companies in the state or choose to start businesses of their own. There are several companies in West Virginia that provide opportunities for accounting, finance, and tax specialists, from small local businesses to larger statewide companies such as United Bankshares and Summit Financial Group. Large accounting firms in the state include Hayflich and Arnett Carbis Toothman, and many other small and local CPA firms offer accounting positions statewide. Accounting graduates may also find work in local or state governmental positions or regional not-for-profit organizations.

    West Virginia Accounting Salary and Jobs by Metro Area

    Metro AreaAccountants & Auditors Employed12Average Annual Salary12
    Charleston800$65,780
    Huntington-Ashland, WV-KY-OH650$68,190
    Parkersburg-Vienna650$84,860
    Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV43,670$101,870

    West Virginia Schools with Accounting Degree Programs

    Note: Student Reviews are based on the experiences of a few individuals and it is unlikely that you will have similar results. Please review the “Data, Student Reviews and Other Information” section in our Terms of Use and Disclaimers.

    Davis and Elkins College
    100 Campus Drive
    Elkins, WV 26241
    (304) 637-1900
    https://www.dewv.edu/

    Student Review: “Davis and Elkins College in Elkins, WV is, in my opinion, home to an excellent accounting program. Though the coursework was, at times, extremely difficult, I felt that I definitely benefited from such a challenge. My professors were all very helpful and personable; each of them even took the time to learn things about me, my family, and my personal life, and I have since kept in touch with most of them. They definitely taught me the skills I needed to land my first accounting job, and I could not be more grateful. The college also provided me with the wonderful career management center resource, from which I was able to complete an invaluable internship during my junior and senior years.” -Cassie D., student at Davis and Elkins College

    Popular Accounting Degree State Pages:

    References:
    1. National Center for Education Statistics: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
    2. College Factual Best Accounting Schools 2023: https://www.collegefactual.com/majors/business-management-marketing-sales/accounting/rankings/top-ranked/
    3. The Princeton Review. The Best 382 Colleges 2023 Edition. Penguin Random House, 2022.
    4. US News & World Report’s Best MBA Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-business-schools/accounting-rankings
    5. US News & World Report’s Best Online Bachelor’s in Business Programs 2023: https://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/bachelors/online-bachelors-business-rankings
    6. US News & World Report’s Best Undergraduate Accounting Programs: https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/business-accounting
    7. Association to Advance College Schools of Business, Accredited Universities and Schools, Business & Accounting: https://www.aacsb.edu/accredited
    8. Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, Accredited Schools, Separate Accounting: https://acbspsearch.org/
    9. International Accreditation Council for Business Education, Members: https://iacbe.org/accreditation/member-status-information/results/
    10. Department of Education College Scorecard: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/data/
    11. The NASBA Candidate Performance Report, 2019 University Edition: https://nasbareport.com/
    12. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics, May 2022 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates, West Virginia: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_wv.htm