Accounting Technology Programs in Washington

Educational Information:

The financial sector requires someone who has an in-depth knowledge of the bookkeeping world and how to make sure everything is accurate and up-to-date. Thanks to the training in the accounting technology degree, you will learn all of the necessary skills to work within the business and financial sectors.

Licensing Information:

To gain your license in Washington, you will first need to take the CPA exam after meeting the requirements outlined below:

  • Possess a minimum of a bachelor degree from an accredited institution
  • Completion of 150 hours with a minimum of 24 hours in accounting, of which 15 hours have to be in upper-level classes, and 24 hours of business classes
  • Successfully pass the CPA exam
  • Meet the requirements of good character as outlined by the state
  • Completion of the AICPA ethics course with a passing grade of 90 or above
  • Verify a minimum of 12 months or 2,000 hours worth of experience that was received through a public accounting practice or employment in government or industry

Employment Information:

Three out of the big four accounting firms all have locations within the state, such as Ernst & Young, Deloitte and KPMG. Any one of these firms all offer potential employment opportunities for those looking to work in the accounting field. Some of the popular areas for individuals to find accounting employment are in software publishing, real estate leasing, health care, aerospace manufacturing and enterprise management. For up-to-date job information, the Washington Society of CPA’s offers a wealth of information.

As of May 2020, accounting professionals earned an average salary of $83,720 in Washington. Between 2018 and 2028, the number of accountant and auditor jobs in the state is projected to increase by 16.7%, which is more than four times the national average growth rate of 4% during this period. About 5,060 annual job openings in this field are expected during this ten-year period leading to 2028 due to a combination of new job growth, retirements, and natural job turnover.

May 2020 Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market trends for accountants and auditors represent state data, not school-specific information. 

Job growth projections for 2018-2028 sourced from the U.S. Department of Labor-sponsored O*Net database. Figures represent state data, not school-specific information.

Conditions in your area may vary. Data Accessed May 2021.