Accounting (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Accounting is designed to prepare students for careers in accounting and related fields.

CPA Certification and Licensure

A CPA certification is not required to work in accounting. However, to practice as a state-licensed public accountant, an individual needs to meet certain state educational and experience requirements, along with passing the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination; these requirements can be summarized as education, examination, and experience (the “three Es”).

Marymount’s BS in Accounting program meets the educational requirements for students to take the CPA exam in Virginia immediately upon graduating from Marymount University.  The CPA exam is developed by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) but is administered at the state level. The exam is designed to assess the knowledge and skills entry-level CPAs need to practice public accountancy.

While the successful completion of the Uniform CPA exam is a requirement in all US states and territories, education and experience requirements to both take the exam and become a licensed CPA may vary for each state or territory. In addition to passing the CPA exam, to obtain certification as a CPA, individuals must meet licensing requirements in the state where they intend to be licensed.  State certification requirements can vary by state and territory and are also subject to change. Additional state requirements can include further coursework, state residency requirements, additional examinations, and/or years of work experience. This is particularly important for international students, as there may be additional requirements for non-citizens. Each state’s education, exam, and experience requirements are outlined on individual state Board of Accountancy websites, which can be found on the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) website and in the table below. Students interested in pursuing licensure should contact the state board of accountancy in the state in which they intend to practice for more information.

Marymount University makes every effort to ensure the information provided here is accurate and is updated each year. Because state certification and licensure requirements vary and can change, Marymount’s BS in accounting program does not meet the educational requirements for certification and licensure in states other than Virginia. Please visit the state board’s website for specific licensure and certification requirements prior to enrolling in these programs.  

Useful links:
State and Territory Requirements (maintained by AICPA)

Last Update: Dec. 2025