Best Accounting Schools in Maine for 2025 – How to Become a CPA in ME

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It is expected that 479 Maine accounting jobs will be available yearly between 2020 and 2030 (Maine Department of Labor, 2022). This explains why auditors and accountants are one of the most in-demand occupations in Maine. In addition, becoming a CPA in Maine allows graduates to earn an entry-level salary of $53,560.

However, to begin this career, students must complete an accounting program. It is also important to ask and understand, what do accounting majors do? Doing so will allow them to develop the skills and expertise needed for the job, including managing financial records, analyzing data, and providing crucial insights for businesses and individuals.

Additionally, the Pine Tree State continues to experience economic growth. This allows businesses in the state to employ more people, increasing their average annual employment growth by 0.4% between 2018 and 2022 (IBISWorld, 2022). To help students determine whether becoming a CPA in this state is worth it, our researchers put together all the valuable information they would need to achieve their academic and career goals.

Best Accounting Schools in Maine Table of Contents

Is accounting a good job in Maine?
What are the steps to become a CPA in Maine?
Accounting Program Length in Maine
Tuition and Cost of Becoming a CPA in Maine
How can you find flexible accounting programs in Maine?
Maine Schools Offering Accounting Programs for 2025
What to Look for in Accounting Schools in Maine
Why Continuing Education Is Essential for Maine's Accounting Professionals
What Other Career Paths Are Available to Accounting Students in Maine?
What networking opportunities can accounting students in Maine expect to help build their careers?
The Role of Accountants in Maine's Growing Green Economy
How Can Interdisciplinary Expertise Expand Career Opportunities in Maine?
How Can Certificate Programs Enhance Your Accounting Career in Maine?
How Can a Forensic Science Degree Enhance Forensic Accounting Careers in Maine?
Is Forensic Accounting a Viable Option in Maine?
Can Accounting Skills Support a Transition into Urban Planning?
Can Professional Associations Propel Career Growth in Maine Accounting?
Can Healthcare Accounting Expand Professional Opportunities in Maine?
Is Technology Reshaping Accounting Practices in Maine?
Can Accounting Expertise Open the Door to an Educational Career in Maine?
Can Accounting Skills Enhance Legal Career Opportunities in Maine?

Is accounting a good job in Maine?

As mentioned, accounting and auditing are some of the most in-demand occupations in Maine. It is expected that at least 4,700 jobs will be available for accounting graduates by 2023 (Maine Department of Labor, 2022).

However, comparing the finance vs. accounting salary reveals that finance majors earn at least 10% more than accounting majors (National Association of Colleges and Employers, 2021). Nonetheless, a CPA in Maine makes an average of $37.34 per hour (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). That is more than double the state’s minimum hourly rate.

Aside from being an in-demand profession with a competitive salary, the Pine Tree State boasts a stable economic environment. In 2022 alone, the state’s gross state product (GSP) reached $62.7 billion (IBISWorld, 2022). This also explains why businesses in Maine employ at least 670,000 people, resulting in a 0.4% annual employment growth rate from 2018 to 2022.

Businesses of all sizes need accountants to monitor transactions, generate financial records, and oversee tax disbursements. That said, a Maine CPA can choose to work in an accounting services firm, enterprise management company, and local government, among others.

What are the steps to become a CPA in Maine?

The road to becoming a CPA in Maine is straightforward. According to the Maine Board of Accountancy, students must complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. This is equivalent to at least 150 semester hours of education, including at least 15 hours in accounting, auditing, and ethics courses. At least three semester hours of which were earned in auditing, and another three semester hours were earned in accounting.

Moreover, accounting students must have at least two years of experience. The employment should be supervised by a licensed CPA and earned in a licensed public accounting firm. It should include using accounting or auditing skills like generating financial statements, financial advisory or consulting, and preparing tax returns.

Fulfilling the requirements mentioned above allows an aspiring CPA in Maine to sit for a licensure exam. Students must take the CPA exam within 120 days after completing their degree and pay $56 for fees. Upon acquiring their license, CPAs can choose to work in some of the top-paying industries for accountants in Maine.

Accounting Program Length in Maine

Accountants and auditors come from the same talent pool, work in finance, and may acquire their Maine CPA license at some point in their careers. Furthermore, the time it takes to become an auditor or a CPA in Maine is similar.

Becoming an accountant requires completing an accounting degree that usually takes four years. Graduates must take the exam within four months or 120 days after completing their bachelor’s degree or acquiring at least 150 semester hours. They must also gain at least two years of experience in a public accounting agency supervised by a licensed CPA.

After passing the CPA exam and fulfilling the experience requirements, aspiring accountants and auditors can apply for a license from the Maine Board of Accountancy. Thus, it will take at least six years before students become Maine certified public accountants.

Once they have their CPA license, accounting graduates can choose to work as accountants. They are primarily involved in the day-to-day financial operations of an organization, including providing accurate and up-to-date financial information that aids in decision-making, budgeting, and tax compliance.

Meanwhile, those who want to know how to become an auditor must have keen attention to detail and strong investigative skills. That is because they will be responsible for examining and assessing an organization’s financial records, transactions, and systems. This ensures accuracy, legality, and adherence to accounting standards and regulations.

Tuition and Cost of Becoming a CPA in Maine

Becoming a CPA in Maine is not an easy task. After all, it requires four years of education and two years of supervised experience in order to fulfill the Maine CPA requirements. Moreover, to secure promotions and higher-level job positions, one must pursue a traditional or online accounting master’s degree and complete 150 semester hours.

These aside, accounting degrees do not come cheap. For instance, a bachelor’s degree in accounting can cost between $8,378 and $41,586 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023). The tuition and fee for any accounting programs in Maine vary based on the type of college or university, the number of credit hours students can take per semester, and whether they are state residents.

How can you find flexible accounting programs in Maine?

For students seeking flexibility while pursuing an accounting degree, online learning offers a viable option. Many accredited institutions now provide accelerated accounting degree programs online, allowing students to complete their coursework on their own time and at their own pace. This flexibility can be particularly advantageous for those balancing work, internships, or personal commitments. With the rise of digital platforms, students can access lectures, assignments, and networking opportunities without being tied to a physical classroom.

One key benefit of choosing an online program is the ability to study from anywhere, even if you’re not located in Maine. These programs often offer asynchronous classes, meaning students can engage with materials when it’s most convenient for them. In addition, many online programs are designed to be more affordable than their on-campus counterparts, making it easier to manage tuition costs.

When selecting an online accounting program, it's important to ensure it is accredited by a recognized body, such as the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This ensures the program meets industry standards and adequately prepares students for the CPA exam. Additionally, students should research whether the program offers adequate resources for exam preparation and networking opportunities with professionals in the field.

For those who want a fast track to earning their degree, considering an accelerated accounting degree program online can be an excellent choice.

Maine Schools Offering Accounting Programs for 2025

Our review experts at Research.com collected valuable information from credible sources and listed the following accounting schools in Maine. Their programs were evaluated based on affordability, academic rating, enrollment rate, and other key metrics.

1. The University of Maine

Students who want to pursue a career in management, government, and public accounting should consider taking a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Accounting at The University of Maine. This program will teach students the accounting principles and how to apply them in their careers. Thus, BSBA graduates will be equipped to prepare, interpret, and report economic data for management operations and the general public.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Business fundamentals, principles of macroeconomics, financial and managerial accounting, finance, and management.
Cost per credit: $400 (Maine resident), $1,158 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

2. Thomas College

A student keen to be CPA in Maine can enroll in Thomas College. The college offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Accounting, wherein students can learn from CPA professors with real-world experience. Moreover, they have a strong network that graduates can leverage when starting their accounting careers.

Program Length: Three years
Tracks/concentrations: Principles of marketing, statistical inference and decision making, cost accounting, business finance, and federal personal income taxation.
Cost per credit: $828
Required Credits to Graduate: 121
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

3. St. Joseph’s College of Maine

Studying Bachelor of Science in Business Administration major in Accounting at St. Joseph’s College of Maine prepares students to pursue professional certifications. This program teaches students about financial statements, cost accounting, taxes and audits, and financial analysis. This allows them to have the skills to make sound business decisions.

Program Length: Three to four years
Tracks/concentrations: Accounting fundamentals, federal income taxes, auditing, business fundamentals, and economics.
Cost per credit: $360
Required Credits to Graduate: 128
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education

4. University of Southern Maine

Another program that prepares a student to become a CPA in Maine is the Bachelor of Science in Accounting at the University of Southern Maine. The university boasts of having 200 partner organizations, allowing students to gain firsthand experience through internships. This is in addition to learning from faculty members with academic and business knowledge.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Macroeconomics, accounting fundamentals, financial management, and entrepreneurship.
Cost per credit: $297 (Maine resident), $875 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

5. Husson University

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Accounting at Husson University allow students to hone the business, financial management, and analytical skills needed to be successful in their career. They will gain a strong foundation in accounting principles and concepts while preparing for the CPA exam. As such, students are prepared to take on careers in public accounting or private sectors.

Program Length: Three to four years
Tracks/concentrations: Macroeconomics, international business, accounting principles, and forensic and investigative accounting.
Cost per credit: $684
Required Credits to Graduate: 122
Accreditation: International Accreditation Council for Business Education

What to Look for in Accounting Schools in Maine

There are factors to consider when searching for accounting schools in Maine. This ensures that students receive a quality education that aligns with their aspirations to be a CPA in Maine.

Accreditation

Choose accounting schools in Maine accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) or other CHEA-recognized accrediting bodies. This ensures that the school meets specific educational standards and provides a reputable and recognized degree.

Other organizations that accredit accounting programs are:

International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Curriculum

Review the curriculum of the accounting program. It should cover various accounting topics, including financial accounting, managerial accounting, taxation, auditing, and accounting software usage. These ensure that you develop foundational knowledge in the industry.

Experiential Learning

Search for programs that offer hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships, co-op programs, or real-world projects. Practical experience can enhance a student’s skills and job prospects.

CPA Exam Preparation

Students who want to become CPAs must check if the program meets the exam requirements. Some colleges and universities have a 4+1 program, wherein students can earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting while fulfilling the required 150 semester credit hours. It is also essential that a program provides adequate preparation for the exam.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Investigate the availability of financial aid, scholarships, and grants to help manage the cost of education. Another option is to seek organizations, such as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA), that provide scholarships for future CPAs.

Why Continuing Education Is Essential for Maine's Accounting Professionals

Accounting is a dynamic field where laws, regulations, and industry standards continually evolve, making lifelong learning crucial for professionals in Maine. Continuing education offers CPAs the opportunity to stay updated on changes in tax codes, financial reporting standards, and emerging technologies, such as accounting software using artificial intelligence and blockchain.

One of the most critical elements of continuing education is meeting the continuing professional education (CPE) requirements. In Maine, licensed CPAs are required to complete specific CPE hours over a three-year reporting period, ensuring they maintain their expertise and compliance with industry standards. Beyond meeting certification obligations, engaging in advanced coursework or certifications can open doors to specialized roles in forensic accounting, financial planning, or the rapidly growing green economy.

Maine accountants can also take advantage of online programs and local workshops offered by some of the best business schools in Maine to expand their knowledge and skill set. These programs not only provide technical insights but may also include soft skills training—such as communication and leadership—essential for career advancement. Ultimately, continuing education supports Maine accountants in providing value-driven services, enhancing their job market competitiveness, and opening pathways to career growth.

What Other Career Paths Are Available to Accounting Students in Maine?

Besides becoming a CPA, accounting students in Maine can explore other career paths that leverage their skills in finance, analysis, and problem-solving. For instance, they can consider a career in education, such as becoming an elementary school teacher, which requires strong communication and organizational skills. Alternatively, they can pursue roles in management, consulting, or finance, where their accounting background can provide a solid foundation for success. By understanding the various career options available, accounting students in Maine can make informed decisions about their professional development and choose a path that aligns with their interests and strengths.

What networking opportunities can accounting students in Maine expect to help build their careers?

Establishing a professional network is essential for accounting students aiming to build successful careers in Maine. Networking provides access to mentorship, career advice, and job leads. Various networking opportunities are available to accounting students in Maine, helping them to build connections within the industry even before graduation:

Professional Accounting Associations: Students can join associations like the Maine Society of Certified Public Accountants (MECPA) or the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). These organizations offer networking events, workshops, and seminars where students can meet professionals in the field, learn from industry experts, and gain insights into job opportunities.
University-Sponsored Events and Alumni Networks: Many universities in Maine host career fairs, guest lectures, and alumni networking events specifically for accounting students. These events provide a chance to connect with successful alumni who can offer mentorship, share their experiences, and even open doors to internships and job placements.
Internship Opportunities: Internships are a crucial way for students to gain hands-on experience and develop professional relationships. Partnering organizations and firms often consider interns for full-time positions, making these experiences an effective bridge from academia to the workforce.
CPA Exam Preparation Workshops and Study Groups: Some local organizations and universities offer CPA exam workshops and study groups. These gatherings not only help students prepare for the CPA exam but also create a network of peers working toward similar goals. These connections can lead to mutual support and job leads in the future.
LinkedIn and Online Networking Platforms: Joining professional groups on LinkedIn, particularly those focused on Maine’s accounting industry, allows students to stay updated on industry news, trends, and job opportunities. Networking online also provides a flexible way for students to connect with industry professionals beyond local events.
Industry Conferences and Seminars: Maine hosts accounting and finance conferences that draw professionals from around the state. Students attending these events can meet hiring managers, learn about emerging trends in accounting, and establish meaningful connections within the industry.

The Role of Accountants in Maine's Growing Green Economy

Maine’s commitment to sustainability and renewable energy presents unique opportunities for accounting professionals to specialize in the growing green economy. With the state’s focus on clean energy initiatives, eco-friendly tourism, and sustainable agriculture, businesses increasingly require accountants to navigate financial complexities specific to this sector.

Supporting Renewable Energy Projects: As Maine continues to invest in wind, solar, and hydroelectric energy, accountants play a critical role in managing the financial aspects of these projects. From budgeting and cost analysis to ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, accounting professionals are essential to the success of these initiatives. Students interested in these areas may benefit from programs like a bachelor of accounting online, which offer flexibility to explore sustainability-focused coursework.
Grant and Tax Incentive Management: Many green projects rely on grants and tax incentives provided by state and federal programs. Accountants specializing in the green economy assist organizations in identifying, applying for, and managing these financial benefits. This ensures businesses maximize funding opportunities while maintaining compliance with reporting requirements.
Green Auditing and Sustainability Reporting: With a growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility (CSR), Maine-based companies are turning to accountants for sustainability reporting. These professionals track carbon footprints, energy consumption, and waste management costs, helping organizations produce transparent reports that appeal to eco-conscious stakeholders.
Financial Planning for Sustainable Businesses: Accountants also play a pivotal role in advising businesses that aim to incorporate sustainable practices into their operations. They help create financial models for long-term investments in energy-efficient equipment, eco-friendly materials, and sustainable supply chains. Such guidance allows businesses to achieve cost savings while reducing their environmental impact.
Career Opportunities in Maine’s Green Economy: The demand for accountants with expertise in sustainability is growing alongside Maine’s green economy. Professionals in this niche can work in roles such as financial analysts for renewable energy firms, grant accountants for non-profits focused on environmental advocacy, and auditors specializing in green compliance.

By integrating accounting expertise with sustainability initiatives, professionals in Maine are contributing to the state’s economic growth while promoting environmental stewardship. Students and professionals alike can leverage this emerging trend to align their careers with a meaningful cause, making Maine not only a great place to live but also a promising location for accountants ready to embrace innovation and sustainability.

How Can Interdisciplinary Expertise Expand Career Opportunities in Maine?

Accounting professionals can enhance their career prospects by integrating skills from different industries. Combining financial expertise with insights from specialized fields, such as healthcare, can lead to innovative strategies that improve operational efficiency and strategic planning. This interdisciplinary approach is particularly relevant in sectors where regulatory standards and complex billing practices intersect with financial management. For instance, professionals who explore complementary certifications or cross-industry training can support initiatives that optimize budgeting and cost analysis in healthcare settings. Additionally, understanding how clinical operations complement financial processes can offer a significant competitive edge in Maine’s evolving job market. Consider exploring further pathways in related fields, such as how to become a nurse practitioner in Maine, to build a robust, versatile career profile.

Become a CPA in Maine and Open Up a World of Opportunities

Maine offers a diverse array of accounting programs that cater to aspiring professionals seeking a rewarding career path. Whether a student aims to become a CPA in Maine or has an accounting career specialization, the state’s educational institutions provide a range of accredited programs that equip students with the skills needed to succeed.

These programs encompass a comprehensive curriculum covering essential accounting principles and emphasize practical experiences through internships, projects, and real-world applications. Moreover, aspiring CPAs can find programs tailored to meet CPA exam requirements, ensuring they are well-prepared to excel in their examinations.

How Can Certificate Programs Enhance Your Accounting Career in Maine?

Pursuing focused certification courses can provide accounting professionals in Maine with cutting‑edge skills that complement their formal education. Earning specialized credentials validates expertise in areas such as forensic auditing, financial analysis, or regulatory compliance, and can be a strategic differentiator in a competitive job market. Professionals may consider leveraging certificate programs online to gain flexible, targeted training that aligns with evolving industry standards, thereby enhancing job performance and career advancement opportunities.

How Can a Forensic Science Degree Enhance Forensic Accounting Careers in Maine?

Integrating expertise from forensic science can provide forensic accountants with advanced investigative techniques and a scientific approach to complex financial irregularities. Applying methods from laboratory analysis and evidence handling, professionals can improve the detection and documentation of financial fraud. Acquiring specialized skills, such as digital evidence preservation and analytical reporting, further supports thorough examinations and strengthens legal proceedings. Candidates may consider pursuing a forensic science degree in Maine to complement their accounting background and enhance their capability in addressing evolving fraudulent schemes.

Is Forensic Accounting a Viable Option in Maine?

Forensic accounting emerges as a niche career that combines financial expertise with investigative acumen to address fraud and financial discrepancies. In Maine, this specialization supports legal processes, compliance audits, and risk mitigation through detailed analyses, fostering clarity in complex financial cases. Professionals in this field benefit from targeted continuing education and certifications that focus on legal standards and innovative analytical techniques. Evaluating market trends, including the forensic accountant salary, can provide insight into the career’s financial prospects and long-term growth potential in the state.

Can Accounting Skills Support a Transition into Urban Planning?

Financial expertise in budgeting, forecasting, and risk assessment offers transferable skills that can be instrumental in urban planning. Professionals with an accounting background can evaluate project feasibility, manage municipal budgets, and ensure fiscal accountability for developmental initiatives. Leveraging analytical techniques and regulatory insight, these professionals can contribute to strategic cost-benefit analyses and resource management in public infrastructure projects. For individuals interested in diversifying their career path through interdisciplinary expertise, explore how to become an urban planner in Maine.

Can Professional Associations Propel Career Growth in Maine Accounting?

Research indicates that active involvement in professional associations can substantially advance the careers of accounting professionals in Maine. These organizations not only provide networking opportunities and industry insights but also offer mentorship programs and professional development seminars that can lead to diversified roles. Being a member of reputable bodies often leads to exclusive access to workshops, certifications, and resources that support continual skill enhancement and regulatory updates. Moreover, cross-industry participation—such as gaining insights from mathematics education, as exemplified by exploring how to become a high school math teacher in Maine—strengthens analytical and pedagogical skills, thereby bolstering overall professional versatility.

Can Healthcare Accounting Expand Professional Opportunities in Maine?

Healthcare accounting, as a niche specialization, leverages traditional accounting expertise to address the distinctive financial challenges within the healthcare industry. This field focuses on managing medical billing, ensuring reimbursement compliance, and navigating the complexities of healthcare regulations—all of which are critical as Maine’s healthcare sector continues to expand. By developing targeted skills and pursuing specialized certifications, professionals can diversify their expertise and enhance their marketability. For those interested in integrating healthcare nuances with accounting proficiency, exploring how to be a medical coder in Maine can provide valuable insights into the necessary technical and regulatory frameworks.

Is Technology Reshaping Accounting Practices in Maine?

Emerging digital solutions are transforming how accounting professionals operate in Maine. Integration of data analytics, AI-driven software, and cloud-based platforms is streamlining routine tasks and enhancing strategic decision-making. Accountants who update their technical proficiency while adhering to evolving standards, including CPA requirements in Maine, are better positioned to meet the demands of a dynamic market. This digital shift not only improves operational efficiency but also opens new career avenues through innovative applications in financial analysis and risk management.

Can Accounting Expertise Open the Door to an Educational Career in Maine?

Accountants in Maine can leverage their analytical skills and real‐world experience to transition into educational roles that bridge industry practices with academic instruction. This pathway allows them to contribute practical insights to curriculum development and career mentoring in various educational settings. Such a transition may require additional qualifications in education to meet certification requirements. For specific guidance on the academic prerequisites, please review what degree do you need to be a teacher in Maine.

Can Accounting Skills Enhance Legal Career Opportunities in Maine?

Accounting expertise can provide a significant advantage in legal settings through meticulous financial investigations, compliance audits, and support in litigation cases. Professionals who combine their analytical skills with an understanding of legal procedures are well positioned to offer insights in complex cases such as fraud detection and contractual disputes. This hybrid expertise not only broadens career prospects but also adds value to legal teams that require precise financial analysis. For those evaluating a similar career convergence, consider exploring how to become a paralegal in Maine.

Key Insights

High Demand for Accountants: Accounting and auditing are among the most in-demand occupations in Maine, with an estimated 479 job openings annually between 2020 and 2030.
Competitive Salaries: CPAs in Maine earn competitive salaries, with an entry-level salary of $53,560 and an average hourly wage of $37.34, significantly higher than the state’s minimum wage.
Strong Economic Environment: Maine's stable economic growth, with a gross state product of $62.7 billion in 2022, ensures a steady demand for accounting professionals.
Comprehensive Educational Path: Becoming a CPA in Maine involves completing a bachelor’s degree with 150 semester hours, gaining two years of supervised experience, and passing the CPA exam.
Cost of Education: Accounting programs in Maine vary in cost, with tuition ranging from $8,378 to $41,586, depending on the type of institution and residency status.
Accredited Programs: Prospective students should look for programs accredited by recognized bodies such as AACSB, NECHE, and IACBE to ensure quality education and better career prospects.
Hands-on Experience: Many accounting programs in Maine offer internships and real-world projects, providing practical experience that enhances job readiness.
CPA Exam Preparation: Some programs offer integrated bachelor’s and master’s degrees to help students meet the 150-hour requirement and prepare for the CPA exam.

FAQ

Is accounting a good job in Maine?

Yes, accounting is a promising career in Maine due to the high demand for accountants and auditors. The state expects at least 4,700 job openings for accounting graduates by 2023. Additionally, CPAs in Maine earn competitive salaries, and the state’s stable economic environment offers numerous opportunities for accountants in various industries.

What are the steps to becoming a CPA in Maine?

To become a CPA in Maine, you must complete a bachelor’s degree with at least 150 semester hours, including specific accounting and auditing courses. You also need to gain at least two years of supervised experience in a public accounting firm, pass the CPA exam, and apply for a license from the Maine Board of Accountancy.

How long does it take to become a CPA in Maine?

It typically takes at least six years to become a CPA in Maine. This includes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree, additional time to meet the 150-hour requirement, and two years of supervised experience. You must also pass the CPA exam and fulfill all licensing requirements.

What is the cost of becoming a CPA in Maine?

The cost of becoming a CPA in Maine varies depending on the institution and residency status. Tuition for a bachelor’s degree in accounting ranges from $8,378 to $41,586. Additional costs include CPA exam fees and expenses related to gaining the required experience. Financial aid, scholarships, and grants are available to help manage these costs.

What are the best accounting schools in Maine?

Some of the top accounting schools in Maine include the University of Maine, Thomas College, St. Joseph’s College of Maine, University of Southern Maine, and Husson University. These schools offer accredited programs with comprehensive curricula and opportunities for hands-on experience.

What should I look for in an accounting program in Maine?

When choosing an accounting program, consider factors such as accreditation, curriculum, experiential learning opportunities, CPA exam preparation, and financial aid options. Accredited programs ensure quality education and better career prospects, while hands-on experience and CPA exam preparation enhance job readiness.

How does the salary of accountants in Maine compare to other professions?

CPAs in Maine earn competitive salaries, with an average hourly wage of $37.34, which is more than double the state’s minimum hourly rate. While finance majors may earn at least 10% more than accounting majors, the stable economic environment and high demand for accountants in Maine make it a lucrative career choice.

What kind of work can I do with an accounting degree in Maine?

With an accounting degree in Maine, you can work in various roles such as public accounting, management accounting, government accounting, and internal auditing. Accountants in Maine can choose to work in accounting firms, enterprise management companies, local government, and other industries requiring financial expertise.

Are there specific courses required to sit for the CPA exam in Maine?

Yes, to sit for the CPA exam in Maine, you must complete at least 150 semester hours of education, including specific courses in accounting, auditing, and ethics. The coursework must include at least three semester hours in auditing and another three in accounting.

Can I work as an accountant in Maine without becoming a CPA?

Yes, you can work as an accountant in Maine without becoming a CPA. However, becoming a CPA can significantly enhance your career prospects, earning potential, and opportunities for advancement in the accounting field.

What is the work-life balance like for accountants in Maine?

The work-life balance for accountants in Maine is generally favorable, with many professionals enjoying a reasonable balance between their professional and personal lives. Maine's accounting jobs often offer flexible work schedules, remote work options, and generous leave policies. The state's slower pace of life and smaller urban centers contribute to less stressful commutes and a more relaxed lifestyle compared to larger cities. Additionally, Maine's abundant natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities provide accountants with ample ways to unwind and recharge outside of work. This combination of professional flexibility and quality of life makes Maine an attractive place for accountants seeking balance.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics (2022). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Accountants and Auditors. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes132011.htm
IBISWorld (2022). Maine State Economic Profile. Retrieved from https://www.ibisworld.com/united-states/economic-profiles/maine/#EconomicOverview
Espahbodi et al. (2021). “CPA Exam Performance and Environmental and Other Opportunity Factors," Social Science Research Network. Retrieved from https://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3782554
Maine Department of Labor (2022). High-Wage, In-Demand Jobs in Maine. Retrieved from https://www.maine.gov/labor/cwri/data/oes/hwid.html
National Association of Colleges and Employers (2021). First Destinations for the College Class of 2021. Retrieved from https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/first-destination/class-of-2021/interactive-dashboard/
National Center for Education Statistics (2022). Bachelor’s Degrees Conferred by Postsecondary Institutions. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/programs/digest/d22/tables/dt22_322.10.asp
National Center for Education Statistics (2022). College Navigator: Bachelor Degree Programs in Accounting in Maine. Retrieved from https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?s=ME&p=52.0301&l=93