Double Major Options for Accounting Students in 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What are the pros and cons of getting an accounting double major?

Deciding to pursue an accounting double major is a significant academic and career choice. Like any huge commitment, it comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Understanding the pros and cons of both the degree option and the profession can help you gauge if the coursework, time, and effort will be worthwhile.

Pros:

• Skill Versatility: Double major graduates are not stuck with just one set of skills. Instead, they are ready to branch out to other roles in finance, technology, entrepreneurship, and criminal justice. 
• Job Stability: It provides consistent opportunities for new and current professionals. In an EY survey (D’Egidio et al., 2023), 46% of students identified career stability and a comfortable lifestyle as their main reasons for pursuing the field.
• Advancement: A double major can potentially strengthen your application for graduate education or career progression. In fact, 34% of students believe an accounting career is a gateway to leadership positions (D’Egidio et al., 2023).
• Evolving Opportunities: With AI being integrated into many accounting and finance processes, accountants with double majors are well-positioned to adapt, refine new technologies, and take advantage of emerging roles.

Cons:

• Heavier Course Loads: Fulfilling the requirements for two majors may require additional classes, making the workload more demanding and stressful. Depending on the school’s curriculum, this could also limit your choice of electives.
• Extended Graduation Timeline: While double majors can be completed within the standard four years, some students may take longer or require extra terms to satisfy all requirements.
• Increased Tuition Costs: Staying longer in school or taking extra credits may result in higher tuition bills, which can outweigh the financial benefits if not carefully planned.
• Declining Entry-Level Roles: The World Economic Forum has ranked accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll clerks among the most at-risk positions, moving from third place in 2020 and 2023 to sixth place in its Future of Jobs Report 2025. TThis trend may make it harder for new graduates to gain initial work experience or complete Certified Public Accountant (CPA) requirements, especially if balancing with an AAS degree to a bachelors transition plan.

How do I choose the best accounting double major?

Considering an accounting double major requires not only balancing personal interests or career goals but also looking at what your desidered school has to offer. Here are key factors to evaluate when choosing a school or program:

• Career Path: A clear understanding of your desired career trajectory ensures that the additional coursework adds value rather than simply increasing your workload. Be sure to research career options, specializations, and industry demand to see how a second major can strengthen your accounting foundation.
• Curriculum Flexibility: Some universities design pathways that make double majoring more efficient. Review course plans and curricula options early to prevent unexpected delays.
• Faculty Expertise: Faculty with practical industry backgrounds provide insights that link classroom learning to real-world applications. 
• Internship and Networking Opportunities: Schools with close ties to business hubs or established alumni networks create better access to internships. These experiences are critical for testing your combined skills in the workplace. 
• Accreditation and Reputation: Accredited accounting programs are more widely recognized by employers and graduate schools.
• Support Services: Balancing two fields is demanding, and strong institutional support through academic advising and career counseling ensure you stay on track.
• Cost and Financial Aid: Adding a second major may mean additional credits and expenses. Schools that provide scholarships, assistantships, or flexible financial aid packages can reduce this burden. 

According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, the undergraduate enrollment in accounting programs has shifted notably in recent years. Numbers dropped to 173,961 students in 2021, declining 7.7% from 2020.

Recently, it is showing a slow recovery, with a 5.9% increase in 2024 and an 11.3% rise in 2025. These figures reflect renewed confidence in the field and underscore the value of pairing accounting with another discipline.

It is also equally important to think about long-term outcomes, such as graduate study or professional certifications. Gaining clarity on the difference between CPA and accountant can help determine which fields align with your intended career path. By aligning your academic path with career aspirations and institutional strengths, you can graduate prepared for a profession that offers new possibilities.

What are the options for an accounting double major?

Selecting a second major depends largely on the type of work you aim to pursue and the value you want to bring to employers. The rising demand for versatile professionals makes the following options increasingly relevant. With 38% of companies identifying talent shortage as their top hiring challenge (Personiv, 2025), getting an accounting double major can offer broader expertise for graduates.

Accounting Double Major in Finance or Economics 

An accounting double major in finance helps accountants deepen their expertise in investment strategies, corporate valuation, and financial planning, which are skills that strengthen their ability to advise businesses and manage capital effectively.

Meanwhile, an economics double major equips accountants with a broader understanding of market behavior, regulatory policy, and global economic trends. This enables them to interpret how external factors influence financial performance. 

This mix helps meet employer demands, as 42% of finance and accounting leaders identify finance and financial planning and analysis as the largest skill shortages, alongside deficiencies in reporting, tax, and bookkeeping (Robert Half, 2025).

Below are examples of jobs that align with these majors:

• Mortgage Brokers ($86,020): They connect clients with lenders to help them secure loans. These professionals earn a mortgage broker salary that varies depending on commissions, client base, and market conditions.
• Accountants ($93,520): They prepare, analyze, and verify financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with standards. 
• Financial Controllers ($97,469): They oversee all accounting operations within an organization, ensuring accuracy in financial reporting and compliance with regulations. 
• Investment Bankers ($118,333): They help organizations raise capital by issuing securities, managing mergers and acquisitions, and providing strategic financial advice. 
• Economists ($130,910): They study how resources are produced, distributed, and consumed to understand trends and guide policy or business decisions. 

This chart displays the top skills gap areas among finance and accounting workers.

Accounting Double Major in Taxation or Statistics

Pursuing an accounting double major in taxation gives graduates a strong grasp of tax codes, compliance, and planning. With 63% of large firms shifting tax administration tasks to non-accountants (Thomson Reuters, 2025), demand is rising for professionals who can handle complex tax matters beyond routine filings. For those who want to advance further, options like fast-track master's in taxation management online programs can provide additional depth and leadership preparation.

On the other hand, combining accounting with statistics equips professionals to handle complex datasets, improve financial forecasts, and support data-driven decision-making in increasingly tech-driven organizations. 

Job opportunities include the following:

• Tax Preparers ($58,860): They advise clients on reducing liabilities, navigating audits, and staying compliant with evolving tax laws. 
• Auditors ($93,520): They streamline audits by applying statistical sampling and advanced analysis. These professionals strengthen transparency and efficiency in audit processes.
• Financial Analysts ($116,490): They evaluate investment opportunities by studying financial data, market trends, and company performance. 
• Tax Managers ($129,367): They oversee a company’s tax strategies, ensuring compliance and optimizing financial outcomes.
• Actuaries ($134,990): They calculate risks and evaluate financial uncertainties for insurance or pension plans. These professionals combine advanced statistical methods with financial acumen.

Choosing this path means building technical mastery in highly specialized areas of accounting. It also opens the door to careers that are both intellectually challenging and highly valued in the job market.

Accounting Double Major in Information Systems, Computer Science, or Data Science

Combining accounting with information systems, computer science, or data science creates a powerful skill set that meets the demands of a tech-driven financial world. Information systems provide accountants with the expertise to design, manage, and secure financial databases, ensuring accuracy and compliance. 

Meanwhile, computer science equips them with programming and software development skills, enabling automation of complex accounting processes and integration of emerging technologies. 

Lastly, data science sharpens their ability to analyze large datasets, detect patterns, and forecast outcomes, which enhances decision-making. Graduates with an accounting double major in these fields bring a niche combination of financial acumen and technical proficiency that employers highly value.

• Financial Data Analysts ($85,459): They transform raw financial data into actionable insights using statistical and computational methods. 
• FinTech Consultants ($103,877): They specialize in guiding businesses through the adoption of financial technologies that enhance efficiency, security, and customer experience. 
• Business Intelligence Developers ($111,882): They create dashboards and visualization tools that turn financial data into clear and accessible insights. 
• IT Financial Risk Specialists ($119,930): They assess and mitigate risks tied to technology, data security, and financial systems. They also ensure compliance and protect organizations from losses.
• FinTech App Developers ($129,348): They design and build digital applications that streamline financial services, like mobile banking and budgeting tools. 

An Intuit survey shows that 25% of accounting students anticipate the disappearance of traditional roles as new positions requiring human judgment and AI oversight rise. Therefore, this combination of disciplines positions graduates at the forefront of change, opening doors not only in accounting but also in clinical research careers where financial oversight of studies requires both data analysis and compliance skills.

This chart reveals how accounting students believe AI will affect the profession. 

Accounting Double Major in Business Administration, Management, or Marketing

Pairing accounting with business administration, management, or marketing builds a strong balance between financial expertise and strategic decision-making. Business administration sharpens organizational and operational skills, management emphasizes leadership and resource allocation, and marketing develops insights into consumer behavior and market positioning. 

Together, these fields allow graduates with an accounting double major to handle both the technical side of finance and the broader business strategies that drive growth and competitiveness.

• Entrepreneurs ($81,729): They launch and manage businesses, often wearing multiple hats in finance, operations, and marketing. These professionals rely on accounting skills to sustain profitability and ensure compliance.
• Business Consultants ($114,710): They provide guidance on operational improvements, cost reduction, and profitability. 
• Operations Managers ($133,120): They ensure that daily business processes run efficiently and cost-effectively. These professionals use accounting insights to streamline budgets and improve performance.
• Marketing Managers ($171,520): They develop and oversee strategies to promote products or services, aligning campaigns with business goals. 
• Financial Managers ($180,470): They oversee a company’s financial health, including reporting, forecasting, and investment decisions.

Choosing this double major path creates versatile professionals who can adapt to leadership, advisory, or entrepreneurial roles. It also positions graduates to succeed in competitive environments by combining financial rigor with the ability to manage people, processes, and market dynamics. For nurses considering business ideas for nurses, the combination of accounting and business can provide a clear framework to scale ventures with solid financial planning.

Accounting Double Major in Law, Public Policy, or International Business

An accounting double major blended with law sharpens accountants’ ability to interpret and apply regulations, making them valuable in compliance, taxation, or corporate advising. Some professionals also possess bachelor’s degrees in accounting and become CPAs before pursuing law school.

Public policy equips you with skills to evaluate the impact of legislation and contribute to shaping economic or fiscal strategies. Lastly, international business expands your capacity to navigate cross-border regulations, trade agreements, and multinational operations.

Overall, these combinations position graduates for leadership, regulatory, and global opportunities where financial insight must be paired with broader legal, political, or economic knowledge.

Jobs include the following:

• International Trade Specialists ($73,136): They advise on economic agreements and tariffs. These professionals connect financial policy with global trade strategies.
• Government Auditors ($93,520): They examine public sector financial records. These professionals strengthen accountability and transparency in government institutions.
• International Business Consultants ($99,275): They guide firms in cross-border trade and finance. These professionals ensure operations align with both local and global rules.
• Tax Attorneys ($119,165): They specialize in interpreting and applying tax law. These professionals advise businesses and individuals on compliance and planning.
• Policy Analysts ($137,600): They research economic regulations and fiscal policies. These professionals assess the implications of legislation for organizations and industries.

Graduates who pursue this track are often attracted to long-term careers in regulation, taxation, or cross-border advisory work, similar to those considering certifications for psychology undergraduates as a way to strengthen their credibility in a competitive, regulation-heavy market.

Accounting Double Major in Psychology or Criminal Justice

Having an accounting double major in these disciplines are highly relevant for those pursuing roles in fraud prevention, corporate security, and financial crime investigation. Psychology helps accountants better understand decision-making, behavior, and ethical frameworks. 

Criminal justice, on the other hand, equips graduates with knowledge of legal systems, investigative procedures, and regulatory frameworks that are critical in forensic accounting and compliance. For learners seeking flexibility, pursuing an accelerated forensic accounting degree online can further bridge these complementary fields.

You can explore the following roles:

• Online Fraud Investigators ($64,132): They specialize in detecting and preventing fraudulent activities in digital transactions, banking platforms, and e-commerce systems.
• Forensic Accountants ($80,852): They investigate financial discrepancies and fraud. These professionals apply both accounting and investigative skills to uncover misconduct.
• Compliance Officers ($84,980): They ensure organizations follow legal and ethical guidelines. These professionals design policies that mitigate risks related to financial practices.
• Financial Examiners ($103,650): These professionals assess risk levels, review balance sheets, and protect consumers by monitoring lending practices.

Accounting’s intersection with psychology and criminal justice is also becoming increasingly relevant since 73% of U.S. adults have faced issues like credit card fraud, ransomware, or online shopping scams (Gottfried et al., 2025). Therefore, a career in this field prepares them to detect, prevent, and address fraudulent activity effectively across corporate, government, and investigative settings.

Which Is Better: Accounting Double Major or Master’s Degree?

Choosing between an accounting double major and a master’s degree is a decision that hinges on your desired career path, specialization prospects, and availability. Because a double major is completed at the undergraduate level, it broadens an accountant’s toolkit early on and is less expensive overall. It also provides versatility and makes graduates more attractive in entry-level roles where cross-disciplinary expertise is valued. 

In comparison, a master’s degree in accounting emphasizes depth over breadth, offering concentrated study in advanced auditing, taxation, or risk management. A similar graduate-level degree, such as an MBA in accounting, blends advanced business strategy with financial expertise.

Both are beneficial to professionals who wish to transition into leadership or specialized positions. However, pursuing this path increases educational expenses, particularly when enrolling in an MBA program.

If you are also contemplating between a masters in accounting vs CPA, consider that a master’s degree can sometimes help you meet the 150-credit requirement for CPA licensure, but it is not the only route. A survey reveals that 85% of finance executives and 58% of students support creating alternative pathways to CPA careers (D’Egidio, 2023). 

This push for flexibility is echoed by reforms from the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), both of which are working to modernize licensure requirements to ensure the profession remains accessible and relevant in today’s labor market.

Overall, when weighing the two, remember that a double major can provide broad skills, early career flexibility, and a competitive edge in entry-level roles, while a master’s degree carries the benefit of advanced academic achievement and higher-paying, specialized or more senior roles. The better option ultimately depends on whether you value early versatility or advanced specialization. 

What is the job outlook for accounting double major graduates?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors are projected to see 4.6% growth from 2023 to 2033, which brings about 124,200 annual openings. Much of this demand will come from replacing retirees or workers who shift into new occupations.

Moreover, most financial specialists maintain a stable outlook, with a steady need for expertise in preparing and examining financial records. In contrast, accounting, bookkeeping, and payroll clerks are expected to fall by 5.8%, a loss of roughly 170,000 jobs. Other financial clerical and assisting positions are also on the decline.

In general, the globalization of business is fueling demand for accountants adept in international trade, tax implications, and cross-border mergers and acquisitions. At the same time, as automation handles repetitive work, accountants will be valued more for their advisory and analytical contributions.

This shift gives double majors a competitive edge in tackling complex problems that demand both technical and strategic insight. However, graduates must be prepared to face challenges. While accountants’ salaries sit above the national average, pay growth lags behind other fields. This makes retention an issue.

In addition, work-life balance is another pressure point, with turnovers often linked to heavy workloads, limited flexibility, and insufficient career development pathways. Employers who adapt by offering better work arrangements and advancement opportunities will be better positioned to attract and retain talent.

Overall, graduates who pair accounting with a complementary discipline will remain relevant in a changing market, provided they continue to build adaptable skills that meet evolving business needs.

This chart displays the employment change across accounting and financial careers.

Here’s What Graduates Have to Say About Their Careers as Accountants

Other Things You Should Know About Getting an Accounting Double Major

What is the best double degree for accounting?

The best double degree for accounting depends on your career goals. Popular pairings include finance, economics, business administration, or information systems.

Finance complements accounting with investment and risk knowledge, while economics strengthens analytical and policy skills. Business administration enhances management expertise, and information systems equips students for technology-driven roles.

Other strong options include taxation, law, or data science. Each combination adds value, making you more versatile and competitive in a job market where specialized skills are increasingly sought after.

Is it hard to do double majors?

Pursuing a double major can be challenging, but it depends on your time management, academic readiness, and program structure. Students often need to take additional courses or heavier semester loads to complete requirements, which may extend their graduation timeline.

However, many universities overlap credits between related majors, making the path more manageable. Strong organization and planning are key to balancing workloads. While demanding, double majors can open more career opportunities, making the effort worthwhile for motivated, career-driven students.

What is the difference between a dual degree and a double major?

A double major involves earning one bachelor’s degree with two majors listed, usually within the same school or college. A dual degree, however, means completing two separate degrees, which typically requires more credits and time, since each degree has its own requirements.

For example, you could pursue a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics as a dual degree. Double majors are more common and efficient, while dual degrees offer broader academic depth and recognition.

Is it better to double major or choose a minor with accounting?

Choosing between a double major or a minor with accounting depends on your career plans and workload tolerance. A double major offers deeper expertise and may boost career competitiveness but often requires more time and commitment. A minor provides focused knowledge in a complementary field with less additional coursework, giving flexibility to graduate sooner.

Students aiming for specialized or competitive roles may benefit from a double major, while those wanting balance and efficiency may find a minor more practical.