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Career Services - Salaries

What Kind of Compensation Can I Expect in the Accounting Profession?
Getting your CPA certification can lead to practically unlimited career possibilities, in both financial and non-financial roles. Becoming a CPA may be one of the most challenging career tracks, and it is also one of the most rewarding too; it's one of the only professions required in every business. The starting salaries for college grads in public and corporate accounting are right up there and, the good news gets better as you advance your accounting career. A first year partner in public accounting averages $150,000 a year, with potential to earn much more over time. Whether you're looking for an internship or you're moving full speed ahead toward a permanent position, CPATrack.com has the resources you're looking for:

Employer Junior Level
(0-3 years)
Senior Level
(4-6 years)
Public Accounting
(large firm)
$45,045-$61,740 $59,220-$75,285
Public Accounting
(small firm)
$37,485-$52,920 $50,715-$65,520
Corporate Accounting
(large company)
$41,580-$61,740 $61,110-$77,175
Corporate Accounting
(small company)
$37,170-$52,605 $51,345-$63,000
(Source: 2002 Robert Half & Accountemps Salary Guide)


Position Large Company Small to Medium Company
Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer $224,280-$453,915 $104,895-$194,040
Corporate Controller $120,960-$174,825 $68,040-$130,410
Tax Manager $98,910-$155,295 $87,500-$110,250
(Source: 2002 Robert Half & Accountemps Salary Guide)