- AICPA and state CPA societies oppose U.S. Department of Education proposals that exclude accounting from professional degree program classification.
- Accounting meets professional standards through rigorous education, licensure, ethical codes, and societal impact, comparable to law and medicine.
- Recognition as a professional degree would improve financial aid access for aspiring accountants, supporting a strong future workforce amid growing demand.
The American Institute of CPAs and state CPA societies are strongly opposing recent U.S. Department of Education proposals that exclude accounting programs from the definition of professional degree programs. In response to continued higher education reforms, such as those detailed in H.R. 1, also called the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, the Department of Education has issued proposed changes regarding the reclassification of professional degree programs.
To date, however, accounting has been notably excluded from the programs that would be granted such status-a mere oversight, claim the AICPA and their partner organizations. Accounting, they argue, meets the characteristics of a profession through its demanding educational and licensure requirements, code of ethics, and impact on society, and therefore needs explicit inclusion in the regulatory definition of professional degree programs.
Mark Koziel, CPA, CGMA, the AICPA's president and CEO, said this recognition shouldn't come as a surprise. "This is common sense", he said. Accountants have an unparalleled impact on the financial well-being of individuals, businesses, and communities at large, while upholding the integrity of financial markets. The process of becoming a licensed CPA is rigorous: A candidate must meet stringent education requirements, pass the CPA Exam, and accumulate experience hours working under the direct supervision of a licensed CPA.
Certification is not a one-time event but an ongoing commitment to a high level of professionalism: A CPA must also adhere to a strict code of ethics and commit to ongoing professional education in order to maintain certification. This lifelong pursuit of knowledge and professionalism is what makes accounting a profession on the same level as other well-respected professional degree areas, such as law and medicine.
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Recognition as a professional degree program has important implications for students, especially with respect to loan eligibility and access to financial aid. Classifying accounting as a professional degree would help policymakers ensure aspiring accountants are supported in completing the rigorous education and obtaining licensure necessary to become professionals.
This is particularly important as the federal government projects continued demand for accounting professionals over the next several years. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the demand for accountants will increase 5 percent through 2034, faster than the overall job growth in the U.S. projected at 3 percent. Providing adequate support mechanisms, including financial aid and formal recognition, is critical to maintaining a strong pipeline of qualified professionals who can fulfill the needs of individuals, businesses, and the public sector.
The AICPA and state CPA societies have renewed their pledge to advocate for the recognition of accounting as a professional degree program. The organizations remain committed to working with policy makers and regulators to emphasize the rigorous education, professional standards, and value to society that the profession represents. Their efforts aim to ensure the next generation of CPAs receives formal acknowledgement and support to conduct business in a field fundamental to the integrity and stability of financial systems across the country. This recognition would place accounting programs on par with other professions and reinforce the status of the profession, thereby strengthening prospects for young CPAs.
