Department of Accountancy

Movin' on Up

Starting salaries for college grads in public and corporate accounting are right up there . . . and add an extra 10% to the chart below if you are a CPA or have a graduate degree. Check it out - if you like numbers, you'll love these!

Employer	Junior Level (0 - 3 years)	Senior Level (4 - 6 years)
Public Accounting (large firm)	$35,500 - $48,500	$46,250 - $57,000
Public Accounting (small firm)	$29,500 - $40,750	$39,250 - $49,750
Corporate Accounting (large firm)	$33,250 - $51,000	$51,500 - $64,000
Corporate Accounting (small firm)	$29,750 - $42,750	$37,750 - $55,750

Source: 2001 Robert Half & Accountemps Salary Guide

The good news gets even better as you advance in your accounting career. A first year Partner in public accounting averages $150,000 a year, with the potential to earn much more over time. An upper level Manager or Director can expect to earn $75,250 - $106,500 with a large firm and $60,500 - $81,000 with a small firm.

In the corporate world, salaries fall within these ranges:

Position	Large Company	Small to Medium Company
Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer	$178,000 - $356,250	$81,000 - $163,000
Corporate Controller	$96,000 - $150,250	$53,500 - $104,750
Tax Manager	$78,500 - $116,500	$65,000 - $86,750

Source: 2001 Robert Half & Accountemps Salary Guide
(Geographic region, experience, education, CPA certification and company size all play a role in determining salary.)

Takin' Care of Business