Today’s prospective college students are very practical. They understand the costs associated with earning a college degree, they’re looking for an education that can lead almost immediately to a good paying job… and they’re willing to pay for it.
And this may be one of the main factors of why one degree program in particular has seen double digit enrollment growth this year. It’s a program that, if you online college isn’t already teaching… it should begin so immediately.
You see, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, accountants and auditors make a median pay of $81,680 a year, or almost $20,000 more than the average median pay of all Americans.[1]
What’s more, the BLS estimates there will be about 130,000 jobs openings in these fields, annually through at least 2033. Meaning a lot of high paying jobs are available right now and will be into the foreseeable future.
Like we said, today’s prospective college students are practical, and they do their homework. And that’s why we believe 29,312 of them enrolled in undergrad accounting programs this past spring semester, a 12% jump over the prior year.[2]
This, according to data from the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center. Importantly, the increase in enrollments for accounting degrees marked not only the third consecutive semester of growth, but also the second consecutive semester of double-digit enrollment growth.
For spring of 2025, overall, four-year institutions saw an 11% increase, while two-year institutions saw a whopping 24% increase, bringing total undergrad enrollments in accounting programs to 266,507 students.
“More bright minds are choosing accounting, where graduates find dynamic career opportunities that draw on a mix of skills and backgrounds. It’s inspiring to see positive trends in student interest.
“Enrollment growth underscores the need to continue to raise awareness of the benefits of accounting careers. Building future talent also hinges on continuing to make the path into accounting more accessible and the work, once there, rewarding,” said Susan Coffey, CEO of public accounting for the American Institute of CPAs in an interview with CPA Practice Advisor.[3]
So, why are so many students choosing these degree programs? Well, like we said earlier, it comes down to job opportunities and pay.
In fact, a poll by AICPA proves it, with current accounting students saying the top reasons for choosing accounting are[4]:
66% – Jobs demand
56% – Earnings potential
48% – Economic conditions.
Now, Conversion Media Group recently highlighted a survey showing 90% of adults aged 18-24 would consider enrolling in an online degree program.[5]
And with consecutive semesters of double digit enrollment growth in accounting programs, you should not only teach for these degrees, but target the 18-24 year old demographic for new enrollment.
Simply put, we’re seeing a higher ed growth area (thankfully), combined with a wider acceptance of online college…
So, market your accounting programs to them!
How, though?
Well, partner with us, Conversion Media Group.
We’re a national leader in higher education enrollment initiatives.
We curate leads for you by starting with individuals that have opted in with us, to hear about furthering their education. They continually learn even more about your program(s) directly from our skilled representatives.
We separate those that want to hear from your school at a later time from those that want to talk to your enrollment team immediately.
For those who want to talk to you immediately, we do a live handoff (live transfer) directly to one of your enrollment agents; where in many cases, these prospects are ready to become your students at that very moment.
So, if you’re looking to increase enrollment in your institution’s accounting programs, or any programs for that matter, our live transfer leads could very well be the number one way to do it.
See exactly how many new student enrollments Conversion Media Group can help drive for you by calling us today at 1-800-419-3201 or email us at [email protected].
Or you can contact us HERE and one of our live transfer lead generation experts will get back with you asap.
[1] Accountants and Auditors : Occupational Outlook Handbook: : U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
[2] Current Term Enrollment Estimates | National Student Clearinghouse Research Center
[3] Accounting Enrollment is on the Rise: 12% Increase for Spring Semester – CPA Practice Advisor
[4] Future Accountants | Future Accountants
[5] Data Reveals Growing Interest from Younger Students in Online Higher Education | Morningstar