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Certificates

Northwestern University

CPA Accounting Certificate

Northwestern's School of Professional Studies CPA Accounting Certificate delivers 30 semester hours of accounting coursework under the Northwestern brand. The 12-course curriculum covers AI, data analytics, and forensic accounting alongside traditional CPA exam topics — all fully online.

Updated July 27, 2026

Program Highlights

Northwestern University brand on official transcript
Curriculum includes AI, data analytics, and forensic accounting
Aligned with Illinois Board of Examiners requirements
Fully online with flexible pacing

Program Details

Tuition

$27,480 - $29,100

Credits

30 credits

Duration

18-30 months

Format

Online

Accreditation

HLC

CPA Ready

Meets 150-Hour Requirement

Tuition, fees, and program details are subject to change. Verify current pricing directly with Northwestern University before making enrollment decisions.

Curriculum Highlights

Financial Accounting I & IIManagerial AccountingFederal TaxationAuditingAccounting Information SystemsForensic AccountingData Analytics for Accounting

Admission Requirements

1Bachelor's degree from accredited institution
2No GMAT/GRE required
3Transcript evaluation
4Up to 3 transfer credits accepted

Things to Consider

Premium pricing at ~$28,500 for a certificate (not a degree)
Not separately AACSB accredited (institutional HLC accreditation)
Not eligible for federal financial aid
May need Business Essentials Certificate for additional business credits
LIFTS Profile

Program Learning Profile

See how Northwestern University's program scores across five key dimensions that help match you to the right CPA review course.

L

Learning Format

How the program delivers education

Campus-Based
Hybrid
Synchronous Online
Asynchronous Online
I

Investment

Total program cost

Under $10K
$10K - $25K
$25K - $50K
Over $50K
F

Flexibility

Schedule and pacing options

Full-Time Only
Some Flexibility
Part-Time Available
Fully Self-Paced
T

Time to Complete

Expected program duration

Under 12 Months
12-18 Months
18-24 Months
Over 24 Months
S

Support

Student services and career resources

Minimal
Online Support
Academic Advisors
Full Career Services

This profile helps match you with CPA review courses that complement your education style. Courses with similar profiles tend to provide a consistent learning experience.

Continue Your CPA Journey

Matched CPA Review Courses

Based on Northwestern University's learning profile, these CPA review courses align well with your education experience.

(Affiliate link)
79% Match
Top Pick

Vishal CPA Prep

3.6

Vishal CPA Prep offers structured learning approach, premium features and self-paced study options that align with your program.

$150–$2,300

63% Match

Universal CPA

4.0

Universal CPA offers structured learning approach and premium features that align with your program.

$299–$999

61% Match

Becker

4.4

Becker offers structured learning approach, premium features and strong support resources that align with your program.

$2,499–$4,999

Want a more personalized recommendation?

State Eligibility

This program meets CPA education requirements in the following states. Always verify current requirements with your state board.

Common Questions

CPA Accounting Certificate FAQ

The certificate is offered through Northwestern's School of Professional Studies, which carries Northwestern University's HLC regional accreditation. While the Kellogg School of Management holds AACSB accreditation, SPS certificates are not separately AACSB-accredited.
Yes. The curriculum is aligned with Illinois Board of Examiners requirements. Students needing additional business credit hours may also need to complete the separate Business Essentials Certificate.
At ~$28,500, you pay significantly more than options like UNA ($6,600). The value is in the Northwestern brand on your transcript and the modern curriculum. If brand recognition matters for your career goals, it can be worthwhile.