Stetson University graduates with a bachelor’s degree had the highest overall pass rate in Florida (84.6 percent) on the Uniform Certified Public Accountant exam in 2012, according to results released by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). According to NASBA, the next highest pass rate was only 63.4%; Stetson was first out of 24 schools reporting.

In addition, the overall pass rate for Stetson graduates with a bachelor’s degree who were taking the test for the first time is 75 percent, also the highest pass rate in Florida. These are typically students who have earned a bachelor’s degree and take sections of the CPA exam while enrolled in the Master of Accountancy (M.Acc.) program.

For Michael Bitter (pictured), Rinker Distinguished Professor of Accounting and chair of Stetson’s M.E. Rinker, Sr. Institute of Tax and Accountancy, the results of the CPA exam reflect the dedication of the program’s students.

“I think that the strong pass rates are indicative of the quality of our accounting program and the quality and tenacity of our accounting graduates,” Bitter said.

The overall pass rate for all test takers with a bachelor’s or advanced degree is 48.9 percent world-wide.

Offered throughout each year, the Uniform CPA exam is a 14-hour, computer-based exam compromised of four sections: auditing and attestation; business environment and concepts; financial accounting and reporting; and regulation. Candidates take one section of the exam per sitting and must pass all four parts of the exam in order to be eligible to obtain a CPA license.

Nearly 100 percent of students who earn a M.Acc. from Stetson secure a position, primarily in public accounting, prior to graduation. To assist students in finding a position, Stetson hosts recruiters from Big Four firms (PwC, Deloitte, Ernst & Young), regional CPA firms, corporations and government agencies.

Stetson’s accounting curriculum provides the 150 credit hours required for a CPA license. Each year, undergraduate and graduate students at Stetson take the CPA exam.

by Maurie Murray