How long does an accountant need to go to college?

To become an accountant, a student typically needs to complete a bachelor's degree in accounting or a related field, which usually takes about four years. Many Accountants also pursue a master's degree in accounting or an MBA, adding an additional one to two years of study. Additionally, to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), candidates must meet specific education requirements, often totaling 150 credit hours, and pass the CPA exam. This can extend the total time spent in college to around five years or more.