How long does it take to become an accountant?

It depends, but I will give you my personal experience to give you an idea. I go to the Ohio State University (Fisher College of Business), and we're on a quarter system here. I've been taking about 15 credits per quarter since my freshman year, and I should be done by spring of my senior year...so I would think the typical length is probably 4 years. This is for a bachelor's degree. I plan on taking the CPA exam, which from what I understand, if you pass the first try, then you can be licensed. But if not, then you have to go back for another year of school ("Masters in Accounting") in order to attempt the exam again....after that you can try as many times as you need to pass....however I do know of a few people who have completed their bachelor's in accounting in 3 years...I guess it just depends on how ambitious you are!