April 8, 2025

This paid piece is sponsored by Augustana University.

Augustana University accounting graduates who took the Uniform Certified Public Accountant Examination for the first time in 2023 had the highest pass rate in South Dakota and the sixth-highest in the nation.

This is according to the latest data released by the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy.

Among the first-time test takers, Augustana alumni led the way in the state in 2023 — earning an average Uniform CPA Examination pass rate of 84.8 percent, compared with the state’s 61.3 percent and national rate of 54.3 percent. Augustana’s average score was 84.7, compared with the state average of 76.4 and national average of 72.

Out of 793 institutions with 10 or more  reported candidates, Augustana was ranked No. 6 nationally among first-time test-takers in 2023. Augustana also was ranked No. 4 out of 259 small institutions in the nation, which are programs with 10 to 20 reported candidates taking the test for the first time.

“These scores are telling of the students we have at Augustana and how hard they work,” said Angela Olson, associate professor of business administration. “The rigor they endure during the program transpires into great success in and outside of the classroom, success on their CPA exams and in their careers, where they lead rewarding and fulfilling lives serving others.” 

To become a licensed CPA at the time the scores were reported, a graduate first had to pass the Uniform CPA Examination. The CPA exam consisted of four four-hour sections, including auditing and attestation, business environment and concepts, financial accounting and reporting, and regulation. Graduates had to pass all four sections within 18 months — earning a minimum score of 75 on each section.

Beginning in 2024, the business environment and concepts section was removed from the CPA exam, and its most essential topics have been distributed strategically across the other sections where its content is deemed most relevant.

“The changes to the CPA exam provided us with the opportunity to take a closer look at Augustana’s MPA curriculum,” said Laura Hybertson, associate professor of accounting and director of the Master of Professional Accountancy program.

“We worked with our alumni in the industry to ensure the program was meeting employer needs, as well as covering the new CPA exam topics. The combination of industry insight and curriculum adjustments will ensure that AU continues to be a leader in the industry as MPA students and alumni are recruited by local, national and even global firms.”

This is not the first time Augustana has been recognized nationally for its CPA exam pass rate. In 2020, the university ranked No. 1 among all 721 institutions and No. 1 among 234 small institutions when its graduates took the test for the first time.

For information about the accounting major at Augustana, visit augie.edu/accounting. To learn more about the Augustana MPA program, visit augie.edu/MPA.

Founded in 1860, Augustana University is a selective, comprehensive university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. With more than 100 majors, minors and pre-professional programs for undergraduates — along with graduate degree and continuing education programs — Augustana is committed to enriching lives and fostering development by combining a foundation in the liberal arts with professional skill and advanced study.

Nationally recognized for academic excellence, student life, graduate outcomes and affordability, Augustana serves more than 2,400 students from 41 states and 54 countries. Most are part of our residential community and call our 100-acre campus home. Our graduate and continuing education programs serve students during times that are convenient for adult learners.

For more information about Augustana University, visit augie.edu.