Accounting enrollment is showing signs of recovery, but employers may need to rethink how they attract and retain younger professionals as Gen Z enters the workforce.

Undergraduate accounting enrollment increased 8.9% in spring 2026, marking the third consecutive annual increase following years of declines. However, the latest available graduation data showed a 6.6% decrease in students earning accounting degrees, suggesting that higher enrollment may not immediately translate into a larger workforce.

According to a Forbes Finance Council article by Megan Weis, employers must look beyond competitive salaries to retain younger accountants, who increasingly prioritize meaningful work, professional development, and opportunities to build technological skills.

A recent Deloitte survey found that 96% of Gen Z adults consider having a sense of purpose at work important, while 40% reported rejecting jobs that conflicted with their values. Meanwhile, a KPMG survey found that 90% of Gen Z professionals consider close workplace friendships very important.

Weis suggested that accounting firms reconsider assigning repetitive administrative tasks to entry-level employees, particularly as artificial intelligence creates opportunities to automate routine work. Instead, employers could emphasize analytical responsibilities, AI training and collaboration with experienced colleagues.