The College of Business offers two different accounting degrees: the B.S. in Accounting and the B.B.A. in Accounting. These degrees provide students with an understanding of accounting skills and business fundamentals. Emphasis is placed on developing analytical and problem-solving capabilities in businesses. Such skills provide a foundation for students who seek a career in professional accounting. These degrees can also help equip students in other careers which require analytical skills, such as law, FBI or IRS services, as well as not-for-profit and mission organizations.

Students interested in practicing as professional accountants are strongly encouraged to pursue the B.S. in Accounting. This degree is appropriate for those who desire to practice as a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The accounting degree program does not lead to certification and/or licensure, but it helps students prepare to seek certification and/or licensure. Click on the links for more information about certification requirements. Since the requirements for the CPA exam vary from state to state, students wishing to take this exam should consult the State Board of Accountancy where the exam will be taken. Most states require 150 semester hours, and some require a year or two of experience. The B.S. in Accounting is flexible to help students meet the requirements of various states. 

The baccalaureate programs in Accounting require 120 minimum total semester hours including courses from three categories: 1) Core Curriculum, 2) the Business Department Core, 3) the Accounting Core, and (4) a minor field of study or electives sufficient to achieve the required minimum total hours.

Students must achieve a cumulative grade point average of 2.25 in all Department of Business course work.

Student Learning Outcomes

Effective Communication: Communicate effectively and professionally in various contexts using diverse techniques and contemporary media.

Critical Reasoning and Research: Conceptualize, apply, analyze, synthesize, and evaluate information to address questions, perform analyses, understand and apply results, reach conclusions, and assess impact.

Business Skills and Knowledge: Demonstrate skills and knowledge relevant to a business focus necessary for professional growth and success in global and culturally diverse contexts.

Ethical and Legal Issues and Christian Worldview: Anticipate, identify, and resolve moral, ethical and legal dilemmas through an understanding and application of the Christian worldview.

Accounting Knowledge and Skills: Apply advanced accounting concepts to financial information in order to analyze and communicate the financial position and performance of organizations.

Requirements for the Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with major in Accounting