Accounting
Accounting can be described as "the language of business." Students who wish to join the accounting profession must be fluent in this language and have the knowledge and creativity to apply this information to make good business decisions.
Gone are the days of green eyeshades and ledger books. It's not just about debits and credits anymore. While accountants still analyze individuals' and companies' financial reports and prepare tax returns, they also are decision-makers and problem solvers. For example, today's accountants design information systems that produce information relevant to users, delve into the accounting literature of professional pronouncements and government regulations to identify the ways to disclose certain types of information to the financial markets, or become an advocate for clients in disputes before the Internal Revenue Service.
A strong mathematical background and good communication skills are required to succeed in accounting. Analysis requires mathematics, and the results obtained through analysis must be described through oral and written communication.
Earning an undergraduate degree in accounting is only the first step toward joining the profession. For many graduates the second step is passing one of the professional examinations in order to become a Certified Public Accountant, a Certified Managerial Accountant, or a Certified Internal Auditor. Regardless of whether you choose to sit for a professional examination, focusing on accounting as an undergraduate will enhance your abilities to understand and manage organizations.
Accounting Option Requirements (2006-2007 bulletin year)
A minimum of 36 credits as follows:
- ACTG 335 - Accounting Information Systems (4)
- ACTG 360 - Management Accounting (4)
- ACTG 381, 382 - Financial Accounting and Reporting (8)
- ACTG 421 - Introduction to Taxation (4)
- ACTG 430 - Governmental and Not-for-Profit Accounting (1)
- ACTG 492 - Auditing Concepts and Practices (4)
- ACTG 495 - Integrated Accounting Issues (4)
- 2 Upper division accounting courses to be chosen from: ACTG 422, 460, 476, 485, 490, 493.
Students electing accounting as an option will also be required to take: Phl 308 Elementry Ethics or Phl 309 Business Ethics; PS 101 United States Government and PS 102 United States Politics; and 3 or more credits in anthropology, psychology, or sociology.
Please note: These requirements are for the 2003-2004 bulletin year. If you are claiming a previous bulletin year and would like a listing of your requirements, visit the Course Information page.
See also:
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