The four-year program in general business with a concentration in accounting is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the field. A broad-based general education precedes an extensive education in accounting, providing the successful graduate with the necessary tools for a career in accounting or graduate studies.

The accounting program has a core of accounting and non accounting courses. Students choose—in consultation with their advisors—at least 12 hours of electives. This allows some flexibility to design a program which meets career goals.

Careers in Accounting

Careers in accounting span the entire spectrum of human activity. Accountants are employed in private industry, small businesses, hospitals, government agencies and subdivisions, social organizations, and many other areas. Some accountants provide service to the public on a fee basis as professionals.

The Accounting Technician

(See Accounting Technology AAB )

The Internal Accountant

All complex organizations need the expertise of accountants, who are responsible for providing information to management for decision-making purposes; ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local laws (including tax reporting); and evaluating the financial effects of management’s decisions. These functions become highly specialized in the large complex corporate environment. Many accountants also work for federal government agencies such as the Internal Revenue Service or the General Accounting Office. Others work in state and local government agencies. Accountants are employed in highly responsible positions in schools, hospitals, and medium-sized businesses. Many individuals have advanced to positions of chief financial officer (CFO) or chief executive officer (CEO) of large organizations. The minimum requirement to obtain employment as an internal accountant is generally a bachelor’s degree with a concentration in accounting.

Professional Certification

Accountants may improve their career prospects by obtaining one or more professional certifications.  The Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is the most well-known and prestigious certification. Other professional accounting certifications include, but are not limited to, Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and Certified Internal Auditor (CIA).  Accounting professionals with certifications typically earn more money, and receive promotions more quickly.  College graduates who have successfully completed an accounting certification exam have an advantage in obtaining entry-level employment in accounting.

Most accounting certifications require that the candidate pass a rigorous comprehensive examination, have completed a post-secondary program of study and/or have relevant work experience.  For example, all CPA candidates must have passed the comprehensive two-day Uniform CPA Examination.  In addition, they must meet the academic, work experience and other requirements established by their respective states.  For example, Ohio requires that those sitting for the Uniform CPA Exam must first have completed 150 semester hours (225 quarter hours) of college education or successfully completed “preliminary” qualifying examinations.  Ohio’s relevant work experience for certification varies, depending on the candidate’s academic credentials.  For other rules and regulations, visit the accountancy Board of Ohio web site http://acc.ohio.gov/

If you plan on obtaining a professional designation, consult your academic accounting advisor for assistance.

The Program at Shawnee State

The curriculum at Shawnee State University is designed to provide the maximum flexibility in achieving your educational and career objectives, recognizing that they may change during your period of study. You may obtain an associate’s degree and gain employment as an “accounting technician” while continuing study toward a baccalaureate degree with a concentration in accounting. The associate degree is fully transferable into the baccalaureate program with no loss of credits.