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–electives that support the achievement of their professional and personal 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.

Additional information on accounting careers, including job descriptions, and salaries, may be found at the Federal Government’s Bureau of Labor Statistics:

http://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm

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.

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 often 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 or political jurisdictions.  For example, Ohio’s requirements may be found at the Ohio State Board of Accountancy http://acc.ohio.gov/. URLs for other states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands may be found at the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy http://www.nasba.org/stateboards/.

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

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 transferable into the baccalaureate program with no loss of credits.

Suggested schedule:

**It is important that accounting majors consult their advisors regarding electives and forming their schedules.