The success of any business relies on accounting professionals. For those considering this field, realize that accounting goes beyond collecting information and filing taxes. Today's accountants are key analysts, communicators and problem-solvers. In addition to maintaining an organization's financial integrity, they also find ways to reduce costs and streamline operations. If this is a path that interests you, the accounting track specializes your undergraduate degree in financial information and analysis toward this role.
Why Study Accounting at Clarkson?
Studying accounting opens the door to a career that is always in demand. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for accountants and auditors was $77,250 per year. Clarkson University is considered one of the best accounting schools in the country. You will graduate prepared for the workforce and ready to sit for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) Examination, if you choose to do so.
Our curriculum was designed in partnership with employers and industry leaders. As a result, it is focused on hands-on learning. You will tackle case studies that bring real-world decision-making into the classroom. Faculty members have extensive experience in the field and are also scholars who find cutting-edge solutions to the discipline. Our extensive alumni network is another important resource for students looking to find internships and other opportunities.
What You'll Learn
Accounting information systems
Assets and liabilities
Financial accounting
Income and expenses
Managerial accounting
Revenue and debt
Review the full curriculum below.
Students are required to complete the following courses:
AC305 Cost Accounting
AC311 Intermediate Financial Accounting I
AC312 Intermediate Financial Accounting II
FN462 Investments
FN464 Financial Management II
FN470 Strategic Financial Management
You'll then fill the remaining professional electives with accounting courses.
Coursework centers around the tools and approaches accounting professionals use on a daily basis. Various co-curricular and extracurricular activities help you build additional experience:
We offer the following competitive scholarships for students studying accounting:
The James Dohr Scholarship: This scholarship covering up to one-half of tuition costs is awarded to seniors who demonstrate leadership and significant potential through their academic achievements.
The James Dohr Award: Juniors who demonstrate leadership and significant potential through their academic achievements are eligible for this $500 award.
The Robert '65 and Elaine Birrell Accounting Award: This award is given to a sophomore, junior or senior who exhibits academic excellence and leadership in activities related to the accounting profession.
Our students have gone on to positions in the accounting and auditing field, including:
Accounting analyst
Certified Public Accountant (after completing 150 hours of coursework and passing the CPA exam)
Comptroller
IRS investigator/agent
Replenishment consultant
Beta Alpha Psi
Clarkson University is home to a chapter of Beta Alpha Psi, the nearly 100-year-old international honor society for accounting, finance and information systems majors. The organization provides support, development and networking opportunities for aspiring accounting professionals.
Employers and Graduate Education
Many of our students start positions as personal or corporate accountants or prepare for their CPA exam and other industry certifications. Those looking ahead toward a leadership role may decide to earn an accounting-focused Master of Business Administration, including through Clarkson’s Online MBA or accelerated MBA program.
Our students have found employment in many organizations, including:
