Accounting and Business Law

The Department of Accounting is committed to academic excellence. Opportunities for practical experiences complement the academic program of the Department and prepare students to succeed in the business world. The Department strives to increase the students' interest in professional accounting matters, help them develop powers of discrimination and judgment, and encourage the pursuit of lifelong learning through continuing professional education.

The student majoring in Accounting is educated in the advanced principles, theories, and real world applications of accounting and taxation. The Accounting major is prepared for the fields of public accounting, industrial accounting, government service or not-for-profit accounting. In completing the requisite courses for an Accounting major, the student fulfills a basic requirement for admission to the licensing examinations for Certified Public Accountancy in New York State. Students are also qualified to sit for the professional examinations to become Certified Management Accountants (CMA), Certified Internal Auditors (CIA), and Certified Government Financial Management (CGFM).

Accounting majors are encouraged to seek as broad an education as possible. Many accounting majors have successfully completed minors in the liberal arts and sciences including Computer Science, International Business, History, Political Science, and foreign languages.

Mission Statement: The mission of the accounting department is to prepare students for entry level accounting and business positions, subsequent career growth, and continuing intellectual and professional development. The department provides a challenging and intellectually stimulating learning environment that emphasizes the analytical, communications, technological and teamwork skills necessary to succeed in the current dynamic business environment. The integration of accounting theory and practice with the college's liberal arts and Franciscan traditions enables students to become responsible and contributing members of society.

Accounting Degree Programs

The curriculum in accounting has been expanded to encompass two degree programs. The Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree includes the courses that are specified by New York State as the educational requirements to sit for the CPA exam with 120 credit hours and applies only to those students graduating before August 1, 2009. Students desiring to sit for the CPA exam with the BBA degree will be required by the examining body to submit a transcript of their courses for the bachelors degree to document that they have completed the required coursework.

The Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Accounting offers more flexibility within the accounting program and with business electives so that students can tailor their programs to meet a variety of career objectives or preparation for graduate programs. Students should consult with their academic advisors to determine the appropriate degree path to best prepare them for their career and educational goals.