program Type Department School
Undergraduate Major, Certificate, Master of Science  Accounting and Business Law  School of Business

If you're looking to launch a high-demand career in accounting, Siena University offers the path to get you there. As one of the top 10% ranked accounting programs nationwide, we equip you with the skills, experience, and connections to thrive in today’s financial landscape. Here, you won’t just study accounting—you’ll live it, with opportunities to apply what you learn in real-world settings from day one.

learn by doing

At Siena, the accounting experience is more than just theory; it’s about applying what you learn in real-world scenarios. You won’t just study principles like GAAP or IFRS; you’ll use them. For example:

  • Simulated Audit Projects: You’ll take on the role of an auditor, applying auditing standards to evaluate a company’s financial statements. This hands-on experience allows you to hone your analytical skills and make recommendations as if you were already in the field.

defining courses that shape your expertise

Our standout courses aren’t just academic—they’re designed to immerse you in the real-world challenges of accounting:

  • Forensic Accounting and Fraud Examination: Dive into the world of fraud detection and prevention. This experiential course teaches you to identify financial fraud, giving you a critical skill set that’s increasingly in demand.

  • Managerial Accounting: Learn to support decision-making by developing and using accounting information and data analytics. This course equips you with the analytical tools to guide a company’s financial strategy.

personalized attention and tailored opportunities

Unlike larger institutions, Siena offers smaller class sizes, meaning you get more one-on-one time with experienced faculty who are genuinely invested in your success. You won’t be just another face in a lecture hall; you’ll be known by name and supported in pursuing unique internship opportunities and projects that align with your career goals.

“I love Siena's accounting program because of how welcoming the professors are, and they are always there to help when needed! I've learned many aspects of accounting that will be on the CPA exam, setting me up for future success. Siena taught me how to be a leader in the accounting world. It's a great program, and I wouldn't trade my time at Siena for any other college!” – Morgan Campbell

A 3+1 Advantage: Accelerate Your Path to Success

Siena's 3+1 B.S./M.S. pathway lets you earn both degrees in just four years, providing a fast track to your CPA certification. It’s one of the reasons why our M.S. in Accounting graduates have a 99% job placement rate. You'll gain guaranteed internship opportunities that give you a competitive edge in the job market.

Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA)

A group of Siena business students have earned their IRS tax prep certification and are helping local community members prepare and file their tax returns. The outreach was organized by Elaine Phelan, C.P.A., professor of accounting, through an IRS program called the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). This program helps students develop skills to succeed in all areas of business while giving their time to the local community in a very personal way. 

what makes siena unique?

You’re not just a student here; you’re part of a community. The faculty’s commitment to your growth, the guaranteed internship placements, and the accelerated degree options set Siena apart from other private and SUNY colleges. You’ll graduate with a well-rounded, pragmatic accounting education that employers notice.

“From talking to my professors about their industry years to getting to intern internationally, the experiences I’ve had at Siena let me know that when I start my full-time job, I’ll be as prepared as possible.” – Caroline Clickman '21/'22

 

life after siena as an accounting major

Our Accounting graduates launch their careers with impressive results, with average starting salaries of $75,000 for those who continue into the M.S. program. From payroll and taxes to budget analysis and auditing, they are prepared to lead in corporate businesses, public companies, nonprofits, and government agencies. Alumni work in roles such as accountant, accounting analyst, audit associate, fiscal analyst, and tax auditor. Siena Accounting graduates have built careers at organizations like KPMG, Deloitte, PwC, IBM, General Electric, The Bonadio Group, UHY Advisors, Goldman Sachs Ayco, Morgan Stanley, SiriusXM, CommerceHub, and the New York State Department of Labor.