What is Accounting?
Accounting is defined by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants () as "the art of recording, classifying, and summarizing in a significant manner and in terms of money, transactions and events which are, in part at least, of financial character, and interpreting the results thereof."
AACSB Accredited
The accounting programs at the Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ are separately accredited by the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International). Only 173 institutions worldwide hold both business school accreditation and a separate accounting program accreditation from the AACSB. This is the "gold standard" accreditation, and no other accounting program in the state holds this distinction. In fact, only 10 schools in all of Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana hold separate AACSB accounting accreditation. We are very proud of this distinction and strive to continually improve our programs in the spirit of AACSB accreditation.
Expectations of Accounting Graduates
The undergraduate Accounting curriculum develops competence in a broad range of accounting skills and practices. The curriculum strives to foster critical thinking and problem solving skills. Accounting Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ are prepared to enter professional positions in accounting with business, nonprofit, or government organizations. In addition they may continue their education in the Master of Accountancy Program and/or pursue a variety of professional certifications.
Careers in Accounting
Because virtually all organizations produce and use financial data for decision making, the career possibilities for an accounting major are diverse. Many Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ launch careers at public accounting firms, seeking their Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license. Public accounting firms provide external audit, tax prep/research, consulting, and other financial services to their clients. The state of Montana requires 150 credit hours to qualify for the CPA license, so many Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ pursue a Masters in Accountancy or a double major to achieve this. Beyond public accounting, Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ may seek careers with for-profit companies, not-for-profit organizations, and governments. These organizations use internal accountants, internal auditors, financial analysts, IT risk managers, cost accountants, tax specialists, and controllers. Students may also seek careers in compliance, fraud, and forensics with organizations such as the IRS and FBI.
More Information
Business Major Requirements apply to all undergraduate business administration degrees.
Visit the Gianchetta Student Success Center (GSSC) Advising webpage to track the requirements for this degree.
Master of Accountancy Program
The Master of Accountancy Program's mission is to provide breadth and depth in accounting, auditing, taxation, and business to develop a high level of technical knowledge, technology awareness, and leadership capability for advancement in the accounting profession and other related business careers.
For Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ who plan to pursue graduate work in the MAcct, several undergraduate accounting courses are required prerequisites. These courses include ACTG 321, 305, 306, 410, 401, 411, and 425. Because not all accounting courses are offered every semester, Ñý¼§Ö±²¥ need to plan their course schedules carefully and in advance. Students are strongly encouraged to consult with their academic advisor to ensure proper sequencing and timely completion of these prerequisites. For more information about the MAcct Program and guidance on course planning, please contact Dawn Hambrick in GBB 316.