Business Administration Major: Accounting Option (B.S.)

The Option in Accounting prepares students for careers in a “recession proof profession” with excellent placement and salary statistics.  Accounting is referred to as the “language of business” because all businesses rely on accounting information for decision-making.  Because accounting is inherently subjective, accounting students learn the analytical skills necessary to make idiosyncratic decisions.  However, in contrast to other professions, accountants also learn a technical knowledge base that allows them to understand how accounting choices can affect the information used for decision-making in all disciplines.  This deeper understanding of business data helps accounting professionals provide value to clients and employers.

Because every business relies on accounting information, accounting students can select an industry and position that aligns with their personal interests.  Examples of commonly selected positions include audit, tax, financial consulting, and management.   The Option provides students with the requisite knowledge to obtain certifications in a variety of areas, including accounting (CPA), management (CMA), internal auditing (CIA), forensics (CFE), and information systems (CISA). In addition to obtaining an undergraduate degree in four years or less, students can apply to the MSA Financial Leadership in Accounting (MSA FLA) pathway to earn both a B.S. and a M.S. in Accounting in 4.5 years. This unique program positions students as a leader in the field and allows them to save on tuition without delaying their entry into the profession. The MSA FLA provides a structured route to two degrees and well-paid internship opportunities.  Students may also take advantage of the four-one (5 year) program to earn a M.S. in Accounting at Paul College, which can speed career progression.  Irrespective of the position or educational pathway an individual student selects, the demand for accounting professionals exceeds supply, making accounting a great career choice.

Degree Requirements

All Major, Option and Elective Requirements as indicated.
*Major GPA requirements as indicated.

Major Requirements

A typical plan of study follows, showing the major-required courses. Students take 16-18 credits per semester. Discovery Program requirements (including the Inquiry requirement in the first two years) and elective courses are taken as well. Students are expected to follow this course plan. In the first three semesters, students cannot take more than two major courses in a single semester. The options have additional requirements as noted. For an individual schedule/plan of study, students should check with the Paul College Undergraduate Programs and Advising Office for specific recommendations.

Depending of the choice of option and the specific requirements thereof, students may be able to take PAUL or non-PAUL electives in their junior or senior year.

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This is the capstone course in the business administration  program, and satisfies the capstone requirement of  the Discovery Program. Students may be required to concurrently enroll in ADMN 700 PAUL Assessment of Core Knowledge (zero credits) for AACSB accreditation purposes.

Sample Degree Plan

This sample degree plan serves as a general guide; students collaborate with their academic advisor to develop a personalized degree plan to meet their academic goals and program requirements.

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Students can explore a second option, second major, minor, or general electives.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Analyze organizational challenges and opportunities using core business concepts.
• Apply data-driven reasoning to business decisions using appropriate analytical approaches.

• Communicate original thoughts clearly and professionally in written and oral formats.
• Contribute effectively to teams, demonstrating individual and collaborative accountability.

• Evaluate ethical and social responsibility issues and recommend actions from multiple stakeholder perspectives.
• Analyze how global and cultural factors shape responsible business decisions.