Accounting is often described as the language through which entities communicate financial information to stakeholders. The major in accounting centers on financial and operational communications for business and governmental units. The program prepares students for careers in public accounting, industrial or private accounting, governmental and institutional accounting, or for a general business career. Accounting education provides a sound basis for advancement to managerial positions and is a desirable background for other non-business professions, such as law. Students who want to work at certified public accounting firms may pursue the Five-Year (150-Hour) B.S. Professional Accounting/M.B.A. Program. All accounting students should speak to their academic advisor about eligibility for the New York State CPA examination and the Five-Year (150-Hour) Professional Accounting Program requirements.

Accounting is an integral part of any business and there are a variety of career opportunities available in the field. Students may work for a specific company, government agency or nonprofit organization, or work for an accounting firm that does work on behalf of numerous organizations. Some careers of interest for accounting majors include: Accountant Actuary Auditor Bank officer Bookkeeper Budget accountant Computer systems analyst Controller Cost accountant Credit manager Economist Educator Financial analyst Financial planner Insurance agent Internal auditor Internal accountant Investment banker IRS agent Management accountant Management consultant Market research analyst Programmer Public accountant Purchasing agent Statistician Tax accountant Tax specialist/preparer Treasurer Underwriter