Penn State Harrisburg

Course Details

Bachelor of science in accounting

Course Description

This major helps students prepare for careers in auditing and public accounting, industrial and managerial accounting, and in governmental and not-for-profit accounting. It also provides a sound background for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in accounting or related fields. Students who complete the prescribed courses and earn a Bachelor of Science degree will satisfy the academic requirements to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) examination. Graduates may also elect to pursue other professional certifications, including Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE), and Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM). Because the Harrisburg area is the center of industry and economic development for south-central Pennsylvania, students are provided with many opportunities to experience the world of business. For a B.S. in Accounting a minimum of 120 credits is required. At least 50 percent of the business credit hours required for the degree must be taken at the Capital College. No more than 60 credits should be from business and business-related courses. Students wishing to fulfill the 150 credit-hour education option to become a CPA in Pennsylvania (which reduces the experience requirement for certification) are encouraged to enter Capital College's Master of Business Administration program or the Master of Science in Information Systems program subsequent to receiving their undergraduate accounting degree.

Course Duration

NumberDuration
3year

Career outcomes

Students graduating with a major in Accounting may pursue careers in a variety of professional settings. Accountants work in public accounting firms, business and industry, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and education. A major in Accounting also provides a background for students who plan to pursue graduate studies in accounting or related fields. In public accounting firms, accountants will perform audits, compile financial statements, establish and maintain accounting systems, prepare budgets and business plans, assist in tax planning, prepare income tax returns, represent clients before government agencies, and help individuals manage their personal finances. In business and industry, accountants analyze and report on company operations, prepare long-range plans and budgets, analyze investment decisions, maintain accounting systems, prepare annual stockholder reports, and examine and evaluate financial and information systems, management procedures, and internal controls. Accountants in government evaluate the efficiency of government departments and agencies. In the nonprofit sector, they help organize and solve tax problems, set up internal control systems, budget resources, and prepare financial fund-raising data. Accountants in education instruct students in areas such as auditing, accounting, and ethics and have the opportunity to conduct research to expand the body of accounting knowledge.




Bachelor of science in accounting Penn State Harrisburg