What is Accounting?

Our students are learning to apply accounting principles to help organizations achieve business goals and solve problems. If you are interested in guiding businesses to successfully navigate the challenges of the 21st century such as evolving tax codes, new reporting guidelines, and rapidly changing technology, then our accounting program is the place for you.

At JSU, we prioritize the excellence of our accounting program and we achieve this through small classes taught by faculty (not graduate students), high faculty-student interaction, and an emphasis on professionalism.

The Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Accounting is perfect for students interested in analyzing and interpreting financial data, serving as a trusted business advisor, and ensuring compliance with established standards. This degree is well-suited for students with an interest in financial planning and reporting, tax law, auditing, forensics, managing costs, competitive analyses, information technology, and decision making

Potential Careers

  • Auditor
  • Tax Accountant
  • Personal Financial Planner
  • Payroll Manager
  • Information Systems
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Management Accountant
  • Governmental Accountant
  • Not-for-Profit Accountant

Prospective Students

Thanks for your interest in the Accounting Program at JSU! Our program is designed to lead to fulfilling careers in a variety of industries. Whatever your future plans include, our graduates prove that the Accounting Program prepares students for successful employment wherever they go!

As part of the College of Business and Industry at JSU, we are dedicated to developing financial leaders who will help their organizations thrive in today’s competitive global environment. Coursework combines theoretical concepts, practical application of accounting principles, and introduction to essential technologies. Outside the classroom, students participate in professional events, internships, and student accounting organizations. The demand for accountants is great and our engaging program will prepare you for your future as an accounting professional.

For more information about the accounting program, visit our Programs page, and discover more about the opportunities awaiting you!

Frequently Asked Questions

People who work in accounting related careers enjoy solving problems and helping others make better decisions. Working either independently or as part of a team to examine, analyze, and interpret financial data is something that accountants excel at. If you have strong organizational skills and pay attention to detail, enjoy puzzles and problem solving, like to learn and help others learn, are self-motivated and trustworthy, then a career in accounting may be right for you.

A certified public accountant (CPA) is a professional designation given by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). It is given to individuals who pass the Uniform CPA Examination and meet additional education, experience, and state licensing requirements that allow them to provide accounting services to the public. The CPA designation helps enforce professional and ethical standards in the accounting industry. CPAs have a wide range of career options available, generally in public or corporate accounting. The education requirements include a bachelor’s degree and completing 150 hours of education.

While it is important for students to strengthen basic math skills during high school, this is not necessarily the main skill you need in accounting.  Pursuing leadership roles during high school and participating in organizations such as Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) or Junior Achievement are important ways to prepare for your future. Obtaining a job or job shadowing are ways to become familiar with the business world. Accountants often prepare reports and present them to others which makes improving your written and verbal communication skills a must. In addition, technical skills are more important than ever. Take advantage of opportunities to learn Microsoft Excel, Word, and Access. QuickBooks, Tableau, and Python are additional recommendations. Learning to manage your time and stay organized will prepare you for success in college.

The accounting undergraduate program is a four-year, Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Accounting degree that requires a minimum of 120 semester hours. The actual time required to complete the degree varies based on student scheduling preferences.

Accounting is the “language of business” and every business or organization requires the skills of an accountant. Therefore, accounting related professionals continue to be in high demand. Our students are recruited by companies locally and throughout the region, earning competitive salaries. The University sponsors career fairs for all majors.  Beta Alpha Psi hosts a Meet the Employers event each fall specifically for accounting majors and multiple workshops each semester to teach students how to be a professional in the business world.