Online B.S. In Accounting Program

Program Overview

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The University of Saint Mary's online Bachelor of Science in Accounting equips students with the knowledge and skills to excel in accounting-related careers. The program emphasizes real-world applications, preparing graduates for success in various roles, including public accountants, financial analysts, and management accountants. The curriculum covers core accounting principles, auditing, taxation, and data analysis, and students gain practical experience through internships. Graduates are well-prepared for professional certification exams like the CPA and further education opportunities through the integrated CPA + MBA track.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Objectives:

• Develop foundational knowledge and understanding of accounting principles and standards.
• Gain proficiency in using accounting software and technology.
• Hone critical thinking and problem-solving skills for interpreting and analyzing financial data.
• Prepare for professional certification exams like the CPA.
• Cultivate leadership and ethical decision-making abilities.

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Program Description:

The online B.S. in Accounting program offers a comprehensive curriculum with a focus on:

• Basic and Advanced Accounting Principles: Covers accounting concepts, principles, and practices used across different types of organizations.
• Auditing: Delves into the processes and techniques used to examine financial statements and internal controls.
• Taxation: Explores federal, state, and local tax regulations and their application to individuals, partnerships, and corporations.
• Cost Management: Studies principles and tools for managing costs and making informed business decisions.
• Data Analysis: Equips students with the ability to analyze and interpret financial and accounting data.
• Business Communications: Develops effective written, oral, and visual communication skills for professional settings.
• Industry-Specific Topics: Explores specialized areas like government accounting, international accounting, and forensic accounting.
The program allows students to integrate real-world experience through internships and prepares them for further education opportunities through the integrated CPA + MBA track.

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Outline:

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Core Accounting Courses (60 credits):

• AC 251 Principles of Accounting I (3 credits): Introduces fundamental accounting concepts and principles, focusing on recording and reporting financial information.
• AC 252 Principles of Accounting II (3 credits): Continued exploration of accounting concepts and principles applied to partnerships and corporations.
• AC 345 Taxation (3 credits): Explores federal, state, and local tax regulations and their applications.
• AC 346 Cost Accounting (3 credits): Studies cost behavior, control, valuation, and tools for management decision-making.
• AC 351 Intermediate Accounting (3 credits): Delves into the application of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles for recording and reporting financial data.
• AC 352 Managerial Accounting (3 credits): Analyzes accounting information and utilizes tools for day-to-day and strategic decision-making.
• AC 375 Communications for Accounting and Financial Reporting (3 credits): Develops effective written, presentation, and verbal communication skills for accounting and financial reporting.
• AC 400 Special Topics in Accounting (3 credits): Expands knowledge on specific accounting topics like revenue recognition and government accounting.
• AC 445 Auditing (3 credits): Explores essential auditing processes, techniques, and regulatory compliance.
• AC 446 Advanced Accounting (3 credits): Examines accounting principles and procedures for decentralized operations, business combinations, and international accounting.
• AC 497 Accounting Internship (3 credits): Gain practical experience in organizations and businesses under faculty supervision.

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Additional General Education courses required for a Bachelor's degree (60 credits):

• Courses can be transferred from other accredited institutions or completed through USM Online.

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Assessment:

• Continuous assessment through assignments, quizzes, and exams in each course.
• Final comprehensive exam in core accounting courses.
• Potential capstone project or portfolio demonstrating acquired knowledge and skills.
• Preparation for professional certification exams like the CPA.

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Teaching:

• Experienced faculty with extensive academic and practical experience in accounting.
• Utilizes a blended learning approach with online modules, interactive discussions, and real-world case studies.
• Focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Emphasis on fostering effective communication and teamwork abilities.

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Careers:

• Public accountants or Certified Public Accountants (CPAs)
• Financial analysts
• Financial managers
• Payroll specialists
• Accounts payable specialists
• Management accountants or Certified Management Accountants (CMAs)
• Cost management accountants
• Forensic accountants
• International accountants
• Personal financial planners and wealth management specialists
• Tax analysts and specialists
• Controllers
• Securities trading accountants
• Project accountants
• Investment banking analysts
• Chief financial officers
• Auditors
• Sport management accountants
• Local, state, or federal governmental accountants
• Regulatory reporting managers

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Other:

• The program is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
• Graduates can further their education through the integrated CPA + MBA track.
• Tuition is $415 per credit hour.
• Financial aid options are available to eligible students.
• Graduates possess the knowledge and skills to succeed in various accounting-related careers.