Business Management - Accounting (Four Year BAS)

The Bachelor of Applied Science in Business Management - Accounting builds on the accounting certificate to allow students to move beyond tracking Income Statement and Balance Sheet items to analyzing, interpreting, and communicating financial information in accordance with GAAP. This hands-on, immersive degree emphasizes the application of financial, managerial, and tax-related information to support business decision making, operational effectiveness, and financial reliability. The curriculum integrates computerized accounting systems, internal controls, and assurance principles while also developing strong analytical and professional communication skills. Coursework aligns with competencies relevant to professional certifications such as the Certified Management Accountant (CMA) and the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), while remaining adaptable to evolving licensure requirements. Students are prepared to enter the accounting profession in industry, public practice, or related business roles, or to continue their education at the graduate level.

With a degree in accounting, students may pursue a career in public and/or private industry, as well as government agencies. Careers include a broad range of accounting functions and services, financial services, tax services, and many others.

Certified Management Accountant (CMA) certification requirements are set by the Institute of Management Accountants (IMA). While the CMA is not a government-issued professional license, it is a globally recognized professional credential in management accounting and financial management. The Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business Management - Accounting (120 credit hours) is designed to meet the educational eligibility requirements to sit for the CMA examination. In addition to education, candidates must meet other IMA professional requirements to earn the CMA designation.

 Certified Public Accountant (CPA) licensure requirements are established by individual states and jurisdictions. Historically, most states required 150 total credit hours of postsecondary education for CPA licensure; however, CPA education requirements are currently evolving, and some jurisdictions are considering or adopting alternative pathways. The Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Business Management - Accounting (120 credit hours) may not, by itself, satisfy CPA licensure education requirements in some jurisdictions. In addition to education, candidates must meet other requirements to earn a CPA license, including examination and professional experience requirements, which vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. Because CPA licensure requirements differ across jurisdictions and are subject to change, students are strongly encouraged to research the current CPA requirements of the state(s) in which they intend to pursue licensure. Each jurisdiction maintains a Board of Accountancy that provides authoritative and up-to-date guidance on CPA requirements.