Accounting Program

Accounting Program

The Accounting program was established to meet the growing demand for highly qualified professionals in the many specialized areas of accountancy. The program provides a professional education to prepare students for careers in public accounting (CPA firms), corporate accounting, financial management, and a variety of careers that demand a high level of proficiency in accounting.

Through a traditional four-year curriculum leading to a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting, the program encourages scholarly professional research that contributes to the advancement of accounting theory and practice. Additionally, it provides students with the foundation for passing professional certification examinations such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), and the Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) examinations.

In addition to students in the College of Business, the program offers accounting courses that serve the needs of the University-wide constituency as well as various educational services to the professional and business communities. Graduates also gain the necessary foundation to pursue advanced degrees in business and related areas.

Degree Requirements

Accounting majors are required to complete 124 semester hours of which 30 credit hours must be in the field of accounting (Above the principles level). A grade of "C" or better must be attained in all accounting courses presented to fulfill the requirements in the major. Accounting electives in specialized areas are available to advanced students.

The 150-Hour Requirements

While the traditional four-year program fulfills the educational requirements for certain areas of accounting, the State of Louisiana requires a baccalaureate degree and no less than 150 hours of University course credit to take the Certified Public Accountants' (CPA) examination. A number of other states have similar requirements and prospective candidates are advised to contact the respective State Boards of Accountancy. Individuals desiring to meet these requirements can do so by completing additional 22 credit hours beyond the 124 hours required for baccalaureate degree in Accounting.