​Accounting

In recent years, more than half of our accounting graduates accepted employment with Big Four and other major CPA firms—before graduation.

Whitman’s certified public accountant (CPA) track includes 24 credits in accounting and will prepare you for CPA certification. You can also take advantage of the opportunity to work towards an M.S. in accounting degree while completing B.S. requirements. 

Alternatively, you can pursue a managerial (comptrollership) track if you’re interested in working in accounting or finance, but not planning to seek CPA certification.

About the ​Martin J. Whitman School of Management

The Whitman School develops entrepreneurial managers who will become leaders in an era of global competitiveness. Programs are built around the major driving forces in business today: entrepreneurial management, globalization, use of technology and leadership.

Learn more about the accounting program.

Courses

Core coursework covers tax, auditing, and business strategy. Sample courses include:

• Intermediate Financial Accounting
• Cost Analysis and Control
• Principles of Taxation
• Auditing Theory/Practice
• Law of Commercial Transactions

View official major requirements.

Dual Enrollment

The Whitman School of Management offers dual major programs with the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications, the College of Arts and Sciences/Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs and the School of Information Studies (iSchool).

• The Arts and Sciences/Maxwell dual program allows students to select one of seven majors in the sciences, preparing them to work in fields such as pharmaceuticals.
• Select the iSchool to develop a working knowledge of business along with technical training in information systems, setting yourself apart from traditional management students.
• Gain an edge in a competitive job market by selecting Newhouse, where you’ll prepare to become an effective business leader and communicator.
• Complete your B.S. and J.D. in six years through the Whitman School and College of Law 3+3 Joint Degree Program.

Practical Experience

The accounting program is built on opportunities in and out of the classroom designed to diversify your skill set so that you can stand out to future employers.

• Become an active member of Beta Alpha Psi (BAP) —a professional service fraternity that includes accounting, finance, and information science and technology majors. Members discuss current issues concerning professions and take advantage of networking opportunities.
• Participate in the Investment Club and discuss stocks, ETFs, and commodities, as well as actively manage a trade portfolio of over $100K in real cash.
• Better understand how financial management plays an increasingly key role in today’s business models as a research assistant to resident faculty.
• Find your required internship with help from Whitman’s Career Services. Choose from major public accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, or not-for-profit organizations.
• Gain an edge through your IMPRESS* score, which measures achievement in the areas of professional development and emotional intelligence, major/industry exploration, certifications, global context, and community engagement.

* A Whitman school exclusive

Study Abroad

Broaden your perspective and enhance your resume with a study abroad experience during your college years. Consistently ranked among the top 25 international education providers in the U.S., Syracuse Abroad has more than 100 programs in 60 countries.

Accounting students often go abroad in London, and Madrid, and to World Partner programs at CEA Prague and Tel Aviv University.

Life After Syracuse University

As a graduate with a degree in accounting, you can explore such careers as a CPA at:

• Big Four firms
• Major corporations
• Government agencies
• Not-for-profit organizations

Or, pursue a wide variety of finance and accounting opportunities across other industries and markets.

Visit the Whitman School

For more information or to visit the Whitman School, please contact Rachel DuBois, director of undergraduate recruitment, at 315.443.9222.