A degree in accounting provides a strong foundation for careers in many aspects of business. Accountants create order and meaning out of data, manage information systems and work cross-functionally to accomplish goals. Accountants articulate and analyze economic activities to help organizations predict future results, allocate resources, and make decisions that drive long-term viability.
Accounting graduates flourish in a variety of occupations throughout organizations. Accountants work with financial and non-financial data interpreting quantitative and qualitative information, solving problems, and effectively communicating analysis and solutions to all levels in an organization. These skills lead to careers such as:
- Staff Accountant
- External Auditor
- Financial Analyst
- Internal Auditor
- Cost Accountant
- Tax Accountant
- Fixed Asset Accountant
- Treasurer
- Budget Analyst
- Controller
- Project Accountant
- Administrator
- Chief Financial Officer
- Entrepreneur
IMA Endorsed Curriculum and Preparing to become a CMA®
The IMA® (Institute of Management Accountants) Higher Education Endorsement Program identifies business curricula that meet the quality educational standards required to enable students to earn the CMA® (Certified Management Accountant) designation.
IMA® is dedicated to excellence within the management accounting profession. The CMA® is a globally recognized certification that provides an objective measure of an individual’s knowledge and competence in the field. It gives management accountants and finance professionals greater credibility, higher earning potential and leadership opportunities.
Metropolitan State’s accounting courses align with the CMA exam’s practical body of knowledge and skills in financial planning, analytics, control, decision support and professional ethics. To be eligible for CMA certification, candidates must have a bachelor’s degree, pass a two-part exam covering twelve competencies in Management Accounting and show two years of relevant work experience.
Preparing to become a CPA
The Metropolitan State University Accounting major provides the necessary accounting and business coursework required to sit for the Certified Public Accountant (“CPA”) Exam. In Minnesota, students can sit for the exam after completing their accounting degree. However, please note, to be licensed as a CPA, candidates also require 150 credit hours (in either undergraduate or graduate coursework), must pass a self-study ethics examination, and have at least one year of relevant work experience. Also, please note the above information is in reference to the licensing statutes and regulations in Minnesota. No determination has been made with respect to the education requirements for licensure for any other states or U.S. protectorates. Each state or U.S. protectorate has its own requirements that change based on the local laws enacted. Students desiring to take the CPA exam outside of the State of Minnesota need to consult with the appropriate state or protectorate Board of Accountancy to determine the licensing rules.
Student outcomes
On completion of the accounting program, a graduate will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of accounting theory, assumptions, procedures, limitations and economic consequences.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the ethical implications of accounting decisions and policies.
- Accurately complete technical calculations using financial and non-financial information to support stakeholder decision making.
- Prepare financial statements and reports using relevant standards and procedures.
- Critically analyze financial reports, information, stakeholder perspectives and the general business environment to evaluate economic impacts across functions within an organization.
- Create oral and written recommendations to managers involved in short- and long-term decision-making, based on accounting information.
Related Minors
Given the broad opportunities available with an accounting education many minors complement this degree. Student goals with respect to certifications (such as CMA or CPA) and desired employment drive recommended additional courses and minor choices. We encourage accounting students to consult with their college advisor before declaring a minor or pursing additional credits.
