The accounting major does not simply teach one to balance books; it trains students to be economic problem-solvers and analysts, professionals who are able to identify, measure, and make judgments about all types of economic information. These accounting skills lead to rewarding positions in financial and tax planning, business consulting, bookkeeping, auditing, and many other fields in the global marketplace. With a few additional courses, the Lakeland accounting major qualifies its students to sit for the CPA and CMA examinations.

Students who have successfully completed a B.A. in Accounting from Lakeland University should be able to:

• Explain the major concepts in the functional areas of economics, marketing, finance, management, and management information systems.
• Construct and present effective oral and written forms of professional communication.
• Identify the key legal and ethical issues related to contemporary accounting scenarios.
• Demonstrate responsible and effective workplace behavior skills and traits in a professional business environment.
• Explain the major concepts in the functional areas of financial accounting, cost accounting, taxation, and auditing.

Please Note: Accounting candidates who wish to sit for the Uniform Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam must complete a minimum of 120 semester hours of college credit prior to sitting for the exam, but must earn a minimum of 150 semester hours of college credit to apply for the CPA credential. The Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants recommends that “accounting students include courses in critical thinking, communications, psychology, business management, computer skills and ethics as part of their 150 hours.” (See www.nasba.org).

The Certified Management Accountant (CMA) exam may be taken by students with Senior standing (Please see www.imanet.org).