Accounting

The Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting at the University of Kansas is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for success in the dynamic field of accounting and finance. This program offers a rigorous curriculum that combines foundational business principles with specialized accounting courses, providing students with a broad understanding of financial reporting, auditing, taxation, managerial accounting, and ethics. Students develop strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and critical thinking abilities essential for navigating complex financial environments. The program is structured to equip graduates with the technical competence and ethical standards needed to excel in various accounting roles across diverse industries.

Throughout the degree, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty members with professional expertise, and opportunities for practical learning through internships and cooperative education programs. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of professional integrity, compliance with legal standards, and the use of cutting-edge accounting software, preparing students to meet the evolving demands of the accounting profession. The program also prepares students to sit for professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA) exam, offering support and resources to achieve these career milestones. With a strong focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting aims to develop competent, ethical, and innovative accounting professionals ready to contribute to their organizations and society. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue careers in public accounting, corporate finance, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, or to continue their education at the graduate level for advanced professional development.

The AACSB accredited MAcc program is designed to fully prepare students to enter the accounting profession and to meet the educational requirements for CPA certification in most states. It builds upon a foundation of accounting knowledge with challenging and relevant coursework in business, accounting, and information systems.

All coursework can be completed on the Lawrence campus. Students may also choose to take certain classes at the Edwards campus in Overland Park, KS or through various study abroad opportunities.

Students with undergraduate accounting degrees can complete the MAcc program in one year. Non-Accounting undergraduates will take 1½ - 2 years to complete the program, depending on required prerequisites needed.

Curriculum Specialization

The MAcc program offers four different tracks of coursework to support a diversity of career choice. Each track is 30 credit hours in length, but the number and type of required courses and electives in each track varies.

• Advising and Consulting Services
• Assurance (Audit) Track
• Corporate Track
• Tax Track
• Non-Accounting Undergraduates

You will be required to submit the following items:

1. An OFFICIAL transcript or “etranscript” from the institution granting your undergraduate degree and from any institution(s) where you have completed graduate study at the time of your application.

2. The score from your Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), if applicable.

3. International students only: The score from your Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) unless you have earned a degree from a U.S. institution.

4. Two letters of recommendation.

5. Pledge to support the Honor System of the School of Business.

6. Current Resume.

7. Three essays.

There are numerous scholarship and fellowship opportunities available to students in the MAcc program. These opportunities are open to any MAcc student.

For other ways to fund your MAcc degree, please see the information at these sites:

• On-campus employment
• KU financial aid and scholarships
• KU Endowment Association loans
• Veteran and veteran-dependent benefits

The University of Kansas offers a comprehensive degree program in Accounting designed to prepare students for successful careers in public accounting, corporate accounting, government, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes strong foundational knowledge in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, taxation, and business law. Students gain practical skills through case studies, internships, and hands-on projects that simulate real-world scenarios. The curriculum also includes coursework in information systems, ethics, and strategic decision-making, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to handle the evolving challenges in the accounting profession. The program benefits from experienced faculty members who are active in research and professional practice, providing students with up-to-date insights and industry connections. The university's location offers proximity to major accounting firms and corporations, facilitating internship opportunities and employment after graduation. The program is accredited by AACSB International, ensuring high-quality standards in business education. Students are encouraged to pursue professional certifications such as the Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Management Accountant (CMA), or Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and the program often provides the necessary coursework to meet these certification requirements. Partnerships with local businesses and professional organizations enrich the educational experience and offer networking opportunities. The university also provides resources including tutoring, career counseling, and student organizations focused on accounting careers. Graduates of the program are prepared to succeed in diverse roles within accounting and finance sectors, with many pursuing advanced degrees or professional certifications to further enhance their careers. The program fosters analytical thinking, ethical reasoning, and leadership skills essential for accounting professionals in today's dynamic business environment.