Accounting

Assistant Professor of Practice Walkenhorst

The accounting major prepares students for a variety of careers in business, both in and out of the accounting field. Accounting students learn to understand, analyze, report, and interpret accounting information as a decision-making tool in various organization structures. Students also gain exhibit effective communication skills to use in a variety of business contexts. The accounting major also prepares students for further study at the graduate level.

Many accounting students plan to take a certification examination (e.g., CMA [Certified Management Accountant] or CPA [Certified Public Accountant]); however, accountants can have successful careers without a certificate. Students qualify to take the CMA exam upon completion of the accounting major. Those considering the CPA exam need to meet additional state-mandated requirements, including completion of the 150 credits. Academic advisors at Doane work closely with students who are considering certification options.

Internship Credits: Students majoring in Accounting who plan to take the CPA exam are required to earn 3 credit hours for internship experience or take ACC 496 . Because internships are a valued part of the Accounting degree and help meet the 150-hour requirement to sit for the Uniform CPA Exam, accounting majors often take additional internship credits.

Licensure and Certification: As educational requirements vary by state, students interested in this program should consult the General Licensure and Certification Disclosure page prior to enrollment.

Student Learning Outcomes

Organize and interpret data to produce financial statements and reports.
Analyze, interpret, and communicate information conveyed in financial statements.
Understand the requirements of regulatory bodies and prepare documents that conform to these standards.
Recognize ethical dilemmas in accounting and apply a decision-making model to address them.
Develop a strong understanding of the interrelated business functions and how accounting speaks to these.

Programs

Major

Accounting

Minor

Accounting Minor