Accounting

Accounting involves data analysis, strategic thinking, and forecasting—not just business transactions. Learn from accomplished accounting professionals and utilize industry software to inform business decisions. Beyond the technical skills of accounting, you will become a critical thinker, communicator, and problem solver guided by ethical principles. 

View the Curriculum Guide. 

Career Opportunities

Accounting is an in-demand core field with job security. From Big 4 Accounting Firms, to large companies, to non-profit or government sectors, opportunities are limitless for skilled accountants. 

BSBA-to-MAcc

With the BSBA-to-MAcc program, you will earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and a Master of Science in Accountancy (MAcc) in five years. The perks? You will only pay tuition for 4.5 years and you will have a paid co-op experience.

IIA-Endorsed Program


The Palumbo-Donahue School of Business is endorsed by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). We are one of two IIA-endorsed accounting programs in Pennsylvania and one of only 58 worldwide.

Program Information

IIA-endorsed Accounting program that prepares undergraduates for a successful career. The program helps students to become experts in data analysis, strategic thinking, and forecasting.

Program Type

Major, Minor

Degree

Bachelor's

School

Palumbo-Donahue School of Business

Duration

4-year

Required Credit Hours

72

From Our Alumni

Tiffany Willis stands behind a desk with her hands resting on the top.

"I can still remember this peaceful campus, my stellar Duquesne education, my professors, my classmates and even my last memory of walking across the stage to receive my degree."

Tiffany Willis B'99, CPA, Sr. Vice President, Investor Relations, Starbucks
Hear from Tiffany

Accounting Mentoring Program

The Accounting Mentoring Program was launched in 2007 to prepare students for employment and graduate studies by:

  • Setting and achieving professional goals
  • Exploring internship and employment opportunities
  • Receiving expert professional guidance on career decisions
  • Understanding employer expectations 
  • Learning about certifications and professional development programs
  • Expanding their professional network

Program Results
The most recent survey indicated that 60% of students gained work experience from the mentorship program. Of those students, 50% indicated that their mentor was helpful in the process. After one year of the program, 97% of student goals were achieved. One hundred percent of students and mentors surveyed said they recommend the program.

Program Contact

Valerie Williams

Associate Professor of Practice, Accounting

Director of Accounting Mentorship Program

Valerie Williams

Curriculum

View the Course Descriptions
The Accounting major is a 120-credit program that satisfies Pennsylvania's CPA law accounting course requirements. Students who complete our undergraduate program can enroll in the MS in Accountancy to earn the additional 30 credits needed to reach the 150 credits required to sit for the CPA exam.
  • ACCT 214 Financial Accounting (3 credits—Business Core)
  • ACCT 215 Managerial Accounting (3 credits—Business Core)
  • ACCT 310 Accounting Information Systems (3 credits)
  • ACCT 311 Intermediate Accounting I (3 credits)
  • ACCT 312 Intermediate Accounting II (3 credits)
  • ACCT 314 Advanced Accounting (3 credits)
  • ACCT 315 Financial Planning and Cost Management (3 credits)
  • ACCT 411W Auditing (3 credits)
  • ACCT 412W Intro to Income Tax Accounting (3 credits)
  • ACCT 414 Corporate and Partnership Tax (3 credits)
Accounting majors need 3 credits of electives.

(3 credits/ea.)
  • BLAW 354 Commercial Transactions*
  • BLAW 355W Law of Business Organizations
  • BLAW 454 Law of International Commercial Transactions
  • FINC 333 Financial Management
  • FINC 334 Investments
  • ISYS 381W Systems Analysis and Design
  • MKTG 372 Emotional Intelligence


*Students taking the CPA exam are strongly encouraged to take this course.

(1-6 credits)
  • BUAD 401 Business Administration Internship
  • ACCT 311 Intermediate Accounting (3 credits)
  • ACCT 312 Intermediate Accounting II (3 credits)
  • ACCT 314 Advanced Accounting (3 credits)

And one of the following courses:
  • ACCT 310 Accounting Information Systems (3 credits)
  • ACCT 315 Cost Accounting (3 credits)

Students are encouraged to meet with their Student Success Coach for more information.