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York College of Pennsylvania offers over 70 baccalaureate majors across professional pr...
B.S. in Accounting
York, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Accounting at York College of Pennsylvania is a highly regarded program designed to prepare students for professional careers in various accounting fields. This in-demand major is ideal for individuals who enjoy analyzing financial information, solving complex problems, and are keen on understanding the financial intricacies that drive business profitability. The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of financial reporting, taxation, auditing, and business law, equipping graduates to pursue certifications such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Certified Internal Auditor (CIA), and Certified Management Accountant (CMA).
ACBSP-Accredited: The Graham School of Business at York College of Pennsylvania, which offers the B.S. in Accounting, holds accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This accreditation is a testament to the program's adherence to rigorous global standards for business education. ACBSP focuses on teaching excellence, measurable student learning outcomes, and a commitment to continuous improvement. This ensures that the accounting education provided at YCP is of high quality, relevant to industry demands, and prepares students with the essential skills employers seek.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Accounting is designed to be comprehensive and prepare students for the demands of the accounting profession, including CPA licensure. Core courses include Financial Accounting, Managerial Accounting, Taxation I, Ethics in Accounting, Auditing, and Business Law. Students also have the opportunity to select electives in specialized areas such as Financial Fraud, International Accounting, and Government and Not-for-Profit Accounting. The program emphasizes ethical reasoning, critical thinking, effective communication, and the use of technology for data analysis, all vital skills for modern accountants. The curriculum's breadth and depth provide a solid foundation for various career paths within the field.
Research Focus: York College of Pennsylvania encourages an applied approach to learning, and within the B.S. in Accounting program, the "research focus" is primarily on developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills through practical applications. While not centered on theoretical academic research, students engage in detailed analysis of financial data, tax laws, and auditing standards. The curriculum's emphasis on ethics, internal controls, and fraudulent financial reporting cases requires students to research and apply principles to real-world scenarios. This prepares them for professional roles that demand thorough investigation, critical evaluation of financial information, and the ability to contribute to evidence-based decision-making.
Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a significant strength of the Accounting program at York College. The college boasts a strong network of alumni working in "Big 4" firms, national, regional, and local accounting firms, as well as in diverse sectors like non-profits, investment houses, and publicly traded corporations. This network facilitates numerous internship and job opportunities. The Department of Accounting and Finance often holds annual job fairs, connecting students directly with top employers. Additionally, students can gain practical experience through on-campus opportunities like the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which provides real-world tax preparation experience, further enhancing their readiness for the accounting profession.
Global Perspective: The B.S. in Accounting program at York College incorporates elements of a global perspective within its curriculum, recognizing the increasingly interconnected nature of the financial world. While specific courses solely dedicated to international accounting may be electives (e.g., International Accounting), the broader context of accounting principles often includes discussions on global financial reporting standards (IFRS vs. GAAP) and the impact of international transactions on financial statements. The program prepares students to work in an environment where businesses operate across borders, requiring an understanding of diverse economic contexts and regulatory frameworks. This global awareness is crucial for accountants who may work for multinational corporations or firms dealing with international clients.
Location
York, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 26920
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
York College of Pennsylvania offers a variety of scholarship opportunities specifically aimed at supporting international students in achieving their academic goals while easing financial burdens. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and other special talents among international applicants.
Merit-Based Scholarships: International students applying to York College are considered for merit-based scholarships automatically during the admissions process. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and overall application strength. High-achieving students can receive significant tuition discounts, which help make studying in the U.S. more affordable.
International Student Scholarships: York College provides dedicated scholarships for international students, which may include renewable awards throughout the duration of their degree program. These scholarships acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and contributions international students bring to the campus community.
Departmental Scholarships: Certain academic departments at York College offer scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional performance or promise in their chosen field of study. International students are encouraged to explore these opportunities by contacting their academic departments directly.
York College of Pennsylvania's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Accounting provides a robust and in-demand education for students eager to launch careers in the financial world. This program equips graduates with critical analytical skills and a deep understanding of financial principles, ethical considerations, and regulatory frameworks essential for navigating complex business environments.
Staff Accountant: This common entry-level role involves maintaining financial records, preparing journal entries, reconciling accounts, assisting with financial statement preparation, and supporting the overall accounting operations within a company or organization.
Auditor (Public Accounting): Working for public accounting firms (including "Big 4" firms), auditors examine financial statements and internal controls to ensure accuracy, compliance with regulations, and identify potential fraud. This role can involve both external and internal audits.
Tax Accountant/Preparer: Specializing in tax laws, these professionals prepare and file tax returns for individuals, corporations, or other entities. They also provide tax planning advice to minimize tax liabilities and ensure compliance with tax regulations.
Forensic Accountant: Combining accounting skills with investigative techniques, forensic accountants analyze financial records to uncover fraud, embezzlement, or other financial crimes. They often work with law enforcement, legal firms, or corporate investigation units.
Cost Accountant: In manufacturing or production-focused companies, cost accountants track and analyze the costs associated with producing goods or services. They help management make decisions about pricing, efficiency, and profitability.
Internal Auditor: Working within an organization, internal auditors assess the effectiveness of internal controls, risk management processes, and governance to ensure operational efficiency, compliance, and protection of company assets.
Financial Analyst (Entry-Level): While often associated with a finance degree, accounting graduates with strong analytical skills can enter financial analysis roles. They evaluate financial performance, prepare forecasts, and assist with investment decisions or budgeting processes.
Government Accountant/Auditor: Graduates can work for federal, state, or local government agencies, managing public funds, conducting audits of government entities or programs, and ensuring compliance with government accounting standards and regulations.
Budget Analyst: These professionals work with organizations to develop and manage budgets, analyze financial performance against budget, and provide recommendations for cost control and resource allocation.
Bookkeeper/Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk: While some of these roles might typically require less formal education, a B.S. in Accounting provides a strong foundation, allowing graduates to excel and quickly advance from these positions, handling daily financial transactions, invoicing, and payment processing.
