Accounting

If you’re interested in leadership and like crunching numbers and solving complex problems, a career in accounting may be a good fit for you. Working in a financial field is more than just balancing a checkbook. Businesses operate successfully when their finances are strong and their employees are able to make informed decisions about the way their company operates. A degree in accounting will give you the flexibility to use your skills in mathematics, communication and relationship building in a variety of roles throughout an organization.

Katharine Liotta '22

Accounting Major

“Accounting professors ensure that students understand the real-world application of the material, which makes learning more interesting. Career wise, I first plan on obtaining my CPA license. Then, I want to begin my career as an accountant in the Milwaukee area.

“Because of Carroll’s curriculum, I am a more well-rounded individual. The course offerings at Carroll have allowed me to explore interests outside of my major. For instance, one course that I continuously reflect on is Leadership and Personal Effectiveness. This course allowed me to realize my purpose in life, which is to make other’s lives better.

“If someone was considering Carroll, I would encourage them to attend. The students and professors who I have been acquainted with have been kind, helpful, and understanding. There is definitely a sense of community on campus; everyone seems to be looking out for each other. My education is shaping me into the individual that I hoped I would be; I have a comprehensive understanding of the concepts in my major as well as an understanding of the world around me. I feel excited and prepared to begin a career as an accountant!”

About the Accounting Major

Carroll University’s accounting major prepares you to effectively make decisions and provide financial services working in a variety of business environments throughout the public, private or governmental sectors.

Accountants work in many different settings, from CPA firms to private companies. Successful businesses that spend and earn money need someone with experience to manage their financial operations. And while accountants are primarily responsible for those tasks, anyone that manages a department or area with a budget should be able to interpret data and make business decisions based on financial information.

A degree in accounting will provide you with a variety of career options in the field. While you’re at Carroll, you’ll have the opportunity to take courses about business law, taxes, auditing and more as you work towards your preferred track. Students that do well in this rigorous program understand logic, are outgoing and driven.

Students also have a unique opportunity to meet local financial professionals and alumni during their junior year as they prepare for a required internship. The course introduces students to these business professionals in a comfortable setting on campus allowing them to network and learn about available internships. When it comes time to find one for yourself, you’ll work hand-in-hand with faculty members who will place you at some of the best CPA firms and organizations in southeastern Wisconsin. Because of the success of the internship program, many students receive job offers before they graduate.

Our program also works well for the non-traditional student working to complete their bachelor’s degree or preparing to take the CPA exam. We offer classes at night to accommodate work schedules, and most students can accomplish either goal within two years.

Due to the high demands on businesses, accounting positions will always be a necessity, leaving the options for job growth and advancement wide open.

This major pairs well with minors such as finance, actuarial science, computer science, information technology, Spanish or French.

Degree / Emphasis / Minor

While not required, accounting majors may choose to further specialize their study through an emphasis. Or, you can get your MBA in four years. Carroll also offers an accounting minor that complements many areas of study.

Internships

We help you build real world experience, explore careers and network with professionals through internship opportunities. Recent placements include the following companies:

Baker Tilly
Baird
First Business Bank
First Financial Bank
Grant Thorton
Johnson Controls
Quad
US Bank
Wipfli

Careers

College is a big investment in a bright future. Learn more about the industries and careers our majors pursue, and the workplaces and experiences of the alumni from our program. See where yours may take you.